Bursa Travel Guide: Must-See Places in Türkiye's Historic City

01.04.2025 - 17:39

With 8,500 years of history, Bursa is a city that doesn’t just tell stories. The city immerses you in these stories with its unique aspects. Known for its stunning landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and jaw-dropping architecture, it’s no wonder this place has been named a cultural gem by the International Organization of Turkish Culture. Whether you’re soaking in thermal springs, wandering through ancient markets, or hiking up majestic peaks, Bursa leaves a mark on everyone who visits.

Here’s where to go to experience its soul.👇

Uludağ National Park: Where Bursa touches the sky

If you need a break from the city’s buzz, Uludağ National Park is your spot. Sure, it’s famous for skiing, but it’s also perfect for hiking, picnicking at Saralan, or just breathing in that crisp mountain air. Too tired to head back? Stay in one of the rustic woodland cabins. You can drive up or take the cable car. Either way, the views on the way up are worth the trip alone.

Oylat Thermal Springs: Nature’s spa

Bursa’s healing hot springs are legendary, and Oylat is the crown jewel. People swear by these waters for everything from sore muscles to stress. After a long soak, treat yourself to a Turkish bath scrub or a steamy sauna session. Feeling adventurous? The surrounding forests are great for a short hike.

Koza Han & the Grand Bazaar: Shopping like It’s the 1400s

Back in the day, hans were roadside inns where traders and their animals could rest. Now? They’re lively markets packed with everything from handwoven silks (Koza Han is famous for these) to glittering jewelry at the Grand Bazaar. Haggle like a local, sip Turkish coffee, and soak up the atmosphere.

Historic Hamams: Steam away the centuries

Bursa’s Ottoman-era bathhouses are still standing and still working wonders. Places like Çekirge Bath and Keçeli Kadın Hammam have been relaxing visitors for hundreds of years.

Pro tip: Go for the full treatment (yes, that includes the foamy massage).

Cumalıkızık: A living postcard from the past

This UNESCO-listed village feels frozen in time. Cobblestone streets, creaky wooden houses, and an ethnography museum that spills secrets of old Bursa life. It’s the perfect way to end your trip.

The Green Mosque (Yeşil Camii) & Tomb (Yeşil Türbe)

You haven’t really seen Bursa until you’ve stood inside the Green Mosque. Those dazzling turquoise tiles? They’re not just pretty—they tell the story of early Ottoman artistry at its peak. Built in 1419, this place feels frozen in time, especially the tomb of Sultan Mehmed I next door, where sunlight filters through stained glass onto Quranic inscriptions. Local trick: Come right at opening to have those mosaic domes all to yourself before the tour buses arrive.

Tophane Park & the Ottoman clock tower

For the best 'wow' view of Bursa’s sea of red rooftops and minarets, haul yourself up to Tophane Park. It’s not just a photo op—this hilltop is sacred ground, with the tombs of Osman and Orhan Gazi, the empire’s founding fathers, tucked under those domes. Stick around until dusk when the 19th-century clock tower (fun fact: it’s older than most in Türkiye) starts glowing over the city. Pro tip: Grab a simit from the vendor at the park entrance—you’ll want snacks for this sunset.

Source: Bursa Turizm Portalı

Irgandi Bridge: The world’s only bazaar bridge

Bridges are for crossing, right? Not this one. Built in 1442, Irgandi is like a medieval mall suspended over water, where jewelers and calligraphers now work in tiny arched shops. Listen closely and you’ll hear the clink of chisels shaping silver between footsteps. The real magic? The hidden tea garden under the bridge—order a çay and watch ducks paddle past while you’re literally inside history. Only in Bursa.