Once a proud Ottoman capital, the ancient city of Bursa is now one of the industrial king-pins of modern Turkey, famous for its sprawling parklands, high-energy local life and myriad of enticing historical wonders.

Known colloquially as Yeşil Bursa (Green Bursa), the botanical gardens and well-kept green areas of this city’s downtown offer visitors some welcome respite from the bustle that dominates in the streets around the must-see mosques and museums here. Out of all of these it’s the magnificent 20-domed Grand Mosque that’s perhaps most enthralling, while the 13^th century Mosque of Mehmed I is one of the finest examples of Bursa’s own unique architectural style.

Amidst the hubbub of Bursa’s shopping districts and food courts, away from the modern complexes and high-street outlets, traditional produce still abounds. Your Bursa travel guide will have you sample the city’s kestane sekeri, sweet chestnuts glazed with a coating of sugar, or the regional kebab dish that’s hailed as one of the best in the country.

Just 20km away from the Marmara coast and a short drive to Turkey’s premier ski resort at Uludağ, there really are plenty of reasons to visit this lively yet relaxing enclave of old Ottoman culture in the north.