Istanbul: Bursa & Uludag Tour with Lunch & Cable Car Option

Planning a day trip from Istanbul to explore Turkey’s first Ottoman capital and its stunning mountain scenery? This Bursa and Uludag tour offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and local flavors, all wrapped into a 13-hour adventure. For those who appreciate well-organized excursions that pack in a lot without feeling rushed, this experience is worth considering.

What we love about this tour are the spectacular views from Uludag Mountain and the chance to taste authentic Turkish delights and local cuisine. Plus, the chance to see Bursa’s iconic Green Mosque adds cultural depth. On the other hand, a potential drawback is the long coach ride, which might be tiring if you’re sensitive to lengthy travel. Still, for those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing and getting off the beaten path, it’s an ideal choice. Perfect for history buffs, mountain lovers, and anyone eager for a taste of Turkish culture beyond Istanbul’s hustle.

Who should do this?

This tour suits travelers who want a value-packed day trip that mixes city history, mountain scenery, and traditional food. It’s also ideal if you’re okay with a long day on the road and want to see a different side of Turkey without sacrificing comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Accessible day trip from Istanbul with numerous highlights
• Includes scenic cable car rides (if option selected) offering panoramic mountain views
• Delicious Turkish cuisine featuring local grilled dishes and sweets
• Authentic cultural stops like Green Mosque and historic sites
• Long but rewarding journey with a balance of guided commentary and free time
• Great for budget travelers at around $29 per person, offering solid value and varied experiences

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pick-up and Early Journey

Most travelers will be picked up from their Istanbul hotel between 8:00 and 9:15 AM. The exact time varies depending on your location, so be prepared for a prompt start. The journey involves crossing either the Osmangazi Bridge or the Ferry, both offering a scenic crossing over the Izmir Gulf. One notable optional stop is in Yalova for an ATV quad safari, which offers added excitement but is not included in the main package.

Travel time to Bursa is a significant part of the experience, with a coach ride that could last over two hours. As some reviews note, this can be a long coach trip, but it also means settling in with comfortable seats and enjoying the scenery or chatting with fellow travelers.

First stop: The Turkish Delight Factory

A highlight for many is the visit to a Turkish delight shop. Unlike some tours that merely list the sweets, this stop offers a chance to sample unique flavors and learn about Turkish confectionery traditions. Reviewers say they enjoyed tasting the different varieties and appreciated the chance to buy some to take home.

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Exploring Bursa: The Green Mosque and Historic Sites

Next, the tour takes you to Bursa’s Green Mosque, an architectural marvel filled with intricate tile work and a serene atmosphere. Visitors love the craftsmanship and the chance to step inside a monument that’s central to Bursa’s Islamic heritage. Nearby, you’ll visit the Green Tomb and the Silk House — a chance to walk through markets and see local crafts.

One reviewer praised the guide’s knowledge, saying, “All the attractions were worth visiting,” and appreciated the detailed explanations that brought the sites to life.

Nature and Mountain Adventures at Uludağ

After exploring Bursa’s historical sites, the trip continues to Uludağ, Turkey’s most popular ski resort. Here, you’ll have free time to explore and, if you selected the cable car option, to ride the scenic cable car to the mountain’s peak. The views from the top are often described as breathtaking, especially in winter when snow blankets the landscape.

Uludağ offers more than just sightseeing. You can try winter sports like skiing or motor skiing, or simply enjoy the mountain air. Many reviews note that the mountain scenery and snow-covered vistas are a highlight — one reviewer even described the snow as “surreal,” especially from the chair lift.

Optional Cable Car Ride: A Moment to Remember

Weather permitting, the cable car ride from Uludağ to Bursa is a memorable part of the trip. Travelers love the panoramic views, but some mention that if weather conditions halt the operation, there’s no refund. Despite that, most find the experience worthwhile.

Returning to Istanbul

The day winds down with a coach ride back to Istanbul, typically finishing late afternoon or early evening. Traffic can influence timing, but the overall experience makes the long day feel worthwhile.

Food and Cultural Highlights

One of the tour’s best features is the lunch break, where you’ll enjoy a mixed grill with salads and soft drinks. The quality is often praised as authentic and filling, giving you energy for the rest of the day.

Throughout the tour, you’ll sample Turkish delights, honey, and jam, which add an authentic flavor to your experience. Several reviews highlight how delicious the local treats are — “absolutely delicious” was a common phrase.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is operated by WE GO TURKYE TRAVEL and offers options for private or small groups, which can enhance comfort and interaction. The transportation involves hotel pickups, ferry or bridge crossings, and coach travel. The coaches are generally comfortable, and the guide’s commentary keeps the long journey engaging.

Price and Value

At around $29 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the number of sites visited, transportation, lunch, and optional cable car ride. For travelers on a budget, this is a chance to see a different part of Turkey without breaking the bank.

What’s Not Included?

• ATV quad safari (optional and paid separately)
• Ski equipment, jackets, gloves
• Chair lift (if not selected as an optional activity)

Travelers should plan to bring warm clothing and comfortable shoes, especially in winter, as the mountain can be quite cold and snowy.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with many describing their guides as friendly, humorous, and helpful. One reviewer admired the hilarious coach driver, adding to the overall positive atmosphere.

People also rave about the stunning scenery — snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and panoramic views. Several mention that the trip exceeded expectations, with many saying it was “worth it” and “a highlight of their Istanbul trip.”

Some pointed out the long coach ride as a minor drawback but felt it was justified by the sights and experiences gained. A few guests noted that some attractions, like the jam house, were skipped due to group preferences, but overall flexibility and good organization kept the day smooth.

The Sum Up

This Istanbul to Bursa & Uludag tour provides a well-rounded experience for those willing to spend a full day on the road. It offers a compelling mix of history, nature, local food, and spectacular mountain scenery. The value for money is hard to beat, especially with the inclusion of transportation, lunch, and optional cable car rides.

The tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy long, adventure-packed days and want to see some of Turkey’s most notable sights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s ideal if you’re interested in cultural heritage, mountain landscapes, and authentic local flavors.

While the coach ride is lengthy, the variety of stops, engaging guides, and breathtaking views make it a trip worth considering. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or someone keen to sample Turkish delights, this tour keeps the experience genuine and memorable.

FAQs

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
You should be prepared for pickup between 8:00 and 9:15 AM, depending on your hotel location, so plan to be ready a little earlier to avoid delays.

Is the cable car ride included?
It’s an optional upgrade; you can select it when booking. Weather conditions could affect operation, and there’s no refund if it’s halted due to weather.

What should I bring for the mountain visit?
Warm clothing, gloves, and comfortable shoes are recommended, especially in winter when snow and cold temperatures are common.

How long is the coach ride?
The trip involves a substantial coach journey, often over two hours each way, which might be tiring but also allows for scenic views and relaxed travel.

Is lunch included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a hearty mixed grill lunch with salads and a soft drink, providing good fuel for the day’s activities.

Can I do winter sports at Uludağ?
Yes, Uludağ offers options like skiing or motor skiing, plus a chairlift that many reviews deem worth the extra cost.

Are group sizes small or private?
Both options are available; small or private groups can enhance comfort, making the experience more personalized.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s a great option for families looking to combine cultural sites, mountain scenery, and fun activities. Just be prepared for a long day and bring appropriate clothing.

This trip balances value, scenery, and cultural insights, making it a strong choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive day out from Istanbul.

You can check availability for your dates here: