Top Things to Do in Bursa

About the City

Nestled in the northwestern part of Turkey, Bursa is an exuberant blend of the historic and the modern, infused with a spirited energy that flirts with the soul of anyone who visits. Fondly known as 'Green Bursa' for its lush parks and verdant mountains, it invites nature enthusiasts to bask in its emerald embrace. The city is a haven for history buffs, with the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire etched in every corner, from the majestic mosques and tombs to the bustling bazaars such as the Silk Market, where whispers of the past meet the haggles of today. But it's not all rosy in this vibrant cocoon; the city can be a bit too enthusiastic in embracing modernity, leading to a chaotic dance of traffic that contrasts sharply with the serene setting of its historic sites. And for those who seek a quieter, slower pace, Bursa's animated atmosphere might seem overwhelming. Culinary adventurers rejoice in Bursa's gastronomic offerings — think succulent kebabs and the city's signature dish, Iskender, named after its creator, a feast for both the palette and the eyes. Yet, finding the same delight in vegetarian options might prove to be a playful challenge in this meat-lover's paradise. In essence, Bursa is a city that wears many hats, and whether it tickles your fancy or tests your patience, it promises to be an unforgettable affair.

Things to Do in Bursa

Feasting on Uludağ Kebap

Food & Drink

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with Uludağ Kebap! It's like the king of the kebap dynasty decided to set up court right here in Bursa. We're talking tender skewers of meat, hugged by flame-kis...

Eco-Friendly Pedal-Pushing

Outdoors

Saddle up for a pedal-powered escapade through Bursa's expansive city parks and nearby trails. Whether you're in it for a breezy cruise or a calorie-torching circuit, the city's greenery will be your ...

Whirling with the Dervishes

The Unexpected

Get your twirl on and step into the mesmerizing world of the Whirling Dervishes. This is your chance to witness an enchanting spiritual ceremony that goes way back. Let the flowing robes and hypnotic ...

Dishing it like a local: Bursa's İnegöl Köfte

The Unexpected

Roll up your sleeves for a culinary dive into meatball mastery at İnegöl, the birthplace of Turkey's famously succulent köfte. Imagine the scene: you, in the midst of the grilling action, flipping jui...

Shadow Puppets and Tales: Karagöz Museum

The Unexpected

Duck into the magical world of Karagöz shadow theater, a UNESCO heritage no less! The Karagöz Museum in Bursa brings to life tales as old as the hills - with puppets! Engage in a fun, hands-on experie...

Soaring the Silk Skies: Paragliding in Bursa

The Unexpected

For an action-packed escapade, take to the skies like a silk merchant catching a breeze. Paragliding in Bursa lets you whirl above the city, scoring views usually reserved for sultans of the sky. Reme...

Mountain Bike Mayhem

Outdoors

Grab your bike and test your mettle on the rugged trails of Bursa's backcountry. Swoop through forests, get muddy, and earn those views. For thrill-seekers who love to feel alive one pedal push at a t...

Flying High with Paragliding

Outdoors

Harness up and let Bursa's thermals carry you to cloud nine. From a bird's-eye perspective, you'll see the city like never before. If you're looking for a rush, paragliding here is your jam. Just soar...

Splashing Adventures at Karacaali

Outdoors

Slip on your swimsuit and get ready to splash down in the crystal-clear waters of Karacaali. It's where the locals go to cool off, swim, and pretend they're mermaids and mermen. Just dive in—the water...

Gliding on the Breeze in Bursa

Outdoors

Ever dreamt of floating like a cloud with a paraglider strapped to your back? Bursa's hills are here to make it real! Get harnessed up and take off from the mountains, where the air's as fresh as a do...

Nibbling on Bursa Lokum

Food & Drink

Unwrap the sweet delight of Bursa Lokum, a.k.a. Turkish Delight! Imagine a world where rosewater, lemon, or mastic flavors dance in little powdered cubes of joy. Sink your teeth into these chewy treat...

Visiting the Tombs of Osman and Orhan

Sights

Take a step back into the roots of the Ottoman Empire with a visit to the final resting places of its founding fathers, Osman and Orhan Gazi. Feel the history buzz through you as you wander around the...

Drinking in the Views at Tophane Parkı

Sights

Grab your comfiest shoes and head to Tophane Parkı for Bursa's best panoramic views. From the park, you can see the city unfurl below you like a tapestry of past and present. It's the perfect spot for...

Conquering the Greens at Bursa's Botanical Garden

Sights

Stroll into a green wonderland at the Bursa Botanical Garden, where plants from around the globe are just waiting to play peek-a-boo with your senses. Sniff, see, and savor the fragrant blooms and be ...

Sneaking Peeks at the Birds in Bursa Zoo

Sights

Get wild and chirp alongside feathered friends at Bursa Zoo. Make a beeline for the birdhouse and gab with the parrots or marvel at the majestic peacocks. P.S. Don't challenge the ostriches to a stari...

Journey Through Time at the Bursa City Museum

Sights

Ready to time travel? Zip through Bursa's City Museum where tales of the city's oh-so-colorful history await. From ancient artifacts to snazzy silk threads, this place is like a history buff's playgro...

Gobbling up Gözleme

Food & Drink

Let's talk about the ultimate Turkish snack that'll have you licking your fingers – Gözleme! Think of a thin, crispy flatbread, stuffed with everything from spiced meats to feta and spinach, then dust...

Biting into Bursa's Black Fig Delights

Food & Drink

Prepare your palate for sweetness overload with Bursa's black figs! These juicy gems are nature's candy, bursting with flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you have them fresh or dri...

Chowing Down on Cevizli Lokum

Food & Drink

Prepare yourself for the nutty twist of Cevizli Lokum – Turkish Delight studded with whole walnuts! It's like someone took the classic lokum and said, 'Let's go nuts!' Bite through the chewy, perfumed...

Caressing Crocodiles at the Zoo

The Unexpected

Brace yourself for scaly encounters at Bursa Zoo. Make your way to the reptile house and come snout-to-snout with some of the most ancient creatures on our planet. Sure, you can't really pet them (for...