Travel Guide — Bursa

Green Bursa as they call it in Turkey, is a large city clustered below the forested slopes of Mt Uludag. As the first capital of the Ottoman empire, Bursa holds an important place in Turkish history, as well as Turkish hearts.

These days it's a modern city ringed by some of the country's largest textile mills and factories. At the centre of town there's a historic covered bazaar - actually one of the country's largest - to explore, as well as lots of beautiful Ottoman buildings like the Yesil Cami mosque and the Koza Hani (pictured right), where local silk producers used to trade their silk cocoons.

Bursa is also famous for its hot springs which have been attracting visitors since Roman times. Don’t miss the Old Baths (Eski Kaplicalari) in the suburb of Cekirge, where you can relax in the steamy water or enjoy a massage.

High above the city, and reached by a long cable car or a winding road, Uludag is Turkey's largest ski resort.