The 13+1 Top Things to Do in Bodrum Turkey

Bodrum is a popular coastal town located in the Mugla Province of southwestern Turkey. It is situated on the Bodrum Peninsula, which separates the Aegean Sea from the Gulf of Gokova. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich historical heritage, Bodrum attracts tourists from around the world.

Is Bodrum good for a beach holiday?

Yes, Bodrum is a popular destination for a beach holiday. Bodrum offers beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and a Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal spot for sun and sea enthusiasts.

Here are some reasons why Bodrum is a good choice for a beach holiday:

1. Scenic Beaches 

Bodrum is renowned for its stunning beaches. Some popular ones include Gumbet Beach, Bitez Beach, and Yalikavak Beach. These sandy shores offer crystal-clear waters, sunbeds, water sports activities, and beachfront bars.

Gumbet Beach is one of the most popular and vibrant beaches in Bodrum. The beach offers a range of water sports activities, beach clubs, and a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops.

Bitez Beach is known for its calm and shallow waters, making it a great option for families with children. It offers a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere with beachside cafes and restaurants serving delicious seafood.

This picturesque bay is located south of the Bodrum Castle and offers stunning views of the castle and the Bodrum Marina. Bardakçı Bay features a sandy beach with clear turquoise waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Ortakent Yahşi Beach is known for its long stretch of sandy shoreline and shallow waters, making it perfect for families and beachgoers looking for a tranquil setting.

Camel Beach is famous for its unique camel-shaped rock formations. It's a serene and natural beach with relatively calm waters, offering a quieter experience.

Torba is a charming fishing village with a small but beautiful beach. It's an excellent spot for a relaxing day by the sea, away from the crowds.

Yalıkavak is another charming village with a beautiful beach. The beach offers a mix of sandy and pebbly areas and is surrounded by scenic hills.

Gündoğan is a quaint fishing village with a lovely beach, offering a peaceful and secluded atmosphere.

Turgutreis is known for its long sandy beach and vibrant promenade with various restaurants, bars, and shops.

2. Bodrum Day Trips from Kos

If you are already in Kos island and you are interested in exploring Bodrum, book Bodrum Day Trip from Kos !

You will be taken to the bus that will transport you to the Bodrum windmills after you arrive at Bodrum Port via coach. You may take in the breath-taking vista of Bodrum Bay from the summit. The region around these recognisable white windmills gives magnificent views of the shoreline and is a lovely backdrop for photographs.

Visit the Mindos Gate to continue your tour of the historic city of Halicarnassus, also known as Bodrum, which was the site of the deadly fight between Alexander the Great and the Persian Army in 334 BC. This historic site provides a reminder of the city's illustrious history.

The gold centre will be the final stop on your journey, and there you may learn about Turkish jewelry's unique designs. 

The bus will then take you back to the main square. You may spend your free time exploring the charming pubs and shopping bazaars that line the tiny alleyways (lunch is an additional cost). Take a stroll around the yacht and sailboat-lined Bodrum Marina. Take in the lively ambiance, explore the stores, and unwind with a soothing cup of Turkish tea or coffee at one of the riverside cafés.

3. Yachting and Sailing

Bodrum is renowned for its yachting and sailing opportunities. The town is often referred to as the "Saint-Tropez of Turkey" due to its popularity among yacht enthusiasts. Visitors can rent sailboats, catamarans, or traditional Turkish gulets to explore the stunning coastline, secluded bays, and nearby islands. Bodrum hosts several international sailing events, including the Bodrum Cup, a regatta that takes place every October.

Bodrum offers a wide range of yacht charter options, including crewed and bareboat charters. Tourists can rent yachts of various sizes and styles, from luxurious motor yachts to traditional wooden gulets, depending on their preferences and budget.

There are several popular sailing routes around Bodrum that allow sailors to explore the stunning Aegean Sea and its surrounding islands. Popular routes include sailing to the nearby Greek islands, such as Kos and Rhodes, as well as visiting other Turkish destinations like Datça, Marmaris, and Göcek.

Traditional wooden gulets are a popular choice for sailing and cruising along the Bodrum coastline. Gulet cruises offer a unique experience, combining sailing, swimming in secluded coves, and enjoying delicious Turkish cuisine onboard.

The Blue Cruise, also known as the Blue Voyage or Mavi Yolculuk in Turkish, is a popular sailing experience that allows travelers to explore the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts of Turkey on board gulets. These cruises offer a leisurely and relaxing way to experience the region's natural beauty and historical sites.

For those interested in learning how to sail or improve their sailing skills, Bodrum has sailing schools that offer courses for beginners and experienced sailors alike. These schools provide expert guidance and practical training.

Bodrum has several well-equipped marinas that cater to yachts and sailing boats. These marinas offer various services and facilities, including mooring, fueling, water, electricity, and boat maintenance services.

4. Bodrum Water Activities

Bodrum offers a wide range of water activities for visitors to enjoy its beautiful coastal surroundings and the clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Here are some popular water activities you can experience in Bodrum:

1. Swimming: With its numerous beaches, Bodrum is an excellent place for swimming. The beaches offer calm and crystal-clear waters, making it safe and enjoyable for swimmers of all levels.

2. Windsurfing: Bodrum's consistent winds make it a great destination for windsurfing. Many beaches, particularly in Bitez and Akyarlar, are popular among windsurfers. There are also windsurfing schools and equipment rentals available.

3. Kiteboarding: Kiteboarding enthusiasts will find suitable conditions in Bodrum, especially in Gokova Bay and Akyarlar. Lessons and equipment rentals are readily available.

4. Scuba Diving: The Aegean Sea around Bodrum is home to various marine life and underwater landscapes. There are many dive centers offering scuba diving courses for beginners and guided dives for experienced divers. Popular dive sites include underwater caves and sunken wrecks.

5. Snorkeling: If you prefer staying closer to the surface, snorkeling is a great way to explore the underwater world around Bodrum. Many beaches and coves have excellent snorkeling opportunities, and you can rent or bring your own gear.

6. Jet Skiing: You can rent jet skis at many of the beaches in Bodrum, allowing you to speed across the waves and have an adrenaline-pumping experience.

7. Parasailing: Get a bird's-eye view of Bodrum by trying parasailing. You'll be harnessed to a parachute and lifted into the sky while being towed by a speedboat.

8. Fishing: Fishing excursions are available for those who enjoy angling. You can join a fishing trip or rent equipment to fish from the shore or a boat.

9. Sea Kayaking: Explore Bodrum's coastline at your own pace by renting a sea kayak. Paddle through hidden coves and enjoy a more tranquil experience on the water.

10. Paddleboarding: Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a great way to enjoy the calm waters of Bodrum's bays and coves. You can rent paddleboards and explore the coastline at your leisure.

What is Bodrum like for tourists?

5. Bodrum Castle (Castle of St. Peter) 

This medieval fortress is one of the main landmarks of Bodrum. Built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century, the castle now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, displaying artifacts from ancient shipwrecks.The castle is a significant historical and architectural monument, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

The construction of Bodrum Castle began in 1402 under the patronage of the Knights Hospitaller (Knights of St. John) who ruled the region at that time. The castle was built using stones from the ancient city of Halicarnassus, which once stood on the same site. Over the centuries, the castle was further fortified and expanded.

Bodrum Castle exhibits an impressive example of medieval architecture. The castle has massive stone walls, towers, and battlements that reflect the military significance it held during its time. The inner courtyard features various sections, including the main entrance, the English Tower, French Tower, German Tower, and the dungeons.

Today, Bodrum Castle houses the renowned Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which opened in 1964. It is one of the most important museums of its kind in the world. The museum showcases artifacts and relics recovered from shipwrecks dating back to ancient times, including items from the Bronze Age, Hellenistic period, Roman Empire, and more.

The museum offers a captivating journey through maritime history. Visitors can see ancient shipwrecks, amphorae, statues, glassware, and other artifacts retrieved from the sea. One of the highlights is the Uluburun Shipwreck exhibit, which dates back to around 1300 BC and is considered one of the oldest known shipwrecks.

From various vantage points within the castle, visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Bodrum's coastline, marina, and the surrounding areas.

Throughout the year, Bodrum Castle hosts cultural events, concerts, and art exhibitions, making it a lively and dynamic cultural hub in the region.

6. Bodrum Amphitheater 

The Bodrum Amphitheater, also known as the Bodrum Antique Theater, is an ancient amphitheater located in the heart of Bodrum, Turkey. It is one of the well-preserved historical sites in the region and a popular tourist attraction. This ancient theater dates back to the 4th century BC and offers a spectacular view of Bodrum and the Aegean Sea. It is often used as a venue for concerts, theatrical performances, and cultural events.

The Bodrum Amphitheater dates back to the Hellenistic period and was built by the ancient Greeks around the 4th century BC. Later, during the Roman period, the amphitheater underwent renovations and expansions.

The amphitheater is carved into the hillside, providing a magnificent backdrop of the Bodrum Castle and the Aegean Sea. It has a semi-circular shape, typical of ancient Roman theaters, and was constructed using local stone. The theater could accommodate around 13,000 spectators during its prime.

In ancient times, the amphitheater served as a venue for various performances, including theatrical plays, musical events, and gladiator fights. It was an important cultural and entertainment center for the people of ancient Halicarnassus (the ancient name of Bodrum).

The amphitheater's design was carefully planned to achieve excellent acoustics. The use of stone materials and the natural slope of the hillside provided optimal sound projection, allowing performances to be heard clearly throughout the theater.

Over the years, the Bodrum Amphitheater has undergone various restoration efforts to preserve its architectural and historical value. The restoration work has helped to maintain the structure's integrity and allowed visitors to experience the grandeur of the ancient theater.

Today, the Bodrum Amphitheater continues to be a venue for various cultural events, concerts, and performances, especially during the Bodrum International Ballet Festival and the Bodrum Music Festival. These events provide a unique experience, combining modern performances with the historical ambiance of the ancient theater.

7. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

The Bodrum Amphitheater, also known as the Bodrum Antique Theater, is an ancient amphitheater located in the heart of Bodrum, Turkey. Although not fully preserved, this ancient tomb was once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Only fragments remain today, but the site is still worth a visit to learn about its historical significance.

The Bodrum Amphitheater dates back to the Hellenistic period and was built by the ancient Greeks around the 4th century BC. Later, during the Roman period, the amphitheater underwent renovations and expansions.

The amphitheater is carved into the hillside, providing a magnificent backdrop of the Bodrum Castle and the Aegean Sea. It has a semi-circular shape, typical of ancient Roman theaters, and was constructed using local stone. The theater could accommodate around 13,000 spectators during its prime.

In ancient times, the amphitheater served as a venue for various performances, including theatrical plays, musical events, and gladiator fights. It was an important cultural and entertainment center for the people of ancient Halicarnassus (the ancient name of Bodrum).

The amphitheater's design was carefully planned to achieve excellent acoustics. The use of stone materials and the natural slope of the hillside provided optimal sound projection, allowing performances to be heard clearly throughout the theater.

Over the years, the Bodrum Amphitheater has undergone various restoration efforts to preserve its architectural and historical value. The restoration work has helped to maintain the structure's integrity and allowed visitors to experience the grandeur of the ancient theater.

Today, the Bodrum Amphitheater continues to be a venue for various cultural events, concerts, and performances, especially during the Bodrum International Ballet Festival and the Bodrum Music Festival. These events provide a unique experience, combining modern performances with the historical ambiance of the ancient theater.

8. Tourism and Infrastructure 

Bodrum is a major tourist destination in Turkey and has developed a well-established tourism infrastructure. The town offers a wide range of accommodations, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly options. The marina is a hub for boat tours, yachting, and water sports activities. Bodrum also has a modern airport, Milas-Bodrum Airport, which serves domestic and international flights.

Bodrum offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, all-inclusive resorts, budget hotels, and holiday apartments. Visitors can choose from various types of lodging to suit their preferences and budgets.

Bodrum has a vibrant dining scene with numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries serving a variety of cuisines. Local restaurants offer delicious Turkish dishes, including fresh seafood, mezes, kebabs, and traditional desserts.

Bodrum is well-connected by air, road, and sea. The Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV) serves both domestic and international flights, making it easy for tourists to reach the town. Public transportation, taxis, and rental cars are available for getting around within Bodrum and exploring nearby areas.

With its beautiful coastline, Bodrum is famous for its beaches, where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and windsurfing.

Bodrum boasts a rich history, and the town's infrastructure allows tourists to explore its ancient sites easily. In addition to Bodrum Castle and the Bodrum Amphitheater, there are other historical landmarks like the Myndos Gate and the ancient city of Myndos.

Bodrum offers a lively nightlife with numerous bars, nightclubs, and beach clubs. Visitors can enjoy live music, dance, and socialize in a variety of venues.

The town has a bustling shopping scene, with local markets, bazaars, and boutiques selling everything from traditional crafts and souvenirs to designer clothing and accessories.

Bodrum has well-equipped medical facilities and hospitals that cater to the healthcare needs of tourists in case of emergencies.

Tour operators and travel agencies in Bodrum offer various tours and excursions to nearby attractions, islands, and historical sites.

Bodrum has been increasingly focusing on sustainable tourism practices to preserve its natural beauty and cultural heritage while promoting responsible travel and environmental conservation.

Overall, Bodrum's tourism infrastructure provides visitors with a memorable and enjoyable experience, combining its stunning natural landscapes, historical richness, and modern amenities to create a well-rounded tourist destination on the Aegean coast of Turkey.

9. Bodrum Marina

The marina is a lively area where luxury yachts, sailboats, and traditional Turkish wooden gulets are docked. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll, people-watching, and enjoying waterfront cafes and restaurants.

The Bodrum Marina is situated in the town center of Bodrum, making it easily accessible to both tourists and locals. It is located on the southern coast of the Bodrum Peninsula, overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.

The marina is home to a wide variety of yachts, sailboats, and motorboats. It caters to both private yacht owners and charter companies, making it a popular starting point for sailing trips and boat tours around the stunning coastlines and nearby islands.

The marina is lined with a charming waterfront promenade, offering visitors the chance to take leisurely strolls while enjoying views of the sea and the boats docked at the marina.

The marina area is brimming with restaurants, cafes, and bars, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of cuisines, from traditional Turkish dishes to international fare, while soaking in the scenic beauty of the marina.

The marina complex includes boutique shops and stores offering a selection of clothing, accessories, jewelry, and souvenirs. It's a great place for visitors to indulge in some retail therapy.

Throughout the year, the Bodrum Marina hosts various events, festivals, and entertainment programs, adding to the dynamic atmosphere of the area. These events often include cultural performances, live music, and art exhibitions.

The marina provides easy access to a variety of water-based activities, such as boat tours, sailing excursions, fishing trips, and scuba diving.

The Bodrum Marina is a popular spot for watching the sunset. The serene setting and the reflection of the sun on the water create a captivating ambiance.

The marina is equipped with facilities to accommodate international yachts and boats, making it a convenient stopover for sailors and travelers exploring the Mediterranean region.

The Bodrum Marina serves as a hub of activity, combining the beauty of the sea with modern amenities, making it a delightful destination for both maritime enthusiasts and tourists seeking a taste of the vibrant coastal lifestyle of Bodrum, Turkey.

10. Bodrum Market (Bodrum Pazarı) 

This bustling market is a great place to experience the local culture and shop for traditional handicrafts, spices, textiles, and fresh produce. It's a vibrant and colorful atmosphere that shouldn't be missed.

The market is located in the central area of Bodrum, easily accessible on foot from the town center and the Bodrum Marina.

The Bodrum Market typically takes place on Tuesdays and Fridays. These are the main market days when vendors set up their stalls to display and sell their products.

The market is a treasure trove of items, offering a diverse selection of goods. Visitors can find fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and other local produce. Additionally, there are stalls selling textiles, carpets, ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, and traditional Turkish handicrafts.

Bargaining is a common practice at the Bodrum Market. Visitors can negotiate prices with the vendors to get the best deals on their purchases.

The market is an excellent place to sample and purchase local delicacies and food products, such as Turkish delight, dried fruits, nuts, olives, and various spices.

Tourists can find a wide range of souvenirs and mementos to take home as reminders of their trip to Bodrum. These may include keychains, magnets, postcards, and traditional Turkish ornaments.

Visiting the Bodrum Market provides an authentic Turkish shopping experience, immersing visitors in the vibrant local culture and providing insight into the daily life of the people in Bodrum.

In addition to shopping, the market area also offers various food stalls and cafes where visitors can enjoy traditional Turkish dishes and refreshments while taking a break from shopping.

11. Bodrum Windmills

Located on a hill overlooking Bodrum, these windmills are iconic symbols of the town. Originally used for grinding wheat, they now serve as a picturesque backdrop for photos.

There are five windmills in total, standing in a row along the hillside. The windmills are made of stone and were once used to grind grains, primarily wheat, using wind power.

The windmills are believed to date back to the Ottoman era, possibly built in the 18th century or earlier. They were part of the town's agricultural infrastructure, serving as an important tool for processing grain into flour for local use.

The windmills have a traditional cylindrical shape with conical roofs. Each windmill is equipped with wooden sails that would capture the coastal winds to turn the grinding mechanism inside.

One of the main attractions of the Bodrum Windmills is the breathtaking views they offer. From the hilltop where the windmills stand, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Bodrum town, the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, and the picturesque coastline.

While the windmills are no longer in use for their original purpose, they have become a significant tourist attraction, drawing visitors who wish to admire the historical structures and take in the scenic vistas. Efforts have been made to preserve these windmills as part of Bodrum's cultural heritage.

The Bodrum Windmills are a popular spot for photography enthusiasts, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the lighting is ideal. The windmills make for a picturesque backdrop for photos.

12. Turkish Cuisine 

Bodrum offers a delightful culinary scene with a focus on fresh seafood, Mediterranean flavors, and traditional Turkish cuisine. You can savor a wide range of dishes, including mezes (appetizers), kebabs, grilled fish, and delectable desserts such as baklava. The town has a variety of restaurants, ranging from upscale establishments to charming local eateries where you can enjoy authentic Turkish flavors.

Mezes are small appetizers or starters that are an integral part of Turkish cuisine. They include a variety of dishes such as hummus, ezme (spicy tomato and pepper dip), cacık (yogurt with cucumber and garlic), and stuffed grape leaves (dolma).

Turkish kebabs are famous worldwide and come in various forms, including shish kebabs (grilled meat skewers), döner kebabs (rotisserie meat often served in pita bread), and iskender kebabs (layered with pita bread and yogurt).

Being a coastal country, Turkey offers a wide range of delicious seafood dishes. Grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp are popular choices in coastal areas.

Turkish pide is a type of flatbread that resembles a boat shape. It is typically topped with various ingredients such as cheese, ground meat, vegetables, and eggs.

Börek is a savory pastry made from thin layers of dough, often filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat. It can be served as a main course or as a snack.

Known as "lokum" in Turkish, Turkish delight is a traditional sweet treat made from sugar, starch, and flavorings like rosewater, lemon, or pistachio. It comes in a variety of colors and flavors.

Baklava is a rich and sweet pastry made from layers of filo pastry, filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.

Turkish coffee is famous for its strong and aromatic flavor. It is traditionally prepared using finely ground coffee beans and is often served with a glass of water and a small sweet treat.

Tea is an essential part of Turkish culture. Black tea is brewed in a double teapot called a "çaydanlık" and served in small glasses.

Turkish breakfast, known as "kahvaltı," is a hearty meal consisting of a variety of cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggs, jams, honey, and freshly baked bread.

13. Festivals and Events

Bodrum hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. The Bodrum Ballet Festival, Bodrum Jazz Festival, and Bodrum International Classical Music Festival are among the prominent cultural events that attract artists and performers from around the world. These festivals offer a diverse range of performances, including ballet, jazz concerts, orchestral recitals, and more.

This prestigious dance festival is held annually in August and features performances by renowned national and international ballet companies. It takes place at various venues, including the Bodrum Castle and outdoor stages.

The Bodrum Music Festival is another major cultural event that takes place in various venues across Bodrum. It showcases classical, jazz, and world music performances, attracting music enthusiasts from all over Turkey and beyond.

Film enthusiasts gather in Bodrum for this annual event, which showcases a selection of local and international films, including feature films, documentaries, and shorts.

Jazz lovers can enjoy the sounds of jazz in Bodrum during this festival, which brings together talented jazz musicians from Turkey and around the world.

Celebrating Bodrum's maritime heritage, this festival features boat races, sailing competitions, traditional boat displays, and other nautical-themed events.

Camel wrestling is a traditional sport in Turkey, and the Bodrum Camel Wrestling Festival is a unique event where decorated camels compete in friendly wrestling matches. It usually takes place in January.

This event celebrates various forms of dance, including contemporary dance, folk dances, and traditional Turkish dances. Dancers from different parts of Turkey and other countries participate in this colorful festival.

The Bodrum Carnival is a lively and joyful event, featuring parades, street performances, music, and dancing. It usually takes place in late spring or early summer.

This festival brings together yacht enthusiasts, boat owners, and maritime industry professionals for a series of events, boat shows, and sailing activities.

Wine lovers can indulge in a variety of local and regional wines during this festival, which features wine tastings, workshops, and culinary experiences.

14. Nearby Attractions 

Bodrum serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. Within a short distance, you can visit other charming coastal towns such as Gumbet, Yalikavak, and Turgutreis. The ancient city of Ephesus, Pamukkale's unique travertine terraces, and the beautiful Greek island of Kos are also accessible via boat or ferry.

The Bodrum Peninsula is dotted with beautiful beaches, each offering its unique charm. Some notable beaches include Gumbet Beach, Bitez Beach, Bardakçı Bay, Camel Beach, and Yalıkavak Beach.

This charming village is known for its scenic bay, upscale hotels, and trendy beach clubs. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the beach, and experience Bodrum's upscale lifestyle.

 A peaceful fishing village with a quaint atmosphere, Gumusluk is famous for its underwater ancient city ruins, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving.

This coastal town is famous for its long sandy beach, lively bazaar, and the Turgutreis Marina, which offers stunning sunset views.

Yalıkavak is known for its upscale marina, Palmarina (now named Yalıkavak Marina), where you can find luxury yachts, shops, restaurants, and cafes.

This picturesque bay offers a peaceful escape with its stunning natural beauty, luxury resorts, and boutique hotels.

Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum is located in Bodrum Castle, this museum houses artifacts recovered from ancient shipwrecks, providing insight into the region's maritime history.

The ancient city of Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.

Pamukkale, approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Bodrum, Pamukkale is a unique natural wonder featuring terraces of white mineral-rich hot springs. Nearby, you can also explore the ancient city of Hierapolis.

Take a short ferry ride from Bodrum to the nearby Greek island of Kos. Explore ancient ruins, charming villages, and beautiful beaches.

Apart from these attractions, Bodrum also offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. The town hosts various cultural events, including music festivals, exhibitions, and art shows, particularly during the summer season.

Conclusion

Overall, Bodrum is a fantastic destination that combines history, natural beauty, and modern entertainment, making it a popular choice for both relaxation and exploration.