Bursa is one of Turkey's major industrial cities, with strong automotive and textile industries, yet it feels greener than most: the slopes of Uludağ rise right behind the city, and in winter the mountain becomes a ski resort. The historic centre, with the Grand Mosque and the old covered bazaars, the thermal baths of Çekirge and the seaside town of Mudanya give the city plenty of character, and its kitchen is famous for İskender kebab and candied chestnuts.
The city is also a regional centre for healthcare, education and shopping, with large hospitals, universities and modern malls, and its parks and green slopes make daily life feel less hectic than in Istanbul. The motorway over the Osmangazi Bridge has made road trips to Istanbul much shorter, and sea buses run from Mudanya.
Where to look
Bursa's centre is shared between three districts: Osmangazi, with the historic core, Yıldırım to the east and Nilüfer to the west. Much of the newer housing has been built in Nilüfer, with planned streets, parks, shopping centres and residential sites with facilities; it is popular with families and professionals, and the Bursaray light rail links it with the centre. Districts closer to the historic centre offer more character, but usually older buildings. On the coast to the north-west, Mudanya suits buyers who want a sea view within reach of the city.
What to check
- Bursa lies in an earthquake zone: ask for the building permit date, the iskân (occupancy permit) and proof of compliance with the current earthquake code.
- Check the commute between home, work and school; the main roads get busy at peak times.
- In residential sites, compare the monthly fee (aidat) with the facilities you will actually use.
- For new projects, ask for the building permit and the delivery date written into the contract.
- Check how much winter sun the home gets and what heating costs to expect.
See the current projects or contact us for advice.
