Travel around Bursa with Bobby
I chose to visit Bursa because it’s rare to find a place where history and nature blend so seamlessly. As the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, the city offers a unique chance to experience its historical atmosphere and iconic sites like the Grand Mosque. The prospect of a nature escape at the foot of Mount Uludağ, surrounded by endless shades of green, was also a big draw. And of course, tasting local specialties like the famous İskender kebab in its birthplace was an adventure in itself. With its peaceful vibe and rich heritage, Bursa is perfect for both relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal destination for any curious traveler.
Day 1A Journey Through Ottoman History
I arrived in Bursa in the early morning, and the historic atmosphere hit me immediately. My first stop was the iconic Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii)—this grand structure, with its twenty domes, felt like stepping back in time to the heart of the Ottoman Empire. As I wandered inside, the intricate calligraphy on the walls and the peaceful ambiance were mesmerizing. Just a few steps away, I found myself at Koza Han, a historic silk bazaar where merchants once traded along the Silk Road. I sipped tea in the bustling courtyard, soaking in the lively yet timeless energy.
For lunch, I couldn’t resist the famous İskender kebab, served in a historic restaurant in the city center. The rich flavors, especially with the yogurt and butter sauce, were unforgettable! Afterward, I strolled through the Green Mosque (Yeşil Camii) and Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe), famous for their dazzling turquoise tiles and serene surroundings.
If you love history and culture, devote your first day to exploring Bursa's central historical landmarks. Don’t miss the tea experience at Koza Han—it's a classic Bursa moment!
Day 2Nature and Adventure at the Foot of Uludağ
On my second day, I set out to explore Bursa’s famous natural beauty and headed to Mount Uludağ. I took an early morning cable car ride up the mountain, watching as the city below transformed into vast, green landscapes. In winter, Uludağ is a hotspot for skiing, but in summer, it offers great hiking trails and breathtaking views. I spent the morning hiking through the lush trails, breathing in the fresh mountain air, and capturing photos of the scenic panoramas.
After a few hours in the mountains, I headed back down to the national park area and decided to try pideli köfte at a cozy restaurant on the way back. These tender meatballs, topped with a rich sauce, are a must-try and another delicious local specialty. It was the perfect end to a day filled with adventure and nature.
After a morning on the mountain, I stopped by a local restaurant for some delicious pideli köfte. The juicy meatballs with rich sauce were a fantastic introduction to this regional dish. Served with fresh bread, the flavors were homey and comforting, making it the perfect meal after outdoor adventures. I’d definitely come back for more!
Food
For a change of pace, I stayed at a cozy lodge near the foot of Uludağ, which added to the sense of adventure. The rustic, wood-themed interiors were both welcoming and comfortable, offering stunning views of the mountains. It was refreshing to be surrounded by nature, and the lodge’s warm service made it a standout experience. Only minor inconveniences like limited Wi-Fi, but otherwise, an amazing stay.
Accomodation
The cable car ride up Uludağ was one of the highlights of my trip, offering breathtaking views over Bursa as we ascended. The trails were well-marked, and hiking was both scenic and peaceful. Whether you're into winter sports or summer hikes, this is a must-do for nature lovers. The fresh air and stunning landscapes made it a perfect escape from the city.
Activity
Whether it’s winter or summer, Uludağ offers unforgettable experiences! Plan at least half a day to enjoy the cable car ride, hiking trails, and delicious food along the way.
Day 3A Glimpse of Ottoman Village Life in Cumalıkızık
For my final day, I ventured out of the city center to Cumalıkızık Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels frozen in time. Just a short bus ride from Bursa, Cumalıkızık welcomed me with its narrow cobblestone streets and colorful Ottoman-era houses. I started my day with a hearty village breakfast, complete with local cheeses, olives, and homemade bread—a refreshing change from city life.
I spent the morning wandering through the village, admiring traditional crafts and chatting with local artisans who sell handmade souvenirs. By early afternoon, I was back in Bursa and decided to end my trip at Bursa’s Covered Bazaar. The bazaar was alive with vibrant colors, spices, and the aroma of soaps and perfumes. It was the perfect place to pick up a few mementos before bidding farewell to this wonderful city.
Starting the day with a traditional village breakfast in Cumalıkızık was delightful. With fresh cheeses, olives, tomatoes, honey, and homemade bread, the flavors were simple yet incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that brings you closer to the local culture. The only downside was wanting more time to savor each bite!
Food
I chose to stay in a quaint guesthouse that retained Cumalıkızık's historic charm, with wooden beams and cozy furnishings. While it was basic, it provided a genuine sense of the village lifestyle. Though a few modern amenities were lacking, the guesthouse had a unique character that I appreciated.
Accomodation
Wandering through Cumalıkızık felt like a step back in time; the old Ottoman houses and cobblestone streets were full of character. The village’s authenticity is well-preserved, and interacting with local artisans was a highlight. Returning to Bursa’s Covered Bazaar for some final shopping was a perfect end to the trip.
Activity
Don’t miss Cumalıkızık for an authentic Ottoman village experience, complete with delicious breakfast. End your day at the bazaar to bring a piece of Bursa back with you!
Summary of My Trip
My three-day adventure in Bursa was a truly captivating experience. As the first Ottoman capital, this city went far beyond my expectations with its historical ambiance, lush nature, and incredible cuisine. Walking through iconic sites like the Grand Mosque and Koza Han felt like a journey into the past, where I could deeply feel the city’s rich cultural heritage. The cable car ride to the peak of Uludağ and the nature walks at its base offered a refreshing escape into nature. And the food? Unbelievable! Tasting İskender kebab in its birthplace and enjoying a traditional village breakfast in Cumalıkızık were culinary highlights of my trip.
Visiting Cumalıkızık village felt like stepping into an Ottoman-era scene; interacting with locals and browsing handmade crafts was a charming experience. Bursa’s warm and peaceful atmosphere made it perfect for both exploring and relaxing. The city’s richness in history and natural beauty is bound to leave any traveler enchanted. Simply put, Bursa has secured a memorable place in my heart with its blend of history and scenic charm.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Bursa offers a harmonious blend of history and nature, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler. From Ottoman landmarks to lush natural escapes, the city has a unique charm that captivates visitors with its rich cultural heritage, local flavors, and welcoming atmosphere. Here’s my overall experience in Bursa, rated across ten categories:
Lunch at a historic restaurant in the heart of Bursa to try the legendary İskender kebab was a treat. The perfectly tender meat, rich tomato sauce, and buttery yogurt were exactly as flavorful as I’d hoped. This dish is famous for good reason, and the local ambiance made it even better. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the city!
Food
I stayed at a centrally located hotel that was comfortable and within walking distance of major attractions. The room was modern yet retained a traditional touch, which matched the city’s historic feel. Friendly staff and great amenities made it a perfect home base. A few minor amenities could be improved, but it was otherwise ideal.
Accomodation
Walking through Ulu Camii and Koza Han was an unforgettable experience. The mosque’s architecture was awe-inspiring, and I felt a deep connection to history in Koza Han’s bustling courtyard. These two sites offer an authentic look into Bursa’s Ottoman legacy and should be at the top of any visitor's list.
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