How to get from Istanbul to Bursa

Cities & Metropolitan Areas · Turkey · Urban & Cultural · Bursa · Istanbul

Planning to travel from Istanbul to Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and gateway to Uludağ? This guide explains all the main routes—by ferry, bus, car, and organized tour—so you can pick the option that fits your time, budget, and travel style.

At A Glance (Istanbul to Bursa)

Mode Duration Best For
⛴️ Sea Bus / Fast Ferry (Istanbul → Mudanya) + Bus to Bursa ~1.5–2h on water + ~30–45m bus to Bursa Most travelers, scenic & comfortable
🏷️ Cost: Ferry tickets often from ~300–600 TRY one-way depending on time and date; add ~40–80 TRY for the Mudanya→Bursa bus. Check official BUDO schedules on BUDO and compare ferry prices via 12Go.
🚌 Direct Intercity Bus (Istanbul → Bursa) ~2.5–3.5h, route and traffic dependent Budget travelers, late-night or early-morning trips
🏷️ Cost: From around 350–700 TRY one-way in a comfortable coach. Compare multiple bus companies and departure points on 12Go bus listings.
🚗 Self-Drive / Rental Car ~2.5–3.5h via highways and Osmangazi Bridge Flexibility, side trips, small groups
🏷️ Cost: 1–2 days’ car rental from roughly 1,000–2,500 TRY per day plus fuel and tolls. Compare cars in Istanbul and Bursa on Booking.com Car Rental (Istanbul) or check Bursa options via Booking.com Car Rental (Bursa).
🧭 Organized Day Trip / Tour from Istanbul Full day ~12–14h door-to-door Those who want everything arranged
🏷️ Cost: Typical small-group tours from ~1,500–3,000 TRY per person including transport and guiding. See Bursa day-trip options on GetYourGuide or similar tours with cable car rides on Klook.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

How to Book and Practical Tips

  • Use one-stop comparison tools for buses and ferries: To see a range of operators, departure times, and prices, check 12Go’s Istanbul→Bursa listings for buses, taxis, and (when available) ferries. You’ll see rough travel times and reviews in one place.
  • Grab an Istanbulkart for local connections: To reach ferry piers or bus terminals within Istanbul, you’ll likely ride metro, tram, or bus. The reusable Istanbulkart works on nearly all city transport—details are on the official operator sites such as Metro Istanbul and İETT.
  • Use taxi and ride-hailing apps when you have luggage: Apps like BiTaksi and Uber (working with licensed taxis) are widely used in Istanbul to reach ferry piers or bus terminals. For pre-booked intercity rides or airport pickups, you can also get quotes via GetTransfer or arrange a set-price car with Welcome Pickups.
  • Store bags if you’re between check-out and departure: If you’ve checked out of your hotel hours before your ferry or bus, drop your luggage at a staffed storage point via Radical Storage in Istanbul (for example around Taksim or Sirkeci) so you can explore hands-free.
  • Book Bursa accommodation ahead in peak seasons: Weekends, ski season at Uludağ, and public holidays can fill up rooms quickly. Browse places in Bursa and nearby Uludağ on Booking.com (Bursa region) and filter by area, budget, and on-site parking if you’re driving.
  • Consider tours if you want a structured day: Bursa day trips from Istanbul often bundle ferry or bridge crossings, cable car rides, Uludağ visits, and lunch. Compare itineraries and inclusions on GetYourGuide’s Bursa activities and day tours on Klook.

⛴️ Option #1 — Sea Bus / Fast Ferry to Mudanya + Bus (Scenic & Popular)

Scenic route Comfortable seating Weather-dependent

  • Overview: High-speed ferries operated by BUDO link central Istanbul (Eminönü/Sirkeci or Kabataş) with Mudanya, Bursa’s seaside district. From Mudanya, frequent city buses or minibuses connect to Bursa city center. Total travel time is usually around 2.5–3 hours door-to-door.
  • How to book (with price): Check current timetables and fares on the official BUDO pages at BUDO and their voyage times page. For comparison and third-party booking (especially if you prefer everything in English and one platform), you can also look at Istanbul→Bursa ferry schedules on 12Go. One-way fares are commonly in the range of a few hundred TRY depending on time, demand, and seat type.
  • Pros: Relaxed ride with sea views; avoids highway traffic; pier locations are central and easy to reach via public transport in Istanbul. Cons: Schedules can shift with seasons and weather; occasional cancellations in rough seas; you’ll need a short connecting ride from Mudanya to Bursa city.

Step-by-step: Sea Bus / Fast Ferry via Mudanya

  1. Choose your departure pier in Istanbul: BUDO ferries typically run between Eminönü/Sirkeci or Kabataş and Mudanya. Check your ticket for the exact pier and be sure you know which side of the Golden Horn/Bosporus to head for.
  2. Reach the ferry pier: Use Istanbul’s tram/metro network (for example, the T1 tram for Eminönü/Sirkeci and Kabataş) as described on Metro Istanbul, or take buses listed on İETT. If you’re carrying heavy bags, consider a taxi via BiTaksi or Uber.
  3. Arrive early and board: Arriving about 30–45 minutes before departure is usually enough. Show your ticket/QR code, pass security, and take your seat in the cabin. There’s usually a café or snack bar on board.
  4. Sail Istanbul → Mudanya: Enjoy views across the Sea of Marmara for around 1.5–2 hours depending on the sailing.
  5. Transfer from Mudanya to Bursa: Outside the ferry terminal, municipal buses and minibuses run into Bursa (for example toward the city center or main bus terminal). Look for Burulaş-operated buses; you can check general information on local transport on the Bursa operator’s site Burulaş.
  6. Arrive in Bursa city center: Once you reach Bursa, you can connect to Bursaray light metro or local buses to get to your hotel, or use a metered taxi.

Getting to the main embarking points (Istanbul Piers & Mudanya)

  • Eminönü/Sirkeci and Kabataş in Istanbul: Both are easy to reach via the T1 tram line; Eminönü is also a hub for many İETT buses. From Sultanahmet or Galata/Taksim, the tram and funicular combo (F1 to Kabataş) is straightforward.
  • Mudanya Ferry Terminal: The terminal is on the waterfront; city buses connect it to central Bursa. If your hotel is in Mudanya itself, some are within walking distance or a short taxi ride.
  • Luggage options near the ferries: If your ferry is later in the day and you don’t want to drag bags around the old city, consider leaving them at a nearby storage spot via Radical Storage near Marmaray Sirkeci Station.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #2 — Direct Intercity Bus (Cheapest & Very Straightforward)

Low cost Frequent departures Traffic-dependent

  • Overview: Modern intercity buses run frequently between Istanbul and Bursa, with departures from central bus terminals and sometimes from Istanbul Airport. Journey times hover around 2.5–3.5 hours depending on route and traffic. Coaches usually have air conditioning, assigned seats, and rest stops or onboard refreshments.
  • How to book (with price): Expect fares starting around 350–700 TRY one-way for standard seats. To compare departure times, seat layouts, and companies in one place, use 12Go’s Istanbul→Bursa buses, or look at specific routes such as Istanbul Central Bus Station → Bursa Bus Station.
  • Pros: Usually the cheapest option; lots of daily departures including early morning and late night; comfortable seats and luggage stored in the hold. Cons: Dependent on Istanbul traffic; some routes may include short ferry segments or toll roads; rest-stop quality can vary.

Step-by-step: Direct Bus Istanbul → Bursa

  1. Pick your departure terminal: Most buses leave from major terminals like Esenler (Büyük Istanbul Otogarı), Dudullu, or sometimes from Istanbul Airport. Check the exact departure station on your ticket.
  2. Compare companies & departures: On 12Go, you can see different operators, departure times, and approximate travel durations. Choose 2+1 seating if you want more space.
  3. Arrive early at the terminal: Aim for 30–45 minutes ahead of departure to find your gate/platform and store luggage. Large terminals can be confusing on first visit.
  4. Board and stow luggage: Put big bags in the hold and keep valuables with you. Show your ticket/QR code to the driver or attendant and take your seat.
  5. Enjoy the ride: Buses usually make brief stops at roadside service areas. Some include complimentary drinks or snacks; others are more basic.
  6. Arrival in Bursa: You’ll usually arrive at Bursa Intercity Bus Terminal (Bursa Otogar), from which city buses and Bursaray metro lines connect to central districts and hotels.

Getting to the main embarking points (Istanbul Bus Terminals)

  • Esenler / Büyük Istanbul Otogarı: Reachable via metro and city buses—details on lines are maintained by İETT. Taxis and BiTaksi/Uber rides are easy to hail, especially with luggage.
  • Dudullu and other terminals: Located on the Asian side; often connected by city buses and sometimes by metro links. Check your bus company’s recommended approach route.
  • Istanbul Airport departures: Some companies operate direct buses from the airport to Bursa; you can check examples and times on Turkish bus aggregators or via platforms such as 12Go Istanbul Airport→Bursa.
  • From Bursa Otogar to the city: Use city buses or Bursaray light metro (operated by Burulaş) to reach central areas such as Osmangazi or Nilüfer, or grab a taxi at the terminal taxi rank.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #3 — Self-Drive / Rental Car (Flexible Road Trip)

Flexible schedule Good for groups Tolls & city traffic

  • Overview: Driving from Istanbul to Bursa takes roughly 2.5–3.5 hours using modern highways and the impressive Osmangazi Bridge across the Gulf of İzmit. It’s a popular option for families or friends who want to stop in coastal towns or continue onward toward Uludağ or other parts of Anatolia.
  • How to book (with price): Daily rental rates vary according to season, vehicle type, and pickup point, but you can often find small cars from around 1,000–2,500 TRY per day. Compare options and one-way drop-off fees on Booking.com Car Rental in Istanbul. If you only need a car in Bursa (for example to reach Uludağ), you can also rent locally via Bursa-based car rentals.
  • Pros: Door-to-door travel; flexibility to detour via Yalova, lakes, or small towns; convenient if carrying sports gear or lots of luggage. Cons: Istanbul traffic and parking can be stressful; highway tolls and fuel costs add up; winter driving near Uludağ may require extra care or chains.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive Istanbul → Bursa

  1. Decide on pickup and drop-off: Picking up and dropping off at airports (IST or SAW) often avoids driving deep into city traffic. If returning the car in Bursa, check one-way fees in advance.
  2. Plan your route: The quickest itineraries use the O-5 motorway and Osmangazi Bridge. Navigation apps usually suggest the fastest combination of bridge and highway, factoring in live traffic.
  3. Understand tolls: Most rental cars come with an electronic toll tag (HGS/OGS); tolls are later billed to you. Ask the rental company how charges are calculated and when they’ll appear.
  4. Schedule stops: Plan at least one or two service-area breaks for fuel, snacks, and rest. These are frequent along major highways.
  5. Parking in Bursa: Central districts and historic Kaleiçi streets can be tight. Look for municipal car parks or choose accommodation that offers on-site parking; filter for this when searching Bursa hotels on Booking.com.
  6. Optional two-wheel exploring: If you’d like to switch to scooters or bikes in coastal or resort areas elsewhere in Türkiye, platforms like BikesBooking list scooter and motorbike rentals in many destinations worldwide.

Getting to the main embarking points (City & Airport Pickups)

  • Istanbul city pick-up: Many rental agencies have offices around Taksim, Şişli, or Kadıköy. Use Metro and tram lines or BiTaksi/Uber to reach them rather than driving in from the start.
  • Airport pick-up (IST/SAW): Picking up at the airport can be convenient if you’re arriving by plane and immediately heading out by road. Follow rental-car signs and allow time for paperwork.
  • Returning the car in Bursa: Drop-off points are usually around the city center or at key junctions. Be sure to refuel before returning if your rental requires a full tank.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🧭 Option #4 — Organized Day Trip / Tour from Istanbul

Guided experience Includes key sights Higher cost per person

  • Overview: Many agencies in Istanbul offer full-day trips to Bursa including transport, guiding, and often lunch. Typical itineraries cover landmarks like the Grand Mosque, Green Mosque and Tomb, the Silk Market, and a cable car or vehicle ride up Uludağ Mountain.
  • How to book (with price): Prices vary based on group size, inclusions, and season but often range from about 1,500–3,000 TRY per adult. Browse options such as the Bursa full-day sightseeing tour from Istanbul or tours that emphasize Uludağ cable-car rides and mountain time on Klook.
  • Pros: No need to worry about timetables, tickets, or finding your way; good introduction to Bursa in one day; hotel pickup is often included. Cons: Less flexibility; large groups may feel rushed at stops; usually more expensive than going independently.

Step-by-step: Bursa Day Trip from Istanbul

  1. Choose your tour: Decide whether you want a small-group or private tour, and whether Uludağ cable car, snow activities (in winter), or shopping are priorities. Compare itineraries and reviews on GetYourGuide’s Bursa listings and Bursa/Uludağ nature tours on Klook.
  2. Confirm pickup details: Tours usually include pickup from central hotels around Sultanahmet, Taksim, or nearby areas. Make sure your hotel is within the pickup zone or clarify a nearby meeting point.
  3. Travel from Istanbul to Bursa: Depending on the tour, you may cross via Osmangazi Bridge or take a ferry part of the way, then continue by road to Bursa.
  4. Guided sightseeing in Bursa: Expect visits to major mosques and bazaar areas, plus time in the city center. In winter, tours often focus extra time on Uludağ for snow and ski activities.
  5. Return to Istanbul: After dinner or late-afternoon sightseeing, you’ll head back to Istanbul and be dropped at or near your hotel in the evening.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotel Pickups & Meeting Spots)

  • Hotel pickups in central Istanbul: Many tours include direct pickup from hotels around Sultanahmet and Taksim. If your accommodation is outside, they often assign a nearby meeting point.
  • Using transfers to reach the pickup area: If you’re staying near the airports or far suburbs, you can use public transport or pre-booked transfers (for example via Klook Istanbul airport transfers or Welcome Pickups) to get into the tour pickup zone.
  • Meeting-time etiquette: Tours leave early; being 10–15 minutes early at the lobby/meeting spot avoids delays and stress for the whole group.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Istanbul to Bursa)

How long does it take to travel from Istanbul to Bursa?
In normal conditions, direct buses and cars take roughly 2.5–3.5 hours depending on traffic and route. Sea buses from Istanbul to Mudanya take about 1.5–2 hours on the water, with an additional 30–45 minutes for the bus from Mudanya into Bursa.

Is ferry or bus better from Istanbul to Bursa?
If seas are calm and schedules match your plans, the ferry is arguably more pleasant and scenic, and it avoids some highway traffic. Buses are cheaper, run more frequently, and aren’t affected by sea conditions, so they’re the best all-weather choice and ideal for late-night or very early departures.

Is there a direct train from Istanbul to Bursa?
There is no direct intercity train all the way into Bursa city center at the moment. Some itineraries combine rail and road, but for most travelers, the realistic choices are ferry, bus, car, or an organized tour by road and/or sea.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
For weekends, Turkish public holidays, and peak winter (Uludağ ski season) or summer travel, it’s smart to book ferry and bus tickets at least a few days ahead, especially for specific departure times. On quieter weekdays, you can sometimes buy on the day, but booking online gives peace of mind and more seat choice.

Where should I stay in Bursa if I’m visiting from Istanbul?
For a classic first visit, stay near the historic center (around Osmangazi) for easy access to mosques, bazaars, and cable-car links toward Uludağ. Uludağ itself is ideal in winter if you’re skiing. Browse hotels and guesthouses using filters for location and budget on Booking.com.

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