Vacation Packages to Bursa

Travel to Bursa: Discover a City Full of History, Culture, and Gastronomy.

If you are thinking of visiting Turkey, you should travel to Bursa, a city that combines modernity with tradition.

Located in the Marmara region, Bursa is the fourth-largest city in Turkey and one of the most important in terms of history and culture.

Geographical Location and Population

Bursa is located on the coast of the Sea of Marmara in northwestern Turkey. It is bordered on the north by the Sea of Marmara, on the east by the province of Kocaeli, on the south by the province of Bilecik, and the west by the province of Balikesir.

With an area of 10,815 square kilometers, it is the fifteenth-largest province in Turkey. According to the latest census, conducted in 2020, the population of Bursa is approximately 3.1 million.

History of Bursa

Bursa has a long history dating back to the 3rd century BC. In ancient times, the city was known as Prusa and was inhabited by Phrygians, Bithynians, and Romans.

During Byzantine times, it was an important city and in the 13th century, it was conquered by the Turks.

During the Ottoman Empire, Bursa was the first capital of the empire and, as a result, has a rich architectural and cultural heritage.

Today, it is an important industrial and tourist center of Turkey.

Top Tourist Attractions in Bursa

Bursa has a large number of tourist attractions worth visiting. Here are some of the most important ones:

The Green Mosque (Yesil Camii): This mosque was built in the 15th century and is one of the most important examples of Ottoman architecture. It is called the Green Mosque because of the green tiles that cover its interior walls.

The Green Mausoleum (Yesil Turbe): This mausoleum, located near the Green Mosque, is the resting place of Sultan Mehmed I and some members of his family. It was built in the 15th century and is one of the most impressive buildings in Bursa.

Ulu Mosque (Ulu Camii): This mosque was built in the 14th century and is one of the largest mosques in Turkey. It has 20 domes and two minarets and its interior is decorated with Iznik tiles.

The Silk Bazaar (Koza Han): This bazaar is one of the oldest in Turkey and is famous for its silks and textiles. It is located in the center of the city and is an ideal place to buy souvenirs and souvenirs.

Mount Ulud: This mountain, located on the outskirts of the city, is one of Bursa's most important natural attractions. In winter, it is a popular skiing destination, and in summer, visitors can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

The Thermal Baths (Kaplica): Bursa is known for its hot springs and there are several thermal baths in the city where visitors can relax and enjoy their therapeutic properties.

Bursa Fortress (Bursa Kalesi): This fortress, built in the 13th century, is an impressive example of Ottoman military architecture. From its walls, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

How to Get to Bursa

Bursa is located about 100 kilometers south of Istanbul and can be reached by car, bus, or ferry. If you are traveling from Istanbul, you can take a ferry from the port of Eminönü or Kabatas to Yalova, and from there take a bus or cab to Bursa. Buses also depart regularly from Istanbul bus station to Bursa.

If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Istanbul and drive to Bursa. The highway connecting the two cities is of high quality and well-signposted. There are also private and shared transfer services available from Istanbul airports to Bursa.

Cultural Aspects of Bursa

Bursa is a city with a rich cultural heritage and is home to numerous mosques, mausoleums, and other historical buildings. It is also a place where you can find many authentic Turkish traditions and customs, such as Turkish baths and traditional bazaars.

If you visit Bursa, be sure to respect the local culture and customs. For example, when visiting a mosque, be sure to dress appropriately and remove your shoes before entering. It is also important to remember that alcohol is not very present in Turkish culture and is not commonly found in the city's restaurants and cafes.

What to Eat and Drink in Bursa

Bursa is known for its unique and delicious cuisine. Some of the city's most popular dishes include Iskender kebab, a sliced meat dish served over pita bread and topped with tomato and yogurt sauce; tripe soup (Iskembe çorbası), a thick, spicy soup made with lamb tripe; and Bursa ice cream (Bursa dondurması), ice cream made with salep, an orchid powder that gives it a smooth, creamy texture.

As for drinks, Turks are famous for their tea, and in Bursa, it is no different. Turks drink tea frequently throughout the day and it is common to find small teapots in the city's restaurants and cafes. You can also try ayran, a salty and refreshing yogurt drink that is served cold and is popular throughout Turkey.

If you are a coffee lover, don't miss Turkish coffee, a strong, thick drink that is prepared by boiling ground coffee in a special pot called a cezve. Turkish coffee is served with a glass of water and a small Turkish sweet called lokum.

In short, traveling to Bursa is a unique experience that will take you through Turkey's history and culture. From its beautiful natural landscapes to its impressive historical monuments, Bursa is a fascinating tourist destination for any traveler who wants to explore authentic Turkey.

Don't miss the opportunity to sample its delicious food and immerse yourself in its unique cultural traditions.