tour bodrum

Bodrum Daily Tours - From € 15 / day

Private Boat Trip - From € 400 / day

Daily Tour To Ephesus - From € 60 / day

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Bodrum Private Tours

Bodrum Daily Tours

Our contracted professional guides will provide you with a wealth of information about the history, religion, mythology, economy, activities, restaurants, shopping areas and much more

Turkey Shore Excursions

Making sure you have an enjoyable experience that will expand your awareness about Turkey!

I booked 2 transfers and 2 tours for me and my friend (party of two) that came with a driver and a air conditioned car. We went from Selcuk, Ephesus, Pamukkale to Bodrum and Bodrum Hotel to Airport. The driver and guide was really nice, on time, and curteous. Best time in Turkey.

Fantastic service in booking a boat tour to the local beaches. Not hassle or commitment required. The tour operators explained the range of boat cruises available and outline the advantages and disadvantages according to our interests. Will certainly use this company again for future bookings.

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Bodrum Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Bodrum. We've got 61 adventures going to Bodrum, starting from just one day in length, and the longest tour is 22 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the largest number of tour departures.

61 Bodrum tour packages with 75 reviews

Bodrum ↔ Gulf of Gökova | Blue Cruise with Traditional A/C Boats

Turkish Delight - 8 Days

Gulet Cruise, Bodrum – Gulf of Gokova – Bodrum

• Ocean Cruise

7-day Fethiye to Bodrum cruise

• Hiking & Trekking

Turkey: Ancient Cities & Hikes Along the Lycian Way

7-day Bodrum to Fethiye cruise

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Turkish Ring ( 9 days )

Patterns of Turkey - 13 Days

Great tour with excellent tour guides who were enthusiastic about their city and towns. Able to quickly see a lot of cities with few days. The tour host was available 24/7 to answer any questions and to help accommodate your needs.

Turkish Panorama ( 11 days )

Amazing 10 day tour. Got more than what I expected.

3 Days Bodrum City and Gulet Tour From Istanbul

Bodrum ↔ North Greek Dodecanese | Blue Cruise with Admiral Luxury Gulet

• In-depth Cultural

10 Days Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale and Bodrum

The tour was mostly quite good, minus a few hiccups involving transportation. Also, be sure to verify what is proposed in the tour group's brochure with the itinerary which is delivered a few days before the tour commences. I found a problem with the amount of lunches, and I had to manually ask for the extra lunch or two to match with the original brochure. The tour company did amend them, and I'm grateful for their due diligence in correcting that error. One driver, unfortunately, who transported me 2 times alone on separate occasions alone

Wonders of Istanbul and Bodrum - 7 days

Sensual Turkey and Bodrum - by Train - 11 days

Sultan Style Turkey (Luxury Private Tour)

What people love about bodrum tours.

This was an amazing experience and I’m very satisfied with Tour Altinkum. I am in my late 30s and traveled with another female friend who is in her 70s. We had 3 guides during our 2 week trip and 2 out of 3 were excellent. (The not-so-great tour guide was quiet and difficult to keep up with amongst the crowds, but still knowledgeable). The bulk of our trip was with Ali who was very knowledgeable about the history of Turkey and all of the sites we visited. He was fun and we enjoyed having him as our guide. Transportation was comfortable and reliable. The “tour group” changed each day as people would join us for 1 or 2 days. I think the most we had for 1 day was 10 people but usually we had 5-7 people in the group. The hotels were great and all well-located, and we especially liked our hotels in Bodrum and Cappadocia. The included breakfasts (in our hotels) and lunches were good too. They did a good job of planning lunches that allowed us to try a variety of Turkish foods. It was easy enough to reach the tour company during our tour if we had questions. We asked for a few modifications, such as extending our stay in 1 location, which they accommodated. A detailed trip itinerary was provided upon request. Some days had a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, mostly for visiting ruins. But even the streets in Istanbul can be uneven and require a lot of stairs. Also, while I did appreciate that some flights were included vs long drives, there were still 2 days that were very long (leaving at 8am and arriving at the destination at 7pm). However they did a good job of allowing frequent breaks to use the bathroom, get a coffee, etc. I also appreciated that most mornings we started at 9am or later, and most of our days didn’t feel super packed. I’m not a fan of the group tours with 7am start times and 9pm finish times. One recommendation is for the tour company to collect money ahead of time for entrance fees to sites and museums vs paying for it while in Turkey. This would make it easier for both of the tourists and guides, even if it was deducted a week or so before the trip start date to account for the inflation occurring in Turkey. I also think it’d be nice to include the Basilica Cisterns as part of the tour in Istanbul. Overall, it was a fabulous experience and I would recommend Tour Altinkum to others!

The tour was mostly quite good, minus a few hiccups involving transportation. Also, be sure to verify what is proposed in the tour group's brochure with the itinerary which is delivered a few days before the tour commences. I found a problem with the amount of lunches, and I had to manually ask for the extra lunch or two to match with the original brochure. The tour company did amend them, and I'm grateful for their due diligence in correcting that error. One driver, unfortunately, who transported me 2 times alone on separate occasions alone

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• Turkey Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

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Best Time to Visit July-September

Population 136.317

Airports Milas–Bodrum Airport

Best Places to Stay Downtown Bodrum

Bodrum is a well-known city located on the Bodrum Peninsula and one of Turkey’s most charming beach destinations. This hidden treasure attracts a varied population of travelers who enjoy strolling along its long palm-lined waterfront while their elegant yachts crowd the marina.

Expanding west into the Aegean and flanking the Mediterranean, the peninsula has twelve hotel towns and towns along its shores, of which Bodrum is the most famous one and might be one of your top retreats as well. The beautiful village lets you enjoy its seashores, lodgings, and numerous other joys.

The Palmarina is a recently revamped marina that we indeed suggest you visit! Go for a comfortable walk underneath palm trees, be hushed by the forward and backward of the tide, appreciate the yachts docked by the harbor, and submerge yourself in the exciting nightlife that port-side towns enjoy!

Planning a trip to Bodrum soon? Answer this trip planner and get your FREE quotation within 24 hours.

The History

Before arrival, what to eat, tips & etiquette.

In ancient history, Bodrum was called Halicarnassus and has been influential since the 5th century BCE under the Persian Empire’s rule. The city thrived under the control of Mausolus and his wife Artemisia II (who is also his sister) and continued the Hecatomnid dynasty founded by his late father, Hecatomnus.

When Mausolus died in 353 BCE, his widow ordered the construction of a tomb on the magnificent hillside in memory of her late husband. This building is called the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus and is built in a classic Greek style with a roof design reminiscent of Egyptian architecture. Upon completion, it became one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

How to Get There?

From Istanbul, it is a pretty long ride of 692 km (that would take you more than 8 hours), although there are direct flights available from both Istanbul airports and some other cities. Milas–Bodrum Airport (BJV) is a global air terminal that serves Bodrum and Milas’s Turkish towns. The air terminal is arranged 36 km east of the city and 16 km south of Milas.

Therefore, you can either opt for a plane ride if you want to get there quickly or the long route by land if you want to enjoy some roadside attractions.

What to Pack?

To save money on heavy luggage, numerous lodgings offer washers and dryers for clothes. So, it’s an excellent tip to remember that you have the option to wash clothes rather than pack each day for an entire trip.

• Dodge dim attire during summer because the shadings ingest the warmth.
• Cotton and material garments are lightweight and extraordinary for keeping cool even though the last is inclined to wrinkling.
• In the case of visiting in summer, disregard denim. It’s excessively weighty for hot atmospheres.
• To make additional room in your bag, the roll doesn’t overlay.

The summers are sweltering, damp, dehydrated, and clear; the winters are long, chilly, wet, and halfway shady; and it is blustery all year. Throughout the year, the temperature commonly fluctuates from 9°C to 32°C and is seldom beneath 4°C or above 35°C.

The best occasions to visit Bodrum for ideal climate are:

Cooler: April 5 to June 1 Best time for the beach or gulet charter: June 1 – September 15 Least crowded: October 1 to December 9 Off-season: December 9 to late March or April

• Gumusluk, Turkbuku, Ortakent, Torba, and Yalikavak are acclaimed for their fish.
• The focal Bodrum, Gumbet, Bitez, and Yaliciftlik are acclaimed for their meat dishes.
• Golkoy is celebrated for its baklava and cakes.
• Turkbuku is celebrated for its pastry made of green apples plunged in mint alcohol.

The Bodrum Cup

If you are visiting in October, you can enjoy the Bodrum Cup, an amazing international event for classic sailing yachts, at which about 100 vessels sail five legs in 5 days. The best part is, you don’t even have to be a sailor while you can join and be a part of the race and enjoy the other activities in the evenings.

The Nightlife

Bodrum, the old and legendary Halicarnassus, is one of Turkey’s most engaging urban communities with its vibrant nightlife that will please all youngsters. Its clubs are open until sunrise, and its business sectors and bazaars offer a broad scope of items for those looking for that ideal keepsake.

Now, You're Prepared for Visiting Bodrum

On the off chance that you need to astonish your companions or family with an exciting blessing, at that point, this is the city. With clubs, seashore bars, and numerous occasions, Bodrum throughout the late spring season never stops!

To make life easier for you, check out our range of tours that include Bodrum. We’re here to take the pressures off from complicated travel planning, leaving you to enjoy your trip to Turkey to the fullest. We can’t wait to welcome you to Turkey!

Bodrum Tours

Private Blue Cruise on Bodrum-South Dodecanese-Bodrum

Private Blue Cruise on Bodrum-North Dodecanese-Bodrum

Priene, Miletus, and Didyma Tour

Dalyan (Caunos) Boat Tour, Koycegiz & Iztuzu Beach

The First-Timer’s 11 Night Turkey Itinerary

Private Blue Cruise Charter in Bodrum – Fethiye – Gocek

The Ancient Stratonikeia Tour from Kusadasi or Bodrum

Private Blue Cruise from Bodrum to Gokova

Honeymoon Tour Package: Land Tour of Turkey

Where to go next.

If you are looking for a historical expansion after the beach or onboard time, the best possible route would be to start with Didyma, Miletus, and Priene that are on the way to other western Turkey landmarks.

If you are looking for other beach adventures and would like to spice up the trip with some offroad activities, anywhere until Adana to the south should be the next destination!

Situated on a landmass confronting the Greek Island of Kos, Bodrum is a worthy opening stage to lease a sailboat, a private gulet yacht, boat, or clipper and locate the “Turkish Riviera” and the islands of the Dodecanese, exactly where the Aegean and the Mediterranean.

Would like to join the other happy travelers?

• Things to Do Guide
• Top 10 Attractions
• Place to See Guide
• Top 10 Sights
• Best Restaurants
• Shopping Guide
• Best Pubs, Bars & Cafes
• Best Night Clubs
• Best Beaches
• Best Beach Clubs
• Daily Tours & Excursions
• Kids & Family Attractions
• Water Sports
• Outdoor Sports
• Daily Boat Trips
• Dalyan Mud Baths & Iztuzu Beach
• Pamukkale and Hierapolis
• Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary
• Greek Island of Kos
• Bodrum Castle (St. Peter)
• Museum of Underwater Archaeology
• Bodrum Amphitheatre
• Mausoleum of Halicarnassus
• Sightseeing Helicopter Flights

Jeep Safari

• Quad & Buggy Safari

Horse Safari

• Scuba Diving

Water Parks

• Theme Parks
• Boat Trips Master Guide
• Daily Private Boat Rentals
• All Inclusive Boat Trip

Gumbet Boat Trip

• Pirate Boat Trip
• Party Boat Trip
• Blue Cruising Guide
• Yacht & Gulet Charter
• Cabin Charter
• Central Bodrum
• Golturkbuku
• Where to Stay Master Guide
• Bodrum City Center Best Hotels
• Gumbet Best Hotels
• Bitez Best Hotels
• Ortakent Best Hotels
• Akyarlar Best Hotels
• Gumusluk Best Hotels
• Turgutreis Best Hotels
• Yalikavak Best Hotels
• Gundogan Best Hotels
• Turkbuku Best Hotels
• Golturkbuku Best Hotels
• Torba Best Hotels
• Top Rated Hotels
• Top Rated Apartments
• Cheap & Budget Accommodation
• About Bodrum
• Practical Info & Advice
• Holiday Towns & Resorts
• How to Get to Bodrum?
• Bodrum Milas Airport (BJV)
• Bodrum Taxi Guide
• Bodrum Airport Transfers
• Airport to City Center
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• Bodrum to Kos Ferry Tickets
• Property Guide
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Best Bodrum Daily Tours & Excursions: 2024 Prices + Advice

Welcome to Bodrum, a captivating coastal city that offers a gateway to endless possibilities for adventure and exploration. If you’re seeking to make the most of your time in this enchanting destination, look no further than our selection of the best daily tours and excursions from Bodrum. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a lover of natural beauty, we have the perfect experience to make your visit truly extraordinary. Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery and create lifelong memories!

Table of Contents

What to Expect?

If you don’t want to spend your Bodrum holidays at your hotel on a routine day out, participating to daily excursions from Bodrum is a great option to enjoy the stunning landscapes, natural beauties, long stretches of golden sandy beaches, turquoise sea, quiet little bays and charms of Bodrum peninsula. Below you’ll find detailed information about the best Bodrum daily tours and excursions .

Top Selling Bodrum Excursions

Here we only suggest the proven ways and top rated ones with travelers’ comments. You can feel free to book one of the below top selling day tours and excursions from Bodrum.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts

Excursions FAQ

Best daily tours & excursions in bodrum.

All excursions and daily tours in Bodrum here offer great attractions, sights and quality service. You’ll make the most of Bodrum’s attractions, sights and sounds with these excursions and daily tours. You can check out all on our guides, read their itineraries with pictures and decide the one that will best suit your needs.

Sail the Turquoise Waters: Boat Trips and Yacht Charters

Set sail on the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea and embark on a breathtaking boat trip or luxurious yacht charter. Cruise along Bodrum’s stunning coastline, stopping at secluded bays, hidden caves, and picturesque islands. Feel the gentle breeze on your face, bask in the warm sun, and take refreshing dips in the crystal-clear waters. Whether you prefer a relaxing day at sea or an adventurous exploration of marine wonders, our boat trips and yacht charters promise an unforgettable experience.

Daily boat trips along the stunning coastline of the Bodrum peninsula coasts is one of the best things to do in Bodrum . Bodrum coasts are very rich in color with jagged rocks and bright trees, as well as contrasted against the clear, turquoise sea. You’ll definitely experience the beautiful coasts by visiting the various bays by boat.

Bodrum All Inclusive Boat Trip

Bodrum All Inclusive Boat Trip is one of most popular attractions in Bodrum. Being one of the most attended daily boat trips in Bodrum , it is an all inclusive boat tour that offers appetizers, lunch, and unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The boats depart from the pier of Halikarnas port, in Bodrum city center .

Typical Bodrum all inclusive daily boat trip usually starts at 11:00 am. every morning and lasts until around 17:30 pm. in the afternoon. Boats are usually 2-deck boats with a capacity of about 70 people.

More Info & Booking

Gumbet Boat Trip is the second popular boat trip in Bodrum and made from Gumbet pier of the Gumbet resort, to the beautiful surrounding bays, beaches and islands. Gumbet boat trip is all inclusive one and comes with appetizers, lunch, and unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

The boats depart from the pier of Gumbet resort of Bodrum, about 3 km. from Bodrum city center . Typical Gumbet daily boat trip usually starts at 10:30 am. every morning and lasts until around 16:30 pm. in the afternoon. Boats are usually 2-deck boats with a capacity of about 100 people.

Even you have participated to the Bodrum All Inclusive Boat Trip from central Bodrum, we highly recommend Gumbet Boat Trip as the boat route and program is different and you’ll definitely have fun.

Bodrum Party Boat Trip

Bodrum Party Boat Trip is a more fun way to enjoy Bodrum’s beautiful coasts on boat. The party boat trip is an all inclusive one and comes with appetizers, lunch, and unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You’ll have lots of fun with foam party, music and dance on the boat.

The boats depart from the pier of Gumbet resort of Bodrum. Typical party boat trip usually starts at 10:00 am. every morning and lasts until around 17:00 pm. in the afternoon. Boats are usually 2-deck boats with a capacity of about 150 people.

Bodrum Pirate Boat Trip

Bodrum Pirate Boat Trip is a popular one and very ideal for the ones who want to have both sailing and entertainment with a pirate themed boat. Pirate boat trips usually include lunch. Drinks are not included. You’ll enjoy this boat trip with lots of foam party and disco onboard.

The boats depart from the pier of Halikarnas port, in Bodrum city center . Typical Bodrum daily pirate boat trip usually starts at 11:00 am. every morning and lasts until around 17:00 pm. in the afternoon. Boats are usually 2-deck boats with a capacity of about 80 people.

Bodrum Daily Private Boat Rentals

If you choose a private daily boat trip from Bodrum , you’ll have chance to visit the most beautiful bays on the Bodrum peninsula with your friends or family.

The advantage of renting a private boat in Bodrum is that you’ll have the freedom to have the entire boat at your service. You’ll choose when and where to go, swim, relax, etc. You’ll simply sit back and let the captain take you to the most beautiful bays of the Bodrum peninsula.

The private daily boat trips are also very ideal for private parties, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, etc.

Outdoor Sports, Adventure & Nature

For the ones who love outdoor sports and nature activities , there are plenty of alternatives in Bodrum such as 4×4 Off-Road Safari and quad & buggy safari along the Bodrum peninsula, biking, mountain bikes, horse riding, diving, and many more.

Traverse rugged terrains, picturesque villages, and breathtaking landscapes as you delve into the region’s natural wonders. From panoramic mountain views to secluded beaches, each stop will unveil a new facet of Bodrum’s beauty. Feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate off-the-beaten-path trails, and let our experienced guides take you on a journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Jeep Safari is one of most popular outdoor sports activities in Bodrum. You’ll experience and enjoy the travelling on dirt, dust and stone paved roads on a Jeep Safari along the Bodrum peninsula.

Quad & Buggy Safari

Quad & Buggy Safari is also one of most popular outdoor sports activities in Bodrum, that you’ll take as much advantage as possible of the incredible countryside views, village life, surroundings and more along the Bodrum peninsula.

Horse Safari or Horseback Riding is also one of most popular outdoor sports activities in Bodrum. You’ll have a unique experience with this great excursion along with the pine forests accompanied by magnificent views.

Water Sports & Water Activities

For the ones who love water sports and water activities , than Water Parks and Scuba Diving  are the best options.

If you have kids, chances are they won’t be enthusiastic about being dragged around partially broken ancient columns and antiquities from shipwrecks, so treat them to a day out at one of the water parks in Bodrum .

Dive into Underwater Paradise: Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world of Bodrum with our scuba diving and snorkeling excursions. Discover a kaleidoscope of colorful marine life, fascinating rock formations, and hidden treasures beneath the surface. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, our expert guides will ensure a safe and awe-inspiring experience. Dive into crystal-clear waters, snorkel amidst vibrant reefs, and witness the captivating beauty that lies beneath the waves.

Indulge in Tranquility: Turkish Bath and Spa Experiences

Pamper your senses and indulge in relaxation with our Turkish Bath and Spa experiences. Treat yourself to a traditional Turkish bath, where centuries-old rituals will rejuvenate your body and mind. Surrender to the skilled hands of our therapists as they provide invigorating massages and soothing treatments, leaving you feeling renewed and refreshed. Let the tranquil ambiance of our spas transport you to a state of pure bliss, ensuring a harmonious escape from the stresses of everyday life.

Sightseeing Day Trips

You can also take day trips out to many well preserved ancient sites from the tour operators in Bodrum, such as Ephesus, Pamukkale, Dalyan, Milas, Labranda, Iassos, Euromos and Didyma .

The ancient city of Ephesus is 2 hours away from Bodrum and contains the largest and most well preserved collection of ancient Roman ruins in the Aegean.

Sightseeing Helicopter Flights over Bodrum Peninsula

Are you ready for a truly extraordinary adventure in Bodrum?  Imagine soaring high above the stunning Aegean Coast, witnessing breathtaking views of ancient ruins, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque landscapes. With the exclusive sightseeing helicopter flights over Bodrum peninsula, made by authorized travel agents, you can make this dream a reality and embark on an unforgettable journey through the skies.

Step into Ancient Times: Dalyan, Ephesus and Pamukkale Tours

Transport yourself back in time with guided tours to Dalyan, Ephesus and Pamukkale, two remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore the awe-inspiring ruins of Ephesus, where ancient temples, grand theaters, and intricate mosaics paint a vivid picture of the past. Marvel at the surreal terraced pools of Pamukkale, known as the “Cotton Castle,” and soak in the thermal waters that have been revered for centuries. These tours will immerse you in the rich history and captivating beauty of Turkey’s ancient civilizations.

Dalyan Mud Baths & Iztuzu Beach Day Trip from Bodrum

Are you ready for a day of relaxation, ancient history, and natural beauty during your  Bodrum holidays ? Join us on a captivating journey as we take you on a  Dalyan Mud Baths & Iztuzu Beach Day Trip from Bodrum . This unique experience promises to rejuvenate your body, engage your mind, and leave you with lasting memories.

Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary Guided Day Tour from Bodrum

Are you ready to embark on a journey through time? Join an unforgettable  Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary Guided Day Tour from Bodrum . Immerse yourself in the captivating history and awe-inspiring ruins of Ephesus, one of the world’s most remarkable ancient cities. Discover the significance of the House of Virgin Mary and delve into the rich cultural heritage of this extraordinary region.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis Full-Day Tour from Bodrum

Are you ready to embark on a journey to one of Turkey’s most captivating destinations?  Join on a full-day tour from  Bodrum  and explore the breathtaking wonders of  Pamukkale  and  Hierapolis . From the ethereal travertine terraces to the ancient ruins, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe.

• ATTRACTIONS
• ENTERTAINMENT
• HORSE SAFARI
• OFF-ROAD SAFARI
• OUTDOOR SPORT
• QUAD SAFARI
• SCUBA DIVING
• SIGHTSEEING
• WATER SPORT

Related Reading

Bodrum daily private boat rentals (prices with insider advice), sightseeing helicopter flights over bodrum peninsula + best tours, best water parks in bodrum (where what’s inside admissions), bodrum museum of underwater archaeology (tickets, tips).

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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.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Bodrum Town. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

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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Latest stories from Bodrum Town

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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Home » Travel Guides » Turkey » 15 Best Things to Do in Bodrum (Turkey)

15 Best Things to Do in Bodrum (Turkey)

The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was built in what is now the modern resort of Bodrum on the Aegean Sea.

In Medieval times marble and polished stone from that vast monument were reused for a castle by the Knights Hospitaller, and a lot of the masterful sculpture eventually found its way to the British Museum.

There are clues from the city of Halicarnassus all over town, at the theatre, Myndos Gate and the site of that mausoleum.

Bodrum is on a craggy peninsula where bays with clear, glistening waters are sheltered between headlands.

Here you can divide your time between thrilling archaeology and a sun lounger by a shimmering cove.

1. Bodrum Castle (Castle of St Peter)

On a promontory east of Bodrum’s harbour stands Bodrum Castle, built in the beginning of the 15th century by the Knights Hospitaller.

This location has been fortified for more than 3,000 years and is the likely setting for the palace of Mausolus from the 4th century BCE.

One of many absorbing things about this building is that stonework from the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus was recycled for its walls, either turned into dust to make lime, or simply re-used.

The castle was an international project, with its four towers named for the people who built them: German, Italian, French and English.

The castle fell to Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century and became a prison in 1895.

2. Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology

Since the 1960s the castle has hosted a fascinating museum dedicated to the underwater finds made at Ancient, Medieval and Early Modern shipwreck sites around the Turkish Aegean.

This is the largest museum in Turkey devoted to this field, presenting a thrilling hoard of Mycenaean copper ingots and vases, Ancient Egyptian seals, royal Carian jewellery, Roman amphorae, Medieval Islamic glassware, a Spanish four-Real piece from the 16th century and loads more.

These pieces are spread throughout the castle’s historic interior and accompanied by interesting snippets, like for example, a chronology of the development of Amphorae.

The museum also features two reconstructed shipwrecks from the Bronze Age and Medieval period.

3. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

The magnificent tomb that first defined the term “mausoleum” was built in Halicarnassus for the Carian satrap Mausolus (d. 353 BCE). Set on a massive podium, this was a monument of incredible grandeur, 45 metres tall and with reliefs on each facade carved by one of the preeminent Greek 4th-century BCE sculptors, Bryaxis, Leochares, Scopas of Paros and Timotheus.

It was toppled by earthquakes between 1100 and 1400, and was the last of the six ruined wonders of the ancient world to be destroyed.

Most of the marble blocks and polished stone became spolia for Bodrum Castle, but, however modest, the original site of the mausoleum is a humbling place because of what it represents.

Many of the finer sculptures were removed in the 19th century and have ended up in the British Museum, but until they’re returned the surviving reliefs, fluted columns and a stairway give a tantalising glimpse of what came before.

Also here is a small exhibition with a video breaking down the chronology of the mausoleum, amphitheatre and castle.

4. Theatre of Halicarnassus

A couple of streets up from the mausoleum site is the Greek-style theatre, constructed during the reign of Mausolus in the 4th century BCE and later enlarged by the Romans in the 2nd century CE.

Its architect had an eye for the spectacular, as the theatre has a stirring view out to the Aegean from its cavea.

In its heyday this venue could seat around 13,000 people, and enough survives today that it can be used as a stage for cultural events throughout the high season.

You can look at the excavated hillside to see where the cavea continued up the slope.

5. Zeki Müren Arts Museum

The coiffed singer and actor Zeki Müren (1931-1996) is a colossal figure in Turkish popular culture and spent much of his life, especially the last few years, here in Bodrum.

Müren starred in dozens of films and recorded 30+ albums, and his influence is hard to overstate.

After he died, his home on his namesake street in Bodrum was turned into a museum.

Müren had a Liberace-esque taste for the flamboyant, and while there’s lots of stage costumes and photographs to back this up, the home itself is pared-down and gives a touching impression of a man seeking a quiet life.

As for memorabilia there’s lots of jewellery, hi-fi equipment and paintings that he composed, while an English introduction at the entrance will bring you up to speed on Müren’s career.

6. Bodrum Deniz Müzesi (Maritime Museum)

Bodrum has been involved in shipbuilding since antiquity, and the industry was given a boost in the early 19th century when Ottoman warships were launched here.

When demand waned in the middle of 19th century, that shipbuilding knowhow was put to use building three-masted gulets (schooners) for trade, fishing and sponging.

In 2011, Bodrum’s maritime museum moved into the old bazaar building (bedesten) by the castle, and has scores of models for the various wooden boats built in Bodrum.

Much of what you see, including 6,000 shells from around the world, is from the personal collection of Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı (1886-1973), a Crete-born writer, exiled to Bodrum in 1925. He is nicknamed the “Fisherman of Halicarnassus”, and is credited with raising Bodrum’s profile and bringing it to the attention of the Turkish literati in the 20th century.

7. Bitez Beach

While the public beach in Bodrum is more than adequate, if you’re willing to travel a little you’ll come across some outstanding beaches within a few kilometres.

The Blue Flag Bitez Beach is a short way west, and regarded as one of the best on the entire peninsula for families with smaller children.

Shielded to the east by a long headland, Bitez Beach is a scallop-shaped bay with gravelly sand (bring flip-flops) and a big spread of shallow, warm and transparent water.

And like all the touristy beaches around Bodrum, the bay is lined with eateries, many of which rent out sun loungers with the price of a drink or two included, or for free with the price of a meal.

But in spite of all this business, the resort is far quieter than Gümbet and Bodrum around the headland.

8. Ortakent-Yahşi Beach

Some ten kilometres west of Bodrum proper is one of the longest beaches on the peninsula, at the place where two villages, Ortakent (east) and Yahşi (west) have formed a single municipality.

The two ends of the beach have a different character: Yahşi is oriented towards tourism and has restaurants and shops, as well as a jetty for boat excursions, while Ortakent, over the Uludere river inlet is more peaceful and backed by hotels and holiday rentals.

Come the high season, every inch of the crescent-shaped pebble beach will be covered with sun loungers and parasols.

Drinks are normally included in the rental price, and you can cool off wading out into the clear Aegean waters.

There’s also a strip of greenery edging the beach, used by for outdoor seating by bars and restaurants, and occasionally furnished with cabanas and hammocks among the palms.

High on the Bodrum Peninsula’s rugged spine are the ruins of the ancient Carian settlement of Pedasa.

You can hike to Pedasa from Bodrum’s Konacık, and the experience maybe a welcome antidote to resort life, climbing through maquis shrub, and hushed forest under the cover of pines, cedars and larches.

The ample shade means you could attempt this hike on a summer’s morning, if you bring plenty of water.

The evocative ruins at Pedasa are from between the 11th and 6th century BCE, and a recent excavation has brought to light a temple to Athena.

The site is spread across several hill-tops, giving you stunning 360° panoramas of the peninsula and Aegean.

10. Windmills of Bodrum

The Bodrum Peninsula is littered with quaint reminders of a time before tourism, dating back as far as the 1700s.

These windmills are in various states of repair and set high on ridges to catch the breeze.

The most convenient to Bodrum proper is a row of eight, along the peninsula between this resort and neighbouring Gümbet.

Whitewashed, these circular buildings stand out against the blues and browns of the land and sea beyond.

As much as anything the windmills are a vantage point where you can survey the clear turquoise waters of the bays, the sprawl of the resorts and the coniferous hills in all directions.

11. Bodrum Harbour

It’s fascinating to think that vessels have been docking at Bodrum Harbour, tucked snug behind the castle, for upwards of 3000 years.

On the west side of the harbour is the Milta Bodrum Marina, hailed as one of the most prestigious marinas on the Aegean.

This is a Blue Flag facility, with 450 berths, some filled by ostentatious super yachts.

For landlubbers the harbour with its wide quaysides, palms and eucalyptus trees is a prime place to mill around and watch the ferries come and go, particularly in the evening when the sunset are wonderful.

And along the street at the back there’s an unbroken string of restaurants and cafes taking advantage of these views.

The harbour is also where you’ll find those traditional three-masted gulets, built right here in Bodrum.

12. Bardakçı Koyu (Bardakci Cove)

On the east side of the headland with the windmills is a delightful little cove with pool-like waters.

The drawback to Bardakçı Koyu is that there’s no public beach, and you’ll have to pay for a sun lounger belonging to one of the three hotels that crowd the cove (about 50TL or $8.50 in 2020). The good news is that you can get there the scenic way, buy catching a water taxi across the bay from Bodrum Harbour, departing every ten minutes or so.

It’s a fun way to arrive, and when you get there you can swim in sparkling waters with soft sand underfoot and hardly a trace of seaweed.

13. Myndos Gate

The last vestige of the seven-kilometre walls of the Halicarnassus can be found in the west of Bodrum.

These defences were constructed in the 4th century BCE by Mausolus, the satrap of Caria, and the Myndos Gate was one of two monumental entranceways.

Although the stonework on the gate’s two towers is a modern interpretation, there’s a lot of archaeological interest, and vaulted tombs from the Hellenistic and Roman periods have been discovered nearby.

You can make out 50 metres of the surrounding ditch, known to have slowed down Alexander the Great’s capture of the city in 334 BCE.

Around the site are information plaques explaining its historical significance.

14. Midtown Shopping Centre

As a sign of the times, a plush mall has opened in Ortakent under ten kilometres west of Bodrum proper.

On a scorching day you may be ready for an air-conditioned behemoth like this.

At Midtown Shopping Centre are plenty of brands you’d expect from a European high street, like Marks & Spencer, Gap, L’Occitane, Mango, H&M, Yves Rocher and MediaMarkt.

There’s also a giant food court, where you might try out popular Turkish chains like Simit Sarayi, alongside worldwide fast food names like McDonalds, Burger King, Popeyes and Starbucks.

And like most malls, Midtown has a multiplex cinema showing Turkish and international movies, although these tend to be dubbed.

15. Full-Day Orak Island Boat Trip

Orak Island is in the Aegean east of Bodrum, looking back to a long, mostly uninhabited stretch of the peninsula.

You can visit on a day-long cruise through GetYourGuide.com .

After setting sail from Bodrum Harbour in late-morning the cruise will make a stop at the exquisite Red Bay, before dropping anchor at Orak Island Bay, where you can swim and snorkel in shimmering turquoise waters and laze on a white sandy beach.

Lunch is prepared on board and normally involves a fresh salad and grilled chicken.

And after departing the main bay, you’ll make two or three more swimming stops, and enjoy the views of the peninsula in the late afternoon light over a slice of melon and cup of Turkish tea.

15 Best Things to Do in Bodrum (Turkey):

• Bodrum Castle (Castle of St Peter)
• Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology
• Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
• Theatre of Halicarnassus
• Zeki Müren Arts Museum
• Bodrum Deniz Müzesi (Maritime Museum)
• Bitez Beach
• Ortakent-Yahşi Beach
• Windmills of Bodrum
• Bodrum Harbour
• Bardakçı Koyu (Bardakci Cove)
• Myndos Gate
• Midtown Shopping Centre
• Full-Day Orak Island Boat Trip

THE 10 BEST Bodrum City Bus Tours

Bus tours in bodrum city.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Private Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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17. Bodrum's Ancient Wonders: Didyma, Priene and Miletus Adventure

18. Private Ephesus Day Tour From Bodrum

19. From Bodrum: Ephesus, House of Mary, Temple of Artemis w/lunch

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What travelers are saying.

• Food and Wine pairing Dinner at Karnas Vineyards Bodrum
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Virgin Voyages' guide to Bodrum, Turkey

An ancient chrysalis of interwoven cultures.

A remixed melody of traditional echoes

The classic hum in modern bodrum, ancient ephesus & the house of virgin mary, bodrum hills & beautiful views, xuma beach club escape, more shore things for your wishlist..., we have even more in our curated catalog., one of the seven wonders of the ancient world is a mausoleum built for its former persian king.

The word “mausoleum” pays tribute to its entombed ruler — Mausolus.

Shore Excursions

Turkish Cultures

Absorb thousands of years of history in a castle, an archaeology and shipwreck museum, and a nomadic village.

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Set sail the virgin way and find a new approach to cruise vacations. select a cruise itinerary and let's sail., greek island glow.

The glittering and glamorous Greek Isle

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