Bursa

Nestled beneath the slopes of Mount Uludağ, Bursa is one of Turkey’s most historically significant cities and the birthplace of the Ottoman Empire. Although often overshadowed by nearby Istanbul, Bursa rewards visitors with magnificent architecture, lush parks, vibrant markets and a rich cultural heritage that spans more than seven centuries. As the first capital of the Ottoman state, it offers a fascinating introduction to the origins of one of history’s greatest empires.

The city’s historic centre, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserves an outstanding collection of Ottoman monuments. At its heart stands the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami), renowned for its twenty domes, elegant fountains and remarkable examples of Islamic calligraphy. Just a short walk away lies Koza Han, the historic silk market where merchants once traded precious fabrics arriving along the Silk Road. Today its peaceful courtyard remains one of Bursa’s most atmospheric gathering places.

Bursa is widely known as “Green Bursa” thanks to its abundance of parks, gardens and tree-lined avenues. Among its most important historical sites are the tombs of Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi, founders of the Ottoman Empire, located on a hill overlooking the city. Their peaceful setting offers both historical significance and panoramic views across the surrounding landscape.

Nature lovers are equally well served. Mount Uludağ National Park attracts visitors throughout the year. During winter it becomes Turkey’s premier skiing destination, while spring and summer bring hikers, cyclists and families seeking cooler temperatures among forests, alpine meadows and mountain trails. One of the world’s longest cable car systems connects the city directly with the mountain slopes, providing spectacular scenery throughout the journey.

Bursa is also celebrated for its culinary traditions. It is the birthplace of the famous İskender Kebab, one of Turkey’s best-known dishes, served with thinly sliced grilled meat, bread, tomato sauce, yoghurt and melted butter. Chestnut desserts, locally grown fruit and traditional Turkish sweets further enrich the city’s gastronomic reputation, while historic thermal baths continue a wellness tradition dating back to Roman and Ottoman times.

Combining imperial history, outstanding architecture, mountain landscapes and exceptional cuisine, Bursa offers one of Turkey’s richest cultural experiences and deserves far more than a brief stop on the journey between Istanbul and the Aegean coast.