Nestled on the southern slopes of Uludağ (2,543 m) in the heart of the Southern Marmara Region, Bursa has served as an important centre for successive civilisations since the 2nd century BC, including the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. As the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city has transformed its strategic position on the historic Silk Road into its present-day role as Türkiye's fourth-largest city and one of its leading industrial and commercial centres. A member of the European Route of Historic Thermal Towns, recognised by the Council of Europe, Bursa seamlessly combines its rich architectural heritage of mosques, caravanserais and historic bathhouses with modern health and medical tourism infrastructure, creating a distinctive destination for wellbeing.
Bursa's thermal identity is closely associated with the historic springs traditionally known as the "Silver Waters", valued for their mineral-rich composition. Historic thermal complexes such as Çelik Palas, Kükürtlü, Karamustafa, Kaynarca and Eski Kaplıca are supplied by thermo-mineral waters, some of which reach mineral concentrations of around 2,500 mg/L, while temperatures in certain geothermal sources exceed 80°C, reflecting the region's significant geothermal potential. Rich in sodium, calcium and magnesium, these waters are widely used in balneotherapy as complementary therapies, particularly for rheumatic conditions, musculoskeletal disorders and rehabilitation programmes. In local tradition, thermal waters used for bathing at temperatures above 40°C are referred to as "Female Waters" , while cooler mineral waters traditionally consumed as drinking cures are known as "Male Waters", a historic cultural classification rather than a scientific one.
Today, Bursa preserves the centuries-old tradition of the Turkish bath through its beautifully restored historic hammams, characterised by elegant domes and exquisite tilework, while also offering advanced healthcare facilities, thermal spa hotels and modern rehabilitation services. From luxury thermal resorts and internationally recognised medical institutions to the ski slopes of Uludağ, a rich museum culture and extensive MICE opportunities, Bursa offers visitors a destination where history, health, culture and contemporary comfort come together in a truly holistic experience.