Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Turkey, the city of Bursa beckons travelers with its rich history, cultural allure, and picturesque surroundings. As you embark on your journey of exploration, considering Turkey tours, Bursa stands out as a captivating destination that seamlessly weaves together the old and the new. This travel guide is crafted to provide you with a comprehensive insight into the charm and significance that Bursa holds, ensuring that your Turkey tours are not only memorable but also enriched with the distinctive essence of this extraordinary city.
Known as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa boasts a historical tapestry that unfolds as you wander through its ancient streets and vibrant bazaars. The citys architectural gems, such as the Grand Mosque and the Green Tomb, stand as testaments to its illustrious past, reflecting the artistic brilliance of bygone eras. Delve into the centuries-old bazaars, where the aromas of spices and the vibrant colors of traditional Turkish carpets create an immersive experience that is synonymous with the heart of Bursa.
However, Bursa is not merely a relic of history; it is a dynamic city that seamlessly integrates modernity into its cultural fabric. As you plan your Turkey tours, Bursa emerges as a destination where the past gracefully intersects with the present. The bustling markets and contemporary establishments coexist harmoniously with the citys ancient landmarks, offering a diverse and enriching experience for every traveler.
Beyond its historical and cultural allure, Bursa is blessed with natural beauty that adds an extra layer of enchantment to your Turkey tours. Surrounded by verdant mountains and adorned with expansive parks, the city invites you to explore its scenic landscapes. The iconic Uludağ Mountain, a popular skiing destination in winter, provides a panoramic backdrop to Bursa, showcasing the diversity of experiences that await those who choose this city as a focal point for their Turkey tours.
In this travel guide, we delve into the intricacies of Bursa, offering practical insights, recommendations, and tips to ensure that your exploration of this Turkish gem is seamless and fulfilling. From historical landmarks to culinary delights, from cultural wonders to natural splendors, Bursa awaits your discovery. So, as you plan your Turkey tours, consider the city of Bursa as a destination that promises an immersive journey through time, culture, and the captivating landscapes that define this remarkable corner of Turkey.
Bursa is a beautiful, historic city located in northwestern Turkey, about 60 miles south of Istanbul. As the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa has a rich cultural heritage and many interesting sights for visitors to explore. In this article, we’ll take a look at where exactly Bursa is located in Turkey and highlight some of the top attractions that make it worth a visit.
Bursa’s Location in Turkey
Bursa is situated on the northern slopes of Mount Uludag in Turkey’s Marmara region. It sits around the Gulf of Gemlik on the southern shore of the Sea of Marmara. The city is surrounded by lush forests and fertile farmlands.
More specifically, Bursa serves as the capital of Bursa Province and is Turkey’s fourth largest city with a population of over 25 million in its metropolitan area It’s only about a 2 hour drive from Istanbul, making it a popular destination for day trips or short getaways from Turkey’s largest city.
Bursa’s coordinates are 40°11′N 29°03′E. The city covers an area of over 10000 km2. Its location near the sea and at the foothills of Mount Uludag give Bursa a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, damp winters.
A Former Ottoman Capital
Bursa’s location helped it grow in importance as a center of silk trade and production during the Byzantine and Ottoman empires This strategic location was one reason it was selected as the first capital of the Ottoman State from 1335 to 1363 after being captured from the Byzantines
During the 14th and 15th centuries under early Ottoman rule, Bursa prospered and underwent considerable growth. Many social and religious complexes, bath houses, mansions, and other monuments were constructed that would form the architectural identity of the new Ottoman capital.
Though the capital was moved to Edirne and later Istanbul, Bursa maintained its spiritual and commercial significance. It continued to be a source of silk production and an important center for the kaftans, pillows, embroideries and other silk items supplied to the royal palaces into the 17th century.
As such, present-day Bursa contains many preserved and historically significant structures from the early Ottoman period, from mosques and tombs to baths and bazaars.
Top Sights and Attractions
With its strategic location, historic importance, and beautiful setting, Bursa has numerous attractions for visitors to discover:
Grand Mosque
One of Bursa’s most iconic landmarks is the Grand Mosque or Ulu Cami. Constructed between 1396 and 1400, it was the largest mosque at the time in the Ottoman Empire. This grand structure exemplifies early Ottoman architecture with its towering minarets and massive dome.
Green Mosque
Bursa takes its nickname as “Green Bursa” from the many green-tiled mausoleums and mosques found across the city. A prime example is the Green Mosque with its elegant curved facade completely covered in blue-green tiles. It was built between 1419 and 1424.
Silk Market (Kozahan)
Kozahan showcases Bursa’s historic silk production and trade. This 15th century covered bazaar houses silk shops and contains the old silk warehouses of the Ottoman era.
Mount Uludag
Looming over Bursa, Mount Uludag is a popular skiing destination during winter months and offers beautiful views and hiking opportunities in warmer seasons. Cable cars carry visitors up the mountain.
Hot Springs
Bursa has been celebrated for its thermal baths since Roman times. Visitors can relax in the mineral-rich waters of thermal baths centers dotted around the city.
Hüdavendigar Complex
Built by Sultan Bayezid I in the late 14th century, this mosque complex combines mosque, hospital, madrasa, and bath into one large social services complex or külliye.
Bursa City Museum
This interesting museum is housed in a 15th century madrasa and provides an overview of Bursa’s history and culture. Its archaeological section displays finds from the ancient city of Prusa.
From its mosques and markets to museums and natural sites, Bursa offers many top attractions for visitors to experience. Its history-filled setting at the base of Mount Uludag makes it a charming destination that’s definitely worth a visit when traveling around northwestern Turkey.
What is the recommended level of fitness to visit Bursa City?
Bursa City is nestled at the base of the majestic Uludağ mountain, which offers breathtaking views and exciting hiking trails. While exploring the city itself doesnt require any extraordinary level of fitness, if you plan on venturing into the surrounding natural beauty, its advisable to have a moderate level of fitness. This will ensure you can fully enjoy the hiking trails and take in all the scenic wonders that Bursa has to offer.
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Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Turkey, the city of Bursa beckons travelers with its rich history, cultural allure, and picturesque surroundings. As you embark on your journey of exploration, considering Turkey tours, Bursa stands out as a captivating destination that seamlessly weaves together the old and the new. This travel guide is crafted to provide you with a comprehensive insight into the charm and significance that Bursa holds, ensuring that your Turkey tours are not only memorable but also enriched with the distinctive essence of this extraordinary city.
Known as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa boasts a historical tapestry that unfolds as you wander through its ancient streets and vibrant bazaars. The citys architectural gems, such as the Grand Mosque and the Green Tomb, stand as testaments to its illustrious past, reflecting the artistic brilliance of bygone eras. Delve into the centuries-old bazaars, where the aromas of spices and the vibrant colors of traditional Turkish carpets create an immersive experience that is synonymous with the heart of Bursa.
However, Bursa is not merely a relic of history; it is a dynamic city that seamlessly integrates modernity into its cultural fabric. As you plan your Turkey tours, Bursa emerges as a destination where the past gracefully intersects with the present. The bustling markets and contemporary establishments coexist harmoniously with the citys ancient landmarks, offering a diverse and enriching experience for every traveler.
Beyond its historical and cultural allure, Bursa is blessed with natural beauty that adds an extra layer of enchantment to your Turkey tours. Surrounded by verdant mountains and adorned with expansive parks, the city invites you to explore its scenic landscapes. The iconic Uludağ Mountain, a popular skiing destination in winter, provides a panoramic backdrop to Bursa, showcasing the diversity of experiences that await those who choose this city as a focal point for their Turkey tours.
In this travel guide, we delve into the intricacies of Bursa, offering practical insights, recommendations, and tips to ensure that your exploration of this Turkish gem is seamless and fulfilling. From historical landmarks to culinary delights, from cultural wonders to natural splendors, Bursa awaits your discovery. So, as you plan your Turkey tours, consider the city of Bursa as a destination that promises an immersive journey through time, culture, and the captivating landscapes that define this remarkable corner of Turkey.
Bursa Turkey Travel Guide: 12 BEST Things to Do in Bursa
FAQ
Why is Bursa, Turkey famous?
Which part of Turkey is Bursa?
Is it worth going to Bursa, Turkey?
Which city is close to Bursa Turkey?
Where is bursa located in Turkey?
The area covered by Bursa corresponds to 1.41% of Turkey ‘s land area, which makes the city 27th in the country in terms of land area. [ 21] Bursa stands on the northwestern slopes of Mount Uludağ (known as the Mysian Olympus in classical antiquity), on the banks of the Nilüfer River, in the southern Marmara Region.
Where is bursa located?
Bursa ( Turkish pronunciation: [ˈbuɾsa]; Greek: Προῦσα Prusa, Latin: Prusa ), historically known as Prusa, is a city in northwestern Turkey and the administrative center of Bursa Province. The fourth-most populous city in Turkey and second-most populous in the Marmara Region, Bursa is one of the industrial centers of the country.
Was Bursa a capital of the Ottoman Empire?
Bursa served as the capital city of the Ottoman Empire, and as such, has many remnants of the Ottoman era, including tombs of bygone sultans and their families. The city’s historical significance as the first capital of the Ottomans is evident in its architectural landmarks.
What’s happening in Bursa?
Now a large, bustling city of nearly 3 million people, much of the greenery has disappeared beneath the concrete and macadam urban sprawl. Bursa’s traditional industries of silk weaving and fruit processing have long since been supplemented by motor vehicle manufacturing (it’s “Turkey’s Detroit”) and other industries, large and small.