With its white houses, blue shutters and bougainvillea, Bodrum is one of the loveliest resorts on Turkey’s Aegean coast. Here you’ll find a calm seaside holiday, lively nightlife and rich history all in one place. Let’s look at how to spend a week in Bodrum.
The Castle of St. Peter
Rising in the centre of town between two bays, Bodrum Castle was built by the Knights of Rhodes in the 15th century. Today it houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology: ancient shipwrecks, amphorae and treasures raised from the seabed. The castle walls offer the best view of the marina and the town.
Ancient Halicarnassus
In antiquity Bodrum was called Halicarnassus. You can see the remains of the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and the ancient theatre on the hillside. The view over the bay from the theatre is especially striking at sunset.
Boat trips and coves
Bodrum is at its most beautiful from the sea. Take a day trip on a traditional wooden gulet: swim in turquoise coves, visit islands and have lunch on board. It’s the essential Bodrum experience.
Beaches and sunsets
For a lively atmosphere choose Gümbet; for a quiet family holiday, Bitez. Turgutreis is famous for Bodrum’s best sunsets. An evening stroll around Yalıkavak Marina, lined with luxury yachts, is a great idea too.
Useful tips
- Season — May to October. July and August are the hottest and busiest months; for a quieter break choose June or September.
- Dolmuş minibuses run between towns on the peninsula, but renting a car is easier for remote coves.
- Climb up to the old windmills at sunset — the view is worth it.
For a ready-made one-week package, see our Bodrum tour.