Bursa
The first Ottoman capital, green in every sense
Bursa was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and remains a city of extraordinary historical and natural beauty. Known as 'Green Bursa' for its parks and gardens, it is home to the UNESCO-listed Green Mosque and Tomb, thermal baths used since Roman times, and Uludag Mountain — one of Turkey's top ski resorts.
What makes Bursa special
Green Mosque
Exquisite Ottoman tiles and calligraphy from 1424
Thermal Baths
1,000-year-old hot springs in the Cekirge district
Uludag Ski
Turkey's most popular ski resort, 40 minutes from the city
Iskender Kebab
The famous dish was invented here in Bursa
Cumalikizik Village
700-year-old Ottoman village with cobblestone streets
Top experiences in Bursa
Green Mosque Tour
Admire the finest Iznik tilework in Ottoman architecture
Thermal Bath Day
Relax in historic hamams with mineral-rich thermal waters
Uludag Ski Trip
Winter sports on Turkey's most popular mountain resort
Cumalikizik Village
Wander through 700-year-old Ottoman houses and taste local jam
Practical Information
Weather
Mild rainy winters (3-10°C), warm summers (20-30°C). Uludag is much colder.
Best Time to Visit
December–March for skiing; April–June for city and village visits
Getting There
1.5 hours by ferry from Istanbul Yenikapi. Bursa Yenisehir Airport has limited flights.
Local Tips
- Try authentic iskender kebab at the original restaurant
- Uludag ski resort gets busy on weekends — book early
- Cumalikizik is best visited on a weekday for a quieter experience
Gallery
Traveler Reviews
Hans Weber
Germany
The Green Mosque rivals anything in Istanbul. The tilework is mesmerizing and the atmosphere is serene.
Svetlana Ivanova
Russia
We skied Uludag in February and the conditions were excellent. The thermal baths afterwards were heavenly.
Adele Marchand
France
Cumalikizik village is a hidden gem. It feels like stepping back into the 15th century.
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