/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/6d2b6096-d308-4c7c-829a-7bfbf0075875.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/c8eb4e8f-b82d-4a75-b6a3-318fb0734955.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/03af2a54-aeaa-4802-8e4f-1517aa2abfff.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/f79ddeac-47b2-4b0c-b03c-7776823f4471.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/26348ab2-6f05-459a-8fc3-0e74b1c908fa.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/c2220792-b4be-4161-b857-205291a2071d.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/bd7156db-1668-4b2c-8054-74a921592c77.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/8e9d03f6-85c4-4e72-8f97-439adeab456f.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/60fef2c3-297d-432d-8393-cf3410228686.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/76bf856d-435c-4310-906a-129b8d03c202.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/315588ee-f141-485f-8f91-1f0ca8b4dbc9.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/955cd1f3-ca11-4ed2-98ba-d41689cac24b.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/99ddd917-af5b-421f-9363-a97f813b451a.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/bcae85ed-863c-4f61-8d52-a6f004ce774a.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/8ff65566-77a9-4620-9ae7-a4d62e190290.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/84ce3ee5-428d-4c03-bbd1-7eafdfe99182.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/cd5349ad-34a0-4ff4-a2db-e351db5b9fa3.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24247/78fb10cf-a800-4424-9448-cddf440b2de5.jpeg)
Bursa: The Ottoman Genesis, Silk Road Legacy & Mountain Escape
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/78328/7c8c1b0b-39d4-4757-8e61-97815df2a6e0.png)
Joined 2025
Discover Bursa, the magnificent first capital of the Ottoman Empire, on a private day trip from Istanbul. I will guide you through imperial history, vibrant silk bazaars like Koza Han, and stunning tile-covered mosques that showcase the authentic soul of the city. As a special highlight, I offer the flexibility to ride the world-renowned Bursa Cable Car up to Mt. Uludağ for panoramic views—leaving the choice and freedom entirely up to you. Experience Bursa at your own pace!
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Hotel Pick-up & Scenic Drive via Osmangazi Bridge
- I will meet you at your Istanbul hotel lobby to start our journey. We will board our private, comfortable AC vehicle and drive south, crossing the spectacular Osmangazi Bridge over the Gulf of İzmit, enjoying a smooth ride toward Bursa.
Authentic Turkish Village Breakfast in Cumalıkızık
Our first stop is the 700-year-old UNESCO village of Cumalıkızık. We will wander through historic cobblestone streets, and I will introduce you to the ultimate Turkish breakfast experience featuring organic, homemade village products. (See important note below for the alternative mountain schedule).
The Sweetest Stop: Traditional Turkish Delight Tasting
Just outside the village at the entrance of Bursa, I will take you to an authentic, premium local producer for a Turkish Delight (Lokum) tasting session. You will sample world-famous flavors, from double-roasted pistachio to saffron delights, with a great opportunity to buy premium, fresh gifts.
The Green Splendor (Green Mosque & Tomb)
We arrive in the city center at the Green Mosque and Green Tomb. After marveling at the emerald İznik tiles, I will guide you into the historic silk and souvenir market right next to the mosque. This is the perfect, trusted spot to buy authentic Turkish silk scarves, traditional ceramics, and handmade souvenirs.
A Culinary Legend: Authentic İskender Kebap Break
Time to experience Bursa’s most famous dish where it was originally born: İskender Kebap, served with sizzling hot butter poured right at your table.
Panoramic Bursa & The Famous Chestnut Sweets (Tophane) with the visit of Osman Gazi & Orhan Gazi Tombs
We head up to Tophane, home to the tombs of Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi (founders of the Ottoman Empire). After enjoying the panoramic city view and the historic Clock Tower, we will stop at the ultimate local spot to taste and buy Bursa’s legendary Kestane Şekeri (Candied Chestnuts).
The Grand Masterpiece: Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque)
We move to the heart of the old city to visit the magnificent 14th-century Grand Mosque. You will marvel at its unique architecture featuring 20 grand domes and the world-famous Islamic calligraphy masterfully painted on its walls. +The guests who'd like to perform their prayer may have some free time after the introduction of the mosque.
Silk Road Legacy: Koza Han & The Covered Bazaar
We will step into the historic Koza Han, dating back to 1491. I will guide you through the bustling courtyards where Silk Road merchants once traded cocoons. We will enjoy a traditional Turkish coffee break under ancient plane trees and explore high-quality traditional textiles.
Optional Activity: Bursa Teleferik (Cable Car) or Return
(Depending on your preferred pace and the option chosen below, we will either enjoy the cable car or start heading back).
Journey Back to Istanbul
A comfortable drive back, crossing the Osmangazi Bridge once again as the sun sets.
Hotel Drop-off
I will safely drop you off back at your Istanbul hotel.
Ending Point
Your Hotel
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guiding Services by a Licensed Professional Tour Guide
Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle (Maybach Mercedes Transporter, Mercedes Vito/Sprinter or equivalent - depends on the availability & size of the group) tailored to your group size (up to 15 people) for the entire day (including Istanbul-Bursa roundtrip)
All Highway Tolls & Osmangazi Bridge Crossing Fees (No hidden transport costs!)
Transportation gasoline fee
Toll fee
Parking lot fees
Lunch for the guide & driver
Bursa Cable Car (Teleferik) Tickets: To give you maximum flexibility based on weather conditions and personal preference, the cable car ride to Mt. Uludağ is optional. Tickets are excluded from the tour price and can be purchased directly at the station via cash or credit card. (500TL per person)
Meals & Drinks: The traditional Turkish village breakfast in Cumalıkızık (or highway snacks) and the authentic İskender Kebap lunch are at the guests' own expense. This allows your group the freedom to choose exactly what they wish to eat. (about $25 per person for the Turkish Breakfast)
Personal Expenses & Shopping: Any traditional Turkish delights (lokum), silk textiles from the bazaars, candied chestnuts, or souvenirs purchased during our shopping stops are excluded.
Gratuities / Tips: Tips for your guide and private driver are not included and are entirely at your discretion based on your satisfaction.
Tour Important Information
Choose Your Experience: Mountain Escape vs. Village Breakfast
To give you maximum flexibility and comfort, this tour offers two perfect options depending on your group's interest:
Option A (The Foodie & Culture Pace): We follow the exact itinerary above, starting with a rich, traditional sit-down village breakfast in Cumalıkızık, exploring at a relaxed pace.
Option B (The Mountain & Cable Car Pace): If you absolutely want to ride the world-renowned Bursa Cable Car (Teleferik) up to Mt. Uludağ, we will skip the sit-down breakfast in Cumalıkızık to save time. Instead, we will make a quick, practical stop at a modern highway rest stop for a quick Turkish toast/sandwich and coffee. This leaves us plenty of time to enjoy the breathtaking cable car ride up the mountain later in the day. (Cable car tickets are excluded).
Please let me know your preference (Option A or Option B) upon booking so I can adjust our exact timing perfectly for you!
Dress Code for Mosque Visits
As we will be visiting active historical places of worship (The Grand Mosque and Green Mosque), modest dress is strictly required for all guests.
Everyone: No shorts, sleeveless tops, or short skirts. Knees and shoulders must be covered.
Women: A headscarf is required to enter the prayer areas. Please bring your own scarf (though simple covers are usually available at the entrance).
Shoes will be removed before stepping onto the mosque carpets.
Walking & Comfortable Shoes
While we travel between major sights in our comfortable, private vehicle, exploring the historic centers, the 700-year-old cobblestone streets of Cumalıkızık village, and the local bazaars requires a moderate amount of walking. Please ensure you wear comfortable, slip-resistant walking shoes to enjoy the day fully.
Important message from the supplier
I can give day tours and evening tours as well as excursions far from the city that I currently live in such as Cappadocia,Ephesus,Kuşadası,İzmir,Sardes,Antalya,Fethiye,Bodrum etc. (simply all around Turkey & Balkan countries along with Georgia and Northern Cyprus.)
For those tours which requires a remote city visit (and for the ones that we’ll customize together for you) I will need an advance booking (best to book 3-5 weeks prior and earlier)
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Yağmur B.
I’ve been a professional tour guide for9 years, and let me tell you, I absolutely adore my job. I love showcasing my country, Turkiye, with all its cultural, historical, and modern treasures. Every day, I get to share my enthusiasm and pride for my homeland with visitors. I truly enjoy making everyone feel like a cherished guest, and I take great pleasure in introducing them to the unique wonders of Turkiye with both joy and a touch of humor. For me, every tour is a delightful experience, and it’s all about making memories and having fun along the way!
Reviews
Aseem K.
“An unforgettable day with the best guide in Istanbul”
We booked the Istanbul Highlights Tour with Yagmur and it was the best decision of our trip. She was warm and quick to respond from our very first message, and it only got better from there. The day covered Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern and the Grand Bazaar, and Yagmur brought every stop to life. She explains centuries of history like a friend telling you stories, not a lecture, pointing out details we'd have walked right past on our own. She paced the day perfectly, knew when to slow down and grab a coffee, and steered us toward local spots for lunch that were far better than anything we'd have found ourselves. By the end of the day it felt like we'd made a friend, not just hired a guide. If you're headed to Istanbul, book with Yagmur. You'll leave with a deeper appreciation for the city and stories you'll be telling for years.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/78328/7c8c1b0b-39d4-4757-8e61-97815df2a6e0.png)
Yağmur B.
Aseem, thank you so much for your incredibly kind words. It was truly a pleasure spending the day with you and sharing Istanbul with you. I’m especially happy to hear that the stories, little details, local recommendations, and the pace of the day made the experience memorable for you. For me, guiding is about much more than simply visiting the sights. I want my guests to feel the city, understand its stories, and hopefully leave with a few wonderful memories of their own. And hearing that it felt like you had made a friend rather than simply hired a guide genuinely means a lot to me. Thank you for trusting me with your day in Istanbul. I hope our paths cross again someday, whether in Istanbul or somewhere else in the world! Wishing you both many more beautiful journeys ahead.
Azmath I.
“Warm, knowledgeable, and great with kids”
We had a wonderful experience exploring the old Sultanahmet area of Istanbul with her, and I can't recommend her enough. We were traveling with kids, and given that this was a long walking tour, she was fantastic about keeping the pace comfortable and making sure everyone — especially the little ones — stayed happy and engaged throughout. she introduced us to some delicious local delicacies that we wouldn't have known to try on our own, and they turned out to be some of the tastiest bites of our whole trip. One of the most helpful parts of the tour was when she taught us how to use the Istanbulkart and even guided us through purchasing one. That one tip made the rest of our commute around the city so much easier for the remainder of our trip — something we were genuinely grateful for. Overall, she made us feel comfortable, taken care of, and gave us practical tools to enjoy the rest of our time in Istanbul. Highly recommend her for anyone visiting Sultanahmet, especially families traveling with children.
Yağmur B.
This review completely made my day! Thank you so much for taking the time to share such kind words. Exploring Sultanahmet with your family was an absolute pleasure—keeping up with curious little travelers is always a fun adventure, and I'm so glad they stayed engaged and happy along the way. Introducing visitors to hidden culinary gems and making public transit a breeze so you can navigate the city like a local are some of my favorite parts of what I do. It warms my heart to know those tips made your stay easier and your trip more memorable. I hope the rest of your time in Istanbul was magical, and I’d love to welcome you all back for another adventure someday! -Ozzy
Tamara N.
“Great experience! ”
We would like to thank our great guide Yagmur for the fantastically designed tour, all the information, recommendations and experience she shared with us! We spent two truly unforgettable days in Istanbul. Yagmur, in addition to the expected most important historical monuments, also introduced us to her own Istanbul - wonderful places where you can feel the spirit of the local population, fantastic restaurants with even better food, but also small restaurants that are not on the main tourist routes, the traditional way of carpet production... I can say that our next trip to Cappadocia will definitely be in the company of Yagmur!
Yağmur B.
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review! It was truly a pleasure spending those two days with you and showing you not only Istanbul’s famous landmarks, but also the places that make this city feel like home to me. I’m so happy you enjoyed the local experiences, the food, and discovering a different side of Istanbul. Your wonderful words mean a lot to me. I would be delighted to welcome you back to Türkiye and explore the magical landscapes of Cappadocia together. Wishing you many more amazing adventures, and I hope to see you again soon!
$950/ per group
More tours by Yağmur B.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19976/4399dfdb-16c9-4f41-8cd1-d940007cdfc8.jpeg)
Istanbul Highlights Tour: Discover the Heart of the City
Explore the best of Istanbul in one unforgettable tour! Visit iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar while learning the fascinating stories that shaped this timeless city.
Istanbul Highlights Tour: Discover the Heart of the City
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/23771/88599dec-9514-494c-873e-e9ce5d82ac99.png)
The Authentic Soul of Istanbul: Ayvansaray, Kariye, Fener & Balat Tour
Discover Istanbul’s multicultural history on this seamless full-day tour. Enjoy hassle-free pick-up from your hotel or cruise port, ride the scenic Golden Horn tram, and explore sacred sanctuaries with a local expert. Marvel at world-renowned Byzantine mosaics at the reopened Kariye, and wander the iconic, colorful streets of Fener and Balat. From grand cathedrals and Jewish heritage to bohemian cafes and antique auctions, this tour is the ultimate way to experience Istanbul like an insider.
The Authentic Soul of Istanbul: Ayvansaray, Kariye, Fener & Balat Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24029/243ce68d-0cd9-4522-95c3-877b8a4c3928.jpeg)
Half Day : The Imperial Heart of Byzantium & the Ottomans
Discover the absolute crown jewels of Istanbul’s Old City without feeling rushed. This half-day tour is designed to fast-track you into the golden ages of two world-shaping empires: the Byzantine and the Ottoman. We will walk through the monumental Sultanahmet Square, deciphering the architecture, the politics, and the hidden court stories that shaped history. Perfect as an introduction to Istanbul.
Half Day : The Imperial Heart of Byzantium & the Ottomans
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24030/55b18ead-1c13-43d4-ac55-a55b154596d8.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19420/af9d7216-c758-4d88-a84e-2164d6f155ad.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/75608/1ffff46f-bed5-433d-b47d-a0132db29dcb.png)