Bodrum Travel Guide

Often described as the 'Land of Eternal Blue' in homage to its stunning coastline, the popular holiday resort of Bodrum was known as Halicarnassus in ancient times, and is the South Aegean's most attractive resort. The hillside is dotted with painted villas adorned with bougainvillea, and features narrow streets that wind their way down to the sea. The peaceful setting of its twin harbours provides shelter for yachts and adds to the charm of the town.

Bodrum serves as a departure point for local boats offering tailor-made day trips to nearby islands, as well as to the pristine beaches and seaside restaurants along the magnificent coastline. Dominating the town from its position between the two harbours is the 15th-century Crusader Castle of St. Peter, which now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Another major attraction is the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, the crumbling remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

As Turkey's leading seaside holiday destination, Bodrum attracts a large number of foreign visitors during the summer. However, it has managed to retain its Turkish charm, balancing authenticity with tourist comforts. In Bodrum, travellers will find the vibrancy of exotic bazaars, the call of the muezzin and a rich history blending seamlessly with popular water sports, sunbathing and a nightlife scene renowned throughout Turkey.

Shopping

Shopping in Bodrum is a delightful adventure. Numerous shops line the narrow streets that stretch from the bus station down to the marina, where vendors offer a wide range of local goods, from carpets, leatherware and kilims to gold and silver jewellery, and even counterfeit designer clothing. Shoppers should look out for Turkish meerschaum pipes and onyx items as well.

An extensive and colourful craft market operates on Tuesdays, while the fruit and vegetable market takes place on Fridays. Bargaining is a common practice here, and it is customary to haggle down to about half the asking price. Some shops in Bodrum stay open late into the evening, with a few even remaining open all night, making it a lively place for evening shopping.

Restaurants

Warm, sultry evenings in Bodrum are best spent dining on fresh seafood or local specialties at one of the many restaurants. In addition to familiar cuisines such as Italian, Thai, Chinese and Mexican, Bodrum is known for its diverse range of eateries.

Nightlife

Bodrum's nightlife is lively and varied, offering everything from decadent Western-style clubs to more authentic local parties. Visitors can enjoy the atmosphere in meyhanes (traditional Turkish taverns), where locals and travelers alike join in singing, dancing, eating and drinking. Several of these venues are found along the road to Konacik and Ortakent.

Bar Street, stretching for about a mile, is lined with bars offering belly dancing shows, live music and outdoor seating (often on the beach) with views of the illuminated Castle of St. Peter.

Holiday activities

The stunning blue waters of the Aegean that wash over Bodrum's beaches are perfect for a wide range of watersports, from scuba diving to windsurfing and jet skiing. Many local operators offer equipment rentals, excursions and lessons, making it easy to enjoy the aquatic thrills available. For family fun, the town has two waterparks to explore.

For those seeking a break from the beach, hiking is another great option. Local walking clubs offer guided tours, though this is generally avoided during the summer months due to the intense heat. There are many ways to explore the nearby villages, serene bays and historic sites, including the Castle of St. Peter, the Bodrum Amphitheatre and the windmills that dot the landscape.

Exploring the region is easy by car, motorbike, bicycle, or even by boat or hydrofoil. Alternatively, visitors can opt for organised excursions, a jeep safari, or simply hop on a dolmus (shared minibus). One experience not to miss is a visit to a traditional hammam (Turkish bath), complete with a relaxing massage. The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, renowned for its fascinating exhibits such as the famous Uluburun Shipwreck, is also a must-visit.

Any negatives?

While Bodrum's beaches are picturesque, they are often shingled, which may not be to everyone's liking. Along with that, during the height of the summer holiday season, the beaches and streets can become very crowded, particularly in the most tourist-heavy areas. The narrow streets of Bodrum also become congested with tourists throughout the day and night during peak periods.