RideFly's Bursa travel guide: Ottoman landmarks, Mount Uludağ and skiing, thermal springs and the silk market, and how to get there via Istanbul or Bursa Yenişehir (YEI) Airport.
🔍 Search & book your flightBursa is a green city at the foot of Mount Uludağ and the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. It blends historic mosques and tombs, centuries-old silk markets and thermal springs with a mountain ski resort just above the center. This guide walks you through its highlights and how to reach it from Iraq.
Bursa is nicknamed 'Green Bursa' for its gardens and mountain backdrop. As the first Ottoman capital, it keeps an early architectural character seen in its mosques, tombs and covered markets, making it a calm cultural escape close to Istanbul.
The Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami) leads the way with its twenty domes, indoor fountain and Arabic calligraphy. Don't miss the Green Mosque and Tomb (Yeşil) with their tilework, the historic Koza Han silk market, and the Ottoman village of Cumalıkızık, a UNESCO-listed site.
Mount Uludağ rises right above the city and is reached by cable car from the Teferiç station. In winter it becomes a popular ski resort; in summer it is a place for walks, panoramic views and fresh air. Pack warm clothes — the summit is much colder than the city.
Bursa has been famous for its thermal springs for centuries, especially in the Çekirge district, where bathhouses and hotels tap hot mineral waters. These draw visitors looking for relaxation and spa tourism.
Most Iraqi travelers arrive via one of Istanbul's airports (IST or SAW), then continue to Bursa by road in about two hours or by sea ferry. Bursa Yenişehir Airport (YEI) also serves the city with a limited number of flights. Within the city, trams and buses make it easy to move between sights. Check Turkey visa requirements before booking.
There are usually no direct flights; most travelers arrive via Istanbul, then continue to Bursa by road in about two hours or by ferry, or through Bursa Yenişehir Airport (YEI). Check Turkey visa requirements.
Yes, Iraqi travelers need a Turkey visa, which may be an e-visa. Check Turkey visa requirements before traveling.
Two to three days are usually enough to see the Ottoman landmarks, ride up Uludağ and try the thermal springs, and it pairs well with a visit to Istanbul.
Spring and autumn are mild for city tours, while winter is the best season for skiing on Uludağ.
