Full Day Guided Tour to Bursa and Uludag With Cable Car And Lunch

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul for a day and explore some of Turkey’s natural beauty and Ottoman heritage, this full-day guided tour to Bursa and Uludağ could be just what you need. Priced at around $75 per person, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into a region rich in history, lush landscapes, and local flavors. While it won’t replace a dedicated trip for a deep dive, it packs quite a punch for a single day out.

What makes this tour stand out is how it balances cultural visits with scenic mountain adventure. We’re fans of the opportunity to ride the cable car, visit historic mausoleums, and sample local delights—all bundled into one affordable package. However, it’s worth noting that some travelers found the lunch disappointing, and the overall experience is quite full-on, so it’s best suited for active travelers with a curiosity about Turkish history and scenery.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive day trip without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple tickets. If you’re eager to see Ottoman relics, enjoy mountain views, or simply get out of Istanbul for a change of pace, it can be a fantastic choice. Just remember, it’s a long day—so good walking shoes and a sense of adventure are highly recommended.

Key Points

• Cultural and scenic highlights combined in one day, including Bursa’s Ottoman relics and Uludağ’s mountain views.
• Comfortable transport with hotel pickup, ferry transfer, and air-conditioned vehicle easing the logistics.
• Cable car rides provide sweeping vistas of Uludağ, making the ascent a memorable part of the trip.
• Authentic local experiences like visiting Turkish delight and honey shops add flavor to the day.
• Value for money — the price includes entrance fees, guide, ferry, and lunch, making it a practical choice.
• Some travelers noted the lunch was not up to their expectations, but plenty of other aspects shine.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Istanbul — Early Morning Pickup

Most travelers appreciate the hotel pickup, which removes the stress of navigating public transport or finding meeting points in Istanbul. The journey begins at 7:30am, so a good night’s sleep beforehand helps. The guide’s role is crucial here, as they set expectations and share insights during the drive.

Izmit and the Honey Shop

The first stop is at a natural honey shop, a sweet introduction to the region’s produce. The shop offers tastings, and you might find yourself tempted by local honey varieties and Turkish delight. The guide often shares stories behind these traditional treats, adding a layer of cultural context.

Inkaya Cinari and the Ancient Plane Tree

Next, you’ll visit the Inkaya Historical Plane Tree, over 610 years old. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and a reminder of Turkey’s natural heritage. The tree’s shade provides a cooling break, and the stop offers a glimpse into rural life and natural beauty.

Ferry Ride Over Izmit Bay

A highlight for many is the ferry transfer across Izmit Bay. The boat ride offers a different perspective of Turkey’s northwest coast and is a pleasant break in the day. It’s a relaxing moment amid a busy schedule, with views of the water and surrounding hills.

Bursa – The Green City

Once in Bursa, the tour visits the Green Mosque, an impressive Ottoman-era structure with elegant tiles and tranquil surroundings. You’ll also have some free time to explore the city or browse local shops for Turkish delight and honey, which can be a delightful way to experience everyday life in Bursa.

Uludağ Mountain and Cable Car

The ascent to Uludağ is a core part of the adventure. The cable car ride offers panoramic views that really make the trip worthwhile. Reaching the mountain’s summit, you can enjoy breathtaking vistas and perhaps see snow-capped peaks depending on the season. For those who booked the optional ATV quad bike tour, this is where you might squeeze in some additional fun.

Skiing and Mountain Activities

While only about 30 minutes are allocated for skiing or free time, the area is known for its winter sports. You might find yourself in awe of the mountain’s natural beauty, and in warmer months, the landscape transforms into lush green.

Mountain House Gökçeören and Lunch

The lunch spot at Uludağ Mountain House Gökçeören offers a barbecue-style meal. The tour includes a hearty lunch, but some travelers have found it somewhat disappointing in terms of venue and quality of food. Still, it’s a chance to refuel after a mountainous adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

While the tour covers many highlights, it also caters to your curiosity about Ottoman relics and local delicacies. Visiting mausoleums of early Ottoman sultans in Bursa provides a tangible connection to history, while browsing for Turkish delights and honey shops adds a tasty, authentic touch.

Transportation-wise, the air-conditioned vehicle, ferry transfers, and cable cars ensure comfort during what can be a long day. The group size maxes out at around 100 travelers, so it’s likely to be lively but still manageable.

What’s the Value?

At $75 per person, this tour offers good value considering it includes all entrance fees, a guide, ferry, transport, and lunch. It’s a practical way to squeeze in a lot without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. That said, some found the lunch to be underwhelming, which might be a small trade-off given the overall package.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re curious about Ottoman history, love scenic mountain vistas, or want a comprehensive day trip with minimal planning, this tour is a solid choice. It’s best suited for active travelers prepared for a full day of sightseeing. Those seeking a leisurely, gourmet experience or a more in-depth exploration of Bursa might want to look elsewhere.

The Sum Up

This guided tour to Bursa and Uludağ offers a balanced mix of cultural insights, natural beauty, and local flavors. The included cable car rides and visits to historic sites make it a memorable adventure, especially if you enjoy being on the move and exploring diverse environments in a single day.

The value for money is clear, particularly with transportation, guide, ferry, and entrance fees covered. The disappointment with lunch is a minor caveat in an otherwise well-organized outing, and some travelers appreciated the relaxed pace and authentic experiences.

Overall, it’s a great option for those who want to see a different side of Turkey — the green hills, historic relics, and mountain air — all while avoiding the stress of planning each detail. If you’re an active, curious traveler eager to maximize your day, this tour could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most bookings include hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics much easier.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 to 14 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, it includes air-conditioned vehicle transport, ferry transfers across Izmit Bay, and cable cars at Uludağ.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s a long day, so children should be comfortable with walking and a full schedule.

Are there optional activities available?
Yes, you can add on ATV quad bike tours, skiing, and other mountain activities if booked in advance.

What about entrance fees?
All entrance fees are included in the price, so there are no surprises there.

How is the group size?
The maximum group size is around 100 travelers, which balances lively company with manageable logistics.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a barbecue lunch is included, though some reviewers found it less impressive than other parts of the day.

This tour offers an engaging way to experience some of Turkey’s scenic and historic highlights in a single day, especially suited for travelers eager to get out of Istanbul and see more of the country’s diverse landscape.