BURSA CITY (GREEN BURSA)

Bursa is one of the four largest cities in Turkey, located in the southeast of the Marmara Sea and northwest of the renowned Uludag Mountains. It is surrounded by Marmara Sea and Yalova to the north, Kocaeli and Sakarya to the northeast, Bilecik to the east, and Kütahya and Balıkesir to the south.

Due to its strategic location for defense against attacks, Bursa has been a home to many civilizations throughout history, and today, it boasts a rich cultural heritage.

Explore the beauty of Bursa with Tour Maker Turkey, the travel experts. We offer travelers from around the world comprehensive city tours and effective solutions for discovering Bursa. Check out our extensive range of Bursa city tours today.

BURSA HISTORY

The history of Bursa Province dates back to 5000-3500 BC, during the Chalcolithic Period. Over the centuries, the city has been inhabited by various communities such as the Phoenicians, Lydians, Romans, and Ottomans. According to ancient sources, Bursa was founded by Emperor Prusias I of Bithynia, who named the city after himself, “Prusa” (modern-day Bursa in Turkish). Recent archaeological excavations have uncovered a women’s marble sculpture and an ostotek.

During the Byzantine Era, the reign of Emperor Justinianus (527-565) saw the construction of the stunning Cekirge Baths and the creation of numerous mosaics, chapels, and monasteries. The various empires that inhabited Bursa each contributed to its cultural and artistic values, but the city reached new heights during the Ottoman period and gained increased importance.

panoramic view of the turkish city Bursa nature of green Bursa and teleferik old buildings on the streets of Bursa Turkiye Mosques of Bursa Turkey Minarets of Bursa cami

AFTER THE OTTOMANS

After the Ottoman Empire conquered the city on April 6, 1326, Bursa served as the capital until 1365. Even after that, it continued to hold symbolic importance as the site of the funeral ceremonies of Sultans and other significant celebrations. During this time, the name of the city was changed from Prusa to Bursa and it became known as the “Green Paradise” due to its lush greenery. The city saw the establishment of various social complexes, mosques, Turkish baths, hospices, hospitals (darussifa), madrasahs, caravansaries, inns, mausoleums, and palaces. Gardens and picnic areas were also adorned with beautiful flowers to showcase the natural wealth and glory of Bursa.

Thus, Bursa has enchanted people with its natural beauty and unique architecture since ancient times. Despite losing some of its importance over time, the city has been revitalized with the help of the Republic of Turkey.

CLIMATE

Bursa generally has a mild and rainy climate, but the climate type can vary depending on the region. For example, Uludag in the south has a rainy and cold climate, while the northern parts have a milder weather.

Bursa is a city in Turkey and consists of various districts such as Nilufer, Yıldırım, Osman Gazi, Büyük Orhan, Gemlik, Gürsu, Harmancık, Inegöl, Iznik, Karacabey, Mudanya, Kestel, Mustafa Kemal Pasha, Orhangazi, Orhaneli, Karacabey and Yenisehir. It boasts several iconic structures such as Yıldırım Mosque and Tomb, Yesil (Green) Mosque and Mausoleum, Emir Sultan Mosque and Tomb, Muradiye Social Complex, and Hudavendigar Mosque and Social Complex. Bursa also has significant religious structures such as Gerus Synagogues, Ets Ahayim and Mayor Synagogues. In addition, Bursa is home to great public houses like Emir, Haci Ivaz- Payigah and Arabacılar. The city also features famous attractions like Uludag National Park, Cekirge (Vakıfbahce) Hot Springs, Bademli Bahce Hot Springs, Dumbuldek, Gemlik and Armutlu Thermal Springs, and natural beaches such as Kursunlu, Bayramdere, Mesudiye, Egerce and Esence. It also has picnic areas that are enjoyed by both locals and tourists.

WHY VISIT BURSA TURKEY?

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN BURSA

Bursa is a city with a rich cultural heritage, providing visitors with a wealth of historical and architectural sites to explore. Some of the most popular tourist attractions include the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami), the Bursa City Museum, the Bursa Castle, and the Cumalikizik village, a well-preserved Ottoman village that still contains many traditional houses and stone streets.

Another must-visit attraction is the Green Mosque (Yesil Camii), one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture, with its intricate tile work and elegant calligraphy. Visitors can also take a dip in one of the many thermal baths, including the famous Cekirge Baths, which dates back to the Byzantine Empire.

The beautiful parks and gardens of Bursa provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The iconic Cumalikizik village is located on a hill overlooking the city, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, and is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy a picnic.

FOOD

Bursa is also known for its delicious cuisine, and visitors can sample traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs, baklava, and pide (a type of Turkish pizza) in the city’s many restaurants and cafes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the city’s location near the coast and in the foothills of the Uludag Mountains, and includes a variety of fresh seafood and locally grown fruits and vegetables.

SHOPPING

Shopping is a popular pastime in Bursa, and visitors can find everything from traditional Turkish textiles and ceramics to modern clothing and electronics in the city’s many bazaars and shops. The lively Kapalicarsi Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world and is the perfect place to buy souvenirs and gifts.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Bursa is also a city that celebrates many traditional festivals and events throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include the Bursa Silk and Carpet Festival, which takes place every year in May, and the Bursa Honey Festival, which celebrates the city’s famous honey production. Visitors can also participate in traditional Turkish events like the Hidrellez Festival, a celebration of spring and new beginnings, and the Bursa Orchid Festival, which showcases the city’s abundant orchid gardens.

TOURING WITH TOUR MAKER TURKEY

Tour Maker Turkey is a leading travel agency that offers a range of comprehensive Bursa city tours. Our knowledgeable guides and travel experts will help you make the most of your visit, providing you with insider tips and recommendations and showing you the hidden gems of the city. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage, taking a dip in the thermal baths, or simply enjoying the beautiful parks and gardens, Tour Maker Turkey has a tour that’s perfect for you.

So why wait? Book your Bursa city tour with Tour Maker Turkey today and start exploring the beauty and culture of this magnificent city!

EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF BURSA WITH TOUR MAKER TURKEY!