MileHacker Logo
Bursa Travel Tips

Bursa Travel Tips

Bursa Bursa Province, Turkey Travel Guide

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Major mobile network providers in Türkiye are Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom. Tourist SIM cards are at airports (Istanbul IST and SAW) and official stores in Bursa. A passport is necessary for registration.

SIM Card Details

  • Costs typically range from ₺300-600 for a package.
  • Airalo is an eSIM provider.
  • ESIM options present a convenient alternative to physical SIM card changes.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is widely available and for the most part reliable in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls throughout Bursa. Numerous businesses feature free Wi-Fi for customers.

Connectivity Options

  • Public Wi-Fi hotspots are less common.
  • Consider a local SIM card for constant connectivity.
  • A Portable Wi-Fi device is an option.

Language Barriers & Translation

Turkish is the official language. English is spoken by staff in major hotels, tourist-oriented shops, and certain restaurants, especially in modern districts. It is less common elsewhere.

Translation Tools

  • Download the Turkish language pack for offline use on google's Translation App.
  • Its camera translation feature assists with menus, signs, and labels.
  • The conversation mode can assist with basic verbal communication.

Postal Services

The national postal service is PTT (Posta ve Telgraf Teşkilatı). PTT offices are found throughout Bursa for sending mail and parcels.

PTT Services

  • Send mail and parcels.
  • Purchase stamps.
  • Offices are recognizable by their yellow and blue signs.

Essential Turkish Phrases

Greetings and Basics

  • Merhaba (MEHR-ha-bah) - Hello
  • Teşekkür ederim (Teh-shek-KYUR eh-deh-rim) - Thank you
  • Lütfen (LOOT-fen) - Please
  • Evet (EH-vet) - Yes

Polite Interactions

  • Hayır (HAH-yir) - No
  • Nasılsınız? (NAH-sul-suh-nuz?) - How are you?
  • İyiyim, teşekkür ederim (EE-yee-yim, teh-shek-KYUR eh-deh-rim) - I'm good, thank you
  • Güle güle (GOO-leh GOO-leh) - Goodbye (said by person staying)

Connect with Ease

Acquiring a local SIM and learning fundamental Phrases in turkish will greatly enrich your Bursa experience. Also consider Rosetta Stone for language learning.

Business Hours & Schedules

Navigating Bursa's operational times, from shops to holidays.

Typical Operating Hours

Shops generally operate from 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Monday-Saturday). Shopping malls typically run from 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (7 days a week).

Banking Hours & ATM Locations

Banks are open 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday-Friday), closed on weekends. ATMs are widely available 24/7 at banks and shopping malls.

Museum Schedules

Museums generally operate from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. Many museums are closed on Mondays. Check specific attraction websites.

Religious & Public Holidays

Türkiye observes several national and religious holidays. During these times, banks, government offices, and some businesses may close or operate with limited hours.

Holidays

  • Ramadan Feast (Ramazan Bayramı/Eid al-Fitr): A three-day holiday.
  • Feast of Sacrifice (Kurban Bayramı/Eid al-Adha): A four-day holiday.
  • Transportation can be very busy, especially during multi-day religious holidays.

Seasonal Closures & Limited Schedules

Certain activities and resorts are seasonal. Plan for winter or summer specific options based on your interests.

Seasonal Operations

  • Ski resorts on Uludağ operate only during the winter season (typically December to March).
  • During the off-season (summer), these resorts may feature hiking or nature-related activities.
  • Some outdoor activities or tours might be seasonal, based regarding the weather conditions.

Money & Banking Access

Banking Hours

  • Banks are typically open On weekdays, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
  • ATMs provide constant cash access.
  • Exchange offices are found in tourist areas.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is widely accepted.
  • Credit cards see acceptance in most larger establishments.
  • Foreign currency exchange services are available.

Schedule Your Bursa Visit

Awareness of business hours and holidays will help organize your activities and avoid unexpected closures.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting Customs

Handshakes are common upon introduction, especially among men. Close friends and family may exchange kisses on the cheek.

Interaction Pointers

  • Eye contact is generally acceptable and a sign of sincerity.
  • Be polite, patient, and respectful in all your interactions; a smile goes a long way.
  • Learn and use simple Turkish phrases.

Appropriate Attire

Modest dress sees appreciation, especially in conservative areas and when visiting religious sites (mosques, tombs).

Dress Code

  • For both men and women, shoulders and knees should be covered.
  • For women, a headscarf is necessary when entering mosques; carry one with you.
  • Outside religious sites, casual wear is typically okay, but avoid clothing that is too revealing.

Dining & Tipping Practices

It is polite to finish your plate, indicating you enjoyed the meal. Accepting tea when offered, especially at retailers or during social interactions, is a common sign of hospitality.

Customs

  • Tipping (5-10%) is customary in restaurants.
  • Rounding up taxi fares is also common.
  • "Afiyet olsun" (Enjoy your meal) is often said by waiters.

Photography Permissions & Restrictions

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, most notably women and children, out of respect for their privacy. Be discreet and respectful when photographing in religious sites.

Respectful Practices

  • Avoid discussing politics or sensitive topics unless initiated by locals you know well and trust.
  • Public displays of affection, even for heterosexual couples, generally see frowns, especially in more traditional areas.
  • Do not point with your finger; use an open hand.

Taboos and Important Notes

Things to Avoid

  • Avoid discussing politics unless locals initiate the topic.
  • Public displays of affection are generally not advisable.
  • A small nod upwards or a clicking sound with the tongue often signifies "no."

Gender & LGBTQ+ Notes

  • Türkiye is a predominantly conservative society.
  • Public displays of affection for same-sex couples are not advisable.
  • Dress and behavior should generally lean towards modesty to avoid misunderstandings.

Religious Site Protocol

Entry and Dress

  • Take off your shoes before going in mosques.
  • Women should cover their heads with a scarf.
  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees for both men and women.

Behavior

  • Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
  • Avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior.
  • Be mindful during prayer times.

Accessibility Information

Bursa is working to enhance accessibility, but challenges exist for travelers with mobility needs.

Infrastructure for Mobility Challenges

Newer developments in Bursa, like modern shopping malls, contemporary hotels, and parts of the Bursaray the tube system, generally feature better accessibility with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Modern vs. Historical Areas

  • Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms are widespread in new builds.
  • Older parts of the city, with their historical architecture, may present challenges.
  • Cobblestone streets in old metropolitan areas may be challenging.

Accessible Attractions & Transportation

Some major attractions may have limited accessibility due to historical architecture. Newer public buses and metro vehicles generally receive design for accessibility.

Transport and Site Access

  • The Uludağ Teleferik (cable car) generally has accessibility.
  • Research specific venues for accessibility features prior to your visit.
  • Taxis comprise a good option for door-to-door service, offering more flexibility than public transport in some locations.

Services for Visual/Hearing Impairments

Information for specific services tailored for visually or hearing-impaired international travelers sees limited advertisement in Bursa.

Pre-Trip Contact

  • It's a good idea to contact specific attractions, hotels, or tour operators in advance.
  • Inquire about available support or accommodations.
  • Direct contact and pre-trip planning typically yield the most useful information.

Resources & Organizations

While general resources for accessible travel in Türkiye exist, specific resources tailored for international accessible travel to Bursa may be limited.

Local Guidance

  • Local disability organizations might furnish more specific information.
  • Direct contact and pre-trip planning with your accommodation and chosen sites often proves most useful.
  • Taxis are a viable alternative for door-to-door service where ease of access to public transportation poses issues.

Plan for Accessible Travel

For travelers with mobility challenges, pre-trip research on specific venues and transport routes is advisable to ensure a smooth journey.

Next Up: Sustainable Travel in Bursa. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation

Bursa Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture - MileHacker