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Exploring Bodrum: A Guide to Must-Visit Places in 2024
Bodrum Essentials Popular Queries on Attractions, Beaches, and Activities Answered
Places to Visit in Bodrum
Bodrum , a town that resembles a beautiful girl in a white dress when seen from above, with colorful bougainvilleas in her hair and a scent of lemon balm on her wrists, welcomes visitors to its historic and fertile land. Known for its historical sites, white houses, and tangerine gardens, Bodrum invites guests to a unique atmosphere through a blue door. This charming Aegean town has been a top holiday destination for the past 40 years.
Millions from Every Nationality Flock to Bodrum
Millions of people from various nationalities visit Bodrum to experience its beauty, and many even settle here. The city, once known as "Halikarnassos" in ancient times, has evolved into Bodrum. How? The city was named after an important Christian figure, Saint Peter, and was initially called Petrium, which later transformed into Podrum and finally Bodrum. Today, many foreigners know the Bodrum Castle as the Castle of St. Peter.
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, One of the Seven Wonders of the World
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is located in Bodrum. Additionally, notable personalities like Herodotus, Turgut Reis, and Zeki Müren are among the famous people from Bodrum.
Must-Visit Places in Bodrum Center
Bodrum Castle
At the top of the must-visit places in Bodrum is the Bodrum Castle, also known as St. Peter's Castle. Built by the Knights of St. John in the 1400s, the castle is now home to the Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum, featuring one of the world's oldest shipwrecks. Visitors can explore the dungeon and torture rooms in the castle. The castle can be fully explored in about 2-3 hours. Entrance fee is 20 TL, but it's free with a Museum Pass.
Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum
Located within the iconic Bodrum Castle, the Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum, established in 1964, hosts numerous underwater artifacts. The museum features Eastern Mediterranean amphorae and several significant shipwreck exhibits, including the Uluburun Shipwreck, a Bronze Age trading ship. The museum also showcases the largest collection of Islamic Glass in the world. In 1995, it received a "Special Commendation" at the European Museum of the Year contest. The museum's exhibits include amphorae, the 7th-century Byzantine Ship, glassware, the 11th-century Serçe Limanı Glass Wreck, and more. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with free entry for individuals over 65 or under 18.
Salmakis Fortress (Kaplan Kalesi)
Located on the hills of Bardakçı Bay near Bodrum, the Salmakis Fortress, also known as Kaplan Kalesi, is famous for its freshwater spring, believed to be the mythological Salmakis Fountain. The fortress is named after this fountain and is associated with the legend of Hermaphroditus. This mythological tale and the unique beauty of the fortress continue to attract tourists.
Bodrum Ottoman Shipyard
The Bodrum Ottoman Shipyard, serving since ancient times and providing ships to the Ottoman navy, is known for its watchtower and now hosts an art gallery.
Bodrum Antique Theater
The Bodrum Antique Theater, located on the Turgutreis road, has been restored to accommodate up to 13,000 people. This ancient theater, hosting various events during the summer, is a rare architectural marvel in Anatolia.
Zeki Müren Art Museum
The house of Zeki Müren, one of Bodrum's most iconic figures, has been transformed into a museum after his death. The museum showcases his stage costumes, jewelry, awards, and more, offering a glimpse into his artistic life. Entrance fee is 6 TL, free with a Museum Pass.
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, was built as a tomb for Maussolos, a Persian Satrap, upon his wife's request. However, some parts of the mausoleum were taken to the British Museum in the 19th century.
Exploring Turgutreis
Şevket Sabancı Cultural and Art Center
Located in Turgutreis, the Şevket Sabancı Cultural Center, with its 1200 square meters of space, has been serving since 2011. The center hosts various art exhibitions, traditional arts, and performing arts workshops.
Discovering Gümbet
Gümbet is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with streets lined with bars and music. This area is popular among tourists and is conveniently located near the center, offering various accommodation options.
Myndos Gate
Close to Gümbet, the Myndos Gate, once an entrance to ancient Halicarnassus, is especially enchanting at night and is a significant historical landmark.
The Charm of Bitez
Bitez is famous for its tangerine gardens and beach, offering a more tranquil environment compared to Gümbet. It's also a paradise for windsurfers, attracting many tourists for this sport.
The Allure of Yalıkavak
Bodrum Windmills
The Windmills of Bodrum, located in Yalıkavak, are a symbol of the region. These windmills, used until the 1970s, are a popular spot for visitors due to their picturesque nature.
Exploring Gümüşlük
Rabbit Island
In Gümüşlük, Rabbit Island is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land that can be crossed on foot. The island offers stunning views and historical significance.
Apostle Church
The Apostle Church, situated on Rabbit Island, can be reached by boat from Gündoğan. This church, standing since the 2nd century BC, appeals to both history enthusiasts and those seeking unique landscapes.
Myndos Ancient City
The ancient city of Myndos, established around 640 BC in the area now known as Gümüşlük, has several historical remnants like city walls and a church. Most of the city remains hidden underground and underwater.
Visiting the Islands Near Bodrum
Karaada
Karaada, directly opposite Bodrum, is famous for its hot springs and mud baths inside a cave, surrounded by lush pine forests. The island is known for the belief that Cleopatra's beauty was linked to its mud. It is a popular destination for day trips and blue voyages. The island also features a large crater formed by a meteor impact thousands of years ago, offering adventurous cliff diving opportunities. The largest beach on the island, Poyraz Bay, is ideal for swimming with its sandy seabed and clear waters.
Kos and Kalymnos Islands
From Bodrum, it is possible to visit the Greek islands of Kos and Kalymnos. Detailed information on how to reach these islands can be found in our dedicated article.
Exploring the Bafa Lake Area
Iassos Ancient City
Near Bafa Lake, the ancient city of Iassos is situated on a peninsula formed by alluvium. With a history dating back to 3000 BC, it offers historical remnants like fish markets, aqueducts, and city walls. The site, close to Milas, is known as the Milas Iassos Ruins and entry is free.
Discovering Bargilya
Bargilya Ancient City
Bargilya Ancient City, home to a temple, an ancient theater, and numerous historical remains, was named after the mythical horse-slayer Bargylos. Visiting this ancient city offers a peaceful retreat, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its tranquility and history.
Tuzla Bird Sanctuary
Near Bargilya Ancient City is the Tuzla Bird Sanctuary, a must-visit location in Bodrum. Home to over 100 bird species, including numerous flamingos, it is a perfect spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Venice Castle
The Venice Castle, offering a stunning view of the Aegean Sea, is a free-to-visit site. Located in Aspat Bay, the castle once served as a vital defense point for the region.
Bodrum's Beaches and Bays
Gümüşlük
Gümüşlük, ideal for those who love entertainment, is known for its jazz cafes, proximity to Rabbit Island, and activities like paddleboarding and canoeing. The local public beach offers free entry and sun loungers.
Kargıcak Bay
Kargıcak Bay, located in Milas, was once accessible by boat but now can only be reached via a rough road. The bay, lacking any facilities, offers a peaceful and natural retreat. Visitors should bring their own food and drinks, and camping is an option here.
Kadıkalesi Beach (Peksimet Beach)
While lacking amenities like toilets and changing cabins, Kadıkalesi Beach in Bahçelievler neighborhood offers a serene swimming experience with its warm waters. Free sun loungers provided by the municipality add to the comfort of visitors.
Mazı Village and Its Bays
Mazı Village, 45 kilometers from Bodrum city center, is home to beautiful bays awaiting discovery. The local hospitality, along with a few small businesses, ensures visitors' needs are met. The area is also ideal for camping in nearby forested areas.
Bağla Bay
Bağla Bay, located between Ortakent Yahşi and Akyarlar, offers an alternative for those seeking different sea experiences. The bay, 14 kilometers from Bodrum center, is accessible by Bodrum - Turgutreis minibuses. The bay is popular for camping and its clear waters. Its proximity to surrounding villages and Bodrum center makes it a convenient location for exploring the area.
Activities in Bodrum
Bodrum offers a variety of activities, including windsurfing in Bitez, exploring the coastline with yacht tours, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. Popular surfing spots include Gümbet, Ortakent, Turgutreis, and Akyarlar. Yacht tours feature various routes, highlighting Bodrum's beautiful bays like Meteor Pit, Black Island, Aquarium Bay, and more. Watching the sunset in Gümüşlük and enjoying the beach clubs are among the top activities in Bodrum.
Dining in Bodrum
Bodrum is synonymous with delicious seafood. We recommend trying fish in Gümüşlük and other local delicacies like stuffed zucchini flowers, keşkek, and Çökertme Kebab. Don't miss out on popular spots like Sünger Pizza, Bitez Ice Cream, and Limon Cafe, famous for its sunset views.
Getting to Bodrum
Accessing Bodrum is easy via air and road. Milas-Bodrum Airport, 36 km from Bodrum, is serviced by several airlines, including Turkish Airlines. HAVAŞ buses and taxis provide transportation from the airport to Bodrum. Regular bus services from major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir make road travel convenient.
