bodrum travel guide

Bodrum Town

Although more than a million tourists flock to its beaches, boutique hotels, trendy restaurants and clubs each summer, the town of Bodrum (ancient Halicarnassus) never seems to lose its cool. More than any other Turkish seaside getaway, it has an enigmatic elegance that pervades it, from the town's crowning castle and glittering marina to its flower-filled cafes and white-plastered backstreets. Even in the most hectic days of high summer, you can still find little corners of serenity in the town.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Mausoleum (originally 44.8m high) was the greatest achievement of Carian King Mausolus (r 376–353 BC),…

Bodrum Castle

Bodrum's magnificent waterfront castle, built by the Knights Hospitaller, dates back to the 15th century. It houses the excellent Museum of Underwater…

Bodrum Maritime Museum

This small but well-formed museum spread over two floors examines Bodrum's maritime past through finely crafted scale models of boats and an excellent…

Ancient Theatre

Ancient Halicarnassus' theatre was built in the hillside rock in the 4th century BC to seat 5000 spectators but that capacity was increased to 13,000 for…

Myndos Gate

These are the restored remains of the only surviving gate from what were originally 7km-long walls probably built by King Mausolus in the 4th century BC…

For the best vistas of Bodrum, head to the peninsula on the west side of town which is crowned by seven old windmills.

Ottoman Cemetery

This Ottoman cemetery stands just above the marina, and contains the tombs of two famous Turkish seamen (Mustafa Pacha and his son). Part of the enclosure…

Merkez Adliye Camii

The 'Central Courthouse Mosque' is in the old bazaar, located just off the harbourfront. The handsome stone structure boasts a single minaret. Visitors…

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Nov 5, 2014 • 5 min read

Sparkly beaches, serene coves, a grand castle and jaw-dropping vistas: just a few of the reasons the one-time fishing village of Bodrum is a Turkish…

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How to Plan Your Trip to Bodrum, Turkey — Aegean Sea Views, Luxury Hotels, and Incredible Restaurants Included

Come for the sparkling western Aegean coast, stay for the shopping, art scene, and fine dining.

majaiva/Getty Images

Situated on Turkey’s western Aegean coast, Bodrum, a city of about 200,000, is known for its small and fragrant mandarins and for its summer scene. On the glittering coastline in the warmer months, some of the largest boats in the world come flocking to the Turkish marinas. Bodrum’s reputation has been cemented, for some, as a sun-soaked luxury escape within Europe. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• The exceptional luxury resorts along the water, including LXR's Susona Bodrum, in the Torba neighborhood, or the Mandarin Oriental overlooking Paradise Bay.
• Wine tasting at Karnas Vineyard, a family-owned winery producing Turkey's first zinfandel.
• Shopping the night bazaars for what one of our experts calls "a taste of the old Bodrum."
• Fine dining at ambitious restaurants like Orfoz, next to the Zeki Müren Arts Museum.
• The local arts scene; visit Zai Yaşam, an arts center, or the well-known art gallery Pilevneli.

But Bodrum is more than just glitz and glamour. Tucked away within this city are culinary delights, thought-provoking artists, and bazaars worth traveling for. Bodrum is a city that caters to the well-heeled, yes, but it is also a city of beaches and night markets, of boutique hotels and bespoke wineries. 

For a guide to planning your trip to Bodrum – including when to go, where to stay, and what to do – read on. 

Best Hotels & Resorts

Susona bodrum, lxr hotels & resorts.

Courtesy of Susona Bodrum, LXR Hotels & Resorts

At the 70-key Susona Bodrum, LXR Hotels & Resorts , which opened in Bodrum’s Torba neighborhood in 2020, bougainvillea and other native plantings line pathways and buildings. Guests staying at this hotel can enjoy an expansive view of the Aegean, multiple pools, a small beach, a spa with a hammam, and numerous casual and upscale dining venues.

The Bodrum Edition

The tony Yalikavak Marina is home to several shiny international hotel brands. “If you want the nightlife and craziness, you can have it — but if you want calm, you can have that, too,” Mina Dilber, founder of the lifestyle brand Anim Living , told T+L contributor Richard Godwin. At the 108-room Bodrum Edition , open since 2018, travelers will find a series of dining destinations, including the culinary hotspot Brava, a restaurant helmed by Peruvian chef Diego Muñoz. 

Courtesy of The Bodrum EDITION

Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum

Yalikavak’s Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum , a 2014 addition to the area, offers 130 guest rooms and overlooks Paradise Bay. Eleven dining and drinking concepts, a spa, a kids club, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and even luxury helicopter tours round out this bespoke hotel. 

Courtesy of Aman Resorts

Part of the Aman brand, Amanruya is a 36-room hotel in the Göltürkbükü neighborhood that opened in 2018. Pavilions are fashioned from stone and open into individual gardens with private swimming pools. The resort also offers a category of pool suite accommodation, also with a private pool. A comprehensive list of activities includes fishing, sailing, and cruising on a traditional Turkish gulet — a wooden masted vessel.

In the Göltürkbükü neighborhood, not far from Yalikavak, art galleries, jewelry makers, and clothing stores are interspersed between boutique hotels. More Turkish in scope than international, travelers can find the beating heart of Bodrum’s art scene, particularly at the 74-room Maçakizi , a boutique hotel that originally opened in the 1970s and that was refreshed in 2000. It often hosts pop-up exhibitions from artisan retailer ’74Escape .

Best Things to Do 

Karnas vineyards.

Visit the 165-hectare Karnas Vineyards , which is planted to both grapes and olive trees. Visitors can sit down, dine, and taste wine overlooking the fields. As Feride Yalav-Heckeroth reported in the September 2023 issue of Travel + Leisure , the vineyard was founded by the İşmen family in 2005 “to produce Turkey’s first zinfandel — a grape they fell in love with during a trip to California’s Napa Valley.” The winery’s low-intervention and sustainable wines are available alongside their formidable multicourse tasting menu each night, for around $100.

Foodrum Culinary Park

Head over to Pelin Dumanli’s Foodrum Culinary Park , in the residential Bitez neighborhood. Dumanli, a formally trained chef, offers culinary classes and bazaar tours for small groups in her fully outfitted space. 

While you’re in the neighborhood, put local arts on your radar. “Zai Yaşam is a great arts center housed in five buildings,” said Ceylin Türkkan Bilge, creative director of the fashion label Siedrés , in the September 2023 issue of T+L. “There’s a gallery, a library, and a lovely garden where they have jazz concerts in the evenings.” By car, the two spaces are only five minutes apart. 

In Yalikavak, said Mina Dilber, an outpost of one of Istanbul’s most prominent art galleries, Pilevneli , has opened up shop in Bodrum. “There’s such a buzz about this place — one of its super-exciting recent exhibitions included work by the cutting-edge digital artist Refik Anadol,” she said. “There’s a great gift shop, too. It’s a must-must-visit!”

Best Shopping 

Ceylin Türkkan Bilge recommends the night bazaars “for a taste of the old Bodrum.” “There are two main markets, one around Bodrum Castle and one along the Türkbükü promenade, by the sea in Göltürkbükü,” Bilge says. “You’ll find plenty of bag shops, but also stalls selling ankle bracelets, beaded jewelry, clothing, and handmade leather sandals. A stall called Ipekçe Türkbükü is my favorite for cotton dresses.”

Despite the profusion of luxury brands in the Yalikavak Marina, Dilber favors shops like Misela , which offer a less western fashion perspective. Misela, she says, is “one of Turkey’s leading bag and accessories brands.” 

Leleg Living , Yalav-Heckeroth writes, a boutique that is adjacent to the restaurant Leleg, diners can purchase “wares used in the restaurant, as well as wooden furniture, all made by local craftspeople using natural materials.” 

On Tuesdays and Fridays, it’s well worth a visit to the Yalikavak Bazaar, one of Bodrum’s many outdoor markets. This traditional bazaar sells an array of fresh spices, olives, cheeses, fruits, and vegetables from local vendors.

Best Restaurants

Brothers Cağrı and Cağlar Bozçağa have established an ambitious destination restaurant in Bodrum at Orfoz , next to the Zeki Müren Arts Museum. The seafood-centric tasting menu features locally caught fish in numerous incarnations and ends each might with a plate of seasonal fruit. 

Courtesy of Orfoz Restaurant

Bodrum Müdavim

In Bodrum’s City Center, Bodrum Müdavim offers both a view of the 1400-era Bodrum Castle and a compelling menu dedicated to fresh seafood. But some come just for the Raki; the restaurant boasts one of the city’s best selections of this national drink of Turkey. 

The 72-seat Malva , a destination restaurant within Susona Bodrum, leans into micro-local and seasonal cuisine under the skillful knife of head chef Necmi Agac. Biweekly trips to the Yalikavak Bazaar inform the restaurant’s menu, as does the small rooftop garden that grows just steps away from the restaurant’s kitchen. 

Limon Gümüşlük

Bilge recommends Limon Gümüşlük , calling it a “particularly stylish and secluded restaurant that serves Turkish meze in a dreamy garden full of vintage furniture.” It’s in Gümüşlük, an area of Bodrum known for its fragrant mandarin groves. Arrive early and grab a table in time for sunset. 

Best Time to Visit 

Freeartist/Getty Images

Bodrum’s high season is summer, and the majority of the hotels are open from late May though the end of October. The season is busiest in the months of July and August, but the weather stays warm well into early fall–up into the 80s and 90s, in fact. Crowds can be more manageable and prices can be more affordable in the shoulder season, which is worth considering if you’re able to travel outside of the summer months. 

How to Get There

Bodrum can be reached by bus, plane, car, and by ferry. From Istanbul, the flight to Bodrum’s Milas–Bodrum Airport takes about one hour. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus provide between five and six daily nonstop flights between the two cities. 

There are buses available from Istanbul to Bodrum, but the system is not easy for non-natives to navigate. The ride is also long; it can take close to 10 hours. Hiring a private car is another option, but it is expensive. Flying is a more cost-effective alternative. 

Travelers can also reach Bodrum via a ferry from Kos, Greece. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Ferries run regularly during the warmer months and cost under $30 each way. 

Neighborhoods to Visit 

Bodrum’s active City Center is where most tourists will find themselves. Bodrum Castle is here, as are plenty of souvenir shops, cafés, small restaurants, and surprisingly beautiful views of the water. A walk through the narrow streets offers a true feel of this historic city. 

nejdetduzen/Getty Images

The Yalikavak Marina offers a slightly more luxurious look at life in Bodrum. Here, you’ll find upscale shopping, destination restaurants, and beach clubs; it’s a look at the good life, yachts and all. But it wouldn’t be Bodrum without a trip to this neighborhood, in all its maximalist glory. 

The laid-back fishing enclave of Gümüşlük, also part of Bodrum, has private beaches, waterfront restaurants, and a relaxing vibe that you may not find in some of the busier areas of the city. It’s worth visiting this local-centric area for a sense of how life on the Aegean is lived. 

How to Get Around

Bodrum is extremely spread-out, and hiring a taxi to get from one area to the next is necessary. Some areas of Bodrum (like the Marina and the City Center) have taxi stands available, but you may want to consider setting up a hired car in advance with your hotel’s concierge if you plan to go far afield. Taxi drivers typically require cash payment, so come prepared with Turkish lira. 

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Home > Bodrum Travel Guide – 15 Best Things To Do & See

Bodrum Travel Guide – 15 Best Things To Do & See

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

Here is your guide to Bodrum, Turkey. It has everything you need to know and all the Bodrum travel advice that you need. We’ve got a list of the best things to do in Bodrum, top Bodrum sites, and tips for where to stay in this amazing city.

Türkiye is full of fantastic beach resorts to visit , but some stand out above the rest. There’s a reason why so many famous people are seen floating by in Bodrum Bay aboard an imposing luxury yacht.

It’s because Bodrum is a little bit upmarket, and as such, it’s a sophisticated place to stay for a few days.

Is Bodrum cheap? Not as much as other places, but it’s definitely a fantastic place to go .

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Things To Know About Bodrum Turkey

Bodrum sits on the southwestern coast of Türkiye , lapped by the waters of the Aegean Sea. It’s a town that is authentic yet upmarket, and you’ll find many rich people wandering around. Of course, it’s also a bustling tourist spot every high season in Bodrum.

Bodrum’s early beginnings were very modest, especially compared to how it is now. These days, you’ll see a massive marina with costly yachts inside it, luxury stores, and white-washed houses along cobbled streets. In the beginning, Bodrum was a fishing village, but in the 1960s, it began to grow. Many professional people from Istanbul bought summer houses in Bodrum. Hence, it gained the name ‘Little Istanbul.’

If you want to go somewhere laid back and beachy , yet you want an extra side order of glamour and sophistication, Bodrum is a good choice. The likes of Ellen, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, George Clooney, and billionaire Russians have been spotted on massive superyachts around the Bodrum coastline .

Get from Istanbul to Bodrum with this guide.

Best time to visit bodrum, turkey.

It’s going to come as no surprise to learn that Türkiye is hot in the summer months, so if you’re not a fan of soaring temperatures (sometimes over 40 degrees), then July and August aren’t for you. These are the busiest times, and you’ll find very little space around the crowded streets.

However, the shoulder months of May, June, the end of September, and October are beautiful times to visit. You’ll still find very warm temperatures at this time, but the oppressive heat has gone, and it may occasionally rain – although not that often. It’s undoubtedly still beach weather until the middle of October.

Things To Do In Bodrum Peninsula

There is plenty to see and do in and around Bodrum. You can choose to enjoy your time chilling out and doing little at all, or you can explore to your heart’s content. Here are a few things to see and do.

1. Enjoy A Boat Trip

The single best way to enjoy the sun and the beautiful coastline is to take a boat trip. The sparkling waters are ideal for swimming, and if you want to lay back on a boat and chill out, there are plenty of boat trip options .

2. Castle Of St Peter

The commanding Castle of St Peter sits with the perfect view over Bodrum town, and visiting it will give you the most amazing views over the bay. The castle was built in 1402 as a defense against invaders. As with most castles, it passed hands several times throughout history, and the Ottomans even built a large mosque inside during their reign.

Today, the castle houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.

If you want to visit a mosque, there are beautiful options around the country.

3. museum of underwater archaeology.

Inside the castle, you will find the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, one of Bodrum’s absolute must-sees. Inside, you’ll find all manner of artifacts related to the underwater world and the many shipwrecks that have been found off the Aegean coastline . However, this isn’t your regular museum; it’s easy to follow and learn, thanks to the multimedia displays and interactive elements.

Be sure to check out the Serce Limani Glass Wreck Room, where you’ll find a Byzantine ship that sunk around the peninsula in 1026.

4. Enjoy Bodrum’s Beaches

Bodrum town doesn’t have a sandy beach; however, just outside the main town, you will find some fantastic beaches that are ideal for kicking back and relaxing. Be sure to head to Turgutreis, Gumbet, and Bitez for some of the most idyllic spots – they all have free and private beaches. There are plenty of tourist facilities around, such as bars and local restaurants.

5. Enjoy Some Watersports

6. Bodrum Theater

It’s not all beach time! Bodrum has plenty of historical spots to check out, and the theater is one of them. At the peak of its popularity, there would be 13,000 people inside, but these days, the theatre is used for regular events and concerts – see if there is anything on while you’re there. Even if not, it’s a great spot to check out anyway, and the views are nothing short of breathtaking.

7. Bodrum Old Town

Just behind Bodrum Castle, you’ll find the Old Town, with its maze of winding, cobbled streets. It’s a great idea to spend some time exploring around here, stopping at small cafes for tea or coffee, and then heading off to do some shopping at the many souvenir shops . There are also markets where you can purchase all sorts of homemade goods, including leather shoes and jewelry.

8. Bodrum Marina

Bodrum Marina is a really picturesque area that is ideal for romantic walks and sunset views. The boats here are seriously big and extremely expensive, and you’ll find upmarket cafes and restaurants lining the marina where you can stop and have a drink or a meal. This is a particularly great place for seafood.

9. Mausoleum Of Halicarnassus

The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus used to be one of the wonders of the world, and it dates back to around 350 BC. While a lot of the original building was damaged in an earthquake, you can still visit the ruins and check out the views. You head up the hill from the marina and walk for around 15 minutes.

10. Bodrum Amphitheater

You can quickly check out the mausoleum and the amphitheater during the same visit, as they’re virtually next to one another. The amphitheater isn’t as severely damaged as the mausoleum, and it really is a window to the past, dating back to around the 6th century BC. At the height of its usage, it would have held around 10,000 people!

11. Sarnic Beach Club

There are some fantastic beach clubs around Bodrum, and some are quite exclusive. Sarnic Beach Club is somewhere in between. Here, you pay a set amount of money as you enter, and your food and drink are all included. You have free access to the beach, sun-loungers, parasols, entertainment, and the water springs and cushioned areas. You’ll have to pay extra for watersports and diving, but it’s a great place to spend the day.

12. Bodrum’s White Windmills

On the short road between Bodrum and Gumbet, you’ll find a series of white stone windmills on the hill. While it might not look like much, the view from that hill is seriously impressive, and these windmills are historic in their own right, having been there for more than 300 years.

13. Zai Bodrum

This is a cute chill-out spot that’s ideal for taking in the view, a little rest and relaxation, and perhaps an excellent spot for a day’s work. This is a park area with swings, cushions, seating, views, and a fantastic restaurant on-site. It’s shaded by trees, so it’s a good spot during the summer, and be sure to check out the food because it’s really delicious.

14. A Boat Trip To Black Island (Karaada Island)

No, the island isn’t black; it’s actually very green, but it’s a fantastic spot to visit on a boat trip. A lot of people come here for the mineral springs as they’re reputed to be suitable for certain health issues, but most simply swim and dive around the crystal clear waters.

15. Take A Day Trip From Bodrum

You can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus in around three hours by bus or car. This is one of the most amazing places to visit in the whole of Turkey, and you’ll definitely need to set off early so you get the most time there. However, do be aware that during the summer months, there is no shade in this huge area, and it can get very crowded.

Ephesus is an ancient city dating back to around the 10th century BC, and the ruins are exceptionally well preserved. It really is like walking through the past.

Greek Island Of Kos, Greece

You can easily visit the beautiful island of Kos for the day via ferry, which is only 20 minutes away. You can easily confuse people on your social media by checking in at a restaurant in Kos; they’ll wonder why you’re in Greece and not Turkey!

You can book this trip via an excursion desk in Bodrum itself, or you can book your tickets directly from the port. If you go for the excursion option, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and dropped off again. If you buy your tickets from the port, you’ll need to make your own way there, but it’s only 10 minutes away by taxi.

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Places to eat in bodrum – restaurants in bodrum.

Traditional Turkish food is like nothing else on the planet – it’s genuinely delicious . The great thing about Bodrum is that it’s a beautiful blend of both local and international spots. You can find anything you like there, but if you want to try one of the most lauded-after restaurants, here are a couple you should add to your visit list.

Sultan Bahce Restaurant

Set in a beautiful garden, this restaurant is the perfect spot for al-fresco dining with a sophisticated edge. The menu is extensive, but every dish is perfect. From seafood to kebabs and pizza, you’ll find everything you might fancy here, but be sure to try the freshly caught fish – it’s cooked on a BBQ, and it’s the most delicious you’ll find around Bodrum.

Antik Akdeniz

A very tourist-friendly Turkish restaurant, this is the ideal spot to try traditional food while in Bodrum. Pide and lahmacun here are some of the best you’ll find anywhere else, and there is a huge menu of grilled meat kebabs to choose from. There is also an extensive children’s menu so that nobody will go hungry.

• Best Restaurants In Bodrum

How To Get To Bodrum

You can get to Bodrum in four ways: by bus, by car, by plane, or by ferry.

If you fly into Istanbul or you happen to be in another part of Turkey, you can take a long-distance coach with either Pamukkale, Metro, or Kamil Koc. You can check prices and times online, but Turkish buses are very comfortable and offer entertainment, Wi-Fi, snacks, and refreshments.

Bodrum has a small international airport of its own, called Milas-Bodrum Airport, and it’s located around 30km just outside the city itself. You can find shuttle buses and taxis that will take you directly to your hotel.

If you’re somewhere else in Turkey and you want to drive yourself, it’s very easy to hire a car. You need your full driving license, passport, and any visa paper applicable to you. You’ll also need a credit or debit card to leave details behind.

Roads to Bodrum are very clear and easy to follow, and Bodrum is easy to drive in, but parking in the city itself can be an issue. Make sure that the hotel you choose has parking before booking.

If you’re on the island of Kos, Greece, you can take a ferry over to Bodrum in the summer months. You can do this either as a day trip or to stay a little longer. The journey is only 20 minutes long, and you can purchase tickets directly from the port.

Where To Stay In Bodrum Türkiye

Of course, you need somewhere to rest your head, and in that case, let’s take a look at three choices – one luxury, one mid-range, and one on budget. And, of course, browse through our extensive Bodrum Hotel guide, too!

Luxury Choice – Raddison Collection Hotel

Raddison is always a top choice, but this particular branch is undoubtedly one of the best. Located a stone’s throw away from Aspat Beach, you’ll find numerous on-site facilities, including a bar, fitness center, top restaurant, parking, and seriously comfortable surroundings.

Rooms are large and decorated in a modern manner. Each room has a TV and private bathroom, tea and coffee-making facilities, a minibar, and high-quality Wi-Fi. Views from each balcony are breathtaking, and the level of service is like no other.

Mid-Range Choice – Asmin Hotel Bodrum

Asmin Hotel is an excellent mid-choice option, and it still gives you plenty of comfort and luxury during your stay for a lower price tag. Each room has a large bed, comfortable décor, air conditioning, stunning views, and a flat-screen TV.

There is an outdoor swimming pool, perfect for cooling during the summer months, and plenty of on-site facilities, such as laundry, excursion desk, and pool bar.

Budget Choice – Manzara Hotel

Just a stone’s throw from the beach, this budget hotel is an excellent option if you want to save money but still enjoy an excellent base for your stay. There are two outdoor swimming pools and a large sun terrace where you can soak up the sun. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.

Rooms are large and include air conditioning, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, and minibar. There is a restaurant on-site and a large bar where you can enjoy an evening drink or two.

Here is our full guide on where to stay in Bodrum.

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Wrapping Up Your Trip To Bodrum

Bodrum is a must-visit in Turkey, bursting with attractions for every traveler. Whether you’re diving into history, lounging by the sea, or exploring the vibrant streets, there’s something here for you. 

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Comments (5)

I like your blog but dearly wish you would be more careful about promoting activities that are abusive to animals. The camels are abused and live in terrible conditions. They are tethered day and night and only allowed to walk free with the heavy cargo of tourists on their back. There is widespread camel abuse all over the world so please do your research and stop promoting animal cruelty.

Huh, because I said camels beach? That is the name of the beach. What can I do about it? And FYI, I always advocate for animals. I never go to or recommend zoo’s in any place and ask people not to ride donkeys in Greece… https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/why-you-should-not-ride-donkeys-in-santorini-donkeys/

What about Chasing the Donkey…? That’s just cruel :)

i like your article so much and it will help me on my trip to Bodrum but I have two questions I booked Airbnb instead o a hotel and my question is safe to stay in a house instead of a hotel? second question if you can help me and tell me where to rent a good car from good places? Thank you

When considering Airbnb for your trip to Bodrum, it’s crucial to take precautions to ensure a safe experience. Before booking, make sure to read the reviews left by previous guests, especially those mentioning cleanliness, safety, and host responsiveness. Consider booking with Superhosts, as they have a track record of excellent service. Also, look for hosts with verified profiles, which indicates they have undergone additional verification steps by Airbnb. Communicate with the host to address any safety concerns or questions about the property and neighborhood. Check if the accommodation has safety features like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Always use Airbnb’s secure platform for booking and payments. Choose accommodations in well-reviewed and safe neighborhoods.

For renting a car in Bodrum, use these guys https://www.rentalcars.com/?affiliateCode=chasingdonkey

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Bodrum Travel Guide- The Best Things to Do in Bodrum, Turkey

If you’re looking for a beautiful seaside resort in Turkey, offering great dining, brilliant hotels and a great selection of things to do, Bodrum is a great place to go in Turkey. I spent a weekend here at the start of a two week Turkey itinerary, and it was the most perfect place to start a trip around the country.

Bodrum has previously been known as a mass-market tourist resort, but I was pleasantly surprised that these are located more out-of-town and the centre of Bodrum consisted of charming streets, a relaxing harbour area and lovely markets.

If you have plans to spend a week in Bodrum, you will find plenty of activities to do and attractions to see. But if you only have one day or a weekend in Bodrum, you’ll still get a real feel for the place and will see the majority of its sites in the town centre and I would recommend including Bodrum on any itinerary around Turkey.

So here’s my guide to some of the best things to do in Bodrum, as well as some other essential information such as where to stay in Bodrum and how to get around. Hopefully you will find this blog post useful in planning your own trip to Bodrum!

Bodrum Travel Guide: Essential things to know

When is the best time to go to bodrum.

Peak season in Turkey stretches from around May to September, similar to other European destinations. I visited in the high season in Bodrum and didn’t find it to be too busy or hectic. The daytime temperature was hot, around 33 Celsius or so and it was blue skies and sunny. In the evening in Bodrum, it was still very warm.

Getting around Bodrum

The old town, including the marina of Bodrum, is small enough to walk around on foot easily. In fact, much of it is pedestrianised. Even the bus station is walking distance (10 minutes) from the town centre. If your hotel is just out of town, it is highly likely it will have a shuttle to the centre of Bodrum.

Arriving in Bodrum airport (Milas Mugla airport) is fairly simple, although the drive from Bodrum airport to the centre of town is around 40 minutes.

The Havas Bus service offers frequent and straight forward transfer buses between the two (costing 10 TL), or another option is to use a taxi, this is likely to cost about 130 TL. I actually pre-booked my transfer with GetYourGuide, which was pretty efficient and dropped me at my accommodation in Bodrum. Book your airport transfer here.

Where to stay in Bodrum?

There are so many hotel options in and around Bodrum, it can be quite hard to pick. As I was travelling solo in Turkey, I chose to stay in a hostel in the town centre. I stayed at the Eskici hostel, which was just metres from the beach. It offered a chill out pool and a really cool relaxed vibe.

You can check rates for the excellent Eskici hostel here at Booking.com

Other good value hostels and hotels in Bodrum include:

• Istankoy Hotel
• Asmin Hotel Bodrum
• 7. Art Feslegen Hotel

However, Bodrum is also known for some spectacular luxury hotels, such as the Mandarin Oriental and The Bodrum EDITION.

You check prices for these, and several other top hotels in Bodrum below:

• Mandarin Oriental
• The Bodrum EDITION
• LUX* Bodrum Resort & Residences
• Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay

Bodrum Travel Guide: Things to do in Bodrum

Wander its charming streets.

Bodrum’s town centre consists of many little laneways, all offering charming experiences and unusual street art. Wandering around the quaint town centre of Bodrum, I’d keep coming across corners of tumbling bougainvillea and gorgeous wall climbers, tucked away from main paths.

The Turkish people are hugely passionate and patriotic, and the Turkish flag is everywhere, adorning many buildings’ walls. You will also see the ‘evil eye’, meant to ward off evil spirits in many places too. You could say it is kind of like Turkey’s national symbol.

A very pleasant afternoon or longer can be spent exploring the streets of Bodrum. There are many Instagram-worthy photo stops in Bodrum, but thankfully, not too many photoshoots happening at once!

Sample Turkish cuisine at one of Bodrum’s best restaurants or cafes

Like many European seaside towns, the waterfront and the marina area in Bodrum is lined with great restaurants, bars and cafes. Some are really quaint and romantic, and some more lively. But on the whole, I was really amazed with how beautiful they were. You feel charmed to enter!

One restaurant I particularly liked was Kortan 365 on the waterfront in Bodrum. The building dates back over 450 years and it’s really like stepping back in time, however I was surprised to learn it turns into a lively evening spot after dark!

Turkish cuisine is one of my favourites. I highly recommend borek, which is white cheese in pastry and aubergine salad topped with yoghurt.

I tried a Turkish coffee with keen anticipation, but realised it’s not for me.

Other brilliant places to eat in Bodrum include:

• Avlu Bistro is tucked away and offers a wonderfully romantic setting
• Annalivia a popular Turkish restaurant offering fantastic views over the bay
• Memedof Fish Restaurant is one of the fine dining restaurants in Bodrum, and offers some of the best seafood in town.

Visit Bodrum Castle and learn about the area’s history

The castle in Bodrum dates back to 1402 and is one of the town’s main tourist attractions. Bodrum Castle offers amazing views over the town and the turquoise Aegean Sea. It is also home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, housing one of the most important collections in the world. The castle has recently re-opened following a €25 million restoration project. Book your city sightseeing tour here.

Join a boat trip in Bodrum

Some of Bodrum’s best beaches are further out in the bay and can be reached by boat.

Gulets, the traditional Turkish style of boats, line the harbour. You can also sail the Greek Islands of Kos or Rhodes easily from Bodrum, which is a cool day trip.

GetYourGuide offer hundreds of day trips from Bodrum and excursions by land or sea to exciting attractions nearby. I’ve selected a couple of great tours here:

• Full Day Orak Island Boat Trip
• Pirate Boat Trip from Bodrum

Wander the artisan shops

The shopping in Bodrum is surprisingly good. I found I wanted to buy so many knick-knacks, clothes and sandals. In fact, Bodrum is famous for its excellent quality leather sandals! I thought the beautiful shell and jewellery stands were particularly eye-catching and I wanted to buy everything.

Soak up the fun nightlife

The atmosphere in Bodrum is surprisingly lively and welcoming. The town centre didn’t feel tacky, although I’m aware it sometimes has this reputation. I think a lot of revellers stay in their resorts or bars nearer their hotels maybe.

Experience a hammam

Doing a traditional Turkish hammam is a must-do at some point during your Turkey holiday, and where better than Bodrum! There’s several hammams in town, but why not go with a local guide who’ll take you to the baths, and talk you through the experience! Book a tour to a traditional local hammam here.

Bodrum Travel Guide

Have you been to Bodrum before? How did you find it? I’d love to hear, so do let me know in the comments below. Visiting Bodrum was a really pleasant surprise, and the perfect first place to visit on my two week Turkey itinerary. I found a weekend to be a good time to explore Bodrum, but I could have easily spent a week enjoying the beaches in Bodrum.

I hope this guide to Bodrum has been useful in planning your own trip to Turkey!

If you’re considering a longer Turkey adventure, you might find my two-week Turkey itinerary here useful, as well as my guides to Pamukkale , Ephesus , sailing the famous Turquoise Coast , Istanbul and Cappadocia .

If you’ve enjoyed this post, feel free to share using the below links! Wanna see more? Check my Instagram  here , my Facebook  here  or my Twitter  here !

Disclaimer: This visit to Bodrum, Turkey was entirely paid for by myself. There was no involvement from the tourism board or a hotel. This is an independent guide.

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I agree, Bodrum is a perfect destination. It has it all: a sea, a beach, old history, great food, hospitality, and beautiful scenery. I added this town to my bucket list. Thank you for sharing!

Bodrum is amazing ! I have already been two times and can only recommend it. The people are super friendly as well and we always had amazing turkish food and tea. And I can only agree : The nightlife is great .

I’m loving these bright colors. I would go just to check out those cute streets, indeed!

Turkey is such an interesting country! I’ve never been drawn to it, but your experience sounds so amazing! I want to also try the food, I heard its extremely delicious

Bodrum sounds like a great place for a summer vacation. Who can resist great restaurants and cute streets!

Oh wow, I had no idea parts of Turkey was so Greece-like. Ive just been to Santorini and if you just look at the photos, Bodrum could be mistaken for Greece! I really want to go now! Pinning this — you’ve just added another destination to my bucket list! 😉

Your photos are gorgeous. I’m sold on Bodrum!

I’m totally convinced to visit Bodrum. It’s so lovely and bright, with the coastal and Summer vibe that I love.

It’s a pity I didn’t visit Turkey when I lived so close – at the other side of the Black Sea. The country is full of picture perfect places like this.

Hi, I am planning to visit Turkey in October/Nov. Just wondering if Bodrum is still as great to visit during this season.

The pictures look great

I can’t wait, visiting Bodrum end of April! Hopefully we will have time to do everything you suggest

Bodrum is such a beautiful holiday destination in Turkey, please be our guest next time when you come to Bodrum and be our guests. There more places that we want to show tou around bodrum.

Thank you! I would love that 🙂

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The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Bodrum Itinerary

Published on November 22, 2023

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Bodrum is a beautiful small city on the west coast of Turkey with blue seas, green mountainsides and white stone pavements around the town. Our Bodrum itinerary will show you why it’s such a famous location for international tourists and Turkish visitors alike, showing you its pretty centre, great food and shopping street, as well as the local history.

2 or 3 days in Bodrum is ideal for a chance to experience a bit of everything and come away from the area feeling relaxed after a few days in the sun.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Bodrum?

When booking a trip, you’ll want to consider what you want to do there to work out how many days to spend in Bodrum in total. It’s a small city but the lifestyle is perfectly relaxed and has a great reputation as a summer town having grown from a small fishing village due to its beautiful coastline.

So although a week may seem too long to sit on a beach, there are some great activities in between wandering the town and soaking up the sun.

Aside from the beachfront restaurants and clubs, a cute city centre to wander through and browse the shops at all times of day and night, Bodrum also has a marina, castle, mausoleum and amphitheatre, all of which are well worth visiting. Aside from the castle, however, each attraction is small and won’t take long to see, so you can easily fit them into 2 days in Bodrum.

Since the atmosphere of the place is so relaxed, however, you’ll ideally want to spend at least 3 days in Bodrum to see the sights and enjoy lounging on the beaches, eating the fantastic food and experiencing a bit of the local nightlife.

Getting To & Around Bodrum

Arriving in Bodrum is very easy thanks to the Milas-Bodrum Airport just a 35-minute drive from the city. You can reach the airport from London Gatwick directly, or from most European capitals such as Paris and Amsterdam via Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport.

Unfortunately, the airport shuttle bus to the city centre has been removed due to a legal dispute over the proposed route, however, you can easily get a taxi from the airport to the city centre, organise a transfer or rent a car yourself from the airport.

If you have more than 3 days, it can be a great idea to rent a car as the coastal roads are beautiful and you can enjoy them at your leisure, visiting various ancient sites and beaches in the area.

However, if you’re spending a weekend in Bodrum or fewer than 3 days, a car isn’t necessary as you’ll predominantly be based in the city centre.

For visitors having a longer trip around Turkey , you can also reach Bodrum coach station from most Turkish cities. The coach station has regular buses arriving in the city centre in just 15 to 20 minutes, which you can pay for with a contactless bank card. You can view schedules here.

It’s also possible to arrive in Bodrum by ferry from the Greek island of Kos. Kos also has its own airport, easily accessible from Europe. The ferry takes around 1 hour and will show you the beautiful Turkish coastline and great views of the Aegean Sea as you arrive. You can book ferries here.

You will need to show your passport and have your bags checked as you pass through border control. Likewise, if you’re staying in Bodrum and want to take a day trip out to a Greek island, you can take a ferry from Bodrum ferry port as long as you have a Schengen visa or permission to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days.

Within Bodrum itself, you’ll easily be able to walk around the city. With the castle in the middle, most of Bodrum is located on the coast, with flat paths throughout the city, which is also very easy for wheelchairs and pushchairs to pass through.

There are some motor scooters available to rent with an app, but Bodrum is best enjoyed on foot. You can also rent boats for a day out at sea if you want to take the weight off your feet for a while.

2 to 3-Day Bodrum Itinerary

Each day of our itinerary will take you through a day in the life of Western Turkey; a touch of history, some delicious traditional Turkish cuisine and plenty of sunshine and sea air.

Day 1 – Bodrum Old Town

For your first day in Bodrum, you should visit the castle that sits proudly in the centre of the city to get views over the town and marina from both sides, as well as learn some of the history of the city before you explore on foot.

Bodrum Castle (Bodrum Kale)

After a long and expensive renovation, Bodrum Castle has been opened again to the public, so visitors can marvel at the spectacular views over the city as well as the ancient history of the city of Bodrum, formerly Halicarnassus to the Ancient Greeks.

The castle itself was built in the 15th century by the Order of the Knights of Saint John, a group of European knights comprising British, French, Italian and Germans, with a strict hierarchy, and who each had a hand in the construction of the castle.

After having arrived in the area, the knights found the ruins of the Mausoleum of Mausolus and used much of the stone to help build the castle; some of the friezes and carved stone can be seen in the castle walls while others can be found displayed in the castle grounds alongside many beautiful and well-preserved sculptures.

Each tower of the castle displays the emblem of one of the nationalities of the Knights Hospitaller, and within each, you can find display cases with magnificent historic artefacts recovered at the site and in the nearby waters.

One of the highlights is the artefacts of the Carian princess which were found in a sarcophagus discovered in the 1980s; the number of items, which were largely gold jewellery, and their value showed the significance of the woman who was buried there, leading archaeologists to believe this was the burial place of Empress Ada I, although she has become known as the Carian Princess.

After the Muslim conquest by Süleyman the Magnificent, the castle was taken over and the chapel located in the centre of the castle was converted to a mosque by the addition of a minaret. The vaults below the mosque have been excavated so below a glass flooring you can see the ancient crypts and graves below.

After the Allied bombing in the First World War, the castle faced some damage, although it has now largely been reconstructed and makes for a fantastic, largely open-air museum.

Some of the stone floors have been worn away over time making them rather slippery, so make sure you watch your step while admiring the architecture and history. There are also peacocks wandering the grounds and the occasional tortoise passing by so look out for those on your visit.

The entrance fee is cheaper for Turkish nationals, but it is well worth the cost for foreign visitors regardless and is one of the best things to do in Bodrum.

Museum of Underwater Archaeology (Sualtı Arkeoloji Müzesi)

The Underwater Archaeology Museum is actually located within Bodrum Castle and comprises part of your castle visit, so you can expect to spend a few hours discovering the museum as well as learning about the shipwrecks, ancient passages and recovered items in the castle’s museum.

Many of the items are displayed in the towers, although there are elements located all over the castle.

The museum is the largest of its kind, with many recovered artefacts on display, many of which come from three shipwrecks that happened just off the castle’s shore. There is a huge collection of ancient ceramic jugs used to transport wine, oil and other liquids used for trade, as well as glass ingots, bronze and iron items.

Although many of the items were found in diving expeditions in the 1960s, some of the objects found date back to around 2500 BCE, showing the historic significance of the trade routes surrounding the area of the Turkish coastline.

As the museum is located within the castle, you’re granted entrance with your castle ticket. Any fans of ancient or mediaeval history have to stop by this wonderful museum to understand the significance of Bodrum over at least the last two millennia.

Bodrum Centre

After your visit to the castle, having taken in the spectacular views, it’s time to explore the city streets. Bodrum’s pavement is white stone and most of the buildings are a sandy stone colour, lending itself to a picturesque environment as you pass through the winding streets filled with shops.

Not quite a bazaar in the style of other cities like Istanbul or Kemeralti in Izmir , these shops are more modern although with plenty of products to get lost in.

Bodrum is famous for its leather sandals, so amongst the fake Louis Vuitton bags and knock-off designer clothes being sold, you can also find some small authentic boutiques selling all kinds of beautiful real leather sandals which are often handmade.

As you pass through, you’ll come across the rock bars and some fish restaurants as well as a couple of Bodrum döner kebab spots. Bodrum döner differs from other cities as there are vegetables placed between the meat which makes for a more colourful, potentially mildly healthier, and definitely delicious kebab.

If you continue along the main street, the shops open out to reveal the coast to your right with restaurants on your left and seating areas on the beach. As you wander you’ll be offered all kinds of fantastic food, from fresh fish to kebabs and everything in between.

Some of these restaurants turn into pubs or nightclubs into the night so hang around for a night out or head back to one of the rock bars for a calmer evening.

Day 2 – Bodrum’s Ancient Sites

Your second day will show you a few more historic sites that showcase the ancient importance of the city of Bodrum and the Bodrum Peninsula before delving into the nightlife that the city has come to be known for.

Ancient Theatre (Bodrum Antik Tiyatrosu)

Heading even further back in time than the castle of the Knights of Saint John, we start day 2 in the Ancient Theatre of Bodrum. If you’ve seen Ephesus, you may not be as stunned by the wonder of this ancient site, however, all Greek history fanatics should visit this beautiful theatre and the views over Bodrum are well worth the free visit to this large and historically significant site.

Formerly known as the Theatre of Halicarnassus, the walled city which stood on the same land as modern-day Bodrum, this theatre was initially built in the 4th century BCE housing 5-10,000 spectators. It was enlarged by the Romans in the 2nd century CE to accommodate an audience of up to 13,000 for mainly gladiator shows.

At the bottom of the stands you can see the ancient altar to Dionysus (Bacchus to the Romans), while at the top, you can enjoy fantastic views over the city, from the ruins of the Mausoleum of Mausolus to Bodrum castle in the distance, with the whole city and marina in between.

Mausoleum (Halikarnas Mozolesi)

Walking a little further down towards the city centre, you’ll reach the site of the ancient Mausoleum.

Since the Mausoleum was destroyed, possibly in an earthquake, and many of the stones were used in the construction of Bodrum Castle, very little remains of the hugely significant site, so you’ll have to use your imagination a little to understand what once stood in this location.

Constructed around 350 BCE by order of Mausolus in preparation for his death, and then overseen by his sister Artemisia, this area once held a large above-ground tomb, decorated with friezes, 400 sculptures and a huge four-horse-drawn chariot with Mausolus and Artemisia inside.

The Romans were allegedly so impressed with this construction, that they named all above-ground tombs mausoleums in honour of the Carian King’s architectural triumph, which had also been declared one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Originally over 44 metres high, located on a hilltop overlooking the city of Halicarnassus, the mausoleum was enclosed in a courtyard, with statues of lions leading to the platform holding the tomb, itself surrounded by statues of gods and goddesses, with warriors guarding the marble tomb on each side.

Unfortunately due to the earthquakes, only a couple of stairways, walls and the entranceway to the tomb remain, although there is a model on display of how the site would have looked in its original glory. It’s still worth visiting the Ancient Wonder and imagining how the mausoleum would have stood, especially considering the amazing stones spotted in the castle.

The statues of Mausolus and Artemisia that sat on top of the mausoleum can also be found in the British Museum in London .

An Evening in Bodrum

Bodrum nightlife is something which brings visitors from all over the country as well as from abroad, so while in Bodrum, you should spend an evening out.

Starting with dinner on the beachfront or in one of the kebab houses, you can drift on to one of the many bars located on the beachfront before heading to one of the very popular and famous nightclubs.

If nightclubs aren’t your scene, then there are plenty of other places to spend your evening and music for all tastes. Just follow the main street from the castle to the end of the bay where the Bodrum ferry is located and go where your ears take you, whether it’s to a live show in a bar, a rock bar or a cocktail bar.

Some nights, particularly in summer due to the warmer weather and sunshine later into the evening, there are also concerts and performances held in the ancient theatre, so if you prefer a more cultural evening, you can head to Bodrum tourist office or online to see what’s going on.

The original design makes for fantastic acoustics so concerts sound amazing while giving you a wonderful environment to enjoy.

Day 3 – Beach Day or Day Trip

For your third day in Bodrum, you can either choose to wander through the town, picking up some souvenirs before lounging on the beach and munching away on some delicious Turkish treats or take a day trip further out of the city.

The public beach in Bodrum is quite small, but if you plan on spending a whole afternoon on the beach, you’d be best advised to stop by one of the on-beach restaurants.

One option is the public cafe which has its own beach with chairs and parasols as well as reasonably priced drinks and snacks in the cafe area. It can be busy at times but it’s cheaper than the private restaurants further down and there’s no pressure to buy anything.

If you’re sure you’ll have a drink and some food, the restaurants further down the beach make for another great option as the beach area is bigger and you’ll have more options for food and drink. F

or a picnic or something sweet, you should stop by Yunuslar Karadeniz which has all kinds of colourful pastries, sandwiches, cakes and desserts which are sure to catch your eye anyway. Like most of the shops in this area, through summer, they’re open late into the night so you can guarantee to pick something up even on your way home from a night out.

One of the best ways to enjoy your trip to Bodrum is by taking a boat trip. Whether you rent a small private boat for the day or join a larger boat trip with other day-trippers, the seas around Bodrum are well worth seeing up close.

You can book a trip on the larger boats from Bodrum marina, where you’ll also be provided with lunch at sea, or speak to an attendant in one of the boat-shaped cabins located along the walkway by the marina to see what your options are.

Around 20 minutes from the coast is a small bay known as the aquarium (Akvaryum Koyu) where you can go snorkelling and swimming with an array of colourful and curious fish. With no sharks or rays in the area, you don’t need to worry about any dangerous animals, simply enjoy a day swimming and sunbathing at your leisure.

The summer heat can be very strong however, so make sure you don’t spend too long in the sun and keep well hydrated to avoid heat stroke.

You can also organise a dive trip while in Bodrum to get an even closer look at the marine life.

Just off the coast, there is a ship and plane that have been placed there to form habitats for fish and other marine life, as well as provide a wonderful place to go diving and discover the local habitat. There is also a small reef in the area if you wish to discover more of the sea floor.

Bitez Hiking Trails

Just 15 minutes away from Bodrum centre by car is the area known as Bitez. This area has some fantastic hidden coves and beaches if you want a private beach day, as well as some great trails to follow.

Pack a picnic and hike around the area before stopping for an afternoon dip to cool off in Halil koyı or Oasis Beach; but don’t forget the sunscreen. Even in Spring and Autumn, the sun can be deceptively strong.

While the sea is a great day out, you can also enjoy it from above, by taking the ferry out for around one hour for a day trip to the Greek island of Kos.

Greece and Turkey, particularly the west coast, share many similarities, from the landscape to the food, but arriving in Kos you’ll still notice a large difference between the architecture and culture of the two countries, making it a great day out.

Make sure you bring your passport for the border control and arrive at the ferry port with plenty of time for any security checks; then simply enjoy your day out in Greece!

Its 14th-century castle also built by the Knights Hospitaller sits by the harbour, welcoming you into the island, where you can do a historic walking tour on foot, or join a small tourist train which takes you around the significant sites of the island.

From the Plane Tree of Hippocrates, which shaded the Ancient Greek father of medicine almost 2,500 years ago, to the restored Roman villas, the Casa Romana, there is plenty to see on foot around Kos marina in a day.

If renting a bicycle, or by taxi, you can also head out to the Asklepieion, an ancient medical centre built in honour of Hippocrates first constructed in the 3rd century BCE and later reconstructed due to earthquakes. This site has plenty to see, from the temples and church to the Roman baths, but don’t lose track of time for your ferry back to Bodrum!

Where to Stay in Bodrum

Hotel Centro Bodrum – A great mid-range choice in the town of Bodrum, this hotel boasts a range of lovely rooms along with a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool. There is also an on-site restaurant and a superb breakfast.

Casa Nonna Bodrum – This adults-only hotel is perfect for those looking for a romantic and luxurious escape here. They have a beautiful beachfront location, plenty of great rooms, an on-site spa, several restaurants and a fab breakfast.

La Luna Hostel – An excellent budget option, this hostel is located in the centre of Bodrum within easy reach of the seaside. There are plenty of room types available and great common spaces to relax in.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Bodrum!

Whether you plan to relax and enjoy great examples of Turkish food, or delve into some ancient or medieval history, Bodrum has a bit of everything. It may have a reputation as a party town for young people, but the relaxed atmosphere and lifestyle of Bodrum welcomes everyone of all ages to come to enjoy.

Are you planning to visit Bodrum? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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EUROPE , TURKEY · August 2, 2023 Last Updated on March 21, 2024

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BODRUM, TURKEY

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link.

The Bodrum Peninsula sits on Turkey’s southwest coast on the Aegean Sea. It is easily accessible from Istanbul and has long been a summer destination for wealthy Turkish travelers.

In recent years, Bodrum has become an international hot spot for celebrities and the jet-setting elite who flock here in the summer months to vacation on the beautiful Turkish Riviera.

Bodrum offers an array of luxury resorts, world-class dining, fun beach clubs, and excellent shopping, all set around the crystal blue Aegean Sea.

In July, I spent seven days in Bodrum celebrating my birthday with a group of friends. We lived like kings and queens for the week: We stayed at the best hotels, dined at the best restaurants, and partied at the best beach clubs.

Based on my experience, I put together this ultimate guide to Bodrum to help you make the most of your visit to this little slice of paradise. 

10 Things To Do In Bodrum

The Bodrum peninsula is about 250 square miles. While many people visit to relax and party here in the summer there is a lot to do and see. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Bodrum .

1) Explore Bodrum By Yacht 

There’s no better way to explore the coastline of Bodrum than by yacht. There are dozens of islands and over 100 inlets around the Bodrum Peninsula providing an array of beautiful spots to explore by boat. 

During my birthday week, we rented a gorgeous 115ft yacht for the day from Gulet Bookers . We had 15 people in our group but the yacht could accommodate up to 60 people and had plenty of room for lounging, beautiful estate rooms, and all the water toys you could want on board. 

The crew was excellent. They kept our drinks filled and served us a wonderful sunset dinner. We swam in private bays, danced, and did an excursion to a seaside bar at an amazing new hotel, Bodrum Loft , which has killer views and delicious handcrafted cocktails that would rival any of the top bars in the world. 

This was by far my favorite day in Bodrum and I would highly recommend booking a boat through Gulet Bookers . They offer luxury charters at reasonable prices in Turkey, Greece, and Croatia.

2) Stay At Macakizi Hotel

Macakizi Hotel made Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List in 2021 and after spending a blissful week here in July, it’s easy to see why. It’s hard to explain how much I love Macakizi Hotel – it exudes a hip, old-world, unpretentious charm.

Built into a hillside, Macakizi is situated on the north side of the Bodrum peninsula, at the very end of a beautiful bay in the charming fishing village of Türkbükü, just a 50-minute drive (or 2o minute water taxi ride) from Bodrum Airport and a 40-minute drive from downtown Bodrum.

The property opened in the late 1970s and is richly landscaped with walking paths that meander through trees, vines, bushes, and vibrant flowers. The basic rooms are small, and very expensive in the summer months (expect to pay over 1,000 euros a night), but you don’t stay at Macakizi for the rooms. You stay here for the gorgeous property and all its luxury amenities including seaside lounge chairs that are reserved daily for guests, and the excellent concierge service.

The focal point of the hotel is a vibrant beach club with a lively beach bar, and an over-water deck jetting out from the rocks into the Aegean Sea. Two of my favorite days during our trip were spent lounging here, taking in gorgeous views of Türkbükü Bay, listening to music, drinking rosé wine, reading a book, swimming in the sea, and chatting with other hotel patrons.

Macakizi Hotel has an excellent restaurant and the breakfast, which is included in your stay, is the best breakfast I’ve had at any hotel. Fresh local tomatoes, cucumber, olives, fresh fruit, freshly baked bread, an array of fresh local cheeses, locally made yogurt, and made-to-order egg dishes accompanied with fresh vegetable juices and coffee. Did I mention everything is fresh?

3) Türkbükü Boardwalk 

The little fishing village of Türkbükü embodies the overall boho-chic spirit of Bodrum and is definitely worth visiting. Türkbükü has excellent hotels so it’s also a great area to stay. 

Macakizi Hotel and No:81 Hotel (where our friends stayed) are both located on Türkbükü Bay. Macakizi is at the end of the bay where the boardwalk ends and No:81 Hotel is right next door so during our stay we were able to walk from our hotels to the boardwalk to dine and shop.

The boardwalk wraps around Türkbükü Bay, a beautiful little bay that is dotted with yachts and sailboats. Along the boardwalk, there are an array of great restaurants, beach bars, and boutiques selling clothing, jewelry, home goods, and souvenirs. It’s a charming place to spend a few hours shopping, exploring, and taking photos. 

4) Beach Clubs

Bodrum is home to an array of luxury beach clubs, where you can dine, lounge, drink, and dance while listening to some of Turkey’s most popular DJs. Here are a few of the best beach clubs that I personally experienced during our Bodrum trip and loved. 

These beach clubs are lively and have great DJs that draw a fun crowd. In Bodrum, beach club patrons tend to arrive around 2pm and have lunch, and then by 4pm everyone is up drinking and dancing.

• Momo Bodrum – Beautiful spot to hang for the day, about two miles from Yalikavak Marina, in the same bay as The Bodrum EDITION . DJ has everyone up dancing by 4pm. Best day to book this beach club is Sunday.
• Lucca Beach – Mandarin Oriental’s beach club, chic upscale spot for lunch, lounging and swimming, you can take a water taxi from Türkbükü directly to Mandarin Oriental – they have their own private dock. Everyone will be up dancing by late afternoon when the DJ comes on. Best day to book this beach club is Saturday.
• Macakizi Beach Club – The beach club at Macakizi hotel goes off every day with great DJ music and a lively beach bar scene from 4pm-8pm, dies down for dinner from 8pm-11pm, then picks back up again until 2am. Macakizi has its own private dock so you can take a water taxi here if you aren’t staying in Türkbükü. 
• Before Sunset – If you like to dance, check out Before Sunset. They serve great cocktails in a beautiful seaside setting and a big party crowd with notable DJs, light shows and a massive dance area.  

Bodrum has excellent shopping that is very affordable. Most of the beach clubs have pop-up shops and most of the hotels also have little boutiques on property where you can buy chic swimsuits, beach cover-ups, jewelry, and shoes as well as dresses and clothes for going out at night. 

If you want to shop for more affordable, locally-made clothing and souvenirs head to the Türkbükü  Boardwalk, as I mentioned above. No:81 Hotel also has a cute clothing boutique. There is also good shopping in Bodrum Old Town.

If you’re looking for designer bags, shoes, clothing, and jewelry head to Yalıkavak Marina . 

One thing to note about shopping in Turkey: It’s part of the Turkish culture to haggle and negotiate when buying. Be sure to shop around and find the best prices and then come back and negotiate on everything you want to buy.

6) Yalıkavak Marina

The Bodrum Peninsula is home to Yalıkavak Marina , one of Europe’s most renowned luxury marinas. Yalıkavak Marina is able to accommodate the biggest yachts in the world and is lined with designer shopping boutiques, and upscale restaurants and bars.

Yalikivak Marina is extravagant and beautiful and the perfect place to spend the afternoon window shopping and taking in your ultra-luxurious surroundings. It’s also a great place to have drinks and dinner.

We had my birthday dinner here at Sakhalin Bodrum. Sakhalin was named for the largest and most beautiful island in Russia. Founded by Russian restaurateur Boris Zarkov and brand chef Vladimir Mukhin, Sakhalin boasts an incredible seafood menu and quite possibly an even better ambiance. 

7-8) Bodrum City & Bodrum Castle

Bodrum City is a beautiful port city on southwest side of the Bodrum peninsula, featuring twin bays with views of Bodrum Castle (also known as Castle of St. Peter), a medieval fortress built partly with stones from the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that was completed in the 4th century B.C.

In 2016 Bodrum Castle was added to the tentative list of Unesco world heritage historical sites in Turkey. You can book this 5-hour Private Bodrum City Tour where you’ll explore the ancient city of Bodrum Castle, the Underwater Museum of Archeology (home to the world’s oldest known shipwrecks), and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.

Book This Tour: Private Bodrum City Tour

9) Day Tour: Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary 

While in Bodrum you can also take a guided day trip from Bodrum to enter the ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient city is regarded as one of the best-preserved sites in the Mediterranean.

During this tour, you’ll visit magnificent ruins, including the Library of Celsus, and the house of the Virgin Mary. This tour includes pick-up in Bodrum, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and lunch at a local restaurant. 

Book This Tour: Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary Tour

10) Day Trip To Kos

The Greek island of Kos is just a short 20-minute boat ride away. If you want to check two countries off your backlist in one day you can book this day trip to visit Kos . You will get picked up in the morning, from your hotel in Bodrum and get to spend all day on Kos.

Book This Tour: Day Trip To Kos

The Best Areas & Hotels On The Bodrum Peninsula

There are an array of luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels across the Bodrum Peninsula. Here are the best areas to stay in, and the best hotels in those areas in each price range.

1) Türkbükü 

While Yalıkavak is booshie and ultra-luxurious, Türkbükü is unpretentious, easy-going, and fun while still being upscale. As I mentioned above, the little fishing village of Türkbükü embodies a boho-chic spirit and is home to the Türkbükü Boardwalk, a fun stretch of restaurants bars, and shops along Türkbükü Bay.

It also has some of the best hotels in Bodrum. I loved staying in Türkbükü and would highly recommend booking a hotel in this area. Here are 7 of the best hotels in Türkbükü .

• Macakizi Hotel – There are an array of luxury hotel chains taking over Bodrum, so it’s important to support locally-owned boutique hotels in the area like Macakizi, plus as I explained, this place is amazing and easily the best hotel in Türkbükü. Pricey but worth it .
• No:81 Hotel – Ideally situated on the boardwalk next to Macakizi, No:81 Hotel is a 5-star boutique hotel. Our friends stayed here so I checked out their room and we spent one afternoon at the beach club. The rooms were modern, clean, and nicely appointed and the beach club was excellent. I highly recommend this hotel as a more affordable option in lieu of staying at Macakizi.
• Mandarin Oriental Bodrum – Largest Mandarin Oriental property in the world, over 150 acres set on a gorgeous bay with a world-class beach club and top-notch restaurants such as Hakkasan. Mandarin Oriental has its own dock and is just a short water taxi ride away from Türkbükü Bay.
• Galen Hotel & Beach – Budget-friendly, beach hotel with free breakfast and 24/7 front desk .
• Divan Hotel Bodrum – Beachfront hotel, budget-friendly , spa services, private beach.
• Mavi Suite Türkbükü – Budget-friendly , 4-star boutique hotel on the boardwalk in Türkbükü.
• Flamm – Beachfront boutique hotel, clean, modern, sophisticated, affordable.
• Bodrum Loft – Not in Türkbükü, but a short water taxi ride away, gorgeous property on a beautiful, peaceful bay.

2) Yalikavak

As I mentioned about, the draw of Yalikavak is its new ultra-luxurious marina with an array of upscale restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Yalikavak Marina is a bit over the top for my personal taste but I can see the appeal.

For those who are traveling in super yachts, Yalikavak Marina can accommodate their large ships making it an ideal location. Here are 7 of the best hotels in and around Yalikavak . 

• The Bodrum EDITION – 108 guest rooms, suites, and villas, most with views of the Aegean Sea — some with private pools, balconies, and gardens. Just two miles from Yalikavak Marina, one of the top-rated new hotels in Bodrum .
• Yalikavak Marina Hotel – Situated at the heart of Yalikavak Marina with direct access to all the shops and restaurants there plus an array of amenities and gorgeous views. 
• Allium Bodrum Resort & Spa – Chic boutique hotel with a private beach and full-service spa with a Turkish bath , walking distance to Yalikavak Marina. 
• G Beyond Residences & Villas – Stylish, Mediterranean hotel with full-service spa and free breakfast, excellent option for travelers seeking a lovely, central location with great views.
• MGallery The Bodrum Hotel – Private beach, beautiful views, full-service spa, mid-range priced option in Yalikavak.
• Arts Hotel Yalikavak Bodrum – Mid-range priced hotel option in Yalikavak, private beach, modern, wood-paneled rooms. 
• 4Reasons Hotel & Bistro – Budget-friendly with a pool and outdoor restaurant, 4 minute drive to Yalikavak Marina. 

3) Bodrum City

The beautiful port city of Bodrum is where you’ll find many of the top tourist attractions, tours, and landmarks on the peninsula such as Bodrum Farmers’ Market, Oasis Mall, Bodrum Castle, and Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World).

Bodrum City sits at the entrance to the Gulf of Gökova so it acts as a gateway for nearby beach towns and resorts. Since it’s the oldest town in Bodrum, it offers an array of budget-friendly restaurants and hotels. Here are 6 of the best hotels in Bodrum City .

• Caresse, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – 5-Star, luxury hotel , beautiful build out on the sea with a private beach.
• Doria Hotel Bodrum – 5-Star Hotel with mid-range pricing , near the beach in Bodrum.
• Kaya Palazzo Resort & Residences Le Chic Bodrum – Mid-range pricing , located on the beach in Bodrum City center.
• Su Hotel – Budget-friendly , Mediterranean hotel in Bodrum City Center, near Bodrum Ferry Terminal.
• El Vino Hotel Suites – Budget hotel set in a garden with views of the sea and city.
• Costa Viva Bodrum – Clean budget hotel, located near the beach, in Bodrum City Center.

The Best Restaurants In Bodrum

Bodrum has incredible food; it is fresh, flavorful, and delicious. The produce we enjoyed in Bodrum is some of the best I’ve had anywhere in the world. Many of the restaurants here serve up Meditarian-inspired cuisine.

While in Bodrum you’ll enjoy fresh seafood, fresh vegetables, freshly baked bread, and delicious homemade sauces that will have your mouth watering long after you leave Turkey.

While this is certainly not an extensive list, based on my experience spending seven days eating my way through Bodrum, here are 10 of the best restaurants in Bodrum .

• Macakizi Hotel – Excellent spot for dinner or lunch seaside at the water’s edge. Visit the Macakizi website to make lunch or dinner reservations. 
• Lucca Beach Club – Lucca Beach at Mandarin Oriental Bodrum is a great spot for a beach club lunch experience. You can book a water taxi directly to their private dock. The beach club party gets going around 4pm.
• Momo Bodrum – Momo is a fun spot for lunch and drinks in a beautiful setting. The food is exceptional and the beach club party gets going around 4pm.
• Sakhalin – Located in Yalikavak Marina,  Sakhalin Bodrum is a lovely dinner spot that has an incredible seafood menu and a beautiful, upscale ambiance. 
• MIAMI – Located on the Türkbükü boardwalk, MIAM is a fun dinner spot that serves Mediterranean cuisine in a beautiful setting (request a seaside table), plus they have a lively after-dinner party scene with a DJ.
• Hakkasan – Also located at the Mandarin Oriental, Hakkasan is a beautiful spot for an upscale dinner. Food is pricey but excellent and their build out over the water is stunning.
• Naru Bodrum  – Naru serves up fresh Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine in a gorgeous setting in the Pine Trees, about 25 minutes drive from Türkbükü. Great for lunch or dinner.
• Atilay – Great dinner spot located on the Türkbükü boardwalk. Atilay has been a local favorite since 1988, offering a seasonal selection of mezze, salads, and fish in a lovely setting (request a seaside table).
• FENIX – Located in Yalikavak Marina, FENIX offers a unique atmosphere embodying Istanbul’s spirit, serving up international and South American cuisine in an upscale Aegean atmosphere. Great for dinner and drinks.
• Brava Restaurant – Located inside The Bodrum EDITION, Brava serves up Latin-Aegean-inspired dishes. Their elevated menu celebrates the biodiversity of Bodrum, using only the freshest local produce.

Getting To Bodrum

Bodrum is easily accessible. Turkish Airways offers multiple flights daily from Istanbul to Bodrum and the new Istanbul International Airport (IST) is impressive and not a bad place to spend a few hours on a layover. There are tons of designer shops, restaurants, bars, and boutiques in the airport. 

From Istanbul Airport it’s a quick 1hr 15 minute flight to Bodrum. You fly into Milas-Bodrum International Airport (BJV). From the airport, it’s an easy 50 minute cab ride or 20 minute water taxi ride to Türkbükü. 

If you want to take a water taxi from the airport to your hotel make sure to set this up in advance. You should also set up your pick-up in advance as there are no Ubers in Bodrum and taxis can be hard to find.

Best Time To Visit Bodrum

If you want to experience everything Bodrum has to offer including a lively beach club scene then summer is the best time to visit. June, July, and August are considered high season in Bodrum. This is when all the hotels, beach clubs, restaurants, and shops are open and in full swing. 

But while summer is an ideal time to visit it can be pricey, hard to get reservations, and very hot, especially in July when average temperatures peak at 94°F and sea temperatures around Bodrum average 76°F.

If you want to avoid the crowds and score better prices on hotels I suggest visiting during shoulder season. May and September are both great months to visit Bodrum. Flights to Bodrum and hotel prices are much cheaper during these months, most places are open, and the weather is great.

September, in particular, is an ideal month to visit. In May, the sea around Bodrum can be a bit chilly averaging around 64°F in the spring, but in September the sea is still warm with an average temperature of 73°F in the fall.

Other Things To Know About Bodrum

Here are a few other useful Bodrum tips to help you make the most of your stay!

How To Dress In Bodrum

Turkey is a predominately Muslim country with over 99% of the population being registered as Muslim. The Muslim dress code for women is very conservative (don’t show your shoulders or wear shorts or skirts above the knee), so I wasn’t sure what to expect as far as the dress code in Bodrum.

When we arrived I was pleasantly surprised to see that across Bodrum, the dress code is beach chic casual meaning you can basically wear whatever you want. In fact, many women dressed sexy beach chic casual – so basically the same attire you’d wear in St. Barts or St. Tropez. During the day for lunches at beach clubs, you can wear a bathing suit with a cover-up and sandals.

At night you’ll see most women in dresses, and flat sandals. If you’re eating dinner in Yalikavak Marina you can dress up a bit more and wear a fancier dress and high heels, but this is the only place I would recommend heals. For the rest of Bodrum flat sandals are ideal.

For men, during the day, t-shirts, shorts, and sandals are fine. For going out to dinner at any of the upscale spots in Bodrum, men should wear collared short (or long) sleeve shirts paired with nice shorts or slacks and loafers. 

If you want to pay in cash in Turkey you need to get Turkish Lira. Most places do not accept US dollars. All the small local shops and a lot of the taxi cabs require you to pay in cash in Turkish Lira. However, most of the high-end restaurants, bars, and boutiques take credit cards. 

Reservations

If you’re visiting Bodrum in the busy summer months of June, July, and August it’s crucial that you make dinner and beach club reservations in advance: All the best places get booked up quickly in the summer. 

Unless you have clout, the best beach club tables and cabanas seem to be given out on a first come first serve basis so while you’ll need a reservation, you’ll also need to arrive early (before 2pm) if you want to snag a good table or cabana, especially if you have a large group.

If you’re staying at a luxury hotel let your concierge make all your bookings because they will be able to get much better reservations than you will get on your own. Our concierge at Macakizi Hotel worked with us for weeks leading up to my birthday week to ensure we had all the best places booked for our large party.

Getting Around Bodrum

Getting around Bodrum can be tough. Plan ahead and leave extra time for logistics. Taxis are hard to find and the roads are small and full of potholes leading to extended driving times around the peninsula. 

When possible, I highly suggest taking a water taxi. If you’re staying at a luxury hotel with its own dock they can call a water taxi to pick you up at your hotel and take you to any of the nearby beach clubs, restaurants, or hotels on the water that have their own docks.

Bodrum Ultimate Guide Wrap Up

Bodrum, in my opinion, is similar to St. Barts or St. Tropez but much more affordable and without the snobbery. Food, drinks, beach clubs, and shopping are still pricey at the luxury hotels in Bodrum but it’s still cheaper than many luxury destinations, and if you wander off the beaten path and go to local spots it’s very affordable.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from Bodrum. I knew it would be nice but it was more upscale, fun, and more relaxed than I imagined it would be. It has everything St Barts and St Tropez have but without the pretentiousness, which I found very appealing.

If you’re looking for a new luxury seaside destination to try, I definitely recommend booking a trip to Bodrum.

We hope that this Bodrum guide has inspired you to visit the Turkish Riviera. If you have questions or advice please share with our readers in the comments below.

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Read More About Turkey 

• The Ultimate Guide To Istanbul
• Best Golden Hour Spots In Istanbul
• Akyaka Boat Tour Itinerary
• Hot Air Ballooning In Cappadocia
• Why You Need To Road Trip Through Turkey

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November 10, 2023 at 1:03 pm

As someone who has been to Turkey twice (I’m obsessed with it, my parents ended up going after). I feel like I need to go back a 3rd time just to go to Bodrum! Great post, thanks for all the tips and pics.

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Bodrum Travel Guide: A Turkish Gem by the Aegean Sea

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Bodrum is a hidden gem along the beautiful Turkish coastline. Before we visited, we knew very little about what Bodrum had to offer, and we were simply blown away by how beautiful it was!

Located on the southwestern coast of Türkiye, Bodrum is a stunning destination that combines ancient history and culture with the beauty of the crystal-clear Aegean Sea.

Bodrum is a great place to visit off-season. You can get  flights to Bodrum with Jet2 from London Stansted that take just 3.5 hours, making it the perfect short autumn weekend break!

We visited with Jet2 for four nights in October, and the weather was perfect . Whilst we were relaxing in 25°C heat, our friends back in England were battling high winds and heavy thunderstorms. Bliss! 😅

In this Bodrum travel guide, I’ve included everything you need to know about this up-and-coming destination, including how to get there, what to do, where to stay and some of my favourite insider tips. So, let’s get started and get exploring Bodrum!

This article is sponsored by Jet2.com/Jet2holidays.  However, I would never recommend a stay or destination that I didn’t truly love.  All opinions in this post are my own .

TOP TIP: Look out for the 🍃 icon for tips on how to make your holiday more ethical and sustainable! We’re passionate about travel, but we’re also passionate about looking after the planet and travelling responsibly.

Bodrum Travel Guide: A Summary

Short on time? Here’s an overview of this Bodrum travel guide so you can grab your information and go!

Why you should visit Bodrum

Bodrum is such an underrated destination to visit in Türkiye. Along with the stunning coastal towns of Antalya, Ölüdeniz and Marmaris, Bodrum is becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

Bodrum is an ideal place for  couples holidays with Jet2holidays , especially for those wanting to relax on the beach, sunbathe in the hot weather, eat tasty local food and learn about some of Türkiye’s ancient history.

Along with classic holiday activities such as swimming, snorkelling and boat trips, it’s also perfect for those who want to hike and get outside . There are plenty of hiking trails in the surrounding mountains, and some of the viewpoints are just incredible!

In the evenings, if you want to experience the Turkish nightlife, Bodrum has it all. From traditional Turkish restaurants and bars to late-night clubs, Bodrum is a great place to party and unwind.

However, it’s easy enough to avoid all of this if you’d rather relax, sunbathe, hike and swim!

How many days should you spend in Bodrum?

Four days in Bodrum would be a minimum, especially if you’re travelling from the UK and getting a 3.5-hour flight.

In my opinion, the main sites and attractions of Bodrum can be explored in 4-5 days, but if you’d like to spend some days on the beach relaxing and sunbathing, a 7-day trip to Bodrum would be perfect.

What to do in Bodrum

The thing that surprised us the most about visiting Bodrum was how much there was to do! Our days were filled with activities, and I still feel like I would have wanted to have done and seen more .

Here are some of my best recommendations when it comes to visiting Bodrum for the first time!

1. Visit Bodrum Castle and the Bodrum Underwater Archeology Museum

One of the first things we did when we arrived was to head to Bodrum Castle and the Underwater Archeology Museum. Both are located in the same place, so it’s easy to pair the two activities together!

You’ll buy a ticket at the main entrance (near Bodrum Marina) and have unlimited time to walk the castle grounds and read about Bodrum’s history. As we had a local guide with us, we were able to learn even more in-depth about Bodrum’s past, including the way the castle was used to protect the area.

After walking around the forts and looking at the views of Bodrum from the highest points of the Castle, head into the Underwater Museum. There are shipwrecks, artefacts and types of equipment on display that are over 1000 years old!

🍃 If you’re visiting Bodrum Castle, I highly recommend hiring a local guide. Not only does this support local communities and tourism, but you’re able to learn on a deeper level about the history of Bodrum from someone who has lived there all of their life. This is an unmatched insight – even the internet can’t give you viewpoints like this!

2. Walk along Bodrum Marina

One of our favourite spots in Bodrum was the marina. With hundreds of beautiful, tall yachts lined up along the port, with extravagant restaurants and bars overlooking the water, it’s the perfect place for an afternoon stroll or lunch stop.

We loved the Marina Yacht Club restaurant, as it’s perfectly situated on the port. I sat and ate my creamy seafood tagliatelle whilst admiring the views. There’s even live music in the evenings, so you can check it out at any time of day!

🍃 There are also some great shops and markets at the marina run by locals. Buying gifts and souvenirs from smaller businesses helps to support the local economy (and they’re gorgeous !)

3. Experience the Bodrum nightlife

Now, I know this might not be for everyone, but bear with me. Bodrum nightlife can be crazy, loud and hectic, but it can also be chilled, enjoyable and relaxed. It all depends on where you go, and what you want from your night!

If you want to party the night away, I recommend heading to the centre of Bodrum, especially around the market area. There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from, with most packing out from 10 p.m. onwards. We politely declined shots of Raki as we snuck off to bed at 11…

But, if you still want to enjoy Bodrum’s nightlife and don’t want to be dancing on tables , I recommend the Gümüşlük area. It’s a little further from the centre of Bodrum, but it had such a great evening atmosphere that was better suited for two thirty-year-olds going on ninety.

It has a late-night market and an artsy and eclectic vibe. There were restaurants along the water with live music and entertainment, and we sat here for hours whilst drinking Efes beer and enjoying the Turkish culture!

4. Visit the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

Did you know there’s an Ancient Wonder of the World in Bodrum? We didn’t either!

Visiting the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (Halicarnassus is the ancient name of Bodrum) was one of our favourite parts of our trip. We spent over an hour walking around the ancient ruins that were once a tomb built between 353 and 350 BC.

A structure that was once over 40ft tall now remains as rubble, due to an earthquake that hit the area between the 12th and 15th Century.

However, some of the original artwork is still in place, as well as some of the podiums. Some of the Mausoleum can also be found in the British Museum in London.

It’s worth a visit, and not many people can say they’ve visited an Ancient Wonder of the World!

5. Head to the Ancient Amphitheatre

There’s a lot of history in Bodrum, isn’t there?!

Another incredible activity is to head further into Bodrum and up to the ancient amphitheatre.

Dating back to the 4th century BC, the theatre was later developed by the Romans. Ultimately, it was restored to become a 13,000-seat theatre which was the home of entertainment in the area.

With free admission, this is a perfect afternoon activity in Bodrum!

6. Go on a Gulet Cruise

Have you ever heard of a Gulet cruise? We hadn’t either!

Gulet sailboats are traditional to Turkiye, and enjoying a day at sea whilst in Bodrum is a great way to spend the day!

We boarded our sailboat early in the morning and spent the day swimming in the crystal clear water, jumping off the side of the boat, snorkelling, eating fresh seafood, relaxing on deck and drinking Turkish coffee.

It was a day I’ll always remember!

You can pick from different durations of Gulet cruises, for example, an entire day or just for a few hours. You can also choose whether you’d prefer to enjoy it privately or with other people (and we did see a few party boats!)

7. Visit the Bodrum windmill viewpoint

If you’re in Bodrum town centre, I recommend taking a slight detour and heading up to the windmill viewpoint.

Whilst the windmills are no longer in use, it’s a beautiful, panoramic spot to look over the entire coastline of Bodrum. There’s even a restaurant at the top to grab a drink or some food and soak up the views for a little longer.

8. Try local Turkish food and drink

It’s not a holiday without trying new food and drink!

We loved trying the new foods recommended to us by our guide, especially as my partner, Tom, is a huge seafood fan! We didn’t have many meals that included your typical Turkish cuisines (kebabs, shish etc), as Bodrum is so well-known for its fresh and tasty seafood.

My personal favourite was Turkish coffee – something I’d never tried before. Made over a fire, the strong coffee is a popular post-meal drink in Turkish culture, and it’s a tradition we adapted to quickly!

We walked away with a new Turkish coffee mug which now sits on our living room shelf, just waiting for its first brew. I’ll let you know when that day finally arrives!

Getting around Bodrum

Getting around Bodrum will depend on where you’re staying. Most of the hotels are either in the main city centre or further out towards the coast.

If you’ve booked a holiday to Bodrum with Jet2 holidays, the resorts you’ll be staying at will often provide transport. Our hotel had linked taxi drivers and shuttles so you could get to and from different areas easily.

You can also hire a car or board the local bus. Just be sure to check with your hotel where the bus stops so you can make the right travel arrangements (and not get stuck somewhere!)

Where to stay in Bodrum

As holidays to Bodrum are so popular (with both Brits and locals), there are plenty of hotels and resorts to choose from.

We stayed at the beautiful  Jet2holidays Kefaluka Resort , which was around a 35-minute drive from the main centre of Bodrum. This didn’t affect our plans, but it depends on what you want from your trip. We also liked having closer access to some of the other nearby towns, like Gumusluk.

With a balcony view over the ocean, two giant pools, unlimited breakfast, a waterpark, a private beach, evening entertainment, a spa and comfortable rooms, we loved our stay at Kefaluka, and would love to return in the future!

It’s nice to live in luxury before returning to reality back home…

Getting to Bodrum

Getting to Bodrum from London Stanstead is straightforward. When flying with Jet2, you can check in online and everything is taken care of. You’ll just need to check in your bags if you have checked luggage!

We arrived at the airport around 2 hours before our afternoon flight, cruised through security and even had time to grab some pre-flight food.

The flight time from London Stanstead to Bodrum is listed as 4 hours, but it usually takes around 3 and a half hours. This goes by surprisingly quickly!

Currently, Jet2 have flights from all over the UK to Bodrum, departing on different days of the week. This includes destinations such as Glasgow, Leeds, Newcastle and Manchester.

Arriving in Bodrum

When you arrive in Bodrum, most hotels and resorts are at least 1 hour away from the airport. This means you’ll either need to arrange a transfer or driver (which is usually included in your Jet2 Holiday).

When you’ve collected your luggage, you’ll meet your driver at the arrivals gate. Most drivers will have a written sign marked ‘Jet2 Holidays’ or your name, depending on the type of holiday you’ve booked.

Bodrum Travel Guide: In a Nutshell

So, there you have it! I hope this Bodrum travel guide has inspired you to book your next trip and experience this incredible place for yourself.

And don’t forget to try Turkish coffee!

When you’re planning a trip to Bodrum,  make sure you let me know over on  Instagram  or in the comments below! It makes my day to know I’ve helped you on your travels!

Keep an eye out for more Turkiye content,  all written from a personal and realistic point of view.

As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!

Happy travelling 🙂

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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Bodrum, Turkey, is a gem of a town located along the Bodrum Peninsula. The town is often referred to as the French Riviera of Turkey .

The popular beach town is known for its many things to do, stunning resorts, vibrant nightlife, and exceptional food.

Bodrum is also known for its stunning beaches and relaxing seaside town atmosphere. You will notice several sailboats and yachts along the water throughout the day.

Bodrum is very suitable for families and couples looking for a romantic getaway because of its calm beachside atmosphere and the city’s safe at all hours of the day.

But it’s also great for a group of friends to visit because of its beach clubs in the day and lively nightlife in the Gumbet area.

In this complete Bodrum travel guide, I will cover how to get to Bodrum, the best things to do here, and hotel/restaurant recommendations. As well as a few travel tips for Bodrum before visiting, this is the ultimate Bodrum itinerary.

Suppose you’re visiting Turkey but haven’t considered visiting Bodrum. I strongly recommend Bodrum as part of any Turkey itinerary , especially if you visit from April to September .

What is Bodrum Most Famous for?

Bodrum is known for its European seaside atmosphere, featuring crystal clear waters on the Aegean Sea.

Historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and a busy and lively nightlife along the coast are just a few of Bodrum’s significant attractions.

Something very unique about Bodrum is how the town perfectly caters to anyone looking for a luxurious European vacation. But it’s also affordable at the same time.

Bodrum is one of those places where if you’re looking for luxury, you’ll find it, and if you’re looking for affordable, you’ll find it.

When visiting Bodrum, it reminded me of Positano, Italy ; but at a fraction of the cost, that’s for sure.

The Gumbet area in Bodrum caters to 18-35-year-old partygoers; it’s just a 10-minute taxi from the city center of Bodrum. This area has been featured in the New York Times as “Turkey’s own Saint-Tropez.”

There are beautiful places to visit from Bodrum while you’re there; only 20 minutes away by boat is the nearest Greek island of Kos—a great day trip idea while visiting. Another famous Turkish seaside town, Marmaris, is two hours away, just as beautiful as Bodrum.

Bodrum combines history, culture, excellent food, and breathtaking natural scenery.

In 2022, the president of Turkey changed the country’s name to “ Türkiye ” as part of a rebranding campaign.

How to Get to Bodrum Turkey?

There are a few different ways you can get to Bodrum. You can fly there, take a train/bus, only bus, or rent a car and drive there if you’d like.

But the best and easiest way to get to Bodrum is by flying there or taking the bus from Istanbul.

Bodrum Airport is Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV) , so you can fly in. If you’re flying in from an international destination, you’ll make a layover stop at Istanbul International Airport . If you’re in Istanbul already, it’s a direct 1-hour flight from Istanbul to Bodrum.

For the cheapest flights to Bodrum, Turkey, I recommend using SkyScanner .

From the Airport to Bodrum city center, it’s a 35-minute drive. The best way to get there is by Private Airport Transfer.

How to Get to Bodrum from Istanbul by Bus

You can either fly into Bodrum, which I’ve covered already, or the other way is by taking the bus from Istanbul to Bodrum.

The bus from Istanbul to Bodrum takes just over 12 hours ; it’s not a short trip. It costs around $20 US , which is cheaper than taking a flight but less convenient.

Getting around in Bodrum

There are local minibusses named “ dolmus ,” you can use or take a taxi, be prepared to negotiate if you choose to take a taxi.

The most practical way to get around Bodrum is by renting a car .

Things To Do in Bodrum Turkey

Day boat trip on the bodrum peninsula.

Regarding the best things to do here, sailing in the afternoon on a boat along the Peninsula ranks #1.

Relax, catch some sun, and take in the exceptional views of the Bodrum Peninsula.

This tour sets sail for a full-day cruise, stopping at four different bays for you to dive or snorkel in. Lunch, fruit, and water are included in the tour package.

It’s a great way to spend the afternoon with your loved one or family. If you’re with a large group of friends, the best idea is to charter a boat alone with your friends.

Charter a yacht for the day and enjoy an intimate experience with friends!

Stroll the Bodrum City Center

Bodrum’s historic town center comprises many laneways that offer charming experiences and unique street art. 

Strolling Bodrum’s charming town center is an excellent idea at any time of the day. Walking around, you’ll notice several restaurants, artisan shops, and nightclubs.

My favorite time to walk around here was during the evening. Spotting many couples, families, and solo travelers walking around exploring and enjoying an evening meal.

The temperature is lovely and cool in the evening, so it’s a great time to explore all the small shops.

A great way to spend the afternoon for those who prefer a guide rather than wandering around is to attend this Bodrum walking tour.

After walking around Old Town Bodrum, spend the rest of your evening with a drink or dessert by the Bodrum waterfront marina!

Bodrum’s waterfront and marina are lined with excellent restaurants, bars, and cafes, just like many European seaside cities. Some restaurants are charming, others are romantic, and some are lively!  

Tour Bodrum Castle

The famous Bodrum Castle is located on the east of Bodrum’s harbor. The Knights Hospitaller built it in the first half of the 15th Century. This is also where the Bodrum Underwater Museum is.

The castle has been home to a fascinating museum since the 1960s, focusing on the underwater discoveries made at Ancient Medieval and Early Modern shipwreck locations around the Turkish Aegean.

This museum is the largest in Turkey dedicated to this field. Attend this guided tour and get the whole experience!

It houses a fascinating hoard of Mycenaean and Ancient Egyptian copper ingots, vases, Royal Carian jewelry, Roman amphorae, and Medieval Islamic glassware.

Day Trip to Kos Island / Greek Island

Kos is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and Ancient Greek/Roman landmarks. The harbor town is where you will find the Neratzia Castle, which dates back to the 15th century.

Conveniently the Greek island is only a 20-minute boat ride away from Bodrum. This high-speed catamaran boat transfer will take you to Kos and back to Bodrum 11 hours later. Spend the day exploring the island!

Things you can do on the island are; visiting all the classic Greek-style white-blue buildings, going on a high-quality wine tour, taking a Kos island Jeep Safari trip, or scuba diving for the day. There are plenty of activities to do in Kos.

The Ancient Agora ruins can be viewed, as well as a Casa Romana villa from the third century that is famous for its stunning mosaics.

One of my favorite things when traveling anywhere is day trips to islands. Visiting the Greek island of Kos is the perfect day trip from Bodrum. Though if you can, why not spend a night in Kos ?

Visit a Traditional Turkish Hammam

One does not visit Turkey and leave without visiting a traditional Turkish Hammam at least once. A traditional Turkish hammam is something you must do when you visit anywhere in Turkey.

There are several hammams in Bodrum. It’s a good idea to research what a Turkish Hammam is; watch a video or two on youtube so you know exactly what to expect when visiting.

Many larger hotels offer Turkish Baths as part of their spa services. But don’t bother visiting them; you want to visit the traditional ones where the locals go!

I recommend you visit the famous Bardakci Hammam . This hammam dates back to the mid-17th century, making it the oldest hammam in the area .

Let’s get to the point; this is no Spa experience ; the interior is basic and intimate. Don’t expect anything you’d experience at a Spa. The massage can feel a little abrupt and rough at times.

But overall, the massage is thorough, skilled, and very appropriate. One thing is sure; you’ll feel fresh and rejuvenated after the massage.

Have a Beach Day

Being a seaside town, Bodrum has several beautiful beaches perfect for spending the day.

One of the most popular beaches is Yahsi Plaj, oriented toward tourists, which has shops, restaurants, and a jetty for boat excursions. 

The other side of Yahsi is Ortakent Beach; it’s quieter and has a calming atmosphere.

The area also has several holiday rentals and hotels along its shore. Here are a few other of the best beaches in Bodrum.

Other Bodrum Beaches:

• Camel Beach
• Gumbet Beach
• Bodrum Beach

Many of these beaches listed offer umbrella rentals for the day. During the high season, from June through August, you can expect every inch of the pebble beaches to be filled with people tanning, parasols, and umbrellas.

So if you’re heading to the beach during high season, go early!

Party in The Day/Night

The Gumbet is the hotspot in Bodrum for all the beach clubs and nightlife, and if you’re visiting and looking to have a fun time, this is where you come!

Here is a short list of the best beach clubs I’d recommend you visit and a few nightclubs to go to at night!

Bodrum Beachclubs

• Sarnic Beach Club
• Arena Beach Club

Bodrum Night Clubs

• Unique Bodrum
• B1-Be One Club

Bodrum Hotels

Bodrum has several hotel options for you to choose from. On average, Bodrum is a cheaper place to vacation. But you can find luxurious accommodations here if that’s what you want.

However, the average 4 Star accommodations are very well-priced here!

I’ve included four accommodation options, each perfect for different price points.

These are the best places to stay in Bodrum. Whether you’re looking to go all out on a luxury stay or budget your trip, there’s an excellent option for you on this list!

It also depends on the time you decide to visit; prices are higher for accommodations during the high season.

The high season is during the Summer months, June through the end of August.  If you want the best prices on accommodations, go during  shoulder season . But remember, you won’t be able to enjoy the beach then!

The Bodrum Edition – 5 Stars

The Bodrum EDITION is located on a hill just 3km from Yalikavak Marina. It offers breathtaking views of the turquoise coast, terraces and promenades, and a spa and pool. 

The hotel has a private beach measuring 100m (328ft) available only to guests . 

The 5-star hotel offers delicious, casually, and elegantly prepared food and two bars. In the evening, you can enjoy a romantic, Mediterranean-inspired evening.

Rooms are pretty spacious, as well as suites and bungalows; everything is modern and sleek. The hotel has stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

The Marmara Bodrum – Adult Only / 4 Stars

The Marmara Bodrum is a boutique retreat perched high on a hill overlooking the bustling city center of Bodrum.

What makes Marmara a unique resort is the location; not only ideal for watching sunsets, but you can see the sun make its way across the horizon from the resort.

The harbor is also quite visible, so you get the perfect view to watch yachts depart and return to the port.

The boutique hotel offers modern interiors; each room boasts a balcony or terrace with breathtaking sea views.

Filled with several amenities to make your stay perfect, Marmara even had a tennis court with a view! The terrace overlooks the sea and other parts of the city.

Mivara Luxury Resort & Spa – 5 Stars

Mivara Luxury Bodrum is located in the northern part of Bodrum. It offers a stunning slice of Mediterranean architecture emphasizing elegant luxuries.

The amenities at this resort are second to none; they have everything you need: currency exchange services, babysitting services, special housekeeping services, convenience store, and much more.

It’s an excellent resort for everyone and incredibly convenient if you’re coming with family. The luxury resort features 72 rooms, offering family, couple, and deluxe rooms.

Khai Hotel Bodrum – 4 Stars

The Khai Hotel is a stunning hotel located right along the beach, offering a modern stay along the sea. The decor here is exceptional, and it’s easy to tell everything was well thought out.

Several beach lounge chairs are available for guests on the private beach. The rooms feel more like an apartment because they are spacious, and all rooms have a balcony.

Overall, the hotel is beautiful, and the price is great too.

La Luna Hostel

La Luna Hostel is operated by a lovely local Turkish family, conveniently located in the city center. The beach is approximately 100m away and around 5 minutes from Otogar Bus Stop.

Many cafes, bars, and local shops are close by. The family running this hostel is to operate it as Eco-Friendly as possible. For those who enjoy yoga, there’s even a yoga studio here.

The hostel offers both dorm-style stays and private rooms, so you have both options.

Spaces are conveniently furnished, and all rooms have free complimentary high-speed Internet. This is my hostel recommendation in Bodrum. If you’d like, feel free to browse other hostels !

Bodrum Turkey Restaurants

Turkey has got to be one of the best countries for foodies. This is not even debatable. Besides the excellent food, the prices here are affordable! Kebabs, shawarma, Turkish breakfast, lahmacun, and remember the seafood .

The reason I first went to visit Turkey was for the food . My family visited and wouldn’t stop telling me how delicious and affordable the food was. I went later that year to see for myself!

A trip without excellent food is wrong. That’s why I’m sharing three Bodrum Restaurants with you I’d recommend; all three options serve Turkish cuisine.

Orfoz Restaurant

Enjoy seafood and shellfish as you stare at the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.  Orfoz   is the place to go for just that. 

Their gourmet menu includes a variety of seafood dishes, including crab, langoustine tartar, mussels, and lemon shells. This restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers .

Otanik Ocakbasi

This restaurant is a foodie’s paradise, serving various Turkish dishes. They’re famous for their selection of grilled meats served with grilled veggies.

But a quick look at their Instagram shows they’ve got stuffed peppers with cheese, lahmacun, and several other Turkish cuisines!

Cafe Mandarine

A restaurant list is never complete without a breakfast option. For an authentic Turkish breakfast, visit Cafe Mandarine.

Turkish breakfast includes tea, raw vegetables (tomatoes, diced cucumbers), local olives, Kars Grueye cheese, Feta cheese, tangerine jam, and egg omelets.

The best part about this place is you have a view of the sea right before you—an ideal way to start your morning!

Bodrum Cheap Eats

For those looking for a few cheaper dining options, here’s a short list of restaurants to visit!

• Konya Ugurlu Restaurant
• Antik Akdeniz
• Tinto Wine & Coffee Bar
• Hane Ocakbasl Kebab Salonu
• Sakalli Restaurant

Is Bodrum Turkey Expensive?

Not only is Bodrum affordable to visit , but Turkey as a whole country is very affordable, unlike other popular Summer destinations worldwide where hotels can be quite costly.

You could always visit Bodrum during the off-season months when it’s significantly cheaper, but you won’t be able to go to the beach then; it won’t be warm enough.

Is Bodrum Cheap or Expensive?

If you’re going to compare Bodrum to other places in Turkey, especially during the Summer months when it’s the best time to go, then it’s not cheap.

But compared to other popular Summer vacation destinations worldwide, such as Marbella in Spain or Santorini in Greece, Bodrum Turkey is a cheap and excellent European summer vacation destination.

Turkey as a whole country ranks #3 in the 12 Cheapest Places to Travel list .

Is Bodrum Safe?

Turkey, in general, is very safe, Bodrum included. Being a popular tourist town, especially during the Summer months, the town is full of tourists all around at all times of the day.

You have nothing to worry about here, whether early or late at night. Also, Bodrum is known for being a family-friendly destination.

When visiting Bodrum, you only have to worry about senseless crimes like pickpocketing or theft of personal items. Keep an eye out when walking in busy crowds, and keep your personal belongings close.

Bodrum Weather – Best Time to Visit

The high season in Bodrum is between June and August, sometimes till the middle of September, depending on the weather. This is when temperatures are favorable for the beach, reaching between 24 °C and 30 °C .

During November and March, temperatures can be around 12 °C and 18 °C . The coldest month in Bodrum Turkey is February, when temperatures reach an average between 9 °C  and a high of  14 °C .

Despite the highest prices, the best time to visit Bodrum is during the high season . Bodrum is a seaside city; you want to go when you can take advantage of what it offers!

After booking your accommodations and flight, make sure you purchase travel insurance to protect yourself on your trip!

How Many Days Do I Need in Bodrum?

It all depends on what type of stay you’re looking to have. I recommend 3-4 days in Bodrum, that way you will have enough time to do most things in town and also have some time to relax.

At the same time, Bodrum is an exceptional place to spend a week or more for those looking to relax by the beach.

Not only is it beautiful here, but there are also many things to do, several neighboring places to explore, and the food is excellent!

Is It Worth Visiting Bodrum Turkey?

Yes, no matter what time you’re looking to visit, Bodrum is an excellent place. It’s stunning, full of things to do, the history here is rich and best of all the town caters to all budgets!

Though, as mentioned earlier, I’d recommend you come during the Summer months, despite the higher costs. Book hotels/flights earlier; the closer to Summer, the prices start to increase for Bodrum.

Why Visit Bodrum Turkey?

It’s an excellent choice for a European summer holiday and has everything many other expensive European summer destinations have at one-fourth of the cost!

Also, if you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon destination , Bodrum is perfect for a honeymoon and will check off all your boxes.

Another two European holiday destinations I recommend are Lagos, Portugal , and Benidorm, Spain .

Bodrum is ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers, just about everyone. Traveling like you’re in Saint Tropez or Positano , Italy, at a fraction of the price is a no-brainer. Bodrum Turkey is a must-visit .

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Owity founded Travel Hiatus in 2022 to document his travel, food and cultural experiences from all over the globe in order to help fellow travellers along the way. His slow travels allow him to research and explore places in-depth, meaning only the best and most informational guides for fellow readers! From Europe to North America, Asia and more, so far Owity has visited 21 countries.

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Can I just say what a comfort to find an individual who genuinely understands what they are discussing on the internet. You certainly realize how to bring a problem to light and make it important. A lot more people ought to read this and understand this side of the story. I was surprised you aren’t more popular since you certainly possess the gif

Hi, we are visiting Bodrum in the 3rd week of October, with kids. Will the beach and pool be cold?? Didnt think of it till I read your article!

Hello Kanika, the average temperature around then is 22C, so you may get a few nice days at the beach during your visit when the weather is 26C+. The water shouldn’t be too cold but it will be cooler than if you went in late September!

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Travel Guide To Bodrum

Jutting into the Aegean, the Bodrum Peninsula lies opposite the Greek island of Kos and between Turkey's brasher resort areas of Kusadasi and Marmaris. With its marinas, clubs and smartly-dressed clientele from Istanbul, the feel of the peninsula is French Riviera with an exotic twist. The cuisine, the bazaars and the hammams are inherently oriental, while the culture is an easygoing variety of Islamic: the intriguing mix of mosques and bikini-lifestyle is unabrasively achieved. Development is carefully monitored, and much of the peninsula retains an intrinsic charm. Inland there are pine-clad hills, and narrow roads; coastal towns and villages remain low rise, and are dotted with flowering bougainvillaea. Although the beaches are underwhelming, many of the hotels have wooden jetties, furnished with white umbrellas, sun loungers and scattered cushions, with ladders into the glorious blue water.

Where to stay in Bodrum

Belediyesi Bagarasi Mahallesi, Turkbuku (00 90 252 377 5915; www.adahotel.com ). This is set back from the bay in dreamy, walled grounds. Although the hotel owns a stretch of shoreline with suitably glamorous jetties and a 'beach' club about 10 minutes' walk away, guests spend much of their time in the calm of this boutique haven. Facilities range from a library with Internet access, to a small cinema, an attractive swimming pool, a Jacuzzi and, perhaps, best of all, a glorious, domed hammam. Mediterranean dishes (seafood risottos, prosciutto salads) with a Turkish twist are served in the cellar restaurant. A Relais & Château hotel, the Ada looks like an old Ottoman mansion, although it was only built 10 years ago; the clever, classic design makes use of local stone, which compliments the sophisticated country-house décor. There are just 14 bedrooms, each with a terrace or balcony and two with private pools. Seating areas are furnished with antiques and artworks from the collection of owner Vedat Semiz. ££

CASA DELL'ARTE

Kilise Mevkii, Mutlu Sok, Torba (00 90 252 367 1377). A ritzy boutique hotel, owned by art collectors Fatos and Yunus Buyukkusoglu, many of whose paintings are displayed here. They have devised Casa dell'Arte as a supremely exclusive and expensive retreat with a house-party atmosphere, where guests dine together at a long table. From the entrance you walk into a courtyard where a central swimming pool is flanked by galleries. The main building contains just 12 cream-coloured guest suites, each enormous, with plasma-screen TVs and modern art. An open-plan lobby is decorated with wrought-iron chandeliers and antique fireplaces. Through the library, lounge and dining room is a small garden with a bar and Jacuzzi, which gives on to a stretch of beach and a jetty. There is also a private cinema and fitness area with sauna, hammam and treatment rooms. ££££

KEMPINSKI HOTEL BARBAROS BAY

Kizilagac Koyu, Gerenkuyu Mevkii Yaliciftlik (00 90 252 311 0303; www.kempinski-bodrum.com ). This wonderfully lavish, 173-room resort seems much bigger than it actually is. The sense of space is created partly by the central lobby area, where picture window frame the Aegean sea over three cut away floors. Beneath them is the focal point of the hotel: an expansive terrace with an infinity-edged pool. One of the resort's major attractions is its extensive Six Senses spa, which includes a majestic, traditional-style hammam and is open to non-residents as well as hotel guests. £

Kesireburnu Mevkii, Turkbuku (00 90 252 377 6272; www.macakizi.com ). For the best people-watching, head to the jetties of the Macakizi hotel. A very laid-back, glitzy clientele lolls on large, cream-coloured cushions on chic sundecks. This elegant hotel is run by mother and son team Ayla Emiroglu and Sahir Erozan, who have hit upon the right combination of pared-down sophistication and mellow charm. There are 81 rooms, housed in a series of stone and white-washed cottages that spill down a hillside to the sea. Simple rooms are furnished in shades of cream, with Turkish artworks here and there. The most expensive rooms face the sea, while others offer views of the handsomely landscaped gardens. There is a small swimming pool halfway down the hill, but the hotel's heart is at the bottom, around the jetties. On the jetty is an open-air bar and restaurant, masterminded by chef Aret Sahakyan, who has a rapidly growing reputation for his modern Turkish cuisine. £

QUEEN ADA HOTEL

Hosgoru Sokak 7, Torba (00 90 252 367 1598; www.queenadahotel.com.tr ). A tranquil treasure of a hotel that has been receiving a steady flow of repeat visitors since it opened in 1998. Like the Marmara Bodrum, the hotel was designed by Ersen Gursel, but with just 22 bedrooms it is far more intimate, and the architect has concentrated on creating an informal rather than arty feel. The hotel has an elegant arrangement of jetties, and hammocks scattered around the garden. Simple but stylish rooms have terraces or balconies and offer such personalised tweaks as a pillow menu. The limited range of facilities includes a small, free-form pool, a cosy library and general lounge and an outdoor bar. Breakfast is a feast: heaps of fresh fruit, muesli, yogurts, pastries, homemade breads, honey, olives, eggs and more. Dinner is served alfresco on beautifully laid tables in the gardens. Much of the food is home-grown on the hotel's estate. £

THE MARMARA BODRUM

Suluhasan Caddesi 18, Bodrum (00 90 252 313 8130; www.themarmarahotels.com ). The town's most exciting hotel, The Marmara Bodrum wryly itemises the ruins of a watchtower dating from the fourth century BC, a stump of historic masonry standing just behind its panoramic restaurant terrace, on its list of facilities. One of a chain of nine (there are seven other Marmara hotels in Turkey and one in Manhattan), this 96-room hotel opened at the beginning of 1999 and still looks contemporary. Created by Turkish architect Ersen Gursel and French designer Christian Allart, it is a visual feast of a place. A central pool is neatly sculpted into the hillside; behind it is an artfully furnished bar and lounge with a shady, cushioned, outdoor chill-out area to one side. The airy restaurant, lit by skylights, has tiled walls that give it a Turkish feel. Elsewhere, corridors are hung with wrought-iron objets d'art, the passageways framing vistas of the gardens and town. The bedrooms, all with a terrace or balcony, are supremely comfortable, their marble bathrooms dramatically punctuated by large picture windows with views of the grounds beyond. There are squash courts, tennis courts, and a half-size Olympic pool. £

What to see in Bodrum

BARBAROS BAY

CNT Editors

Anita Bhagwandas

Olivia Morelli

Lily Bonesso

From this stretch of rocky coast the sea scenery is breathtaking: a deep-azure panorama with gullets occasionally gracing the view. About 20 minutes' drive south-east of Bodrum, Barbaros Bay is a remote spot. There was no development here (apart from a Club Med Village fairly nearby), until the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay opened in 2005. See Where to Stay.

BODRUM TOWN

One of Turkey's most popular seaside destinations, this historic little town has been zealously preserved. You will find white buildings punctuated only by greenery and by the blue tips of minarets. By day, the calls of the muezzin resound; at night, in curious juxtaposition, the town reverberates with house and techno music from the clubs and bars. Day or night, Bodrum is an attractive town, its cube-shaped houses radiating from twin harbours lined with Turkish gullets, the traditional, hand-built wooden yachts that are unique to the area. The 15th-century castle of St Peter, built by the Knights of St John, presides on a promontory above the moorings and is a landmark visible for miles around. Behind it stretch the myriad alleyways of a maze-like market, while to the west, on the main road out of town, is the Graeco-Roman amphitheatre, today a venue for live music.

About 10 minutes' drive north of Bodrum town, the old fishing village of Torba lies on a pretty bay surrounded by green hills and cooled by gentle breezes which are welcome in summer. Perhaps because it is partly enclosed, the water here is dazzlingly blue, especially as you gaze north from the pebbly beaches on the edge of the village. It is a quietly chic place, little developed and attracting well-heeled families and tourists.

A magnet for the Istanbul jetset, this chic, former fishing village is referred to as the St Tropez of Turkey. Twenty-five minutes' drive north-west of Bodrum, low-rise Turkbuku has grown sideways rather than upwards and now merges with the neighbouring village of Golkoy. The action takes place around an attractive bay stylishly fringed by jetties rather than beach. On summer days the smart set glides in on yachts and the occasional seaplane, and on summer nights the shoreline becomes a buzzing party venue.

How to get to Bodrum

The airport is 30 minutes away from Bodrum. Visit bodrum-info.org/airport .

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

There are no scheduled flights direct to Bodrum. The most convenient option for scheduled services is to fly via Istanbul, where you can break your journey. British Airways (0870 850 9850; www.ba.com ) flies from Heathrow; easyJet (0905 821 0905; www.easyjet.com ) from Luton and Turkish Airlines (020 7766 9300; www.thy.com ) from Heathrow. During the summer, a number of charter companies operate direct flights to Bodrum from the UK. These include Thomson (0870 165 0079; www.thomsonbeach.co.uk ); Thomas Cook (0870 750 5711; www.thomascook.com ; First Choice (0870 850 3999; www.firstchoice.co.uk ); MyTravel (0870 241 5333; www.mytravel.com ) and XL.com (0870 320 7777; www.xl.com ). Turkish Airlines and Atlas Jet (00 90 216 444 3387; www.atlasjet.com ) offer onward flights to Bodrum.

When to go to Bodrum

The Bodrum Peninsula is a big hit in the summer, but you might like to delay your trip to avoid the holiday crowds. The weather is warm and dry until the end of October.

Tour operator details for Bodrum

Orpel Travel (00 90 252 313 4077; www.orpeltravel.com ); Savile Tours (020 7923 3230; www.saviletours.com ).

Tourist information for Bodrum

The UK tourist office website is www.goturkey.co.uk

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• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.3 By boat
• 3 Get around
• 4.1 Further out
• 7.1 Downtown
• 9.3 Further out
• 10 Stay safe

Bodrum is a tourist resort on the Southern Aegean coast of Turkey. It's a budget, mass-market destination with facilities to match, and in 2020 the Bodrum metropolis had a population of almost 182,000.

The metropolis covers a large peninsula, but in tourist literature "Bodrum" is used to market an even greater area, effectively any resort served by Milas-Bodrum airport. This page describes the city and its westward extension through Gümbet, Bitez and Yahşi, its southeast extension as far as Yalı, and its north coast extension of Torba and along the highway from the airport. Turgutreis describes the west coast of the peninsula from Akyarlar up to Gümüşlük. Yalıkavak describes the villages on the peninsula north coast to Göltürkbükü. Some brochures even include Didim , which lying 100 km north is too far even to hear the discos of Bodrum.

Understand [ edit ]

Bodrum was founded as a Grecian city, but fell under Persian rule from the 4th century BC; they appointed a hereditary provincial or regional governor called a "satrap". Nowadays this word is a political jibe, implying a corrupt and cruel petty ruler: in the movies the satrap always gets killed in the last act by his favourite concubine, who helps the hero escape at the cost of her own life. But one satrap more able than most was Mausolos, who ruled the province of Caria from this walled city called Halikarnassos, and he came to rule several others. However, he was sufficiently insecure about his legacy to commission a vast ornate tomb for himself, still unfinished at his death in 353 BC, and this gave us the word "mausoleum".

Halikarnassos then fell in turn to Alexander the Great , Seleucid rulers, the Romans and Byzantines. The Knights Hospitaller arrived in 1402 and rebuilt the castle, which had stood on an islet but was now fused to the mainland. Waste not, want not; they used stone from the mausoleum for the castle and called it Petronium ("St Peter's fortress") - hence Bodrum. They scarpered in 1522 when Suleiman the Magnificent approached, and the town became Ottoman.

Nothing much else happened for 400 years, and Bodrum was just a sleeping fishing and sponge-diving village. It became the exile of Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı (1890-1973), the Cretan Turkish scholar, writer and environmental activist. This fellow had already served 14 years in jail for shooting dead his father, who didn't approve of his wife. After a further 3 year term for "seditious" writing, he settled here and his lyrical descriptions of traditional life began to reach a wider readership. His pen-name was Halikarnas Balıkçısı , the Fisherman of Halicarnassus, and a boho community collected around him. His "blue voyages" in traditional fishing gulets, for leisure not for wresting a living from the sea, inspired a crowd of wannabes. European tourists flocked in search of a bygone Med undiscovered by tourists, and unscathed by the concrete apartment blocks that spoilt the Spanish and Italian coastlines, and guess what they found? Bodrum rapidly evolved into another Benidorm, a budget mass-destination, plus holiday homes for jaded Istanbulites. However this does mean good visitor facilities, price competition, and you don't have to go far to discover quiet coves and the ruins of antiquity.

The climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot sunny summers and mild rainy winters - see the Southern Aegean climate chart. Climate plus popularity add up to a longer holiday season than other Turkish resorts. May is a good time for shore-based activities but the water temperature lags a month behind the land, so June-October is better for water sports, with sea temperatures above 24°C.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

To town: package tourists are bused direct to their hotels. Bus 48-24 runs spasmodically from the airport to Bodrum intercity bus terminal (at Torba) and downtown. The Havas bus isn't running in 2023, as the taxi drivers are gleefully aware.

You could also fly into İzmir or Dalaman airports, both 3 hours travel from Bodrum.

By bus [ edit ]

Buses from Istanbul take 11 hours overnight via Gebze , Bursa , Balıkesir , Manisa and Izmir , for a fare in 2024 of 800-1500 TL. From Izmir it's an hourly service taking 3 hr 30 min for 200 TL. From Ankara is 10 hours and from Antalya it's 7. Operators on these routes are Metroturizm , Pamukkale and Flixbus.

Aras Seyahat makes a grand cross-country journey daily, from Kars via Erzurum , Erzincan , Sivas , Kayseri and Konya .

37.0639 27.4636 2 Yeni Otogar (lit: New Bus Station) opened in 2022, 5 km northeast of town, at the road junction for Torba. Already it's looking battered by its travelling public, and the cafe and toilets are overpriced. The dolmuş transfer into town should be included in your inter-city ticket; check when buying.

37.0381 27.4336 3 City bus station is downtown next to the bazaar, and feels like part of it.

By boat [ edit ]

Tilos Travel sails from Kos twice a day year-round, taking 25 min for €23 in 2023. It's a small catamaran for foot passengers only; a day-trip either way is easily possible. The landing pier in Bodrum is in the marina by the castle.

Sky Marine compete on the route from Kos April-Oct, similar times and fares.

Bodrum Feribot sail from Datça peninsula (Kairos Marina) 2 or 3 times daily June-Aug and four times a week Apr May Sept Oct. The crossing takes 1 hour 45 min and the fares as of May 2023 are 275 TL for an adult, 925 TL for a car plus 125 TL for each of the occupants.

37.025 27.439 4 Bodrum Cruise Port is where Med cruises dock. It's also the pier for the Sky Marine ferry, which doesn't use the marina.

Ferries no longer sail direct between Bodrum and Rhodes. Travel via Kos, which is connected to the extensive Greek ferry network.

Several agencies in Bodrum charter yachts and traditional gulets; the best conditions are June-Sept. Bodrum is a Port of Entry into Turkey, check out the Greek regulations if you plan to enter their waters, and beware Dikilitas Reef 2 km west of Bodrum.

Get around [ edit ]

Most town buses start from Yeni Otogar the inter-city bus terminal and run to downtown Bodrum, so this service is every couple of minutes. They then fan out across the peninsula:

• Bus 2-28 to Gümbet beach strip, Bitez, Müskebi, Ortakent and Camel Beach, every 20 min daily 07:00-00:00.
• Bus 2-34 to Gürece, İslamhaneleri, Akçaalan and Turgutreis , every ten minutes daily 07:00-00:00.
• Bus 2-45 to Gürece, Gümüşlük and Gümüşkaya, hourly daily 07:00-22:00.
• Bus 2-6 to Gökçebel and Yalıkavak every 20 min daily 07:00-22:00.
• Bus 2-48 to Bitez, every 15 min daily 07:00-21:30.
• Bus 2-2 to the western suburb of Konacık, every 15 min daily 07:30-23:00.
• Bus 2-4 to Konacık, Gürece, Bağla and Akyarlar at the south tip of the peninsula, M-Sa hourly 08:00-19:00.
• Bus 2-20 runs from Torba village via Yeni Otogar to downtown Bodrum, M-Sa every 30 min 07:00-20:00.

Others run to Çamarası, Dağbelen, Gündoğan, Mazıköy, Mumcular, and Yalıçiftlik; the full list is posted on the Muttas regional transport website. A swarm of dolmuşes also reaches those destinations and others.

See [ edit ]

• Maritime Museum , Nazım Hikmet 4 ( north side of castle ), ☏ +90 252 316 3310 . Tu-Su 09:00-17:30 . The sailing and fishing traditions of Bodrum, such as gulets, sponge-fishing and sea-shells. Adult 20 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Kızılhisarlı Mustafa Paşa Mosque just north of the castle was built in 1724.
• Merkez Adliye Mosque another block north was built in 1901.
• The marina , now full of leisure craft, was once the shipyard and general harbour. In the 18th century there was a spell of military work as the Ottoman navy was strengthened, but Bodrum's main product has long been the traditional gulet. These are two or three-masted but nowadays run on diesel, with only auxiliary sail power.
• Tepecik Mosque is at Neyzen Tevfik Cd 88, midway along the marina front. It was built in 1735.
• 37.0339 27.4355 2 Kumbahçe Mosque on Atatürk Cd has a richly tiled interior.

• 37.037658 27.413412 5 Myndos Gate is the only survivor (if these two stumps can be called a survivor) of the monumental gates of the 7-km city wall of Halikarnassos. The area includes a short course of wall foundations and is free to explore 24 hours. Myndos, the destination of the road west, now lies buried beneath the coast resort of Gümüşlük. In its heyday, Myndos had such grand gates that Diogenes urged them to be shut, before the entire town got out. Wisecracks like this made him the doyen of the "cynic" school of philosophy.
• 37.0329 27.4216 6 Ottoman cemetery on Neyzen Tevfik Cd has interesting funerary monuments.
• 37.0251 27.4138 7 Windmills ( değirmenleri ) in various states of dilapidation stand on the ridge west of the bay, in a line of seven. They were used from mid-18th century up to the 1970s to grind corn into flour. The area is free to stroll around and you mostly come here for the sunset view over the next bay, pity about all the trash. Similar windmills dot the peninsula beyond.
• 37.0302 27.4398 8 Zeki Müren Art Museum ( Zeki Müren Sanat Müzesi ), Zeki Müren Cd 19 , ☏ +90 252 313 1939 . Tu-Su 08:30-17:30 . Zeki Müren (1931-96) was a prolific, flamboyant and frankly camp singer-songwriter. He was born in Bursa, launched his career in Istanbul and retired to Bodrum when his health failed. His house has been made into a museum with memorabilia such as his costumes. He had rather a lot of costumes. Adult 75 TL . ( updated Nov 2023 )

Further out [ edit ]

• 37.013 27.329 9 Camel Beach is a small resort strip to the west, where the big attraction is that camels parade up and down the strand. These are as authentically bad-tempered and overpriced for rides as any you'd encounter in Arabia. A waterbus plies here from Bodrum Marina. Ideally you'd get here by Kamil Koç — camel coach — but they've been taken over by Flixbus.
• 37.068 27.4218 10 Pedasa was a small city-state in 400 BC, but the territory was handed over to Halikarnassos. You reach it up a dirt road (2WD okay in dry weather) and follow the steps from the parking area up to the ruined acropolis. It's free to explore any time.
• 36.974 27.463 11 Kara Ada , meaning "black island", is a wooded and almost uninhabited island visited on boat trips. You pay extra to swim in the hot springs ( sıcak suyu ) that emerge in a cave on the north coast. They're only lukewarm, they're smelly from the sulphur, and the cave has sharp rocks on its low ceiling and shallow base.
• 37.1917 27.7577 12 Uyku Vadisi means "Sleeping Valley" — it's a scenic canyon through limestone bluffs above the village of Gökçeler, 45 km east of Bodrum. You can also explore İncirli Caves [dead link] here. The hotel may pretend that you have to pay them admission - don't part with a single lira unless you wish to use their facilities.

Do [ edit ]

• Beaches in town are pebble but good for swimming. For sandy beaches go further west to Gümbet or Bitez.
• Hamam or Turkish baths are at Fabrika Sk 48 southeast side of the city bus station. They're segregated by gender with both sides open daily 07:00-23:00.
• Windsurfing is better on the more exposed west coast around Turgutreis , since the calm sheltered waters of Bodrum are its selling point.
• Scuba diving : Some half-a-dozen dive shacks offer day trips for qualified divers April-Sept. There are several shipwrecks, a Dakota DC47, rock formations (including Kara Ada) deepening into caverns, and eelgrass meadows with not much marine life - this is the Med. Bodrum is a good place for scuba training for its clear calm waters, and this includes advanced and specialty courses.
• Boat trips: some dozen companies offer trips by modern launch or traditional gulet. They're based around the marina but may pick up from other resort beaches.
• 37.0365 27.3944 1 Bodrum Aquapark , Bekiroğlu Cd 6 , ☏ +90 532 342 2144 . May-Sept daily 10:30-17:00 . A park with 23 waterslides, a 350-m wave river, a wave pool, a range of other pools, and a disco. Food is overpriced and they search you to keep it that way. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Football: Bodrumspor play soccer in TFF 2. Lig, Turkey's third tier. Their home ground Bodrum Şehir Stadı (Old Stadium), capacity 4563, is 500 m north of town centre towards Hwy D330.
• 37.0519 27.3383 2 Bodrum Golf & Tennis Club , Pazardağı Çk, Ortakent , ☏ +90 252 358 7280 . This is the closest golf course to Bodrum. There are others to the northeast at Regnum Resort and at Vita Park. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Dolphin Park Bodrum , Guvercinlik ( 20 km northeast of Bodrum towards airport ). The dolphins are in the sea but in a fenced enclosure. You watch them perform tricks and may swim and interact with them. Staff seem to invent prices as they go along. The park remains closed in early 2023. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Modern & Jazz Festival and competition is next held 19-23 April 2023.
• Ballet Festival is July / Aug, but is not confirmed for 2023.

Buy [ edit ]

• Lots of little convenience stores, there isn't a big western-style supermarket.
• Always haggle at street markets. For clothing you're aiming for half the quoted price.

Eat [ edit ]

Downtown [ edit ]

• Orfoz at Zeki Müren Cd 13 is extolled in many guide books, but visitors find the food nothing special and the "tasting menu" little more than tapas.
• 37.0351 27.4293 1 Körfez , Neyzen Tevfik Cd 2 , ☏ +90 252 313 8248 . Daily 09:00-23:00 . Quality seafood restaurant on the marina front, where they ensure you pay for the view. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Bodrum Kumru , Adliye Sk ( by Kumbahçe Mosque ), ☏ +90 252 313 0131 . Daily 09:00-22:00 . Cheap and cheerful eatery, great value. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Curly's Demeter Pool Garden Restaurant Bar , Dere Sk 45 ( next to Kavala Apts ), ☏ +90 532 620 9087 . Daily 09:00-02:00 . Garden restaurant mostly doing roasts and steaks. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0383 27.4384 2 Umurça Pide Salonu , Derviş Görgün Cd 19 , ☏ +90 252 313 1872 . Daily 10:00-21:00 . A sfiha restaurant, that's flatbread topped with mincemeat. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Umurça Unlu Mamulleri , Derviş Görgün Cd 20 ( next to Pide Salonu ), ☏ +90 252 316 3874 . Daily 06:00-23:00 . A bakery also doing desserts such as baklava. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Berk Balik , Cumhuriyet Cd 167 ( on promenade a block north of Zeki Müren Museum ), ☏ +90 252 313 0066 . Daily 11:00-00:00 . Friendly fish restaurant with views of the castle. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Sunger Pizza , Neyzen Tevfik Cd 160 ( next to Hilton by Marina ), ☏ +90 252 316 0854 . Daily 08:00-23:00 . Good menu selection besides pizza. ( updated Mar 2023 )

Gümbet [ edit ]

• 37.0309 27.4064 3 The Windy Bay , off Melengeç Sk, Gümbet . Daily 09:30-00:00 . Good spot for inexpensive food. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0329 27.4073 4 Cafe De Colombia , Mister Hadi Sk 6, Gümbet . Th-Tu 08:00-04:00, W 08:00-00:00 . Inexpensive steakhouse open late. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0183 27.3382 5 Vira's , Bıtırak Sk 27, Ortakent , ☏ +90 252 348 3992 . Small hotel on Yahsi seafront serving good Turkish cuisine. B&B double 1000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

• Körfez is a long established rock bar on the waterfront at Cumhuriyet Cd 59, open M-F 13:00-01:00, Sa Su 13:00-03:00.
• Funk is an open air club just north of Körfez, pricey and couples only. It's open nightly 21:00-04:00.
• Adamik is another old stager, just north of the castle and open 24 hours.
• Kule Rock City is a rock bar on Cumhuriyet Cd open 20:00-05:00, couples only.
• Club Catamaran east of the castle is on a large catamaran, with a glass deck for the dance floor. At night the boat putters out into the harbour where lights have been set into the ocean floor. Lights plus food scraps thrown overboard draw fish to swim beneath the glass floor. It's open nightly 21:30-03:00.
• Karnas Vineyards are in the hills 20 km northeast of town and have a restaurant.

Sleep [ edit ]

• 37.0382 27.4276 1 Su Hotel , Turgut Reis Cd , ☏ +90 252 316 6906 . Charming small hotel with pool in the Western Bay. Close enough to walk to city centre, but Turgut Reis is a narrow busy street with no sidewalk. B&B double 2000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0359 27.4358 2 Atrium Hotel , Üçkuyular Cd 31 , ☏ +90 252 313 1111 . Simple central budget place, cleaning erratic. B&B double 1000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0353 27.4383 3 Kavala Studios , Sevecenler Sk 5 , ☏ +90 252 316 6564 . Very basic but central rooms. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0331 27.4381 4 Hotel İstanköy , Atatürk Cd 73 , ☏ +90 252 316 4187 . It's clean, central and value for what you pay, but rooms are poky and facilities limited. B&B double 1500 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0398 27.4393 5 El Vino Hotel , Pamili Sk , ☏ +90 252 313 8770 . Oasis of calm on the north edge of the busy city. B&B double 1500 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.042 27.4411 6 Marmara Bodrum , Sulu Hasan Cd 18 , ☏ +90 252 999 1010 . Charming hotel on the hillside north edge of town. B&B double 2500 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0354 27.4314 7 Kaya Pansiyon , Eski Hükümet Sk 10 ( 150 m from bus station ), ☏ +90 252 316 5745 , [email protected] . Peaceful clean rooms in town centre. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0347 27.4218 8 Doubletree by Hilton ( Bodrum Marina Vista ), Neyzen Tevfik 168 , ☏ +90 252 313 0356 . Smart well-run hotel by the marina, good reviews for comfort and service. B&B double 2500 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Seçkin Konaklar Hotel , Neyzen Tevfik 186 ( 100 m south of Hilton ), ☏ +90 252 316 1351 . Comfy place by the marina. B&B double 1000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0291 27.4178 9 Azka Otel , Kaptan Kalesi Sk , ☏ +90 252 316 8992 . Beach-front hotel with spa and fitness centre. Some facilities tired, a tad pricey for what you get. B&B double 2500 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0289 27.4163 10 Salmakis Resort , Salmakis Cd 7 , ☏ +90 252 316 6507 . Resort and spa hotel on the beach 3 km from city centre. Mixed reviews. B&B double 2000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Antique Theatre Hotel is a small mid-range place opposite the amphitheatre.
• Bodrium Hotel is a clean, friendly, budget hotel at Büyük İskender Cd 13, 100 m southwest of Myndos Gate.
• Bodrum Ecofarm camping and hostel. Camping from 300 pp, off season April 2024. Camping underneath orange and grapefruit trees. Take the bus 2-83 from Bodrum, takes 40 min.

• Ali Baba is a basic but clean friendly place at 3144th Sk 24, east edge of Gümbet. Tosunoglu a block east is of similar standard.
• 37.028 27.4093 11 Jasmine Beach Hotel , Dayılar Sk, Gümbet , ☏ +90 252 333 0745 . On beachfront east edge of bay, limited facilities and food repetitive, but value for what you pay. B&B double 1500 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Siesta Beach are apartments next to Jasmine Beach.
• 37.0324 27.4084 12 Serpina Hotel , Mister Hadi Sk 1, Gümbet , ☏ +90 252 319 4547 . Pleasant budget place near beach. B&B double 1000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Hotel Bagevleri next to Serpina is of similar standard.
• 37.0317 27.4048 13 Parkim Ayaz Hotel , Ayaz Cd 20, Gümbet , ☏ +90 252 319 5550 . On beachfront, lays on kiddy entertainment, but a busy area with disco and street noise. B&B double 1500 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.033 27.4032 14 Nagi Beach Hotel , Ayaz Cd 10, Gümbet , ☏ +90 252 319 1464 . Beachfront hotel, a bit worn and dated, but clean and good service. B&B double 1200 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0339 27.4067 15 Water Garden Apart Otel , Fettah Sk 10, Gümbet , ☏ +90 252 319 5157 . 20 simple rooms in a clean welcoming apartment hotel. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.038 27.4092 16 Tropicana Beach Hotel , Dayılar Sk, Gümbet , ☏ +90 252 319 3523 . Friendly midrange hotel, good service. B&B double 1000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0382 27.4062 17 Ağar Apart Otel , Nergiz Sk 3, Gümbet , ☏ +90 252 319 5166 . Simple hotel 1 km from beach, well managed by Irish couple. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0358 27.402 18 Club Shark Hotel , Garahasan Cd 4, Gümbet , ☏ +90 252 424 0491 . Basic hotel 500 m from beach, cleanliness varies and food indifferent. B&B double 800 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0338 27.3981 19 Green House Apart Hotel , Adnan Menderes Cd 33, Gümbet , ☏ +90 252 319 4236 . Simple town apartments with pool and friendly helpful staff, great value for what you pay. Some rooms have kitchenettes. Double (room only) 500 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0325 27.3976 20 Bronze Hotel , Adnan Menderes Cd 49, Gümbet , ☏ +90 252 319 5505 . Simple family-friendly place near the beach. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0306 27.3975 21 Gümbet Cove Hotel , Adnan Menderes Cd, Gümbet , ☏ +90 252 319 5252 . Spotless friendly budget hotel on beach. B&B double 1500 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0289 27.394 22 Asteria Bodrum Resort ( Selectum Colours ), Adnan Menderes Cd 63 , ☏ +90 252 319 7000 . "Selectum" is the silly new name, but the Asteria continues to deliver good comfort, service and cuisine. B&B double 3000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Torba [ edit ]

• 37.0806 27.4591 23 Voyage Torba , Atatürk Cd 108, Torba , ☏ +90 252 367 1820 . Rave reviews for comfort and service here. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Casa Dell'Arte , İsmet İnönü Cd 66, Torba ( One block east of Voyage Torba ), ☏ +90 252 367 1848 . Smart hotel with a private beach. B&B double 5000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0814 27.4759 24 Vogue Hotel , Usuluk Koyu 10, Torba , ☏ +90 252 311 1818 . Good inclusive resort hotel. B&B double 6000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0855 27.4772 25 Işil Club Resort ( Doubletree by Hilton ), Kaynar Mevkii 11, Torba , ☏ +90 252 337 1010 . Good standards at this resort hotel on the north-facing coast. B&B double 3000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0946 27.4924 26 Rixos Premium , Zeytinlikahve Mevki , ☏ +90 252 337 1122 . Good service and comfort at this beachfront resort hotel. B&B double 5000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.1377 27.5606 27 Lujo Hotel , Çomça Mevkii Sk 10, Meşelik , ☏ +90 252 311 5555 . Slick upscale resort hotel, most visitors are on package holidays. B&B double 5000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• La Blanche Island , Pina Yarimadasi, Meşelik ( headland just west of Lujo ), ☏ +90 252 322 0000 . It's a peninsula not an island, but does feel away from it all. Mixed reviews for comfort, cleanliness and food. B&B double 4000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 37.0048 27.4627 28 TUI Magic Life , İçmeler Kümeevleri 60 , ☏ +90 850 281 0113 . Great reviews for comfort and service at this all-inclusive resort hotel. It's mostly block-booked for package holidays by TUI but they may have availability for independent travellers. B&B double 5000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Bodrum Holiday Resort ( next to TUI Magic Life ), ☏ +90 252 313 6401 850 . Friendly service; good rooms in the main building but those in the annex are tiny, and the site is hilly. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 36.9927 27.5109 29 Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay , Hacıgiden Cd 33, Yalıçiftlik ( 14 km southeast of Bodrum ), ☏ +90 252 311 0303 . This is some distance from town or anywhere else, so regard it as a secluded luxury destination in its own right. Good facilities, some visitors have found it rattling empty. B&B double 4000 TL . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

• Usual precautions about safeguarding valuables, swerving clear of drunks and lowlife, and beware traffic - including marine traffic, such as mad bats on jet skis.
• Keep children away from the many stray dogs. Turkey is considered high risk for rabies, so if you get bitten, you need immunising.

Connect [ edit ]

Bodrum, its approach roads and the peninsula have 4G from all Turkish carriers. As of March 2023, 5G has not rolled out in Turkey.

Go next [ edit ]

• Bodrum Peninsula is lined by resort villages. The largest are Turgutreis , Gümüşlük and Yalıkavak .
• Kos is the Greek island 20 km southwest, often visited as a day-trip.
• Priene, Miletus and Didyma are three Greek ruins on the ridge 80 km north.
• Kuşadası is a big resort town just beyond that ridge, with must-see Ephesus 20 km further inland.
• Datça is an unspoilt town to the south across the Gulf of Gökova, accessible by ferries or a long detour via Marmaris .

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Bodrum travel guide

What to do, where to stay, and why you’ll love it.

B odrum lies at the southernmost point of the Aegean coast and is a swish playground for rich, famous and beautiful Turks — as well the millions of tourists that touchdown each summer. Its sparkling marina, whitewashed houses and laid-back vibe has been immortalised in countless songs since it boomed from a small fishing village into a busy resort. The metamorphosis began in the 1960s, when Istanbul’s writers and artists began using it as their bolthole — and it’s still known as “little Istanbul” due to the number of city-dwellers with second homes there. The town itself, while still lovely, has become rather commercialised in recent decades, with huge hotels blighting parts of the area. However, the atmosphere is more chi-chi on the other side of town; the wealth gathers around the yacht harbour, and you’ll find the real glamour that Bodrum is renowned for out in the far reaches of the peninsula, where a dramatic coastline hosts hidden cove beaches and secret islets are dotted with detox retreats, designer bars and luxury hotels.

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Spend a day wandering through the maze of alleys that make up Bodrum’s old town, once the place where artisans sold their wares, and now where souvenir shops and fish restaurants will try and tempt you inside. It’s easy to forget that you’re so close to the sea when you’re deep in the town’s web of shaded passageways — expect to be suddenly reminded with a glimpse of a bolt of blue through a gap in the buildings. The town’s main landmark is the Castle of St Peter, built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century, on the site of an even older castle. A visit will teach you about the history of this long-contested corner of the world; during the Ottoman era its chapel was converted into a mosque with an added minaret. Make time too for the adjoining underwater archaeology museum — it’s stuffed with ancient shipwrecks discovered in the Aegean.

A day trip by boat will whisk you to Catal island, a mile off the coast at the end of the Bodrum peninsula. Climb to the top of one of the three hills that give it its name — “fork island” — for panoramic views over the mainland.

Where to stay

Planning to bed down in town? Stick to the area around the marina — it’s made up of tempting boutique hotels in traditional Bodrum houses. For low-cost package holiday, try the near by Gumbet district for all-inclusives as well as a lively strip of clubs and bars. Families will be better served in Bitez , which is less frenetic and has great water sports on offer. Turgutreis, a 30-minute drive from Bodrum, is another good base — it’s relaxed and secluded, with a large population of British expats.

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For the famed Bodrum glamour, try Yalikavak and Turkbuku: two of the most exclusive parts of the peninsula. A landmark in the former is the ruins of three of the distinctive stone windmills that this part of Turkey is famous for, while its marina is crammed with glitzy restaurants. Gumusluk has more of a bohemian artistic vibe and hosts an annual music festival.

Food and drink

With this region being a magnet for the international jetset, it’s only befitting that it’s home to some of Turkey’s finest restaurants, serving Turkish and global cuisine with plenty of pizzazz.

Palmarina in Yalikavak is the place to head for an upmarket meal where you can guess the costs of the mega-yachts as you tuck in. Local dishes have a heavy Greek flavour, unsurprising given its location — the island of Kos is visible on a clear day and can be reached in 45 minutes by boat . Expect lots of fresh grilled vegetables drizzled in olive oil, yoghurt dips and fish. Desserts are a less healthy affair, but there are a few regional specialities worth the calories. Sarayli — the dessert “of the palace” — is as rich as you would expect, a baklava-esque concoction of flaky pastry, honey and nuts, but with the addition of sherbet stuffing. Katmer offers the same mouth-watering combination of flavours, but comes assembled as flat pockets. Both can be served with kaymak, a type of clotted cream that is also sublime when combined with honey at the end of a Turkish breakfast.

There are several international festivals in Bodrum, and the biggest is for ballet, held in July and August, followed by a Baroque festival in September. Both use the town’s best features as venues — you could watch a show at Bodrum Castle or the amphitheatre of the ancient city of Halicarnassus. There are also a number of other dance and music festivals throughout the year, and a biennale to appease art lovers.

Head to the Zeki Muren Arts Museum to be introduced to modern Turkish music. It’s dedicated to Muren, a singer who unites every Turk, and whose vocals are the soundtrack to most evenings spent in traditional Turkish mezze restaurants. When Muren died in 1996, he left all his assets to Turkish educational charities, and in return they turned his house into this museum, replete with a bronze statue of him, microphone in hand.

Know before you go

The local currency is the lira, and international cards are accepted everywhere. If you choose self-catered accommodation, familiarise yourself with Migros, Turkey’s answer to Tesco, for affordable picnic supplies. Be prepared to bargain at Bodrum’s bazaars; vendors expect a stiff negotiation with every sale.

This part of Turkey is extremely liberal, bar the fact that topless sunbathing is illegal, and you can wear anything unless you want to enter a mosque (opt for something that goes over the knees and bring a jacket to cover your shoulders). Don’t be tempted to take home any relics you might come across — it’s a crime to do so, and Brits have been landed in prison for it. If you do find anything old-looking, hand it in to the authorities. Be careful when driving; the roads are narrow and winding around the coast, and Turks like to drive fast.

Take me there

Inspired to visit Bodrum but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from Tui and Jet2 Holidays .

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Visiting the Bodrum Peninsula of Turkey

As well as the town centre, many small surrounding coastal villages make up the large peninsula that has a strong reputation in the sailing and yachting industry, so much so, Turkish or international celebrities often jet in for a relaxing break.

My first visit was in 2002 while on a training course to be a holiday rep. At that time, I was more interested in trying to adapt to my new life overseas, than local landmarks or travel info.

Now, my reping days are far from over, and since I live just up the coastline, Bodrum is within easy travelling distance for me at all times, hence numerous visits over the years. The diversity of the region means it is impossible to sum it up in one sentence or pick the best place to stay because people’s preferences also vary. I could be cliché and call all of it, the ideal Aegean retreat but that is a whimsy description.

Instead, it would be better to describe each area of the peninsula and give some further reading resources into bloggers, writers and photographers that each portray their unique perception of the region. Before that, let’s get formalities out of the way and discuss the basics travel details.

Visiting the Bodrum Peninsula of Turkey : Basic Travel Info

Getting There

If you are travelling from other areas within Turkey, the nationwide bus transport network is cheap and comfortable for long journeys that will eventually end in the town centre Otogar (bus) station. Otherwise, Bodrum airport has domestic and international terminals and from there, most places are within a short drive, possibly another reason why it is so popular.

Accommodation and Hotels

My friend Eljay Dickens runs painting holidays on the Bodrum peninsula, and she has renovated a traditional old stone Greek cottage, that I will always use when visiting. It is a homely retreat, but for the typical hotels, booking.com often does a marvellous job of bringing up the best prices including budget B&BS or more luxurious hotels like the Five Star Kempinski. Before booking, check out this website for priceline discount codes on hotels.

Getting Around

The small dolmus buses are cheap and frequent, especially during summer, but having said that I think the Bodrum peninsula is a great place for car hire and one of the easiest places in Turkey to drive . Local car hire suppliers often come up with marvellous deals but ask for a diesel car because petrol is expensive. Otherwise, yellow-metered taxis can be called to your hotel or picked up from taxi ranks on the corners of most busy streets.

Restaurants and Eating Out

Any regular reader will spot the lack of restaurant reviews on here as it is something I’m loathed to do unless I return to the place time after time. I have recommended restaurants before, and they have then changed hands and with it, the food and service normally take a dive into the depths of a kitchen from hell. So for restaurant recommendations for each area of Bodrum, check out the Bodrum Peninsula Travel Guide instead.

Basic History of Bodrum: What You Need to Know

Exiled to Bodrum in 1925, for his written work that disregarded the current political thoughts of that time, he fell in love with the area, hiring local fishermen to take him sailing and exploring. Documenting his travels, his friends from intellectual circles joined him on the cruises and a bohemian era was born. Eventually, the sponge diving villages of the Bodrum peninsula found themselves with a new source of income and most turned their trade to tourism or sailing.

For that reason, It is hard not to pay homage to the way Bodrum developed itself and most people while in the area hit the open sea, whether it is on a one-day trip departing from the harbours, or cabin or private charter on a traditional Turkish gulet boat. Some Blue Voyage companies also operate cruises that include the Greek Islands in the itinerary.

Areas of Bodrum Peninsula to Visit

Bodrum Town Centre

Having been modernised more than once, Bodrum town centre has every facility and amenity you could want. Everything is on your doorstep. I have fond memories of a fantastic night at the marina restaurant but I never made it to Halicarnassus that is the most famous nightclub this side of Istanbul , because there were too many bars in between.

I didn’t enjoy bar street, which is one long strip of bars, mostly playing the latest western dance music because looking around at the other customers, I felt  old, but I did enjoy wandering the cobbled streets of the old town. If partying is your priority on holiday, then the town centre is where you should stay.

Top tourist attractions are the 15 th century Saint Peters Castle sitting at the end of the harbour and the Underwater Museum of Archaeology displaying uncovered shipwrecks and their artefacts, including the famous Uluburun shipwreck dating from the Bronze Age. Discovered 6 miles off the coastline of Kas on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, more than 22,000 dives were needed to bring it up piece by piece to the surface.

Yalikavak: My Favourite Place

This small town boasts of a sandy beach, gorgeous sunsets, a new marina, one of the best weekly markets, the old town part, and harbour front restaurants serving delicious fish and seafood. The large stone windmill on the harbour front is the local landmark and possibly, thanks to the laidback vibes, Yalikavak is also a popular place for British expats.

This article details my first visit there but the town has changed drastically since then and now includes the Palmarina, which has elevated the town’s status in social circles. Catering for the millionaire yacht owners, it is all about money, luxury and the best upmarket brand names. Don’t let this deter you if you are a budget traveller, though, because the old part still caters for middle-stream tourism.

As the neighbouring resort of Yalikavak, and another contender for the best sunset view, Turgutreis is another favourite haunt of the Brits, hence, the restaurant images that are geared up for British favourites such as breakfast and Sunday dinner. For me, it is pretty much a carbon copy of Yalikavak, with its sandy beach, harbour front, and marina.

As one of the quieter places in Bodrum attracting windsurfers, I’ve visited twice; opting to stay overnight the last time and it is not something I would do again. The beach is long and sandy and it is a nice, quiet village yet for me, it lacked vibes and atmosphere.

It is as if the village just exists. Other than to see the beach or windsurf, there is no reason to go but on the outskirts, I enjoyed visiting Victorias Club , that is a horse ranch with Shetland ponies, its own restaurant, pool and sunbathing facilities.

Gumusluk: I Love You

Despite its small size, Gumusluk is one of my favourite places in Bodrum. Well known throughout the country for its Rabbit Island and seaside fish restaurants, it is not unheard of for rich Istanbulites to pay excessively for quality fish dishes and wine.

While the restaurants are pricey, their seaside position, cool summer evenings with fires on the beach are a favourite memory of mine. Limon Cafe set further back from the coastline was also an awesome place to drink, simply because it has amazing views of the coastline and countryside.

On the outskirts of Yalikavak town centre, I visited the old part of Gokcebel that really is laid back and only had one shop selling the basic items. As mentioned before, I stayed in the old stone cottage and because of this; it felt like I was living in the village, instead of holidaying there. Havva Hanim’s is a popular haunt with Turks at the weekends because of her traditional village breakfast consisting mostly of home-grown ingredients.

Why anyone would stay overnight here is beyond me but apparently there is a large timeshare complex nearby and some golf courses. Other than that, Turks head there in the summer evenings for the fish restaurants. It is a quiet  area with good restaurants but it completely lacks welcoming vibes and things to do . Scenic views are the most you will get here.

Other Places To Visit on the Bodrum Peninsula

Gumbet is one of the more popular holiday resorts that has a mixed reputation. Some say it is a vile place resembling little Britain while others like it. The small town of Torba always wins high reviews, as does Bitez . Golturkbuku is probably always going to be out of my budget since it is a rich man’s resort and this is reflected in prices of hotels. Ortakent and Gundogan are two other lesser-known places of Bodrum. These places are still on my bucket list, so for more info on these areas, head over to this travel Guide website instead .

Further Reading Resources

My friend Eljay Dickens is the resident expert for the Gökçebel and Yalikavak region. She also runs rather awesome painting holidays of which I attended last year and had a fantastic time, even though I am a novice. Her website called Turkish Painting Holidays is here .

Roving Jay who lives permanently in the Gumusluk region runs a brilliant website called the Bodrum Peninsula Travel Guide , giving great information on restaurants, bars, beaches, and things to do. She also put all her knowledge into a book called the Bodrum Peninsula travel guide that is available on Amazon here

For a bit of nostalgia and reflection, Annie runs the Back to Bodrum Blog . In 1982, she lived in Bodrum before going back to the UK but in 2012, made the move to live here permanently. She says…

“Thirty years have passed and Bodrum has changed. There are plenty of very good blogs detailing the ex-pat journey through modern Turkey. The aim of this one is to catch sight of past Turkey through my experience of re-settling in modern Bodrum.”

For a comical read containing part fiction and part fact, check out Jack Scott’s books about expat life on the Bodrum Peninsula . Filled with hilarious tales of life in Turkey for foreigners, they are a good read whether you plan to come here or not.

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BODRUM TRAVEL GUIDE

25 things to do in bodrum, turkey.

On the western coast of Turkey is Bodrum, a port city that is very popular with tourists. It is a center of museums, cultural festivals, and seaside activities—but most importantly, Bodrum has some of the best beach resorts that are popular with sunseekers. The official language of the city is Turkish; Turkish Lira is the  official currency of Bodrum an the rest of Turkey.

The hottest month in Bodrum is July, where temperatures reach 83°F (29°C). The coldest is in January, where the temperatures are at around 53°F (12°C). The precipitation is low in the summer but higher in the winter, with a peak in December of over 100 mm.

PLACES TO SEE IN BODRUM

Castle of st. peter - bodrum castle.

Bodrum Castle was finished in the late 15th century and is a pinnacle of the port city of Bodrum’s attractions. After being empty during the world wars, in the 60s it was turned into a museum called the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Not only will you enjoy the beauty and history of the castle, but the 360 degrees views are also what make the castle a treasure.

BODRUM MUSEUM OF UNDERWATER ARCHAEOLOGY

The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology showcases artifacts found in the waters around Bodrum, which is a popular area for diving. It is located inside Bodrum Castle—perfect for a romantic afternoon. Since the 1950s, this museum has shown off many artifacts such as coins and jewelry. It has also won many prestigious awards throughout the years, including the “European Museum of the Year”.

ZEKI MUREN ARTS MUSEUM

Zeki Muren was a popular Turkish artist, and his estate still is maintained in Bodrum. In fact, it was turned into a museum in 2000. It displays not only his various paintings but also his wide array of costumes. It is open from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, except on Mondays.

BODRUM AMPHITHEATER

This amphitheater from ancient Greece still exists today, and still works! You can watch performances in the ancient arena or imagine how life must have been like in the ancient Greek city of Halicarnassus—which is where Bodrum lies today.

PEDASA ANTIQUE CENTER

This peaceful area is a bit outside of Bodrum, but the area around it is beautiful. You can hike up to this area or take a guided tour. When you are at the ruins, you can marvel at the great scope of the area or just relax and enjoy the nature of Turkey.

MILTA BODRUM MARINA

One of the most elite marinas in the area, the Milta Bodrum Marina lies in the center of the city near the Bodrum castle. Here, you can watch the boats dock, enjoy its many high-end restaurants, or just watch daily Turkish life.

AQUAPRO DIVE CENTER

Created in 1997 to facilitate the wide amount of diving in the city, Aquapro is excellent for obtaining the equipment you need to experience diving in the beautiful waters around Bodrum. The city of Bodrum has over 20 official dive sites on its coast.

BARDAKCI COVE

This area is popular with tourists for swimming. It has golden sands and clear waters. It is near a few hotels and there is a ferry that patrols the waters if you would like to have a first-hand view of the shore from a boat.

BODRUM MARITIME MUSEUM

If you love the ocean, then you’ll love Bodrum. But you will also love its maritime museum, which has hundreds of seashells, lots of diving equipment, around 50 boat models, and many sea sponges. It is perfect for diving enthusiasts or ocean lovers.

MAUSOLEUM OF HALICARNASSUS

Finished in 350 BC, this tomb was built for a noble of the Persian Empire. It is very vast and was called one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. It is perfect for those interested in history or for those who just want to see something beautiful.

KARNAS VINEYARDS

Around 25 minutes outside of Bodrum, this vineyard is very popular with couples who want to enjoy the scenery and have some wine and cheese. It hosts wine tastings and tours of the orchards— a trip to Turkey isn’t complete without some Turkish wine!

BEST BEACHES IN AND AROUND BODRUM

Ortakent beach.

This beach is lined with boutiques and hotels—it is a very chic area. There are many areas to lounge around on the sand as well as swim in the waters. There are also many jetties and docks for boating.

BITEZ BEACH

The view at Bitez Beach is incredible, as are the restaurants you can find there. It has many showers and dressing areas around the beach. It is not exactly a luxury beach, but perfect for bringing a family or to just shop around.

GUMBET BEACH

This beach is quite long and lined with the usual shops and restaurants. The sea is gentle and water sports and very popular at this location. The sand here is also very clean.

CAMEL BEACH

This is a popular beach for tourists who are visiting Bodrum. The sea is salty and a nice, warm temperature. This beach also includes umbrellas, beach beds, and even camels you can ride.

The waters here are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The water is crystal clear with calm waves. Stunning views are a staple of this location, make sure to bring a swimsuit so you can experience the clear waters.

DAY TRIPS FROM BODRUM

Yalikavak marina.

This marina is quite beautiful, but also a little expensive and outside of Bodrum. There, you can find restaurants and shops with high-end glass and marble decorating them. Luxury yachts and shops line the marina, creating a fancy but pricey atmosphere. If you can spare some time for it—it is one of the most beautiful spots in your trip to Turkey.

This day trip to Pamukkale includes lunch and beautiful views of Turkey’s natural geological wonders. The ruins of Hierapolis can be seen as well as calcium pools and modern thermal pools. These ruins include ancient markets and theaters. This trip is perfect for those who are interested in history or anyone who just wants to do something new and interesting about their day.

DAY TRIP TO ISTANBUL

You can take a day trip to Istanbul , one of the biggest cities in Turkey. There you can see many cultural centers, such as the old sultan’s palace, museums, and bazaars. The transportation is included and all reasonably priced. Why not see more of Turkey while you’re already there?

WHERE TO SHOP IN BODRUM

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BODRUM BAZAAR

From 9 am to 12:30 pm and 1 pm to 5 pm, the Bodrum Bazaar is open to tourists and Turkish alike. Here you can find hotels, restaurants, and many merchants and stores. Find clothes, spices, and many other Turkish products.

MIDTOWN SHOPPING MALL IN ORTAKENT

10 AM to midnight, the Midtown Shopping Mall is open for business to all in Bodrum. It has everything you could ever want—from pharmacies to shops to markets to cafes to restaurants to even barbershops, and sports shops.

The Oasis Mall is open from 10 am to 10 pm, every day. A wide variety of stores can be found here, like drugstores, clothing, makeup stores, and supermarkets. It is worth a stop to see a glimpse of daily Turkish life.

WHERE TO STAY IN BODRUM

5 Star: The Marmara Bodrum ($181 a night)

4 Star: Marina Vista Hotel Bodrum ($93 a night)

3 Star: Hotel Gulec ($42 a night)

RESTAURANTS & TRADITIONAL FOOD IN BODRUM

RESTAURANTS SERVING TRADITIONAL FOOD IN BODRUM

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Sugar and Salt : Open from 10 am to midnight every day, this restaurant is quite cozy with a wide Turkish food selection. The menu is both in Turkish and English, so don’t worry about not being able to communicate with the staff, which is a family operation.

Windmill Restaurant : This location is open from 9 am every day. Aside from its great view of the area, this restaurant also provides highly rated dishes and service.

Musto : Open from 8 am to 1 am, this restaurant serves traditional Turkish foods in a location near the sea. It is not exactly a tourist spot, so expect reasonable prices and real Turkish foods.

BODRUM LOCAL FOODS

Ayran : This traditional Turkish beverage will cool you down on a hot day. It is a cold yogurt drink that can come with mint, carbonation, and cucumbers.

Gozleme : This breaded pocket is filled with vegetables, goat cheese, spices, and other ingredients. It is similar to a breakfast crepe but with a Turkish flair.

Dolmas : Eaten either cold or warm, these grape leaves are stuffed with rice, meat, and other seasonings. It can be served with a lemon or yogurt sauce.

TRANSPORTATION IN BODRUM

Airport : The Milas-Bodrum Airport serves the Bodrum area. It is the eighth busiest airport in Turkey and accepts international flights making it ideal to enter the country from another.

Buses : Bodrum’s main bus terminal lies in the center of the town, where it is serviced by many companies. There is also a large minibus network to transport passengers within the city. The airport also has an airport shuttle by Havas bus.

Taxis : Bodrum has many taxi networks, such as Gumbet Taxi, Merkez Taksi, and Bodrum Taksi.

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Bodrum Travel Guide

Bodrum, where time flies, laughter echoes & memories are made.

Bodrum, a coastal gem on the southwest shores of Turkiye, beckons with its sapphire waters, sun soaked days, and vibrant nightlife. As the breeze carries the scent of the sea, you'll find yourself immersed in the laid back charm of this captivating destination.

With its blend of history, modern luxury, and natural beauty, bodrum promises a journey unlike any other. discover the allure of bodrum, where every moment shines with warmth and wonder., bodrum the ancient city of halikarnassos is an aegean town and it is generally known with its sea, sand and sun themed summer holidays but it actually has a history of thousands of years. therefore, it is one of the important centers of gastronomy and cultural tourism., bodrum is seen as a peaceful getaway for four seasons. it has a texture which you can be by yourself when you want and you can join the crowd if you want. with these aspects, it appeals to different people., it is possible to experience a millionaire fantasy and on the other hand you can find humble aegean people in the same peninsula. there is also a bodrum where you can take bicycle tours in the narrow cobblestone streets. there is also the possibility to have a different vacation for children with aquapark or white houses for those who seek for peace., bodrum will always hug you with parties which singles or even partners can enjoy their time till the morning or start the new day by swimming with the first lights of the morning..

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BODRUM TRAVEL GUIDE, PLACES TO VISIT IN BODRUM

• Places to Visit

Bodrum is Turkey’s most important tourism centre known all over the world. Although the Bodrum district of Muğla is usually referred to with sea, sand and sun themed summer holidays, it actually has thousands of years of history and contains an important historical value, so Bodrum is very rich in terms of places to visit.

In addition, the cuisine of the district, which we can define as an Aegean town, is also very rich. Bodrum is one of the important destinations not only for sea, sand and sun-themed holidays, but also for gastronomy and cultural tourism. Unfortunately, most of the visitors coming to the district leave without fully discovering Bodrum. However, there are many things to do and of course to see in Bodrum.

This is exactly why we have prepared our Bodrum Travel Guide for places to visit in Bodrum, which by we hope to ensure that you do not miss anything when you come to Bodrum.

HOW TO GET TO BODRUM?

When to go to bodrum, bodrum bar street, bodrum castle, halicarnassus mausoleum, zeki muren art museum, bodrum maritime museum, historical windmills, places to visit in gumusluk, places to visit in gumbet, places to visit in yalikavak , places to visit in turgutreis, what to eat in bodrum, visit bodrum with a professional tour: ibex adventure club.

There is an international airport in Bodrum, Milas – Bodrum Airport. The distance from the airport to Bodrum is 36 kilometres and it takes 35-40 minutes to drive from the airport to the centre of Bodrum. There are direct flights to Bodrum from many cities of Turkey and the world. It is also possible to go to the district by road, there are buses going to Bodrum from almost every city in Turkey.

In addition to these, ferry services are also organized from Datca, the popular district of Muğla, to Bodrum in summer months. As it is very close to many Greek islands you can reach Bodrum by ferry from some Greek islands, especially Kos. There are different transportation options in Bodrum, too. Our Bodrum Transpo rtation Guide article has been carefully prepared to answer your questions.

If you think that Bodrum is beautiful only in the summer months, you would be wrong because the district is very pleasant throughout the year, which you will agree with when you read our Bodrum Weather Guide article. When you ask those who live in Bodrum and those who come here often about the best time to see Bodrum’s attractions, the most popular answer you’ll get will be the spring. The district is magnificent in the full sense of the word in spring and autumn.

As we mentioned at the beginning of our article, there are many historical places in the district and it can be tiring to visit these places on days when the weather is very hot, so if your purpose of coming to Bodrum is to fully explore this district with thousands of years of history, it is best to choose the spring or autumn months. For sea-sand and sun-themed holidays, of course, the summer months are the most suitable period.

PLACES TO VISIT IN BODRUM

Among the most important elements that make the district attractive are the places to visit.  For this very reason, it is best to program the duration of your Bodrum trips in such a way that you can visit all of these places. If you are interested in historical places, we recommend you to read our Bodrum Historical Places article. Considering that you have a short holiday, we wanted to list the places you should see first…

If you walk a few minutes down from the Bodrum minibus terminal, you will find yourself in the heart of Bodrum. Street to your left goes to the famous Bodrum Bar Street, and the one on the right goes to Neyzen Tevfik Caddesi, where there are quality fish restaurants and different venues, and then to the marina.

Our recommendation is to first turn left and discover the liveliest street of Bodrum, and its its souvenir shops and then move to the Bar Street, which is full of entertainment venues. Although this street is the first to come to mind to visit in Bodrum, do not neglect to enter the back streets. You can visit different shops and quality venues, explore Tekilacılar Sokağı (Tequila Shops Street), which is a side street in Bars Street. Tekilacılar Street is just as pleasant during the day even though it has a different atmosphere in the evenings.

If you are going to spend most of your holiday in the centre, you should read our Bodrum Centre Guide article where we detailed everywhere step by step. 

The first place in the list of places to visit in Bodrum is of course Bodrum Castle, which is the symbol of the district. Built by the Knights of Saint John between 1406 and 1523, the castle is almost completely preserved. There are sections such as the English Tower, the French Tower and the dungeons in the castle.

The Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum inside the castle is considered one of the few museums in the world in its field. Let’s not forget that you will need to spare a day to visit the centre of the town and every corner of the castle. You should definitely read our Bodrum Castle article, which briefly tells the history and importance of Bodrum Castle.

The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, which is overlooked by most people who come to the district, is actually one of the most important historical places that Bodrum hosts, as it is considered among the seven wonders of the ancient world. Therefore, it is one of the most important places to visit in Bodrum. The mausoleum is on Turgutreis Street, which is very close to Bodrum bus station, and can be visited every day, except Mondays.

The mausoleum was built in memory of King Mausolos by his sister Artemisia, who was his wife at the same time. Many parts of the mausoleum, which was one of the largest tombs at the time it was built, are unfortunately exhibited in the British Museum in England. But of course, this does not change the fact that you should leave Bodrum without seeing the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Our Halicarnassus Mausoleum article will give you detailed information about this mausoleum.

The fact that the “Sun of Art” Zeki Müren settled here played a major role in the popularization of Bodrum. The house where the legendary artist lived in Bodrum was converted into a museum shortly after his death and became one of the most visited spots in Bodrum. Items such as Zeki Müren’s clothes and awards are exhibited in the museum. It is also possible to see the artist’s car in the garden. Zeki Müren Art Museum is also in the Kumbahçe District in Bodrum city centre. You can reach the museum by taking a pleasant walk through the Bar Street. This museum is closed on Mondays.

The museum, which was opened in 2011, exhibits faithful models of the “Bodrum type” boats, which have an important place in the economic, social and cultural life of the region. In the special section on the upper floor of the museum, “Hasan Güleşçi Seashells Collection “, created by Hasan Güleşçi, is presented to visitors since December 23, 2011. The collection, which was collected them from various parts of the world over a period of approximately 40 years, is very valuable and rich (about 6,000 seashells belonging to 168 families).”.

In the “Cevat Sakir Kabaagacli Collection” section, Kabaagacli’s life is exhibited, starting with his family tree, his infancy, his life with special photographs selected from his family album, historical documents, his writings, paintings and personal belongings. You should definitely take some time to visit this beautiful museum located in the centre of Bodrum. Also yo might like our Fisherman of Halicarnassus atricle…

Windmills, one of the symbols of Bodrum, are located on Bardakçı Hill. Bodrum is one of the most romantic places to visit. By climbing the hill, you can see the historical windmills and take lots of photos. It is very pleasant to watch the sunset from here, but don’t forget to take your drinks with you to make this romantic atmosphere even more beautiful as there are no shops near the windmills. One side of the hill overlooks Bodrum centre and the other side overlooks Gumbet, the view here is incredibly beautiful. You may also like our Places to See at Bardakci Bay article…

Among the places to visit in Bodrum, Gumusluk has a different place for almost everyone. There are many fish restaurants on the coast of Gumusluk, one of the most popular villages of the district, and it is a wonderful experience to enjoy raki and fish in these restaurants.

We recommend that you read our article on Bodrum Fish Restaurants before going to fish restaurants in Gumusluk. There are also a few bars in the village and there is a historical church called Eklisia where art events are held. Minibuses depart from Bodrum centre to Gumusluk and the journey takes about 45 minutes. Among the places to visit in Bodrum, Gumusluk is a location you should not miss, definitely take a day off to spend your time in Gumusluk during your holiday. You can also get more detailed information about the town by reading our Gumusluk Travel Guide article.

Gumbet, which is 10 minutes away from Bodrum centre by car, is also known as “little England” because Gumbet is flooded by the British in the summer months. Gumbet, which also has a street of bars, has countless entertainment venues for all tastes. There are nightclubs such as Pasha, Sebastian and Posh Club on the bar street that stretch both to the right and to the left, as well as disco-like venues, such as X Bar, mostly preferred by the British.

Gumbet, which also has a long coastline, is a perfect option for those who like crazy entertainment after swimming in the sea, eating and drinking at the beach venues. We should also add, the sea of ​​the last part of the Gumbet beach is very shallow, making it recommendable for families with children. We recommend you to read our Gumbet Travel Guide article before going to Gumbet.

Yalikavak, one of the most preferred resorts of Bodrum, is very popular thanks to Yalikavak Marina, which is among the most modern and luxurious marinas of our country. Its beaches, luxury hotels, entertainment venues, clean sea and of course famous windmills attract thousands of people every year.

Yalıkavak Marina is home to many shops and restaurants, as well as hosting luxury yachts throughout the year. If you are planning to spend your summer vacation in Yalikavak, you can find all the information about the town in our Yalıkavak Travel Guide article.

Turgutreis, which is a town as developed as the centre of Bodrum, maybe even more than its centre, is also one of the crowded spots of the district in winter. The presence of one of the most modern marinas of our country in Turgutreis, which attracts tourists during the summer months as well as the resident population, plays an important role in making the town much more popular.

There is a beautiful park in the town that you cannot see even in big cities; Sevket Sabanci Park. You will not be able to say no to breakfast or a dinner at Mavi Park Restaurant in the park, which is located right next to the sea and the park is on the coastline with a beautiful walking and cycling path. If you are planning to spend your holiday in this popular resort, do not pass without reading our Turgutreis Travel Guide article.

Experienced travellers taste local delicacies wherever they go, and Bodrum is very rich in terms of local delicacies. We think that there is no one who has not heard of the legendary tastes of Aegean cuisine, and Bodrum is a place where you can taste the best examples of Aegean cuisine. There are many eating and drinking places in the district and local foods are also served in these places. It is also needless to say that Bodrum’s breakfast places have levelled up in terms of breakfast.

If your preference is to go to the tavern (meyhane), the taverns street in the city centre is just for you. As the name suggests, there are many taverns on Meyhaneler Sokagi, and these places offer delicious tastes, especially local fish and seafood. Seafood such as fish, octopus, squid and cuttlefish are served fresh. Speaking of cuttle fish, we suggest you try the cuttle fish with ink, which the locals of Bodrum call “garali subye”.

Bodrum cuisine is also famous for its herbs. Many magnificent herbs such as wild radish, mustard greens, sea beans, wild asparagus, sorrel are indispensable for Bodrum tables. These herbs are generally consumed as salads, and you can taste appetizers made from these herbs in taverns. Don’t miss the stuffed zucchini flower, which is the unique dish of Aegean cuisine. We briefly mentioned what to eat in Bodrum in our Bodrum travel guide, but if you haven’t read it yet, we recommend you to read our What to Eat in Bodrum article.

HOW IS THE NIGHTLIFE IN BODRUM?

If Bodrum is a world-renowned holiday destination that attracts tens of thousands of local and foreign tourists every year, one of the most important reasons for this is the legendary nightlife of the district. The bar street in the city centre you can find bars, discos, live music venues, in short, everything you expect for nightlife. Our Best Bars of Bodrum article will be a very good guide for you.

Bodrum has a lot to offer in terms of places to visit, especially entertainment venues are a subject of a separate article. The first choice of rock music lovers is Korfez Bar, which has been serving at the same place and even with the same staff for years. In the summer months, Kule Rock City, very close to Korfez Bar, is almost too crowded to go inside.

The first place that comes to mind when it comes to live music is Mavi Bar, which has been serving in the same place for years. You can watch great live music performances in Mavi Bar, which is a small and shabby place. You may have thought of Halikarnas Disco, but Halikarnas Disco is no more, so if you are looking for disco-style entertainment, it is more reasonable to go to Gumbet, where the disco entertainment continues until the morning in many places.

Ibex Adventure Club organizes many tours in and around Bodrum. So much so that after joining a tour with Ibex Adventure Club, even those who claim to know Bodrum well will realize they do not know it well enough.

In the pleasant tours organized by Deniz Kılıç, the founder of Ibex Adventure Club, and led by their experienced guides, you will discover not only popular places, but also an unknown Bodrum.

Our advice to you is to call Ibex Adventure Club and register for a Bodrum tour plan before you schedule your Bodrum holiday, as you may have difficulty finding a place during the holiday season. But don’t worry, Ibex Adventure Club organizes tours for 12 months of the year.

You can use the contact information below to get more information from Ibex Adventure Club.

Ibex Adventure Club www.ibextravel.com.tr www.instagram.com/ibexadventureclub Phone : +90 252 317 00 06

Bodrum is definitely one of the best destinations for those who want to experience a holiday and travel experience to the fullest, and it invites you to visit with all these features.

We hope our article on places to visit in Bodrum has provided you with an idea before visiting Bodrum. Bodrum is not only rich in historical places to visit, but also rich in entertainment venues and, of course, beautiful beaches. If you want to explore these beaches, we invite you to read our article Bodrum’s Most Beautiful Beaches .

Before finishing our article, we would like to invite you to our Facebook group called; Bodrum Travel Tips. This community’s purpose is to share your Bodrum holiday experiences or ask other users for recommendations about Bodrum. Help the guests coming to Bodrum from both, abroad and domestically, by giving advices, suggesting places, sharing and providing information about places to visit.

We wish you a happy holiday…

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Bodrum travel guide 2024: best beaches, bays and nightlife.

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Fascinating Bodrum Attractions: AT Jewel on the Aegean Coast

Explore Bodrum with our comprehensive 2024 travel guide , the ultimate source for enjoying Bodrum's most beautiful beaches and bays, luxury hotels, and lively nightlife. Whether you're in search of tranquil waters , first-class accommodations, or vibrant evening entertainment, Bodrum consistently promises an unforgettable experience. Our guide highlights Bodrum's sunny shores and dynamic nightclubs , each carefully selected to enhance your stay in this Aegean gem . From the haunting ruins of ancient Halicarnassus to the soothing sounds of waves at the marina, and the narrow streets adorned with vibrant bougainvillea and quaint cafes, every corner of this enchanting town is imbued with tales of yore and modern allure waiting to be discovered. Pack your bags, buckle up, and join us on an exciting journey to explore Bodrum's diverse attractions in a captivating manner, unveiling its secrets and basking in its lively charm!

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TOP Things to do in Bodrum 2024

Bodrum: Best Place For Summer Elite Voyage

Gümbet: Blissful Beginnings in a Lively Haven: Discover Gümbet, a mere 3km from Bodrum’s heart, where blue flag beaches and a vibrant nightlife converge to create an idyllic honeymoon destination, effortlessly mingling leisure with an exuberant atmosphere, all accessible via a short minibus journey.

Yalıkavak & Its Posh Marina: Culinary and Historical Enchantment: Immerse yourself in Yalıkavak, a haven for seafood enthusiasts and history buffs, 18 km from central Bodrum, featuring luxurious marinas, splendid fish restaurants, and a marketplace renowned for its organic fare, embraced by a rich cultural tapestry from various civilizations.

Turgutreis & D-Marin Turgutreis: A Serene Maritime Symphony: Explore Turgutreis , a tranquil western Bodrum Peninsula getaway, ideal for a calm retreat, featuring Turgutreis Beach and the extensive D-Marin Turgutreis, while being a cooler respite, thanks to its open structure to the western winds, facilitating serene, pine-forested holidays.

Gümüşlük: A Harmonious Fusion of Tranquility and Tradition: Bask in the peaceful charm of Gümüşlük , where traditional Aegean architecture , leisurely beach escapades, and enchanting handicraft bazaars coalesce to offer a serene retreat, enriched by proximity to vibrant neighboring towns.

Bitez: A Quintessential Bodrum Experience : Stroll through Bitez, embodying the spirit of Bodrum with its charming boutique hotels and renowned ice-cream parlors, set against an idyllic backdrop of pristine beaches, offering a day-long entertainment at lively beach clubs and Aegean excursions.

Gündoğan: A Tranquil Encounter with Historical Allure: Unveil the quiet elegance of Gündoğan, a northern Bodrum sanctuary , where sandy beaches meet lush tangerine gardens and quality accommodations, offering opportunities for historical tours, nature walks, and cycling expeditions around the captivating Gündoğan Bay.

Akyarlar: A Diver's Utopia and Water Sport Haven : Delve into the aquatic delights of Akyarlar, a southern Bodrum jewel 22 kilometers from the city center, offering bounteous opportunities for water sports enthusiasts amidst its many secluded bays, while simultaneously catering to leisure-seekers with its thriving tourism facilities and proximity to notable beaches and entertainment venues.

Güvercinlik: Serenity Meets Culinary Delight: Experience the authentic charm of Güvercinlik, where peaceful shores entwine with the rich flavors of traditional seafood cuisine, presenting a tranquil yet delightful retreat close to the bustling Bodrum.

Bodrum Deep Blue Beaches

Bodrum Gastronomic Symphony: An Ode to the Flavors of the Aegean Sea

Karaincir Beach: A Tranquil Escape into Aquamarine Serenity: Refresh and rejuvenate at Karaincir Beach, a haven known for its unusually cool, crystal-clear waters, even amidst the peak of summer. Set against a vibrant backdrop of lively beach clubs and elegant boutique hotels, this family-friendly beach provides a leisurely escape from the bustling world beyond.

Bodrum Sunset Beach: A Kaleidoscope of Nature’s Vibrant Display: Surrender to the mesmerizing allure of Sunset Beach , renowned as one of Turkey's premium spots to witness breathtaking sunsets. This intimate beach presents a vivid spectrum of colors at dusk, providing a romantic backdrop for evening strolls and quietly contemplative moments beside the Aegean Sea.

Bardakçı Bay: A Hidden Gem Amidst Aegean Blues: Discover the tucked-away tranquility of Bardakçı Bay, a picturesque enclave nestled between Bodrum and Gümbet. Recognized for its quintessential Bodrum architecture , inviting beach clubs, and succulent seafood offerings, this bay is a serene refuge amidst the lively rhythms of neighboring locales.

Ortakent Yahşi: The Subtle Charm of Historic Tranquility: Ortakent Yahşi bestows a serene escape within reach of Bodrum's lively spirit, presenting a quaint town teeming with historical buildings , nestled amidst lush citrus orchards and the tranquil blue-flagged Yahşi Beach.

Bodrum Bazaar: A Palette of Cultural Vibrancy: Dive into the dynamic pulse of Bodrum Bazaar, where the richness of local craftsmanship, traditional artifacts, and vibrant street life form a colorful tapestry of engaging shopping and cultural exploration.

Camel Beach: Adventure Amidst Bodrum’s Sandy Stretches: Experience an unparalleled coastal escapade at Camel Beach, where the unique tradition of camel wrestling transforms into delightful beach safaris , surrounded by exquisite sand and a plethora of exciting water activities.

The Generosity of Nature and Bodrum Paradise

Bodrum Bodrum Beaches & Bays

Bodrum Cennet Bay: An Enchanting Rendezvous of Verdant and Azure: Escape into the exquisite blend of pine-kissed edges and crystalline waters at Bodrum Cennet Bay , a mere 20 kilometers from Bodrum's. This untouched haven, renowned for its scuba diving experiences amidst various fish species, welcomes travelers into its natural allure, ensuring a serene, tropical escape with mindful eco-conscious guidelines.

Bodrum Aquarium Bay: Navigating through an Underwater Spectrum : Submerge yourself in the vividness of Bodrum Aquarium Bay, a nautical spectacle of vibrant marine life nestled amidst pine forests and terraced landscapes. Offering tranquility away from the bustling crowds, it invites visitors to immerse in its aquarium-like sea, via regular boat and yacht tours from Bodrum Marina, and to explore the Aegean's underwater bounty intimately.

Aspat Bay: A Pristine Eden of Turquoise and Greenery : Located within the confines of lush forests and safeguarded as a 1st Degree protected area, Aspat Bay offers a surreal experience of untouched nature. With its fine sandy beaches embraced by palm and fruit trees, as well as its healing water sources, it provides a wholesome retreat, allowing visitors to unwind amid its verdant serenity, exploring the vibrant underwater world at leisure.

Torba Beach: A Celestial Blue-Fringed Escape : Gracing the Torbalı District, a mere 10-minute drive from central Bodrum, Torba Beach emerges as a distinct destination, having garnered 7 blue flag awards. Not only is it an idyllic haven for swimming amidst its azure depths but also a safe coastal experience for families, enveloped by nature's symphony and accessible facilities that accentuate a leisurely day by the Aegean.

Meteor Bay and Beach: An Awe-Inspiring Cradle of Nature: Meteor Bay introduces travelers to one of Turkey’s most unique landscapes, bringing together lush pine forests and turquoise waters within a genuine meteor pit, close to Bodrum's heart. Offering opportunities to bask in the Aegean and relish in the therapeutic qualities of the caves’ hot springs, this unspoiled bay ensures a day immersed in nature’s uncharted splendor.

Rabbit Island: A Whimsical Encounter with Historical and Natural Wonders : Tavşan Island, easily accessible from Gümüşlük coast, invites families into a playful adventure along the ancient King's Road. Beyond frolicking with the adorable resident rabbits, the island unveils panoramic v iews of Gümüşlük Bay and hidden treasures from the Ancient City of Myndos, all while offering crystal-clear waters for a serene swim amidst nature.

Black Island: Nurturing Wellness Amidst Green and Blue : Karaada, Bodrum’s largest island, merges luxuriant greenery with deep blue, establishing itself as a pivotal stop for Aegean blue cruises and a popular spot for yacht tourism. Infused with mineral-rich waters, reputedly patronized by Cleopatra herself, and serving as a therapeutic aquascape, the island invites travelers to indulge in its clarity and tranquility through numerous boats departing from Bodrum Marina.

Bodrum Beaches: The Attraction Center of the Summer Months

Places to visit in Bodrum

Myndos Gate & The Ancient City of Myndos: Explore Timeless Echoes Uncover a world where history breathes through the mighty Myndos Gate and the ancient city itself. Walk amidst colossal towers and robust walls that have witnessed civilizations unfold and unravel, creating a historical spectacle like no other.

Bodrum Aquapark: Dive into Aquatic Adventures, Immerse yourself in a watery wonderland at Bodrum Aquapark, where gargantuan slides, playful wave pools, and numerous aquatic attractions promise boundless fun and adrenaline for families and adventure-seekers alike.

Dibeklihan Culture and Art Village: Indulge in Artistic Realms Journey through Dibeklihan Culture and Art Village, a vibrant cradle of artistry and cultural endeavours. Unearth exquisite artworks, participate in interactive workshops, and relish Aegean culinary delights, all whilst immersed in an inspiring and creatively rich environment.

Etrim Village : Weave Through Generations , Step into Etrim Village, a global hub for hand-woven carpets, where timeless crafting techniques entwine with modern designs. Experience the meticulous artistry of master weavers and savor authentic, freshly-prepared Aegean breakfasts in a quaint, traditional setting.

Bodrum Tuzla Bird Sanctuary: Fly Through Nature’s Ballet Allow the Bodrum Tuzla Bird Sanctuary to enthrall you with its magnificent array of bird species, especially the enigmatic pink flamingos. Witness the harmonious dance of nature in a serene setting, providing solace and awe-inspiring moments for nature lovers.

Leleg Road: Trekking Through Aegean Tales- Embark on an adventure along Leleg Road, where 85 kilometers of meticulously marked trails meander through ancient cities and remnants of civilizations past. It’s not just a trek, but a walk through tales told by Ottoman edifices, aqueducts, and robust ancient walls.

Yalıkavak King Tombs: Whispers of Ancestral Elegance, Mesmerizing journey through the Yalıkavak Rock Tombs, also revered as the Panormus Rock Tombs. Dated back to the 7th century BC, these eternally elegant structures serve not just as a historical spectacle but also an open-air museum, opening a window to the rich tapestries of Sandima, Caria, Lydia, and Lycian periods.

Mazıköy: A Hidden Gastronomic Paradise Amidst Nature, Nestled between Hurma Bay and Çakıllıyalı Bay, Mazıköy unfolds as a tranquil haven, even amidst the bustling summer months. Renowned for its under-plane-tree village breakfasts and local delicacies crafted with organic olive oil, this serene spot offers a delightful escape for the gourmets seeking culinary treasures amidst nature’s embrace.

Gerenkuyu Bay : Chilly Waters and Pebbled Shores Await, Gerenkuyu Bay presents a mesmerizing blend of crisp, ever-chilly waters and fine pebble beaches, enveloped by luscious pine trees and inviting recreational spaces. Whether it's a barbecue under the open sky, a serene walk along the shores, or a tented day amid captivating bay views, this spot assures cherished moments.

Usuluk Bay Nature Park: Escape into the wilderness of Usuluk Bay Nature Park, where 14 hectares of lush greenery, red pines, Mediterranean maquis, and olive trees become your secluded retreat. Amidst the flora and fauna, find tranquility and an opportunity to walk, cycle, and swim in secluded bays, away from the bustling tourist spots.

Karakaya Village: Discover the enchanting aura of Karakaya Village , perched at 450 meters and harboring secrets from the 14th century. The 700-year-old stone houses, hidden amid lush foliage and offering panoramic views of Gümüşlük Bay, provide a blend of history, mystery, and mesmerizing visual treats for explorers and photographers alike.

Explore Bodrum’s Vibrant Nightlife

Discovering never ends in Bodrum

Bodrum Venetian Castle: Sentinel of the Aegean: Marvel at the Venetian Castle's imposing stature, rich maritime history, and arresting panoramas as it overlooks the sublime Akyarlar Aspat Bay, providing both scenic and historic allure in equal measure.

Kadıkalesi: A Tranquil Historical Retreat: Embrace the quietude and historical significance of Kadıkalesi, a serene bay nestled between tourist hotspots , where ancient ruins meet peaceful, underdeveloped shores, offering a quaint, timeless escape.

Bargilya Village: Where Ancient Relics Meet Rustic Charm : Step into the untouched beauty of Bargilya Village, an engaging blend of historic ruins and serene rural life, set amid olive groves and offering undisturbed nature experiences from bird watching to organic feasts.

Bağla Bay: The Undiscovered Coastal Jewel: Dive into the serene embrace of Bağla Bay, a developing, secluded paradise where the azure sea and untouched beaches provide a tranquil haven just a stone’s throw from bustling Bodrum.

Adabükü: A Serene Embrace with Nature: Unearth the secluded gem of Adabükü, where forest-fringed villas harmonize with nature, and the pristine beaches of one of the Aegean's most tranquil bays cradle gentle waves and culinary delights.

Pedasa Ancient City: Echoes from Antiquity: Venture into Pedasa , a historic canvas where remnants of the Lelegs civilization offer a tantalizing glimpse into the past, from enigmatic ruins to ancient agricultural landscapes.

Apostolic Church: A Sanctuary Across the Sea: Journey to the Apostolic Church, an architectural and spiritual landmark that beckons from Tavşan Island, weaving together religious reverence and captivating sunset vistas over the Aegean.

Madnasa Ancient City: Mysteries Amidst the Hills: Ascend to Madnasa, an ancient city steeped in mystery and untapped historical wealth, promising exploration and potential discoveries amid its underexplored Leleg ruins, overlooking the vibrant Göltürbükü.

Kumbahçe Beach: A Scenic Symphony of Urban Tranquility: Immerse yourself in the soothing realms of Kumbahçe Beach, where the glistening Aegean waters meet urban conveniences, culminating in a serene beach experience against the majestic backdrop of Bodrum Castle.

Bodrum Ancient Theatre: A Timeless Performance Under the Stars: Step into the timeless allure of Bodrum Ancient Theatre , where the echoes of antiquity meet contemporary performances, delivering an enchanting spectacle amidst the remnants of a bygone era.

Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum: Maritime Mysteries Unveiled: Submerge into the depths of history at the Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum , where maritime secrets of ancient shipwrecks are revealed, narrating tales of yesteryears beneath the Aegean Sea

Orak Island: Navigating Through Nature’s Untouched, Majesty Journey to Orak Island, an untouched paradise set against Kargıcık Bay and renowned for its sickle-shaped silhouette. With its wild olive trees, vibrant underwater caves, and a serene junction where green meets blue, it offers a pristine escape just a 2-hour cruise away from Bodrum town centre.

Sandima Village : A Tranquil Artistic Haven Amidst Ruins , Encounter the serene, almost ethereal realm of Sandima Village , home to a mere two inhabitants and countless stories encapsulated within its 600-year-old abandoned stone structures. This ancient Turkmen village, now an art center led by a resident painter couple, invites you to explore, photograph, and immerse in its quietly profound atmosphere.

Kissebükü Bay: An Unspoiled Harmony of Tranquility and Marine, Life Find yourself at Kissebükü Bay, where the lack of construction and challenging accessibility have preserved its undisturbed charm. With crystal-clear waters revealing a vibrant aquatic world of crabs, octopuses, and stingrays, this peaceful bay stands as Bodrum’s quietest, offering an uncharted escape into nature’s own retreat.

Charming Bodrum Attractions

Bodrum Bar Street: The Pulsating Heart of Nightlife: Dive into the electrifying atmosphere of Bodrum Bar Street, a mecca of vibrant nightlife, where various entertainment venues light up the Aegean nights, offering a contrasting, energetic adventure to the day's serene beach life.

Göltürkbükü: Elegant Harmony of Leisure and Nature: Explore Göltürkbükü , a picturesque jewel of Bodrum, seamlessly combining lush natural landscapes with luxurious beachside living, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in an upscale yet authentically Aegean holiday experience.

Bodrum Castle: An Epochal Sunset Haven: Journey through history at Bodrum Castle, where the grandeur of ancient architecture and enchanting sunset vistas seamlessly blend, offering visitors a portal through time amidst scenic beauty.

Halicarnassus Mausoleum: A Monument Echoing Through Eternity: Marvel at the remnants of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Halicarnassus Mausoleum. Though partially preserved, it silently narrates tales from 353 B.C. and stands as a timeless testament to King Mausolus, amid captivating tales and legends of antiquity.

Bodrum Windmills: Silhouettes Against the Aegean Skyline: The iconic Bodrum Windmills, standing resilient since the 1850s, proffer enchanting panoramic views, especially during the ethereal sunrises and sunsets . Now serving as a timeless backdrop for photographs and quiet reflections, their silhouette forms an integral part of Bodrum’s identity.

Bodrum Maritime Museum: Navigating Through Nautical Heritage: Embark on a journey through B odrum's maritime history at the Bodrum Maritime Museum, where extensive collections tell stories of the Aegean seascape, and exhibit the intricate relationship between the town and its oceanic endeavors, intertwining with regional history and culture.

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Bodrum Travel Guide: Discover the Exquisite Charm of Turkey’s Coastal Jewel

Embark on a mesmerizing journey with this comprehensive Bodrum Travel Guide, designed to unveil the exquisite charm of Turkey’s coastal jewel. Nestled on a peninsula where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, Bodrum promises an alluring blend of historical grandeur, azure seas, and lively cultural scenes. Whether you’re drawn to the majestic Bodrum Castle, eager to sail on a traditional gulet, or looking forward to indulging in the vibrant nightlife, this guide is your gateway to an unforgettable seaside adventure. Step into a world where ancient ruins whisper tales of antiquity, and modern comforts delight the discerning traveler.

Welcome to Bodrum: A Glimpse into the Peninsula’s Allure

At the confluence of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas lies Bodrum, a Turkish peninsula whose charm is as timeless as the azure waters that embrace its shores. This guide invites you to delve into the heart of this coastal jewel, where ancient history meets modern luxury, and serenity intertwines with vibrant energy—a place aptly spotlighted in any comprehensive Bodrum travel guide.

First and foremost, Bodrum captivates with its stunning visual feast. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by whitewashed houses with vibrant bougainvillea accents cascading down hillsides, leading your eyes to the sparkling marina brimming with elegant yachts. The Mediterranean sun bathes this tableau in a warm glow, setting an inviting stage for your exploration.

Here are some highlights you can expect from Bodrum:

• Historic Roots : The peninsula’s heritage is profound, punctuated by monumental relics like the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• Culinary Delights : Bodrum’s palate sings with Aegean flavors. Savor seafood fresh from the sea and meze platters that will entice any food lover.
• Artistic Flair : A burgeoning art scene showcases both traditional Turkish crafts and contemporary art, breathings creative life into the locale.

This Bodrum travel guide will be your companion as you unfold the mosaic of experiences on offer. From the pulsating rhythm of its nightlife to the tranquil beauty of its hidden coves, Bodrum lays out a carpet of diverse encounters. So, pack your bags and prepare for the allure of this stunning peninsula, and let’s embark on a journey that promises both relaxation and adventure in equal measure. Bodrum awaits—to dazzle, to enchant, and to linger in your memories long after you’ve departed its sunny embrace.

Exploring Bodrum Castle and the Underwater Archaeology Museum

Visiting Bodrum wouldn’t be complete without diving into its rich history and the Bodrum Castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter, stands as a sentinel to this past. This historic fortress now houses one of the most fascinating attractions in the city—the Underwater Archaeology Museum.

The castle, built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century, overlooks the sparkling Aegean Sea and promises a journey back in time. As an integral part of any Bodrum travel guide, the structure’s towering walls and robust towers offer not only a testament to medieval engineering but also panoramic views of the city and sea—a perfect backdrop for stunning photos.

Inside the castle lies the Underwater Archaeology Museum , a treasure trove for marine history enthusiasts. Here’s what you can expect to find:

• Shipwreck Exhibits : Marvel at ancient shipwrecks salvaged from the Aegean floor, complete with their cargoes, providing a unique glimpse into commerce and trade in ancient times.
• Glass Hall : Explore the Glass Hall section where you’ll witness the evolution of glasswork, from simple vessels to intricate pieces of art.
• Amphora Collection : Gaze at the extensive amphora collection, which showcases these historic containers used for transporting liquids across the seas.

As part of the Bodrum travel guide, it’s worth noting that the museum also features special exhibits focusing on underwater excavations and the intricate processes involved in the recovery of underwater artifacts.

Combine history with stellar sea views as you wander through the castle’s windy pathways and learn about Bodrum’s strategic importance through the ages. And don’t miss out on the chance to interact with the displays using the latest technology to enhance your experience.

While in Bodrum, the visit to the castle and the Underwater Archaeology Museum is more than just a historical tour; it’s an adventure that bridges the gap between past and present, making it a must-see for every traveler.

Remember to check for opening times and ticket prices before your visit, and allocate enough time to fully enjoy everything on offer here. There is no better way to immerse yourself in the history that helped shape this enchanting town than visiting these two iconic landmarks nestled in the heart of Bodrum.

Sailing the Azure Waters: Yacht Tours and Gulet Experiences

One of the most enchanting aspects of a Bodrum travel guide is the opportunity to sail its azure waters. Bodrum is renowned for its yacht tours and traditional Gulet experiences, providing visitors with a taste of the region’s maritime legacy. So, for those who dream of gliding over crystal clear seas, here’s what to expect:

Yacht Tours

Embark on a luxurious yacht tour and witness the splendor of Bodrum’s coast from the best vantage point: the sea itself. Yacht tours range from half-day excursions to multi-day journeys, often including stops at secluded coves, historical sites, and snorkeling spots. Each tour promises:

• Personalized Service : Crewed by professionals, you’re assured a comfortable journey.
• Gourmet Cuisine : Enjoy fresh, local delicacies prepared onboard.
• Scenic Routes : Navigate past stunning landscapes and islands.

Traditional Gulet Experiences

The Gulet, a classic wooden Turkish yacht, offers a more traditional sailing experience. These vessels are perfect for those who seek a serene and intimate connection with the sea. Here’s why a Gulet adventure should be on your itinerary:

• Authentic Charm : Gulets exude a timeless elegance that modern yachts can’t replicate.
• Close-knit Atmosphere : Their size encourages a convivial ambience among guests and crew.
• Cultural Essence : Partake in a sailing tradition that’s deeply rooted in Turkish maritime history.

When planning your seaward adventure, consider the following:

Your Bodrum travel guide is incomplete without partaking in these nautical escapades. Whether you opt for the luxury of a yacht or the authenticity of a Gulet, you’re guaranteed to create lasting memories against the backdrop of Bodrum’s breathtaking coastline. So, let the wind guide your sails, and immerse yourself in the bliss of Bodrum’s maritime heritage.

Bodrum’s Beaches: A Guide to Sun, Sea, and Sand

Escape to the picturesque shores of Bodrum, where the sun embraces the sea in a warm Mediterranean hug. This part of the Bodrum Travel Guide walks you through the best beaches that define the essence of coastal relaxation. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil hideaway or an energetic beach party, Bodrum’s varied coastline offers a spot for every traveler’s taste.

• Gumbet Beach : Known for its lively atmosphere, Gumbet Beach is a hub for water sports and beach bars. The long and sandy shore is perfect for those who desire an active beach day followed by a vibrant nightlife.
• Bitez Beach : Ideal for families and those looking for a more relaxed vibe, Bitez offers a serene beach experience complemented by its charming boardwalk and a line of traditional restaurants.
• Ortakent Beach : Surprisingly less crowded, Ortakent provides ample space to spread out and enjoy the tranquility. Apt for sunbathing and swimming, the crystal-clear waters are a refreshing retreat.
• Turkbuku Beach : Favored by the elite, Turkbuku boasts upscale beach clubs and exclusive spots for sunbathing. It’s where glamour and the seaside charm blend seamlessly.

To help you compare and choose your perfect beach destination, here’s a quick snapshot:

Each of these beaches has its unique draw, but what they all share in common is the incomparable beauty of the Aegean Sea, which acts as a mesmerizing backdrop to your beach experience. Bodrum Travel Guide suggests visiting at least a couple of these beaches to fully grasp the variety and splendor offered by Bodrum’s coastline. As the sun sets, the golden hues play over the water, promising an unforgettable end to a day spent on the sand and sea.

Discovering Bodrum’s Vibrant Nightlife and Dining Scene

When the sun sets over the turquoise waters, Bodrum transforms into a pulsating hub of dining and entertainment. Our Bodrum Travel Guide wouldn’t be complete without a look at the vivacious nightlife and rich culinary scene this coastal gem has to offer.

The Culinary Delights of Bodrum

Bodrum’s dining scene serves up a delectable blend of traditional Turkish cuisine and international flavors. Here’s what you should not miss:

• Seafood Extravaganza : With its rich marine life, Bodrum’s restaurants boast an array of fresh seafood dishes. From succulent prawns to grilled sea bream, the catch of the day is always a treat.
• Turkish Classics : For a taste of local culture, savor mezes (small dishes) followed by rich kebabs. Don’t forget to indulge in baklava for dessert.
• International Flavors : Bodrum caters to diverse palates, offering everything from Italian to Asian cuisines.

Nightlife: A Symphony of Lights and Sounds

The Bodrum Travel Guide leads nocturnal adventurers to some of the best nightlife spots on the Aegean coast:

• Beach Clubs : By day they are tranquil retreats; by night they turn into vibrant party venues. Join the dance under the stars!
• Chic Bars : Sip on an artfully crafted cocktail while enjoying panoramic views from a hilltop bar.
• Live Music Venues : From traditional Turkish tunes to modern pop hits, live music venues in Bodrum guarantee a night filled with melodies.

Remember, the nightlife in Bodrum can cater to any pace. Whether you’re in for a laid-back evening with a glass of fine wine or a high-energy night out, Bodrum’s after-dark scene is sure to enchant you. Infuse your Turkish getaway with the zest and zeal of Bodrum’s nightlife, an indispensable chapter of any Bodrum Travel Guide. Enjoy the delicious tastes, heartening sounds, and the unforgettable ambiance that only Bodrum can provide.

Historical Treasures: Visiting the Ancient City of Halicarnassus

Delving into the heart of Bodrum’s history, no Bodrum travel guide would be complete without showcasing the ancient city of Halicarnassus. Here, the vestiges of a glorious past stand as a proud testament to the cultural opulence that once graced the area.

• Mausoleum of Halicarnassus : One cannot talk about Halicarnassus without mentioning one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Although only ruins remain today, this site continues to fascinate historians and travelers with its storied past and grandeur that once was.
• Amphitheater : Moreover, the Amphitheater of Bodrum, which dates back to the Hellenistic period, is another must-visit. It beautifully combines nature and history, offering a breathtaking view of the city and the sea. The theater’s excellent state of preservation makes it easy to imagine the spectacles that once entertained crowds of up to 13,000.
• Ancient City Remains : Strolling around the city, you’ll encounter remnants of ancient walls and gates, providing a silent narrative of Halicarnassus’s strategic importance and resilience through the ages.

For history enthusiasts, each visit to these sites is an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Mausolus, Artemisia, and Herodotus, immersing themselves in the city’s ancient legacy.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as exploring these sites often involves a significant amount of walking under the sun. Guided tours are available for those who wish to delve deeper into the history of each site, enriching the experience with expert narratives. A visit to Halicarnassus is a journey back in time and an essential chapter of your Bodrum travel guide, offering a profound understanding of the region’s rich tapestry of history.

Shopping in Bodrum: From Traditional Markets to Modern Boutiques

When it comes to shopping, Bodrum offers a unique blend of traditional charm and contemporary style, perfectly encapsulated in its bustling markets and sleek boutiques. This Bodrum travel guide will help you navigate the best spots for a memorable shopping experience in this Turkish coastal gem. Here’s what to expect:

• Traditional Markets : For a sensory explosion and a peek into the local lifestyle, head to Bodrum’s traditional markets. The Bodrum Friday Market , known locally as ‘Cuma Pazarı’, is the go-to place for fresh produce, spices, textiles, and souvenirs. Bargaining is part of the fun here, so don’t be shy to haggle for the best price.
• Bodrum Bazaar : Located in the heart of the city, the Bodrum Bazaar is a labyrinth of shops selling a variety of goods from leather products to intricate hand-woven carpets. It provides an authentic shopping experience where you can find unique hand-crafted items.
• Modern Boutiques : For a more upscale shopping day, the boutiques along Neyzen Tevfik Street showcase designer labels and luxury goods. This area is particularly known for high-end Turkish brands, offering a modern contrast to the traditional bazaars.
• Oasis Shopping Center : Should the Mediterranean sun become too intense, the Oasis Shopping Center is the perfect indoor retreat featuring a mix of international and local brands, as well as eateries and entertainment options.

When in Bodrum, it’s essential to bring a piece of this enchanting town back home with you. Whether it’s a hand-painted ceramic bowl, a chic leather jacket, or bespoke jewellery, the shopping scene is as diverse as the stunning landscapes that surround it. Use this Bodrum travel guide to reveal the many treasures waiting for you in Bodrum’s shops and markets.

Cultural Festivities: Experiencing Bodrum’s Local Events and Traditions

Bodrum, a city with a history as vibrant as its landscapes, offers not just sun-soaked leisure but also a chance to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of local culture. Any Bodrum travel guide would be incomplete without mentioning its array of cultural festivities that captivate visitors and locals alike.

Firstly, the Bodrum Ballet Festival brings the ancient Amphitheatre to life with mesmerizing performances under the stars. Held annually in late summer, it’s a must-see for any visitor looking to experience Bodrum’s unique blend of history and culture.

In addition, Bodrum’s International Music Festival features an eclectic selection of music that ranges from classical to jazz, gathering musicians from around the globe. This event not only showcases Bodrum’s musical heritage but also its modern cosmopolitan spirit.

For those keen on experiencing traditional events, the Gumusluk International Classical Music Festival is held in a quaint fishing village, offering the chance to enjoy classical melodies in an intimate, enchanting setting.

Moreover, no Bodrum travel guide would be complete without recommending a visit to the local festivities during national holidays. The Republic Day on October 29th , for instance, is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and much fanfare, illuminating the city in a patriotic fervor.

Here’s a quick look at some key cultural events:

• Bodrum Ballet Festival : Dance performances in the historic Amphitheatre
• International Music Festival : A global convergence of musical talent
• Gumusluk Festival : Classical music in a traditional village setting
• Republic Day Celebrations : Patriotic parades and fireworks

When planning your visit, consider timing your trip to coincide with these events for an authentic foray into Bodrum’s cultural heart. Each presents a unique opportunity to create lasting memories and understand the essence of Bodrum beyond its picturesque beaches and cobalt seas.

Practical Tips for Your Bodrum Adventure: Accommodation and Transportation

When embarking on a journey to capture the essence of Bodrum’s charm, some practical knowledge goes a long way. Our Bodrum Travel Guide wouldn’t be complete without key insights into where to stay and how to get around this majestic peninsula.

Accommodation

Finding the perfect place to stay in Bodrum caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets:

• Luxury Resorts : Experience opulence with a sea view, often complete with spas, fine dining, and private beaches.
• Boutique Hotels : For a more intimate setting, these offer unique decor and personalized service.
• Vacation Rentals : Ideal for families or groups, these provide a home-like experience and space to relax.
• Hostels : Budget-friendly and social, hostels are perfect for solo travelers or those looking to meet fellow adventurers.

Transportation

Navigating Bodrum is relatively straightforward, with several options available:

• Rental Cars : Offers the freedom to explore at your own pace. Compare agencies for the best rates.
• Dolmuş: These are local minibusses, cost-effective and cover most of the peninsula.
• Taxis : Available widely, be sure to discuss the fare before starting your journey.
• Boats : Not just for tours, boats can be a picturesque way to hop between coastal areas.

Travel Tip : It’s wise to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak summer months. As for transportation, if you’re planning to discover the surrounding areas extensively, a rental car could be a worthwhile investment.

In our Bodrum Travel Guide, we emphasize not just the sights, but the practical know-how that ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip. Knowledge of the best places to stay and how to navigate the terrain can significantly enhance your Bodrum adventure, allowing you more time to soak in the coastal splendor that greets you at every turn.

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Bodrum Travel Guide Turkey

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Bodrum Map & Destination Index Page

Find your way around turkey's bodrum peninsula:.

Here's a map of Turkey's Bodrum Peninsula to help you get your bearings and navigate the local area

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Brilliant travel website. Thanks for sharing all you know about Bodrum. We’re coming again this year, and each year I check your website for new updates and changes. Thanks for your hard work.

Thanks Malek .. yes the site and travel guide are constantly being updated, so there’s always something new to read about and discover.

Thanks for sharing this great destination page of Bodrum. A great way to find our way around so that we don’t have to get stuck in one place because we don’t know where to go.

Glad you’re finding some inspiration from my content. I love exploring the local area, and am happy to share my discoveries with you.

I enjoy reading your articles. Thanks for showing me all the towns that this area has to offer.

You have very good content on this site. It is very useful.

Thanks this page really makes it easy to find your way around the local area. I always thought that Bodrum was one place, not a collection of other places.

You’re welcome Matt. It used to be a fragmented place with each town and village having it’s own Mayor, but then the area was centralized under Bodrum, and now we have one mayor based in Bodrum, and all towns and villages are part of Bodrum.

Hi Roving Jay – found your blog and love the info provided. You’ve seen a few of my posts on WordPress – https://suemtravels.com . I’ve been to Turkey several times and would like to return in 2021 if possible and spend time hiking the Carian Trail. I plan to purchase books and maps you recommend. In addition to the Bodrum area, I will spend some time in Istanbul – a favorite city. My trips are usually extended, as I’m retired and like staying in each country for as long as a visitor visa allows. Do you have any recommendation sources for small apartment rentals – Istanbul, Bodrum, Datça, Cappadocia, Izmir, etc. I’m traveling solo and am very responsible. Thanks! Sue

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