Here’s How—and Why—to Visit the Turkish City of Bursa

For travelers who have marveled at Istanbul and seek a deeper, richer, and more intimate Turkish experience, the city of Bursa and its neighboring towns are full of hidden treasures. Just over two hours from Istanbul, this historic region is imbued with the legacy of empires and centuries of artistry. Here’s what to see on your visit.

What to Do in Bursa

Once the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa is a tapestry of 14th-century monuments and history. Known as “Green Bursa” for its lush mulberry trees—vital to the city’s centuries-old silk trade—the city remains a paradise for lovers of fine textiles and craftsmanship. You can pay a visit to the vibrant silk bazaars to behold their shimmering fabrics, and so much more.

Take in the Architecture

Architectural landmarks include mosques, like the Muradiye Complex, Yesil Turbe and Mosque, and the Grand Mosque, as well as the Koza Han (Cocoon Han), a key structure of the silk trade, built in 1490. The city is also known for its thermal springs, a byproduct of its location near Mount Uludağ, one of the top skiing mountains in Turkey. The mineral-rich waters here have been used for therapeutic purposes since Roman times.

Shadow Plays

Shadow plays, featuring intricate cut-out puppets with light projected behind them so their silhouettes dance and interact, were a popular form of entertainment in the ancient world. During the Ottoman Empire, most of these plays in Turkey featured the whimsical characters Hacivat and Karagöz—and they remain a national favorite today. The puppets’ comedic banter represents different classes of the country. It was such an integral part of the culture that they were recognized in 2009 by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Visit the Karagöz Museum, dedicated to the characters, in the Osmangazi district to learn more about this unique form of storytelling and potentially see a performance.

Culinary Experiences

In 1867, Kebapci Iskender in Bursa invented the vertical rotisserie style of cooking meat that’s now seen in shawarma and gyro shops around the world, and they’re still serving it up today. The city’s signature dish in this style is İskender kebap, thinly sliced meat covered in hot tomato sauce. Rumeli Kardesler Lokantasi is a tradesmen’s restaurant where you select your food from a display window—delicious, authentic, and unpretentious. For dessert, stop at Ulus Pastanesi for sweets made from candied chestnuts, a specialty in Bursa.

The Best Areas to Explore

Mount Uludağ, about 22 miles southeast of Bursa, is one of the best ski areas in Turkey in the winter, and a great hiking destination in the summer, due to its elevation of 20,000 feet. It’s the highest peak in the region, and is home to Uludağ National Park. The Bursa Teleferik, or cable car, turns the journey up the mountain into a scenic experience.

UNESCO World Heritage Site Cumalıkızık, nestled just outside of Bursa, feels like a place where time stands still. The Ottoman spirit lives on through its picturesque cobblestone streets, 700-year-old homes with colorful façades, and a pace of life untouched by the rush of modernity.

Gölyazı, a picturesque fishing village cradled by the serene waters of Lake Ulubat, is another great option. Stroll through its storybook streets and encounter the majestic 725-year-old Weeping Plane Tree.

The neighborhood of Iznik, known as Nicaea in the ancient world, is steeped in both Christian and Ottoman heritage. It was here that the Nicene Creed was created in 325 AD, shaping the course of Christianity. Centuries later, Iznik became the artistic heart of the Ottoman Empire, known for its exquisite ceramics and tiles.

Where to Stay

Bursa has several hotel options, from global names like Hilton to Turkish hotels like Almira Hotel; Kitap Evi Hotel, which translates to “House of Books,” as it is located in a former bookstore; and Marigold Thermal Spa Hotel, which is the perfect place to stay if you are a wellness enthusiast.

Engin Kadaster is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in trips to Turkey. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Kadaster at [email protected].