Bodrum, Turkey
Locavy ratings
Party
4.5/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4.5/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
3/5
Experiences
4/5
Party
4.5/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4.5/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
3/5
Experiences
4/5
At a glance
Bodrum is a vibrant city offering a dynamic nightlife, fascinating historic sites, and ample opportunities for relaxation.
Party
Bodrum is renowned as Turkey’s top party destination, boasting a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and energetic nightclubs. The heart of the party scene is Cumhuriyet Street, also known as Bar Street, where you’ll find many of the city’s most popular and exciting nightclubs.
Sightseeing
Bodrum is a city rich in iconic sights. Essential visits include Bodrum Castle and the Myndos Gate. Additionally, the old town’s whitewashed buildings and narrow cobbled streets offer some of the most picturesque views in the city.
Relaxation
Bodrum is an ideal destination for relaxation. Tourists are highly encouraged to spend a day at Karaada’s tranquil hot springs. Additionally, Bodrum and its surrounding peninsula are renowned for their stunning beaches, making it a perfect place to unwind.
Value
Bodrum is an affordable destination, offering reasonably priced dining, public transport, and activities. However, to secure the best value, it is recommended to book accommodation in advance.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Milas–Bodrum Airport is located 36 km northeast of the city. Tourists are advised to take one of the many available buses or taxis to reach the city center.
Train
There is no train service in Bodrum.
Drive
There’s little need to hire a car in Bodrum due to its compact nature. However, renting a car is a great way to explore the peninsula and access the beautiful, remote beaches that are difficult to reach by public transport.
Experiences
Bodrum has a wide variety of experiences to offer. A must-visit is Bodrum Castle, the city’s top attraction. Additionally, taking a boat trip to explore neighboring islands and scuba diving spots is highly recommended.
Best Things To Do
1. Explore Bodrum Castle
Dominating the city skyline, Bodrum Castle is a well-preserved fortress with a wealth of historical exhibits. Its towers offer panoramic views of Bodrum and the surrounding area.
Entry is €15. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid crowds.
2. Discover Old Town
Wander through Bodrum’s vibrant Old Town, where you’ll find a lively mix of shops, local crafts, and bustling bars. It’s the cultural heart of the city and perfect for immersing yourself in local life.
Explore the narrow streets for hidden gems and try local street food.
3. Relax on the Beaches
Bodrum boasts beautiful beaches, with both lively and tranquil spots. While the beaches in town are convenient, venturing to the more secluded spots along the coastline offers a peaceful escape.
For a quieter experience, visit beaches like Bitez or Yalikavak.
4. Take a Boat Trip
A boat trip is a must-do in Bodrum. Explore nearby islands like Orak Island or enjoy a sunset cruise. Options range from private sailboat rentals to organized dinner cruises.
Book your boat trip in advance, especially in peak season.
5. Visit Greece's Kos Island
Just 23 km from Bodrum, Kos Island is renowned for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and ancient ruins. It’s a great day trip for history and beach lovers alike.
Don’t forget your passport; ferry tickets can be purchased at the port.
6. Go Scuba Diving
Bodrum’s clear waters are ideal for scuba diving. Explore underwater shipwrecks and vibrant marine life with various tour options available.
Check dive conditions and book tours ahead of time to secure your spot.
7. Join a Food Tour
Experience the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine with a local food tour. It’s the perfect way to taste traditional dishes and learn about Turkish culinary culture.
Tours often include tastings at local markets, so its advisable to have cash handy.
8. Relax at Karaada Hot Springs
Visit the Black Island’s natural hot springs on Karaada Island for a soothing and rejuvenating experience. It’s a popular spot for both relaxation and health benefits.
Bring a swimsuit and water shoes for comfort in the springs.
9. Explore Myndos Gate
Myndos Gate is a historical relic from a massive city wall that once protected ancient Halicarnassus. It offers a glimpse into the city’s past and is a fascinating site for history enthusiasts.
It’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures.
10. Visit Bodrum Museums
Bodrum’s museums include the Bodrum Maritime Museum, the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, and the castle’s museum, all offering rich insights into the region’s maritime history and archaeology.
Consider purchasing a combined ticket if available, for access to multiple museums.
1. Explore Bodrum Castle
Dominating the city skyline, Bodrum Castle is a well-preserved fortress with a wealth of historical exhibits. Its towers offer panoramic views of Bodrum and the surrounding area.
Entry is €15. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid crowds.
2. Discover Old Town
Wander through Bodrum’s vibrant Old Town, where you’ll find a lively mix of shops, local crafts, and bustling bars. It’s the cultural heart of the city and perfect for immersing yourself in local life.
Explore the narrow streets for hidden gems and try local street food.
3. Relax on the Beaches
Bodrum boasts beautiful beaches, with both lively and tranquil spots. While the beaches in town are convenient, venturing to the more secluded spots along the coastline offers a peaceful escape.
For a quieter experience, visit beaches like Bitez or Yalikavak.
4. Take a Boat Trip
A boat trip is a must-do in Bodrum. Explore nearby islands like Orak Island or enjoy a sunset cruise. Options range from private sailboat rentals to organized dinner cruises.
Book your boat trip in advance, especially in peak season.
5. Visit Greece's Kos Island
Just 23 km from Bodrum, Kos Island is renowned for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and ancient ruins. It’s a great day trip for history and beach lovers alike.
Don’t forget your passport; ferry tickets can be purchased at the port.
6. Go Scuba Diving
Bodrum’s clear waters are ideal for scuba diving. Explore underwater shipwrecks and vibrant marine life with various tour options available.
Check dive conditions and book tours ahead of time to secure your spot.
7. Join a Food Tour
Experience the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine with a local food tour. It’s the perfect way to taste traditional dishes and learn about Turkish culinary culture.
Tours often include tastings at local markets, so its advisable to have cash handy.
8. Relax at Karaada Hot Springs
Visit the Black Island’s natural hot springs on Karaada Island for a soothing and rejuvenating experience. It’s a popular spot for both relaxation and health benefits.
Bring a swimsuit and water shoes for comfort in the springs.
9. Explore Myndos Gate
Myndos Gate is a historical relic from a massive city wall that once protected ancient Halicarnassus. It offers a glimpse into the city’s past and is a fascinating site for history enthusiasts.
It’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures.
10. Visit Bodrum Museums
Bodrum’s museums include the Bodrum Maritime Museum, the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, and the castle’s museum, all offering rich insights into the region’s maritime history and archaeology.
Consider purchasing a combined ticket if available, for access to multiple museums.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Bodrum’s Vibrant Nightlife
Known as Turkey’s top nightlife destination, Bodrum offers an array of lively bars, clubs, and beach parties.
6.
Arrive Early for Ferries
Ferries from Bodrum are busy, so arriving early is recommended to avoid long queues.
2.
Where to Stay
Tourists are recommended to stay in Bodrum’s old town for easy access to the city’s most famous sights.
7.
Beware of Scams
Visitors should be cautious of common tourist scams in Turkey, including shoe cleaning, carpet shop, and taxi scams.
3.
When to Visit
Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting Bodrum, offering beautiful weather without the large crowds of peak season.
8.
Hot Summers
Bodrum experiences very hot summers, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C and minimal rainfall.
4.
Efficient Bus Network
Navigating Bodrum is best done via its efficient and reliable bus network.
9.
Tipping Etiquette
It is customary to tip between 10% and 15% in Bodrum’s restaurants.
5.
Safety
Bodrum is very safe with low violent crime, but tourists should take standard precautions, especially at night due to its vibrant nightlife.
10.
Use Turkish Lira
While some larger shops and hotels may accept Euros, the official currency is the Turkish Lira.
6.
Arrive Early for Ferries
Ferries from Bodrum are busy, so arriving early is recommended to avoid long queues.
7.
Beware of Scams
Visitors should be cautious of common tourist scams in Turkey, including shoe cleaning, carpet shop, and taxi scams.
8.
Hot Summers
Bodrum experiences very hot summers, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C and minimal rainfall.
9.
Tipping Etiquette
It is customary to tip between 10% and 15% in Bodrum’s restaurants.
10.
Use Turkish Lira
While some larger shops and hotels may accept Euros, the official currency is the Turkish Lira.