Bursa was the first former capital of the Ottoman Empire which was founded by the Bitnynian King Prusias I Cholus, reigned 228-185BC. Not only the colorful Ottoman tomb but also many historical architecture can be found across the city. Additionally, this city has beautiful nature surrounded by the mountain Uldag which is also famous for ski resorts in winter. Many people from Istanbul come to Bursa for a day trip driving 2 hours or taking a ferry to escape from the crowded busy city and get fresh air. I visited there from Ankara and it took me 5 hours by highway bus, so I decided to stay one night which was the best option to explore the city. I highly recommend to stay one night if you have time. 

Transportation 

Metro and Tram

Surprisingly, the highway bus terminal was not close to the city center, so I had to get a metro or bus. For the tourist especially foreign tourists like myself, I think the Tram was the easiest as it has only one line in one direction which goes to Kent Meydan, which is the city center, from Terminal station. 

It costs only 1 Lira and credit card payment is acceptable without buying a metro ticket at the ticket machine. It runs every 20 minutes. After arriving in Kent Meydan, you can transfer to Metro lines which extend to the East and West of the city. 

Bus

It seems that Buses are also a major mode of transportation used by citizens. However, I hardly understood the bus system at the bus terminal provided limited information about the directions and Google Maps did not show the Bus's option, so I gave up taking it. 

Where to Visit

ULU MOSQUE

Ulu Mosque (Ulu Camii in Turkish) was built by Yıldırım Bayezid between 1396 and 1400. According to some historical statements, Yıldırım Bayezid ambitiously wanted to build 20 mosques in the city, however, his son-in-law suggested he was inclined to be too unrealistic and suggested only one mosque, alternatively put 20 domes on the top of the mosque.  Once you enter, you find the fascinating 18-cornered fountain in the center of the mosque which plays an important role in symbolizing its presence. 

Bursa Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı)

The Bazaar called Kapalı Çarşı(which means closed market) is located right next to the Ulu Mosque. Bursa played a very important role not only as a diplomatic central but also as a commercial hub of training across the country in the 14th century. Silk is one of the major local products in this region and people buy sheets of silk, masterpieces of high-quality fabrics, or items made of silk. 

Today, many tourists and locals visit here to shop for their daily groceries or luxury accessories. 

Tomb of Osman Gazi

The tomb of Osman Gazi (1258-1326) was built to commemorate his success in the Ottoman Empire. In the center of this mausoleum, 17 sarcophagi were set. Near this historical structure of the Ottoman Tomb, the other tomb of Orhan Gazi whose son of the Ottoman Gazi is also found with his family including his wife, daughter, and son. The tomb of Osman Gazi was damaged by the fire, and moreover, these two tombs were destroyed by a huge earthquake in the 19th, but rebuilt after these damages. 

Sultan's Mansion Museum

It is located in Yildirim district of Bursa, which is on the top of the hill and walks for 20-30 minutes from the area of Ulu mosque, all the way uphill. It is an absolutely good exercise. Sultan Abdulmecid Han used this residence in 1844 for the purpose of a hunting lodge and welcoming guests. This building was restored with government support by the Department of National Places in 2003 and opened to the public to celebrate its over 170 years of history. The opening hours are limited to only every hour with a guide, but even if you miss its time, spending time in the restaurant or terrace compound of this mansion would be great too. 

Tophane Clock Tower

Tophane Clock Tower is located in Tophane Park which is one of the historical sites where you can see the whole parts of the beautiful Bursa. It has 6 floors and is 33 meters high, the clock is on the top of the tower but not working today. There are some nice coffee shops in the park and restaurants and souvenir shops nearby.