Bursa is one of the most popular destinations for both tourists and residents of Istanbul, yet figuring out how to get from Istanbul to Bursa can be challenging for many first-time visitors. In this guide, we will provide a complete overview of the best Istanbul to Bursa travel options, outlining the advantages and disadvantages of each to help you choose the most suitable option for your trip.
Bursa is located southeast of Istanbul, with a distance of roughly 155 kilometers between the two cities. The exact distance and travel time may vary depending on your departure point within Istanbul and the route you take — whether via ferry or bridge.
Istanbul to Bursa travel options are varied, catering to different budgets, schedules, and travel preferences. Whether you want the comfort of a private taxi, the flexibility of self-driving, the scenic ride of a ferry, or the affordability of buses and trains, this guide will help you choose the best way to get from Istanbul to Bursa.
Transfer Options from Istanbul to Bursa
1. Private Transfer with Mercedes Vito or Sprinter Vans
Taking a taxi or booking a private transfer in advance is one of the fastest ways to travel between Istanbul and Bursa. The trip usually takes around 3 to 4 hours under normal traffic conditions, depending on your departure point within Istanbul and the route taken.
This is considered the optimal way to transfer from Istanbul to Bursa, whether you’re traveling with family or in small groups of 3 to 10 people. It saves time and offers generous luggage space, as these vans can accommodate between 5 to 10 large suitcases, depending on the model.
Choose best car for your transfer service
These vans also come with multiple pricing tiers. Luxury options are available, equipped with features like TV screens and Wi-Fi. You also have the flexibility to choose which routes you’d prefer to take.
Enjoy a comfortable ride in modern private vehicles driven by professional chauffeurs. Avoid fluctuating taxi fares and long public transport delays—book your ride now and travel with confidence.
Mercedes Maybach
- The price for a transfer with a Mercedes Maybach from/to the Istanbul to Bursa starts at $210.
- The pickup service is available 24/7.
- The luxury vehicle is equipped with a TV.
- It can accommodate up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases.
Mercedes Vito
- The price for a transfer with a Mercedes Vito from/to the Istanbul to Bursa starts at $180.
- The pickup service is available 24/7.
- It can accommodate up to 7 people and 5 large suitcases.
Mercedes Sprinter
- The price for a ride with the Mercedes Sprinter from/to the Istanbul to Bursa starts at $270.
- The pickup service is available 24/7.
- It can accommodate up to 15 people and 10 large suitcases.
Please note that the quoted prices are for transfers from Istanbul to Bursa via ferry and free roads. However, if you choose to travel via the bridge, the fare will increase by $20, and travel time will be reduced by about 30 minutes, making it roughly 3.5 hours. If you prefer the Avrasya toll road, the fare will also increase by $20, and the journey could be shortened by 30 to 60 minutes, bringing the total travel time to between 2.5 and 3 hours.
What Are the Benefits of Booking an Advance Transfer from IST to Bursa?
Istanbul Airport Transfer Company is your top and most reliable choice for transportation from Istanbul Airport, offering the following advantages:
- Competitive Prices
Enjoy a luxurious travel experience at competitive rates. We offer high-quality service at the lowest possible cost, with fixed prices and flexible options to suit all your needs. - Fast and Easy Online Booking
Book your trip effortlessly online or via WhatsApp with instant confirmation, so you’re ready to go at any time. - 24/7 Service
Our transfer service is available 24 hours a day, with the option to cancel your reservation free of charge. - Our Vehicles Are Distributed Across Most Areas of Istanbul
If you need to book a last-minute airport transfer and are looking for a car as quickly as possible, don’t worry—we can usually provide a vehicle within 10 to 15 minutes in most areas.
Self-Driving
If you prefer renting a car from Istanbul, the estimated cost ranges between 1,500 and 3,000 Turkish liras.
The final price depends on the car type and the route you choose for traveling to Bursa.
journey via Osmangazi Bridge
Self-driving offers you great flexibility to stop along the way and visit scenic spots like Yalova or Mudanya. You can even enjoy a short tour in Bursa’s countryside before reaching the city center. Travel time ranges from three to four hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. This option is ideal for travelers seeking full control and a flexible, private journey experience.
Advantages:
- High flexibility to stop at attractions along the way (such as Sapanca Lake or forest areas)
- Complete privacy and comfort without being tied to schedules
- Cost-effective if you drive multiple times or travel with family or friends
Disadvantages:
- Requires basic knowledge of driving in Turkey
- Possible extra costs (fuel, tolls, insurance)
- Driving can feel tiring after a long flight
3. Using a Taxi
If you choose to travel by taxi, you can reach Bursa in about three to four hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. The travel time varies based on whether you use the ferry or take the land route across the bridge.
Taxi fares are higher than other options, usually ranging from 6,000 to 7,000 Turkish liras, depending on trip timing and distance.
A taxi is a comfortable choice for visitors who prefer not to drive or want direct access to their hotel or address in Bursa.
Advantages of Taxis:
- Full comfort after a flight, no need to drive or handle transport yourself
- Direct to your destination without stops or complications
- A good option for travelers unfamiliar with Turkish roads
Disadvantages of Taxis:
- Higher cost compared to other options
- Heavy reliance on the driver (some may choose longer routes if they notice you’re unfamiliar)
- Not all taxis are comfortable for long-distance travel
Public Buses and Similar, Istanbul to Bursa travel options
Buses and ferries can be an excellent choice for traveling from Istanbul to Bursa, especially for budget-conscious or adventurous travelers.
Although this option takes longer than others, it offers a unique local and cultural experience during the journey.
From Istanbul Airport, take a bus to Esenler Bus Terminal, then travel to the Yenikapı ferry terminal.
Board the ferry to Mudanya Port near Bursa, and finally take a taxi or local bus to the city center.
Available Options:
- Duration: Can take up to approximately 5.5 hours
- Cost: Ranges between 250 and 400 Turkish Lira per person
Alternatively, you can take transportation from the airport to Harem Terminal on the Asian side of Istanbul, where regular buses depart to Bursa.
- Duration: Can take up to approximately 5.5 hours
- Cost: Ranges between 450 and 680 Turkish Lira per person
While these options require transfers between different transport modes, they let you explore diverse parts of Turkey and meet locals.
They are perfect for solo travelers or anyone planning a budget-friendly and culturally rich trip to Bursa.
Comparison of Istanbul to Bursa travel options
Traveling from Istanbul to Bursa offers several options, each with different advantages. Private transfers or taxis provide the fastest and most comfortable experience, taking around three to four hours with direct, door-to-door service, making them ideal for families or groups seeking convenience. Renting a car allows complete control over the journey, with travel times ranging from two and a half to four hours depending on the chosen route, and is best for those who enjoy flexibility and making stops along the way. Traveling by bus connection takes about five and half hours, offering scenic views and a comfortable ride, although it requires a transfer. For those looking for a more authentic and cultural experience, combining buses and ferries takes longer but allows travelers to explore different sides of Turkey and interact with locals, making it especially appealing for solo travelers or those seeking adventure.
Travel Tips
- If you need quick travel or are with family, choose a taxi or private service despite higher costs.
- To save money without losing comfort, the train is the best choice.
- For local experiences or budget travel, use buses and public transportation.
- When using private vans, check the route in advance and inform the provider if you prefer toll roads.
- Always check train and bus schedules, as they may change depending on the day or season.
- Book train tickets early during peak travel times.
Considering the available options, each traveler can choose the method that best suits their needs for getting from Istanbul to Bursa in the most convenient way possible.
Fill out the booking form now so we can confirm your request and contact you directly.
To avoid any delays or hassle, it’s recommended to book your Istanbul Airport transfer online in advance. Many companies offer this service, allowing you to choose your vehicle type, set your destination, and pay upfront for a smooth, worry-free experience.