Bursa — Between Mountains and Sea
Bursa, located in northwestern Turkey, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Sandwiched between the Sea of Marmara and the foot of Uludağ Mountain, it boasts a temperate climate with four distinct seasons.
The city is known for its rich history, evident in its numerous mosques, bazaars, and Ottoman-era buildings. Bursa is also a significant industrial center with many job propects, being the heart of Turkey’s automobile sector and a significant textile hub due to its location at the western end of the silk road.
Bursa has a dynamic cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and traditional Turkish music performances. It also has two public and one private university, contributing to its cultural richness. Bursa’s healthcare system is well-developed, providing access to quality medical services.
The city is also home to a large English-speaking community, making it easier for expats to integrate. While the cost of living in Bursa is generally lower than in major Turkish cities, it’s still considered affordable. The city offers a range of housing options, from traditional Ottoman houses to modern apartments.
Here’s why Bursa fits your Expat Destination criteria:
Weather: Temperate climate with four distinct seasons
Cost of living: Lower than major Turkish cities, affordable
Population: Much smaller than Istanbul but still a relatively large city with a population of 2.3 million
Topography: Sandwiched between the Sea of Marmara the foot of the Uludağ Mountains. 2 hours from Istanbul and 3 hours from Izmir.
Healthcare: Well-developed healthcare system
Job market: Strong job market due to its industrial significance and key industries such as automotive and textiles
Culture: Rich history, numerous mosques, bazaars, Ottoman-era buildings, museums, art galleries, traditional Turkish music performances; multiple universities
Internet: Good internet connectivity
English speakers: Large English-speaking community