Car Hire Bursa — Discover the Ottoman Empire’s First Capital
Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, offers a fascinating blend of imperial history, natural beauty, and modern Turkish life. The city’s UNESCO-listed sites—grand mosques, silk bazaars, and thermal baths—tell the story of an empire’s birth. But beyond the historic centre, the region offers Mount Uludağ for skiing and hiking, the coastal town of Mudanya, and the picturesque villages of the Marmara coast. Hiring a car in Bursa unlocks both the imperial heritage and the natural landscapes that surround this historic city.
Bursa’s position at the foot of Mount Uludağ gives it a unique microclimate and a distinct seasonal character. In winter, the mountain becomes Turkey’s premier ski resort. In spring and summer, its slopes offer hiking through forests and alpine meadows. The city itself, with its 600 years of continuous urban life, rewards exploration of its markets, mosques, and culinary traditions—including the famous İskender kebab that originated here.
Picking Up Your Rental Car in Bursa
Bursa Yenişehir Airport (YEI) sits 50km from the city centre, serving domestic flights from Istanbul. Car hire options are limited but available. Many visitors arrive by ferry from Istanbul and collect cars from city locations.
City locations include offices near the ferry terminal (for arrivals from Istanbul), the city centre, and major hotels. Given the limited airport options, city pickup is often more practical.
Ferry from Istanbul: IDO ferries connect Istanbul’s Yenikapı terminal to Bursa’s Mudanya port in about 2 hours. Collect your car in Bursa rather than bringing one on the ferry.
Required documents: Valid driving licence, passport, and credit card. An International Driving Permit is required for non-Turkish licence holders.
Where to Go with Your Rental Car from Bursa
Uludağ National Park (35km, 45min)
Turkey’s premier ski resort in winter (December-March) offers hiking and cable car rides in summer. The mountain reaches 2,543m with views across the Marmara Sea to Istanbul on clear days. The drive climbs through forests with multiple cable car stations.
Historic Bursa Centre
The UNESCO-listed centre includes the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami), the Green Mosque (Yeşil Cami), the silk bazaar (Koza Han), and the tombs of early Ottoman sultans. Park in the centre and explore on foot—the historic area is largely pedestrianised.
Mudanya (30km, 40min)
A coastal town with Greek-influenced architecture, seafront restaurants, and the ferry terminal for Istanbul connections. A pleasant contrast to the historic centre.
Cumalıkızık (15km, 25min)
A preserved Ottoman village at the foot of Uludağ, with traditional houses, cobblestone streets, and traditional breakfast restaurants. Featured in Turkish TV dramas and popular for weekend visits.
Thermal Baths
Bursa’s hot springs have attracted visitors since Roman times. The Çekirge district offers historic baths (including the one where Ottoman sultans bathed) and modern spa hotels.
Tips for Driving in the Bursa Region
Roads: Main roads are excellent. The road to Uludağ is well-maintained but winding and steep in sections. Winter driving to the ski resort may require chains.
Speed limits: 50km/h in built-up areas, 90km/h on open roads. Police monitor speeds, particularly on the Uludağ road.
Driving style: Turkish drivers can be assertive. Bursa’s traffic can be heavy—allow extra time during rush hours.
Parking: The historic centre has limited parking. Use designated car parks and explore on foot. Uludağ has paid parking at cable car stations and ski areas.
Fuel: Stations are plentiful in Bursa. Fill up before heading up Uludağ—stations are sparse on the mountain.
Winter: Snow is common on Uludağ from December to March. Check conditions before driving to the ski resort. Chains may be required.
Book your Bursa car hire through the search above for competitive rates with city pickup options.