Budget Travel to Bursa 2024
Welcome to Bursa!
Key Takeaways
Bursa is a relatively unknown destination for most international budget-conscious travellers. This historic city is situated at the foot of Mount Uludağ, one of Turkey´s highest mountains and is a great place to visit in either the summer or winter.
Bursa offers a wonderful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just a food lover, Bursa has something to offer for everyone travelling on a budget.
This guide will explore the must-see attractions, affordable accommodations, and low-cost transportation options making Bursa an ideal travel destination.
The city is situated just a few hours away from Istanbul and travellers could even visit Bursa on a long day trip. However, in my opinion, Bursa is worth more than just a short day trip.
- Bursa has a rich history that dates to ancient times, and it was once the former capital of the Ottoman Empire.
- Visitors can explore stunning attractions such as the Grand Mosque, Green Mosque, and historical Grand bazaar all of which offer travellers and opportunity to see the city’s fascinating past.
- The city also offers something for nature lovers, including the impressive Mount Uludağ with plenty of outdoor and sports activities including hiking and skiing.
- There is a lot of budget-friendly accommodation available, such as hostels, guesthouses and charming hotels that are scattered throughout the city.
- Bursa is also a paradise for food lovers, offering a range of local delicacies at affordable prices.
- Getting to Bursa from Istanbul is relatively quick and easy, with regular buses or ferries throughout the day taking just a few hours.
Where is Bursa?
Bursa is located in north western region Turkey and is the fourth-largest city in Turkey. It is famous for its rich history and cultural heritage.
The city is about 160 kilometres southeast of Istanbul, and people can easily get there either by bus, ferry, or of course by car. It´s 390 km north-west of the capital, Ankara and about 350 kilometres north east of Izmir.
Bursa is located in the north west region of Turkey and is the fourth-largest city in Turkey. It is famous for its rich history and cultural heritage.
Travelling to Bursa from Istanbul is relatively easy, you can either go by bus, ferry+bus, or by car. Yeni Bursa airport is located quite far from the city with few flights, when compared to Istanbul.
Map of Bursa
A Brief History of Bursa
Bursa has a fascinating history that goes back to ancient times. It was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and its history is greatly influenced by its Ottoman heritage. Today you can easily see many of the its stunning Ottoman-era mosques, tombs, and bazaars.
These architectural wonders really help you to appreciate the craftsmanship and magnificence of the Ottoman Empire. As you walk around the city you will see landmarks such as the Grand Mosque, that are not only places of worship but also symbols of Bursa’s historical importance.
Apart from its historical sites, the city is also famous for its many parks, and for that reason, it is often referred to as “Green Bursa”.
Things to Do in Bursa
There are a lot of opportunities for sightseeing in Bursa, making it an ideal travel destination. There are many attractions and activities that cater to all kinds of visitors.
From historical landmarks to natural wonders, including summertime hiking and wintertime skiing. There is something for everyone to enjoy and prices are a lot cheaper than Istanbul.
Let´s look at some of the must-see attractions and activities that should be on your itinerary when exploring Bursa:
Mosques and Mausoleums
The Grand Mosque
This is a good place to start you trip is with to visit of Bursa. The mosque is located in the heart of Bursa and is one of the largest mosques in Turkey.
You should spend time wandering around as you will be impressed by its magnificent architecture and intricate details. There is no charge to enter the mosque, but make sure that your visit doesn´t coincide with prayer times. Free to enter.
The Green Mosque and the Green Tomb Mausoleum
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Green Mosque and the Green Tomb. These building is known for their stunning green tiles and impressive craftsmanship.
These historical sites are true masterpieces of Ottoman architecture. They are both very popular tourist attractions and located near each other which makes it easier in the summer months. There is no entrance fee for either of these landmark
Bursa City Walls and Gates
You can also explore the ancient Bursa city walls, which date back to the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. There are not many walls that are still intact. The gateways to the city are in better condition and are also a good place to take photos. You will see the one the gates as you walk up the hill on the way towards Tophane Park.
Koza Han
If you are looking for a unique open area to have a coffee or tea drinking, you should head to Koza Hani. This relatively hidden open-air area was originally a historic Caravansary.
A caravansaray was a traditional guest house and trading post for merchants returning from the Silk Road with their goods. It is a place with a living history and is situated right in the heart of the old city.
The courtyard area has been reformed and is a wonderful place where both tourists and locals go to enjoy the lively and historical atmosphere. It is a quite laid back and unpretentious place and very inexpensive.
It is just a great place to relax on your tour around the city. You can imagine how it must have been centuries ago when the place was full of merchants with their camels negotiating the sale of their spices and silk.
Tophane Park
If you want to take a break sightseeing you should go to Tophane Park, a have a tea or coffee and relax as you take in the views of Bursa from a hillside cafe.
You can walk around the park, have a look at the famous Ottoman clocktower.
If you are lucky, you can witness the changing of the Guard. These Soldiers are dressed in early Ottoman era costume, and they perform an elegant ceremony that will add a touch of tradition to your visit.
If you miss the changing of the guard at Topkapi Park you can also see it at the Ozmangazi Mausoleum down in the town centre. Osman was the founder of the Ottoman Empire and is still a respected historical figure in Turkish history.
Bursa Museum
If you want to learn more about Bursa’s cultural heritage you should visit its museums.
The Bursa City Museum was a former courthouse that was converted into a museum. Travellers will learn about the city’s long history and be able to see some interesting artefacts on display. Entrance is free.
Atatürk House Museum
Bursa´s Atatürk House Museum was once an elegant mansion which has now been converted into a museum to honour Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic. Entry fee is minimal. at less than a euro and if you are interested in the life of Ataturk you should take a visit.
Irgandi Bridge
The beautiful Irgandi bridge is an impressive Ottoman bridge that spans the Nilüfer River. You can walk across the bridge and admire the picturesque views of the river and the surrounding area.
The bridge is unusual because it has ottoman-style shops and coffee shops on it. There is also a very nice coffee shop if you walk down the steps to the river below.
Cumalikizik neighbourhood
If you want to step back in time you should explore the Cumalikizik neighbourhood of the city. It is a a well-preserved Ottoman village on the outskirts of Bursa.
You can experience the charm of this neighbourhood by simply walking through the narrow streets and admiring the traditional Ottoman houses.
It is worth a visit, and you can easily spend an hour or two walking around this part of Bursa, soaking up the atmosphere of a bygone era.
It is possible to get there by bus from the city centre for less than a euro, but for about 10 euros you can get there by taxi from the centre. Rush hour traffic is terrible in Bursa, so always use taxis, outside rush hour, to minimise the taxi fares.
Mount Uludağ & Cable Car
If you’re looking for adventure and breath-taking views of Bursa from high above, then Mount Uludağ is a must-visit destination. You will need to take a cable car (The Bursa Teleferik) and ride to the top, where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
There is also a wonderful park area at the top where you can walk around, hire a buggy, or just enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee at one of the many nice coffee houses or restaurants.
Mount Uludağ is also a popular spot for skiing during the winter season.
The cable car is not cheap for foreigners, who must pay double the price, compared to Turkish people or Turkish residents. The ticket costs over 10 euros, but it is worth the trip to the top.
You can either get a taxi to the cable car station or a bus, from the city centre. If you go by bus, you will need to buy a BursaKart travel pass and top it up and will cost you less than a euro each way compared to a taxi will cost you about 5 euros, if you are travelling from the city centre.
Shopping in Bursa
The city is known for its lively bazaars and markets where visitors can find a wide variety of products, including textiles, handicrafts, spices, and more. Exploring the bazaars is a great way to experience the local culture and find unique souvenirs at affordable prices.
Silk is one of the specialties of Bursa, and visitors can purchase silk products such as scarves and clothing without overspending. Bargaining is common in the bazaars, so visitors can try their negotiating skills while shopping.
The Grand Bazaar
Exploring the Grand Bazaar is like stepping back in time. Most of the bazaar is mainly undercover and it is huge. The Bazaar is centuries old and is located in the Osmangazi district, not far from the Grand Mosque.
The bazaar is enormous, and large parts of it are undercover. You could spend an hour or two walking around looking at the items on sale. Taking in the sights, sounds, and scents of the bazaar is part of what can be a great holiday experience. It is closed on Sundays.
Eating in Bursa
What to Eat in Bursa
Bursa is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of delicious dishes to try. Bursa’s Culinary Delights: İskender Kebab and Şıra
İskender Kebab is probably the most famous dish from Bursa. This mouth-watering kebab is a combination of tender grilled meat, tasty tomato sauce, and rich melted butter, all served on a bed of soft bread. You can get this meal in most parts of Turkey, but perhaps Bursa is the best place to try it.
Iskender kebab is not the cheapest dish to order and an cost between 5 to 8 euros in most restaurants, it will also be served with a starter or salad.
İskender kebab is often accompanied by Şıra. This is a refreshing local grape juice and is known for its sweet and tangy taste. It is a popular drink in Bursa. You could order an Ayran, which is a slightly salty yogurt drink which is also very popular.
Where to Eat
Bursa is home to many restaurants that offer a great variety of cuisines at affordable prices.
There are street food dishes options available. If you are in the Grand Bazaar, you should try a Durum (Turkish burrito) or a Doner kebab, which will cost you just a few euros including a small Ayran or water.
Another good place for casual dining is the historic Çarşamba Pazarı area is a great choice. Here, you’ll find a vibrant food market filled with stalls offering a wide range of delicious street food including savoury pastries and melt-in-your-mouth desserts.
If you are looking for something a little more up market, there are two highly recommended restaurants near Tophane park, where you can eat a delicious and reasonably price Iskender Kebab are Sümbüllü Bahçe Konağı and Tophane Kebapçısı. The second option is slightly cheaper.
Where to Stay in Bursa
Hostels in Bursa
Bursa offers a range of accommodation options for budget-conscious travellers. In general it is slightly cheaper than equivalent accommodation in Istanbul or Ankara.
There are budget hotels in Bursa that provide comfortable and affordable rooms with nice decoration.
There are many conveniently located budget hotels in the Osmangazi neighbourhood and that is probably the area of the city that is the most convenient and situated near many of the main tourist attractions.
For those travellers who are on a tight budget, Bursa has a selection of affordable hostels. These hostels have dormitory-style accommodation, which is perfect for solo travellers or those who are trying to cut accommodations costs.
While staying in a hostel, you can connect with other travellers, share experiences, and make new friends.
Room rental can often work out the same price as staying in a hostel, and for some older single travellers it may be more enjoyable.
Low-Cost Hotels
A couple of well located hotels that are both conveniently situated are:
Kule Hotel – A clean and simple hotel that is located not far from many of the city´s main attractions and cost around 25 euros per night.
Loyal City Bursa Hotel and Spa 3* – This is a little more modern and luxurious and is also centrally located, and near the metro. Prices start from about 35 euros including breakfast.
Apartment & Room Rental
Airbnb.com and hometogo.com both offer apartment rentals in Bursa at reasonable rates, sometimes there is not much difference between the price of an apartment and the price of a hotel. So, be sure that renting apartment makes economic sense.
Renting a room in someone’s apartment on Airbnb is often the cheapest way to go if you are travelling solo. Staying with a Turkish host can have its pros and cons, sometimes they don´t speak much English, but in my Experience it has usually been a great opportunity to meet people and even make friends.
Getting to Bursa
Flights to Bursa
There is a very small airport in Bursa which is called Bursa Yenişehir Airport, which offers just a few domestic flights each day, most of them to the south east of Turkey.
If you are planning to go to Istanbul, Izmir or Ankara, taking a flight would probably not be a very good option. As bus travel is just as quick and costs a fraction of the price.
Trains to Bursa
Train travel to Bursa from Istanbul is surprisingly another poor option. You can get a 1h.15m train from Yenikapi train station in Istanbul to the town of Gebze which is about half way to Bursa.
From Gazebe train station you need to transfer to the Gebze bus station and get a connecting one-hour bus ride to Bursa. The resulting journey takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes. The inconvenience of changing from Train to bus makes this option unpopular and most people just prefer to get a direct intercity bus.
Intercity Buses to Bursa
One of the most convenient and affordable ways to travel to Bursa is by taking intercity buses. There are many regular bus services that operate between Bursa and Istanbul and other major cities around Turkey.
Buses in Turkey are very comfortable compared to most other countries and offer a comfortable and efficient way to travel, allowing you to just sit back and enjoy the scenery as you make your way to Bursa. It’s a great option for those who prefer a hassle-free journey.
The two main bus companies that offer intercity bus services to Bursa are Pamukkale and Uludağ, (Check out our guide to travelling by intercity bus)
Origin of journey | Journey duration |
Istanbul | 3h.30m |
Ankara | 5h.30m |
Antalya | About 10 hours |
Ferry + Bus to Bursa
If you’re starting your journey from Istanbul, you can take advantage of the ferry and bus combination to reach Bursa. There is a fast (2 hour) catamaran ferry services with BUDO ferries that operates between Istanbul Sirkeci ferry port and Mudanya. Mudanya is a port is located about 20 kılometres from Bursa.
The ferry ride allows you to appreciate the beautiful surroundings and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere onboard. Once you arrive in Mudanya there are many buses available at the ferry terminal that can take you to Bursa. Check the weather forecast before choosing to go by ferry, as if the weather is windy or rainy, it can be an unpleasant experience.
Most people prefer to take a direct bus from Istanbul to Bursa. However, the ferry trip can make a pleasant and unusual holiday experience and form part of the travel adventure to Bursa.
Getting around Bursa
Once you’re in Bursa, there are several transportation options to help get around the city and explore its attractions. If you are planning to visit the town on a tight budget, you will need to buy a BursaKart travel pass and top it up with money. You cannot pay with cash on public transport in the city.
The Bursa metro system is a reliable and efficient mode of transportation, with multiple lines that cover different parts of the city. Buses are another popular option, providing extensive coverage throughout Bursa. Taxis are also available, offering convenience and flexibility, especially for reaching specific destinations.
There is a tramway that goes from the bus terminal to the city centre for less than a euro. A taxi fare would cost about 5-7 euros and will take about 15 to 20 minutes in light traffic.
Personally, I enjoyed walking around the city and didn´t find it too difficult to get to most of the old town attractions on foot. The only place where I needed take a bus was to get to the Bursa cable car station, as it is quite a long way from the centre.
When is the Best Time to Visit Bursa?
If you are planning a trip to Bursa, then it’s important to consider the best time to visit to make the most of your trip.
The best time to visit Bursa is during the spring, from April to June, and the autumn, from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it comfortable to explore the city’s outdoor attractions and historical sites.
Summers can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius. Winter brings cold and snowy conditions, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. If you enjoy skiing or snowboarding, visiting the city during the winter season can be a great choice. The nearby Mount Uludağ is excellent for winter sports and stunning views.
Is Bursa Worth Visiting?
Many people choose to visit Bursa as an organised day trip from Istanbul and I would agree that it is possible to see the main sites of the city in one day. You would need extra if you intend to go up the mountain on a cable car ride and enjoy the view and park area at the top.
However, I think that Bursa has a lot more to offer than can be appreciated in just one day. You could easily spend at least two or three days here and get a feel for the city.
I am not a winter person, so I probably wouldn´t come here in the wintertime. Although Bursa is also considered to be a snow sport resort for Turkish Tourists. In my opinion Bursa could make a great stopping off point on a bus journey between Istanbul and Izmir.