Bodrum is known for its historical landmarks, boat tours, and upscale tourism offerings. It’s become the place where celebrities and influencers flock for a luxurious Turkish vacation. With stunning beaches and great restaurants, Bodrum has a little bit of everything to keep you busy.
Bodrum’s must-see sites are the medieval Crusader castle and the Museum of Underwater Archeology, which holds some of the world’s finest shipwreck artifacts that have been discovered over the years.
The Mausoleum
The ruins of the monumental tomb of King Mausolus of Caria is so impressive that it gave its name to every grand tomb since. The tomb was built for him in his memory by his sister, who was also his wife, and is hidden on a back street in Bodrum.
Greco-Roman Theater
Built as these ancient theaters were at the top of the town with a splendid view, it’s a great place to sit and gaze at Bodrum. You can see Bodrum Castle and its bay, perfect for sunset.
Yacht Cruises
Bodrum is one of Turkey’s prime yachting ports. If you don’t decide to take a week-long Blue Voyage, you can readily enjoy a day cruise around the Bodrum peninsula like a stop for lunch and a swim. Bodrum has numerous shore excursions to other islands and beaches only reachable by boat. You can go down to the harbor the night before you want to sail and talk to the captains. Read more about our recommended tours.
Excursions
The Bodrum peninsula offers lots of options for day trips, including the many small towns (with beaches) on the peninsula, the yacht-building ship works at İçmeler, and trips into the mountains for those interested in visiting local villages. You can even go as far north as Ephesus, with numerous other interesting stops along the way.
Bodrum is one of Turkey’s prime yachting ports. If you don’t decide to take a week-long Blue Voyage, you can readily enjoy a day cruise around the Bodrum peninsula like a stop for lunch and a swim. Bodrum has numerous shore excursions to other islands and beaches only reachable by boat. You can go down to the harbor the night before you want to sail and talk to the captains. Read more about our recommended tours.
For decades, Bodrum has been famous for its nightlife. Ever since an old Ottoman-Greek mansion was converted from a family pension to the renowned Halikarnas Disco, it’s become the place where vacationers looking to have a fun night through the morning go.
Alternatively, lively bars and clubs are not the only things to do at night. I prefer a quiet dinner at an open-air table in a waterfront restaurant along Neyzen Tevfik Caddesi near the Bodrum Marina.