Bursa is not just a city; it is the starting point of history, the place where the Ottoman Empire first took its breath, and a perfect harmony between the green of nature and the grey texture of history. Being a tourist in this ancient city, known as “Green Bursa,” means combining the traces of the past with the vitality of today. When you step into Bursa, you find yourself as both a time traveler and a gourmet explorer.
1. 8 Historical and Tourist Sites to See in Bursa
- Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami): The heart of Bursa. It is a sanctuary of spiritual peace with its 20-domed structure and walls housing the most exquisite examples of calligraphy.
- Cumalıkızık Village: Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this village offers the most authentic examples of Ottoman civil architecture. With its narrow streets and colorful houses, it takes you on a journey through time.
- Tophane (Tombs of Osman and Orhan Gazi): From this hill where you can watch Bursa from a bird’s-eye view, you can visit the tombs of the founders of the Ottoman Empire and immerse yourself in the spiritual climate of history.
- Green Mosque (Yeşil Cami) and Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe): The pinnacle of tile art! These structures, where you can see every shade of turquoise, are the most aesthetic representatives of Bursa’s “Green” identity.
- The Great Plane Tree (İnkaya): With over 600 years of age, it is a majestic natural monument under which you can drink tea and watch the view of Bursa.
- Koza Han: The center of Silk Road trade, this inn reflects Bursa’s history of silk production. The tea garden in its inner courtyard is the most iconic relaxation spot in Bursa.
- Muradiye Complex: A peaceful complex where Ottoman sultans and their families rest, famous for its gardens and the meeting of tile art and architecture.
- Emirsultan Mosque and Tomb: A serene area attracting attention with its elegant architecture, where the spiritual atmosphere of Bursa is intensely felt.
- What to Eat in Bursa? The Capital of Flavor
Bursa is a temple of flavor. Remembering the city starts primarily with İskender Kebab. Bursa is the birthplace of İskender Kebab; you must taste this original flavor, where the doner meat meets buttery tomato sauce and yogurt, in its own home. Additionally, tahini pita (tahinli pide) and walnut Turkish delight (cevizli lokum), which are unique to Bursa in Turkey, must be tried. The warm and sesame-crusted texture of the tahini pita is an indispensable part of breakfast. Where to eat? Choose the local artisan restaurants (esnaf lokantası) in the bazaar for Iskender, and historic bakeries for tahini pita.
3. Souvenirs and Shopping in Bursa
It is impossible to leave Bursa empty-handed. Silk fabrics, shawls, and towels are classic souvenirs of Bursa. Also, Chestnut Candy (Kestane Şekeri) is a world-famous delicacy of Bursa; you should definitely take packs of it with you.
4. Turkish Shopping Phrases for Tourists
Using a few Turkish sentences while shopping will strengthen your bond with the local people. Here are the practical phrases you need:
- “Bu ipek şalın fiyatı nedir?” (What is the price of this silk shawl?)
- “Kestane şekerleriniz taze mi?” (Are your chestnut candies fresh?)
- “Biraz daha uygun olabilir mi?” (Can it be a bit more affordable?)
- “İndirim yapabilir misiniz?” (Can you give a discount?)
Haggling Tips
Never be harsh when haggling. Bursa shopkeepers love to chat; ask “Nasılsınız?” (How are you?) first and accept the offer of a cup of tea. After asking the price, politely state your budget. If the shopkeeper says “This is the final price,” politely say “Teşekkür ederim, bir düşünmem lazım” (Thank you, I need to think about it) and leave the shop; if the price is reasonable, they will usually call you back.
Bursa is a city that embraces you with its history and mesmerizes you with its flavor. You will witness the hospitality of this city in every moment of your trip. Enjoy Bursa!
