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Things to do in Bursa include exploring its rich history, culture, and nature. Nestled at the base of Mount Uludağ in northwestern Turkey, Bursa was the Ottoman Empire’s first capital. The city boasts stunning mosques, lively bazaars, and rejuvenating hot springs. Visitors can wander through vibrant markets, historic sites, and picturesque villages while indulging in the city’s famous cuisine. This travel guide highlights the 10 best things to do in Bursa, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this fascinating and beautiful destination.
10 Most Popular Things To Do In Bursa
Discover the top attractions in Bursa, from historic landmarks and thermal baths to stunning nature spots and delicious local cuisine.
1. Explore The Grand Mosque / Ulu Cami
Photo: Yahia.Mokhtar / Wikimedia Commons
The Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami) is Bursa’s crown jewel of activities, providing a glimpse of early Ottoman architecture. Built-in 1399 by Sultan Bayezid I, the mosque is famous for its 20 domes, which were constructed after he promised to do so after a victorious battle. The mosque’s large prayer hall is supplemented by calligraphy panels with Islamic quotes, contributing to the mystical ambience. In the middle, a rare ablution fountain provides a peaceful setting where pilgrims cleanse themselves before prayer.
Location: Atatürk Street, Osmangazi, Bursa
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: Open daily from dawn until late evening
2. Ride The Bursa Teleferik To Mount Uludağ
Photo: Kartal Arikan / Wikimedia Commons
The Teleferik ride in Bursa is one of the most popular activities in Bursa, offering a stunning ride to Mount Uludağ. The cable car system, one of the longest cable car systems in the world at 8.2 kilometers, carries tourists from the city to the Uludağ National Park, one of the world-renowned ski spots. Thousands of tourists visit ski resorts, which offer hiking trails, campsites, and picnic spots. Panoramic views of Bursa, green forests, and snowy peaks are some of the stunning views offered by the Teleferik ride.
Location: Teleferik Mahallesi, Yıldırım, Bursa
Entry Fee: Approx. 60 TL / ₹160 for a round trip
Timing: Daily from 10 AM – 6 PM
3. Wander Through The Bursa Grand Bazaar And Koza Han
Photo: Jocelyn Erskine-Kellie / Wikimedia Commons
Shopping at the Bursa Grand Bazaar and Koza Han is one of the most sought-after activities in Bursa, given that the city was once at the centre of the Ottoman silk trade. Koza Han, constructed in 1491, was a caravanserai where merchants carried silk from China through the Silk Road. Nowadays, it is still a bustling marketplace where tourists can purchase silk scarves, textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts. The Bursa Grand Bazaar, just nearby, is a treasure trove of traditional stores selling spices, Turkish delight, antiques, and leather products.
Location: Osmangazi, Bursa
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: Grand Bazaar: Monday to Saturday, 9 AM – 7 PM; Koza Han: 8 AM – 8 PM
4. Visit The Green Mosque And Green Tomb
Photo: Yahia.Mokhtar / Wikimedia Commons
The Green Mosque (Yeşil Cami) and Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe) are two top things to do in Bursa, symbolising excellent early Ottoman architecture. The Green Mosque built between 1419 and 1421, is renowned for its beautiful turquoise and blue Iznik tiles that cover the interior walls, domes, and mihrab. The Green Tomb is the tomb of Sultan Mehmed I, and it features excellent tile work and Arabic inscriptions. Both are architectural and spiritual landmarks, and they draw visitors who admire the artistic prowess of the early Ottomans.
Location: Yeşil Mh., Yıldırım, Bursa
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: Green Mosque: 9 AM – 6 PM; Green Tomb: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
5. Stroll Through Cumalıkızık Village
Photo: Ayratayrat / Wikimedia Commons
A tour of Cumalıkızık Village is Bursa’s most sought-after excursions, a glimpse into authentic Ottoman-era life. The village, which is over 700 years old and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its wooden houses in pristine condition, cobblestone streets, and peaceful courtyards. Tourists can tour the traditional homes, small museums, and ancient mosques, all set amidst the peaceful rural landscape. The village is also famous for its homemade Turkish breakfast (köy kahvaltısı) of fresh cheese, olives, honey, and homemade bread.
Location: Yıldırım, Bursa
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: Open daily; best visited in the morning or early afternoon
6. Relax In Bursa’s Thermal Baths
Photo: HALUK COMERTEL / Wikimedia Commons
Bursa is famous for its thermal baths, a practice that dates back to Roman and Ottoman times. A dip in these hot mineral springs is one of the top things to do in Bursa; it is relaxing and good for one’s health. Eski Kaplıca and Kervansaray Thermal Baths are two of the most well-known, with stunning Ottoman-style architecture with domed ceilings, marble interiors, and hot mineral pools. These baths assist with circulation, skin conditions, and relaxing muscles. One can experience a traditional Turkish bath (hammam) treatment with steam baths, massages, and scrubbing scrubs.
Location: Various locations across Bursa (Çekirge district is famous for thermal baths)
Entry Fee: 100-300 TL / ₹270-₹810 (varies by bathhouse and services)
Timing: Open daily, typically from 8 AM – 10 PM
7. Discover The Tombs Of Osman And Orhan Gazi
Photo: Dosseman / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most important things to do in Bursa is a visit to the Tombs of Osman and Orhan Gazi, as these two founded the Ottoman Empire. The tombs on Tophane Hill are placed in a serene garden with a view of the city. Osman Gazi was the first sultan of the Ottomans, and his son, Orhan Gazi, expanded the empire significantly. Their tombs, rebuilt after an earthquake in the 19th century, feature lovely Ottoman calligraphy, great tile work, and a serene atmosphere. A visit here provides a good historical connection to the beginnings of the empire.
Location: Tophane, Osmangazi, Bursa
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: 9 AM – 6 PM daily
8. Experience The Irgandı Bridge
Photo: Haluk CÖMERTEL / Wikimedia Commons
The Irgandı Bridge is an exceptional Ottoman bridge, famous as one of the last covered bazaar bridges in the world. Built-in 1442, the stone and brick bridge spans the Gökdere River and features artisan workshops, boutiques, and cafes. Strolling along the bridge, tourists can see handmade craftwork, paintings, jewellery, and fabrics by local artisans. The old-world atmosphere, historical significance, and picturesque beauty make the bridge one of the top things to do in Bursa. Whether looking for handmade souvenirs or a peaceful riverside stroll, the Irgandı Bridge is special.
Location: Osmangazi, Bursa
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: 24×7; shops open from 10 AM – 7 PM
9. Visit The Muradiye Complex
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Muradiye Complex is a serene ancient complex of a mosque, tombs, and gardens. Constructed in the 15th century by Sultan Murad II, the complex houses the tombs of some Ottoman princes, sultans, and royal family members. The ornate tile work, Arabic inscriptions, and beautiful courtyard gardens make it one of the attractions in Bursa for history enthusiasts. Tourists can see the stunning prayer hall of the mosque, stroll around the gardens, and appreciate the well-preserved Ottoman architecture.
Location: Muradiye, Osmangazi, Bursa
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: 9 AM – 6 PM daily
10. Taste Famous Iskender Kebab
Photo: Jazz Guy / Wikimedia Commons
No visit to Bursa is complete without enjoying the city’s most popular dish – Iskender Kebab. The famous Turkish dish consists of thinly sliced lamb or beef, served over fresh pide bread and garnished with a creamy tomato sauce, melted butter, and yogurt. The dish was created in Bursa by Iskender Efendi in the 19th century, and it has been a part of Bursa’s cuisine ever since. There are several restaurants in the city where you can enjoy this delicious dish, but the best place to enjoy it is at Kebapçı Iskender, the family restaurant.
Location: Kebapçı İskender and other restaurants in Bursa
Entry Fee: Price varies (average 10-200 TL / ₹27-₹540 per dish)
Timing: Open daily, typically 11 AM – 10 PM
Bursa is an intriguing city that combines rich Ottoman heritage, breathtaking natural scenery, and rich culture. From visiting historic mosques, taking a ride on Teleferik to Mount Uludağ, browsing Koza Han for shopping, or soaking up in thermal spas, there is no end to activities in Bursa for any traveller. From its engineering marvels to mouth-watering food, Bursa combines adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration perfectly. Book your Bursa holiday today with TripXL and witness the beauty of Turkey’s first Ottoman capital!
Cover Photo: Mert Kaya / Pexels
