Bursa Guide

Today, Bursa is Turkey’s fourth-largest city, having served as the capital of the Ottoman Empire for many years. It is now world-famous for its historical landmarks, natural beauty, hot springs, and lush greenery. Although urbanization has significantly increased, Bursa is still referred to as "Green Bursa." The city, which has 27 archaeological, 1 natural, and 3 urban conservation areas, along with 2,042 historical, religious, cultural, and civil architectural structures, has long been known for its green landscapes, springs, and healing hot springs.

Located in the southern part of the Marmara Region, Bursa is a central city, being close to major metropolises such as Istanbul, Izmit, and Ankara. It is the largest city in Southern Marmara and is positioned at the crossroads of major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. As the second-largest city in the Marmara Region after Istanbul, Bursa is also highly developed in industry and economy, making it one of Turkey’s most important industrial centers.

The origins of Bursa’s name date back to ancient times. It is believed that the city was founded by Prusias, the King of Bithynia, who named the settlement after himself. Over time, the name evolved into "Brus," and after the Ottoman conquest, it became "Bursa."

Bursa is one of the most beautiful cities where history and nature merge. After Istanbul, it is the city with the most Ottoman-era structures. As the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa holds the earliest examples of Ottoman architecture, literature, and religious structures. Many historical buildings, mosques, and complexes remain intact today. Bursa is filled with history in every corner—Muradiye, Tophane, Ulucami, Cumalıkızık, and Hamzabey, to name a few.

In Bursa’s older districts, you can still see cobblestone streets and traditional Ottoman houses with bay windows. However, modern Bursa has expanded mainly westward, particularly in the Nilüfer district. The historic core of the city, including Ottoman-era walls and city gates, is in the Osmangazi district. The city's traditional bazaars, inns, and mosques are primarily located here.

Bursa is not only famous for its history and nature but also for tourism, shopping centers, cultural events, markets, parks, and museums. In 2005, the Bursa Metropolitan Municipality received a quality certificate, making it the only major city in Turkey with such recognition.

In recent years, Bursa has experienced rapid growth and development, not only in industry, economy, and technology but also in transportation. Bursa has become more accessible by sea with ferry and seaplane services, making travel to Istanbul easier. Within the city, transportation has improved with the metro, nostalgic trams, and the locally manufactured "İpekböceği" tram. Additionally, new highways are being built to shorten the travel distance between Istanbul and Izmir.

With its breathtaking landscape and grandeur, Uludağ is one of Bursa's most magnificent natural attractions. In the same season, one can experience both winter and summer activities skiing on the peaks of Uludağ while enjoying the seaside in Mudanya or Güzelyalı. Uludağ is one of Turkey’s top winter tourism destinations, attracting visitors throughout the year due to its proximity to Istanbul. Covered in white during the winter and green in the summer, Uludağ is a defining feature of Bursa.

Bursa hotels are open all year round. You can find facilities such as swimming pool, sauna, Turkish bath and gym in luxury Bursa hotels located in the city center. Bursa boutique hotels are usually located in the surrounding districts. You can find Bursa boutique hotels in towns such as Mudanya, Tirilye, Oylat and Cumalıkızık.
The prices of Bursa hotels vary according to the type and quality of the hotel you stay in. The prices of luxury Bursa hotels in the city center or Uludag may be a bit high, especially during the ski season. But generally Bursa hotel prices are quite affordable. If you want to stay in seaside towns such as Mudanya and Tirilye in the summer, prices may increase during the holiday season.  However, there is a hotel for every tourist's budget in Bursa.
If you are planning a trip to Bursa in the near future, you can get information about Bursa hotels, Bursa hotel prices, reasonable price options and reservation options by checking our website. Do not forget to make a reservation and remember that you need at least a two-day stay to get to know and explore Bursa.

For accommodation suggestions, you can check our Bursa Hotels page