• Airport transfers
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Private air-conditioned transport
• 4 dinners 4 breakfasts

International flights

Turkey entry visa

personal expenses

Optional tours, personal expenses, tips

lunches

Spiritual Stops: In Istanbul, visit Hagia Sophia and Sultanahmet Mosque, and in Bursa, visit the Grand Mosque and the Green Tomb. Attention should be paid to dress code rules at these locations (shoulders and knees must be covered, headscarves for women). Climate Difference: Although city centers are mild, Uludağ is always at least $10°C colder than the city. Mountain air is prone to sudden changes. Shopping Strategy: In Istanbul, prioritize the Grand Bazaar (handicrafts, jewelry), and in Bursa, prioritize Kozahan (silk fabrics) and the towel markets.

🏛️ Essential Pre-Travel Tips

This route is more than just a sightseeing tour; it is a curated cultural and wellness experience. Keep these key points in mind:

• Logistics: The journey between Istanbul and Bursa takes approximately 2–2.5 hours via ferry or the Osmangazi Bridge. If you plan to take the ferry, booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended.
• Cultural Etiquette: You will be visiting major religious sites like the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul and the Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami) in Bursa. Please dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered); women should carry a scarf for head covering.
• Climate Variations: While the city centers are temperate, Mount Uludağ is consistently about $18^\circ F$ ($10^\circ C$) cooler. Weather in the mountains can change rapidly.
• Shopping Strategy: Focus on the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul for jewelry and crafts, and the Koza Han in Bursa for world-class silk and traditional Turkish towels.

🧳 Packing List

To transition smoothly from palace tours to thermal spas, we recommend a "layered" packing strategy.

1. Apparel & Footwear

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: A must-have for the cobblestone streets of Istanbul’s Old City and the hilly terrain of Bursa.
• Evening Wear: A set of "smart casual" or formal attire for dinner cruises on the Bosphorus or premium dining in Bursa.
• Light Scarf or Shawl: Practical for visiting mosques and providing a layer during breezy ferry rides.
• Spa Essentials: Bring a swimsuit, personal flip-flops, and a bathrobe or peshtemal(Turkish towel). While hotels provide these, having your own ensures maximum comfort.

2. Mountain & Outdoor Gear

• Insulated Jacket & Base Layers: If traveling in winter, thermal undergarments are essential. For spring or fall, a high-quality windbreaker will suffice.
• Sunglasses & Sunscreen: The sun’s UV rays are significantly stronger at high altitudes and can reflect intensely off the snow.

3. Personal Care & Tech

• Moisturizer: Thermal waters and mountain air can dry out your skin; bring a rich moisturizer or lotion.
• Power Bank: Essential for keeping your phone charged during long days of photography and navigation.
• Personal Bath Kit: A small kit containing a kese (exfoliating mitt), specialty soap, or your preferred shampoo for the Turkish bath experience.

4. Important Documents & Currency

• Museum Pass (Müzekart): Have your digital or physical pass ready to skip the long lines at major historical sites.
• Cash (Turkish Lira): While credit cards are widely accepted in major stores, cash is vital for better bargaining power at local silk markets and artisanal bazaars.