Bursa Full-Day Private Tour from Istanbul
Overview
Bursa Full-Day Private Tour from Istanbul
This is a private guided tour of Bursa that focuses on the stories behind the sights rather than moving with a big group.
Ottoman Heritage of Bursa
With expert commentary at the Grand Mosque, the royal tombs and the old bazaars, you learn how Bursa, as an imperial city, shaped the Ottoman Empire. It is ideal if you are interested in Ottoman history and want a cultural day out beyond Istanbul.
It is also a great choice if you are simply looking for a day trip from Istanbul to Bursa.
Views from Uludag
Seasonal scenery and panoramic city views from Uludag National Park make the day even more rewarding.
Tour Info
Itinerary
Private Bursa Tour
As the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa is one of the best day trips from Istanbul, combining early Ottoman heritage with green landscapes and a slower pace than the big city.
Your guide picks you up from your Istanbul hotel at 8:00 am in a private van for the drive to Bursa.
On arrival you begin at Ulu Cami (the Grand Mosque) and continue to the Green Mosque and the Green Tomb. A walk through the historic Grand Bazaar shows you Bursa's long history as a trading city.
The route continues to Tophane, where the tombs of Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi stand above panoramic views of the city. If the weather allows, the tour extends to Uludag, where a cable car ride may be possible.
After the tour you return to Istanbul by private van. Overnight in Istanbul.
This is the end of our service. Thank you for travelling with us; we look forward to welcoming you again.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- ✓Private Tour
- ✓Professional Guide
- ✓Transportation by Private Van
- ✕Cable Car Tickets
- ✕Meals & Drinks
- ✕Gratuity (Suggested)
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel free of charge up to 7 days before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 7 days of the tour are not refundable. All times are local time.
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Bursa private day tour from Istanbul: what you need to know
This private guided day trip takes you from Istanbul to Bursa, the first Ottoman capital, from $100. With a professional guide and a private van, you visit the Grand Mosque, the tombs of Osman Ghazi and Orhan Ghazi at Tophane, the Green Mosque, the old bazaars and Uludag Mountain, focusing on the stories behind the sights rather than moving with a big group.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 12 hours |
| Price | from $100 |
| Type | Private, your group with a professional guide |
| Start and end | Your hotel in Istanbul |
| Highlights | Grand Mosque, tombs of Osman and Orhan Ghazi, Green Mosque, Grand Bazaar of Bursa, Uludag |
| Included | Private guide, private van |
| Not included | Entrance fees and cable car, meals and drinks, tips |
Why is Bursa important in Ottoman history?
Bursa was the first great capital of the Ottoman state, and the founders of the dynasty, Osman and his son Orhan, are buried here. Long before Istanbul, Bursa's mosques, tombs and markets set the style of early Ottoman architecture and trade, including the silk trade for which the city became famous.
What do you see on the private tour?
| Site | What it is |
|---|---|
| Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami) | A vast early Ottoman mosque with many domes and a fountain inside |
| Tophane and the tombs of Osman and Orhan | The resting places of the dynasty's founders, with views over the city |
| Green Mosque | Famous for its turquoise tile work |
| Grand Bazaar of Bursa | Historic markets and inns, traditionally known for silk |
| Uludag | The mountain above the city, with panoramic views |
Private or group Bursa trip?
| Bursa from Istanbul | What is different | Price from |
|---|---|---|
| This private tour | Your own guide and van, flexible pace, more time at the monuments | $100 |
| Bursa group day trip with cable car and lunch | Ferry crossing, cable car ticket and lunch included | $90 |
Choose the group trip for an all-inclusive day with the cable car and lunch; choose the private tour if Ottoman history is your main interest, or if you want to travel only with your family or friends.
What other private day trips are there from Istanbul?
| Private day trip | Price from |
|---|---|
| Iznik (Nicaea) | $375 |
| Edirne and Selimiye Mosque | $370 |
| Troy | $165 |
| Sapanca and Masukiye group trip | $70 |
What is Bursa famous for?
Beyond its history, Bursa is known for Iskender kebab, which originated here, candied chestnuts, silk and the thermal baths of the Cekirge district. Uludag is Turkey's best-known ski mountain in winter and a cool green escape in summer.
When is the best time to visit Bursa?
Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing. Winter brings snow to Uludag; summer is warm in the city but cooler on the mountain. Mosque visits pause during prayer times, especially at Friday midday.
What should you bring?
Comfortable shoes, modest clothing for the mosques and tombs, a warm layer for Uludag, and cash for entrance fees, lunch and the bazaar.
How do you book?
Choose your date on this page and send the form, or message us on WhatsApp with your Istanbul hotel. We confirm in writing and you pay only after confirmation. For more ideas see our day trips from Istanbul and our Turkey tour packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a long drive?
Yes, this is a long day of about 12 hours. Because the private van is only for you, it moves faster than a regular tour bus.
Which languages are available?
We can run your tour in English, German, French, Spanish or Italian on request. Please contact us for other languages.
How far is Bursa from Istanbul?
The drive takes about 2.5 hours by private van. On the way you cross the Sea of Marmara by ferry and have time for breakfast.
How do I meet my guide?
Your guide and driver wait for you in your hotel lobby at the departure time.
Can we choose or add sites to the programme?
Yes. Let us know in advance which sites you would like to see or add, and we will adjust the itinerary for you.
Will we be alone with the guide or in a group?
This is a private tour, so only you and your family or friends will be with the guide.
What kind of vehicle is used?
The vehicle depends on your group size. We usually use a Mercedes Vito, or a Mercedes Sprinter for larger groups.
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