Bodrum, Turkey - Travel

Tours, Attractions, and Things to Do in Bodrum

Bodrum Travel Guide

The home of one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, Bodrum is a port city in the south-western part of Turkey (officially Türkiye) with a population of over 190 000 people. The city is located on the Bodrum Peninsula and attracts millions of tourists every year.

Due to a unique mix of ancient history and modern influences, there’s always something to do in Bodrum. The city ruins dated thousands of years ago, and the crystal blue water create scenes right out of a fairytale. Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern architecture, underwater wonders, and characteristic boat decks represent what a true beauty Bodrum has become after centuries of trials and tribulations.

On top of being a popular summer resort, Bodrum serves as an arts and water sports haven. The International Bodrum Dance Festivals (Bodrum Uluslararası Dans Festivalleri), Bodrum International Ballet Festival (Uluslararası Bodrum Bale Festivali), Bodrum Jazz Festival, Bodrum Cup annual yacht regatta, and many other annual cultural or sports events take place here.

Bodrum Tours

With its sparkling blue waters and buzzing nightlife, the city captivates thousands of tourists from Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Prepare to be enchanted - the juxtaposition of the gorgeous nature and uniform white houses, as well as the city’s looming landmarks, generates a picture-perfect holiday and makes you fall in love with Bodrum’s charm. There is not a single dull moment here! From the sites of one of the Seven Wonders of the World to the regular ferry tours and golden sand, this city represents Turkey’s rich culture and developing tourism.

Aside from the century-old landmarks and museums, visitors have a wide array of fun water activities they can choose from. Before embarking on your personal, unforgettable journey in southern Turkey, familiarising yourself with the local culture and history will enhance your experience to the maximum.

Best Time to Visit Bodrum

The best time to visit Bodrum is the summer months. The season is at its peak, and if you want to do all the tourist activities, enjoy the nice weather, and meet new people, this is an ideal time of the year. Nevertheless, late spring and early autumn are just as enjoyable here. Things might also be cheaper during this period, so do consider visiting in the low seasons.

History of Bodrum

Bodrum is one of the oldest settlements in modern-day Turkey. However, the original name of the city was quite different from what it is now. It was initially called Halicarnassus, and one of the world’s seven wonders, the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus (Halikarnas Mozolesi), was located there.

The city was established by the Dorian Greeks, and there is a lot of physical evidence proving this theory, particularly in the coins found at the scene. At one point, Halicarnassus, along with five other cities of the region, was a part of the Doric Hexapolis. Famous Halicarnassians include Dionysus of Halicarnassus, Herodotus, and many more.

In his works, Herodotus, also known as The Father of History, mentions that the city was founded in 1000 BC and was originally located where the Bodrum Castle is right now. Furthermore, instead of being on a peninsula, Halicarnassus was an island.

After the Greeks, the Persians took over. The Anatolian region was divided into different satrapies in this era. Mausolus was a satrap who ruled the Carian satrapy from there. After his death, his widow had a mausoleum built for him. It was so grand and beautiful for its time that it became one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Later, the crusaders would build the Castle of Bodrum on its remains.

The Romans and the Byzantines ruled over this city for quite some time, until the Ottomans took over. Eventually, Bodrum became a part of the Republic of Turkey.

It is worth noting that in 1923, during the population exchange between Greece and Turkey, the Greeks who lived in Bodrum moved to and settled on the island of Crete, while the Muslim Turks living there moved to Bodrum. It is said that this exchange made the city less provincial, and in the 1950s, intellectuals like the Cretan Turkish writer Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı started emerging.

What to Do in Bodrum

Landmarks and Attractions in Bodrum

The biggest historical sight in Bodrum is the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus (Halikarnas Mozolesi), which was built around 353-351 BC. Even though the original building was destroyed in an earthquake a few centuries ago, the ruins were utilised by the Knights of St. John (Knights Hospitaller) to build the Castle of Bodrum (Bodrum Kalesi), previously named the Castle of St. Peter, which has been added to the UNESCO tentative list of World Heritage Sites in Turkey.

Once you walk out of the castle, take a stroll along the shoreline to the Bodrum Marina. It is a busy street, filled with local merchants, as well as families and friends enjoying their time on the coast. Indulge in delicious Bodrum food and drinks while taking photos with a picturesque view of the Bodrum Castle.

Myndos Gate (Myndos Kapısı) stands in ruins and serves as a reminder that history cannot be completely erased. The area is filled with gravestones and informative plaques. Additionally, some of the decorative mosaic floors can still be seen on site.

Don’t leave Bodrum without paying a visit to the famous Windmills (Bodrum Yel Değirmeni). They’re close to the city centre and offer a marvellous view day and night. Additionally, the Halicarnassus ancient city walls can be viewed just a few minutes away from there.

Fifteen minutes from the city centre are the ruins of the Pedasa Antique City (Pedasa Antik Kenti), and close to them – the tomb of the Gebe Citadel (Torga Gebe Kilisesi). What makes this structure interesting is its round shape, which is believed to suggest that wealthy people were buried there.

Bodrum’s most significant mosque is situated quite close to the Bodrum Castle. The Kizilhisarli Mustafa Paşa Mosque (Eski Camii, the Old Mosque, as locals call it) was built in 1720 and still stands proudly in the city. Other noteworthy mosques include Merkez Adliye Mosque (Merkez Adliye Camii) and Kumbahce Mosque (Kumbahçe Camii).

Bodrum Museums

The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology (Bodrum Sualtı Arkeoloji Müzesi) is quite a sight. It is located in the previously mentioned Castle of Bodrum, and the exhibits vary from kitchen utensils and fishing equipment to clothing and currency from different eras. You can buy tickets at the office, but keep in mind that different halls have different entrance fees. Additionally, you can buy museum passes like MuseumPass Türkiye and MuseumPass The Aegean, which work at locations managed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Turkey.

Not to be confused with the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, the Bodrum Maritime Museum (Bodrum Deniz Müzesi) is another must-visit place on the list of things to do in Bodrum. Here, visitors can view the plethora of seashells characteristic of the area and other nautical items.

Zeki Müren Arts Museum (Zeki Müren Sanat Müzesi) is a perfect space for people who love music and wish to explore everything related to Zeki Müren, a Turkish singer, songwriter, and actor. On the other hand, Ender Güzey Museum ARThill (ARThill Müzesi) is another niche place for art lovers to enjoy. Here, visitors have a chance to view the works of one of the most influential Turkish artists, Ender Güzey.

The appreciation of art is palpable in the humid air and this perspective highlights the gems of the region. Zai Yaşam living space and Pilevneli art gallery in Bodrum are two additional art spaces that you need to visit. The former functions as a combined art exhibition, library, cafe, and performance space, while the latter contains modern art pieces that are sure to bound and inspire visitors.

Bodrum Theatres

Bodrum isn’t home for many theatres; Yet performances and festivals are actively held there. Bodrum Amphitheatre (Bodrum Antik Tiyatrosu) is one of the oldest structures in the city and is situated at a walking distance from the Myndos Gate. The ancient-style amphitheatre proudly overlooks the sea, and festivals and performances take place here every so often.

Entertainment, Parks, and Shopping in Bodrum

Entertainment

Entertainment in Bodrum is associated with beaches, parks, and live music. Bodrum clubs are usually filled with people until the early hours of the morning. In addition, shopping lovers can find unique items and local produce around town.

With its marvellous coast, Bodrum’s beaches are some of Turkey’s best. Here are some local and tourist favourites:

• Bitez Beach (Bitez Plajı): Among the cleanest and most popular beaches in Bodrum. It has even been awarded a Blue Flag Award for its sustainability. Besides swimming and sunbathing on the beach, you can rent a boat, try horseback riding in the vicinity, and even enjoy your time at the nearby Aquapark.
• Karaincir Public Beach (Karaincir Halk Plajı): Visitors have compared the water here to an aquarium due to its clarity. The sea level is shallow, and, more importantly, the beach is free of charge.
• Camel Beach (Deve Plajı): A pavilion with a crystal-clear shoreline. You will be greeted by actual live camels! The entrance is not free; at the same time, it’s not too crowded there. Compared to other Bodrum beaches, Camel Beach takes up more space and has soft and comfortable sand to walk on.
• Other noteworthy beaches include Bardakçı Bay (Bardakçı Koyu) and Gümbet Beach (Gümbet Sahil).

Parks of Bodrum

It’s not all about the ancient city ruins and blue Aegean Sea in Bodrum. The parks and recreation zones showcase Mother Earth’s true beauty and serenity. Nature lovers will particularly enjoy the small neighbourhood parks that can be accessed by the public. However, there are a few noteworthy recreational zones that need to be highlighted.

Yüksel Çağlar Memorial Forest (Yüksel Çağlar Hatıra Ormanı) is one of the biggest national parks in the area. In the warmer months, you can swim in the clear blue sea that surrounds it, enjoy the fresh air, and even arrange a picnic in the shade of the trees. On the other hand, in the colder months, visitors can visit the nearby farm and sports field or have a BBQ in nature.

Family-friendly options include Bodrum Municipality Umurça Park (Bodrum Belediyesi Umurça Parkı), where children and adults can play various sports or just enjoy the nice fresh air. Furthermore, sunsets look particularly beautiful from the Yalıkavak Viewpoint (Yalıkavak Manzarası).

Shopping in Bodrum

Shopping in Bodrum is a wonderful experience. The local establishments are colourful and sell various items, from clothes to accessories. The town centre around the Bodrum Marina, is especially rich with small, specialised shops. Night bazaars around the Bodrum Castle are also quite popular. It is good to remember that bargaining with local merchants is essential to get a good deal.

One of the city’s most famous street markets is the Bodrum Bazaar. It operates on a schedule, so be sure to check which day it is before you go. On Tuesdays, they sell accessories, fabrics, and clothes, while on Fridays, they sell local produce, such as fruits and vegetables. Therefore, for those looking for fresh ingredients, this is a perfect place to shop.

Besides local stores and markets, Bodrum has a few shopping centres where visitors can purchase items. Oasis Mall (Oasis Bodrum AVM), Midtown Shopping Centre (Midtown Alişveriş Merkezi), and Avenue Bodrum AVM seem to be the crowd favourites. Both locals and tourists can be encountered at these facilities. What you find there is nothing less than what you would expect at any other shopping centre: storeys of stores of local and international brands—clothing, accessories, electronics, food stalls, and cafes.

Food in Bodrum

Turkish Cuisine

Bodrum's gastronomy is quite diverse. From local Turkish specialties to international dishes, you will likely find what you’re looking for. Here are some of the dishes you need to try in Bodrum:

• Seafood: From oysters to red mullet, you will find plenty of variables in local cafes and restaurants. Balık ekmek (grilled fish sandwiches) is a must-try.
• Bodrum Çökertme Kebab: Kebabs are treasures of Turkish cuisine and rightfully so. This dish originated from Bodrum and is made of meat, crispy matchstick potatoes, and garlic yoghurt.
• Bodrum meatballs (Bodrum Köfte): Meatballs are specific to every region of Turkey, and Bodrum is no exception. Local herbs give them a unique flavour and worth a try.

Vegetarian Restaurants

Most restaurants in Bodrum serve dishes made of fresh ingredients. Even though there are no designated vegan or vegetarian establishments, most places are quite accommodating to their customers’ needs.

Must-try vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes include Bodrum Vegetable Döner Kebab as well as vegan/vegetarian variations of Çiğ köfte, made with bulgur and scrambled eggs, respectively.

Coffee Houses, Bakeries, and Patisseries

Turkey prides itself on its coffee and tea. The culture of consuming these beverages is fascinating, especially for those unfamiliar with the country. The scent of freshly brewed coffee permeates the air, making coffee lovers’ mouths water and crave the locally made drink. If you’re running out of time, most shops have a takeaway option, and some can even be accessed via a drive-through. Convenience is of utmost importance in this tourist hub.

Along with French croissants and pains au chocolat, guests can indulge in Turkish desserts. Baklava, Turkish Delight, and Dondurma (Kahramanmaraş dövme dondurması) are all must-try treats, each with a unique taste in every province. Kazandibi is one sweet dish you absolutely have to try! It is a sweet milk pudding that has a caramelised outer layer. Visitors are likewise advised to try Simit, a soft and doughy treat that can be sweet or savoury.

City Transport in Bodrum

Local road infrastructure is quite developed, making the city transport in Bodrum efficient and accessible.

Public Transport

Navigating through the narrow streets of the city is easy with a Dolmuş, a small bus that can fit up to 20 passengers. They’re accessible near most tourist stops and don’t cost all that much. Dolmuşes even run between the cities! It’s not complicated to understand where the bus is going, even when you don’t speak the language, because they typically have the destination plastered on the front of the vehicle. You can pay the fare via a credit card, 2D Muğla Kart, or Kentkart. For more information, you can visit: https://ulasim.muttas.com.tr/ilce/bodrum

Taxis

Taxis are the most convenient option to get around the city if you don’t understand Turkish. It is comfortable in terms of figuring out the schedule, and they can be ordered through mobile applications like Aegean Taxi. The menu is usually available in different languages, including English, Arabic, Russian and many more.

Car Rental

Car rental is a pretty popular service in Bodrum, especially among the tourists. There is a plethora of companies available, with differing policies and rules. It is usually advised to have your valid ID documents with you when you visit the office. Additionally, depending on the driver’s age, some car categories are limited, so be sure to check the information on the company’s website. For instance, Enterprise Rent-A-Car Bodrum Merkez accepts drivers who are at least 21 years of age, while Bumerang Tourism Center accepts drivers above 25 years of age. Depending on the company, the number of years of driving experience will vary.

If you book the car in advance, you can select the airport as a pickup location. Various rental terms are available, so you can choose the one that suits you. Some companies work 24/7, and the majority of them have services available in languages like English, Russian, Arabic, and many more.

Other Modes of Transport

Walking is a perfect way to get around in the city centre. All the important landmarks are in close proximity to each other and don’t require any hiking skills. We highly recommend it to see the true colours of the city. Moreover, travellers can rent a bicycle, a boat, or a Segway to make their journey a lot easier.

How to Get to Bodrum?

Flying is the most convenient way to get to Bodrum. Milas-Bodrum International Airport (BJV) is a 40-minute car ride away from the city centre. The airport has daily flights from the following airlines: SunExpress, Pegasus Airlines, Turkish Airlines, AJet, Ryanair, British Airways, and others.

Seasonal flights to Bodrum Airport depart from all over Europe and Asia, including countries like Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, India, Iran, Poland, and Russia, among others. However, you can also get to Bodrum via domestic fights all year long.

Ferries run from other local resorts, including Greek islands and vice versa. You can book a day trip to Bodrum from Kos, Rhodes, Marmaris, or Datça and enjoy a nice breeze while basking in the sun. Travelling by bus, taxi, and car could be optimal options for some people.

Languages Spoken in Bodrum

Most of the Bodrum residents speak Turkish. Nevertheless, as it is a renowned holiday destination for tourists around the globe, many locals speak English there. This is especially prevalent in the city centre - near the main landmarks of Bodrum. Additionally, some of Bodrum’s residents speak German, as the resort attracts a lot of vacationers from Germany. It is worth noting that visitors will encounter French, Italian, and even Russian speakers. This is a result of the growing popularity of Bodrum in these respective communities.

Private tour guides usually speak several languages other than Turkish; nevertheless, it is still easy to communicate with the city’s residents. A friendly and welcoming attitude makes it easier for visitors to seek assistance from locals, regardless of their proficiency in the local language.

Currency in Bodrum

The official currency throughout Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY). Money exchange kiosks are available at the airport and in the city centre; however, it is advisable to exchange some money in advance to make your stay more comfortable.

You can withdraw money from the ATMs that are available all over the province, especially near the busy tourist areas. It is better to keep some cash on hand since more rural areas are less likely to have modern payment options. Small corner shops and local merchants might prefer cash as well. But shopping centres have more modern payment methods, making transactions easier.

Security in Bodrum

Turkey is a safe country for tourists. Visitors often comment on how secure and welcome they feel walking around the cities, even at night. Bodrum is no exception. The locals are amiable; moreover, the crime rate is quite low.

Police patrols are usually deployed in more crowded areas and create an additional sense of security for the city’s visitors. If you need help for any reason, dial 112, the emergency number for first aid and ambulance services. Officers will respond to your case promptly. Useful contact numbers include:

• Firefighters: 110
• Traffic police: 154
• Police: 155