Bodrum Holidays

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a beach lover or a family travelling with kids, you’ll never run out of things to do on holidays to Bodrum. Here are a few of our top recommendations:

• Visit Bodrum Castle: This beautiful castle is one of the top attractions in Bodrum. The majestic, waterfront structure is the city’s icon and dates back to the 15th century. It overlooks the stunning marina and is home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
• Set sail on a boat trip: From island-hopping to snorkelling in secluded coves and sunset sailing parties, boat trips help you explore the Bodrum Peninsula and beyond. A variety of tours depart from Bodrum Harbour and are sure to be a memorable experience. Take a look at what’s available when you arrive so that you don’t miss out.
• Explore the local area: Gumbet is a popular beach resort that’s just a 15-minute drive from the centre of Bodrum. Visitors flock here by day for fun in the sun and to relax on the golden sands. At night, the town comes to life with plenty of bars and nightclubs promising unforgettable parties.
• Discover Bodrum’s historic windmills: The windmills of Bodrum date back to the 18th century and can be found all over the city. A particularly good spot to visit is the hilltop between Bodrum and Gumbet where there are several. The whitewashed windmills are picture-perfect and the dazzling bay views are equally impressive.
• Go shopping: Turkey is a shopper’s paradise, famous for its bustling bazaars. In Bodrum, weekly market stalls tempt visitors with traditional Turkish souvenirs, handmade jewellery, colourful lanterns and leather goods. For more choice, head to modern shopping centres like the Oasis Mall or the Midtown Shopping Center. Both have clothing shops, plus cinemas, restaurants and play areas for children.

Bodrum holidays give you the chance to step back in time and discover a host of historical attractions, from ancient theatres to remarkable ruins and much more.

• Mausoleum of Halicarnassus: The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus is one of Bodrum’s most famous attractions. It’s known for being one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and was built to be the final resting place for King Mausolus. While over time earthquakes have reduced the grand site to ruins, it’s still worth a visit during your getaway.
• The Museum of Underwater Archaeology: Combine a trip to Bodrum Castle with a visit to the Museum Of Underwater Archaeology. Conveniently housed inside the Castle of St Peter (Bodrum Castle), this unique attraction showcases fascinating finds from shipwreck sites around the Turkish Aegean. Look out for amazing artefacts and impressive reconstructed shipwrecks.
• Bodrum Antique Theatre: The incredible Bodrum Amphitheatre is close to the city centre and was built in the 4th century BC to hold an audience of around 13,000 spectators. Today, you can visit to watch live music performances or to appreciate breathtaking views of Bodrum’s iconic landmarks and the glistening Aegean Sea.
• Myndos Gate: The Myndos Gate is another popular site to visit. The ruins were once part of a 4th-century wall surrounding the ancient Greek city of Halicarnassus. Learn about the landmark’s history through educational plaques and climb to the top of the towers to admire views of Bodrum’s beautiful coastline.
• Zeki Muren Arts Museum: For something different, head to the Zeki Muren Arts Museum – a place dedicated to the celebrated Turkish singer, actor and composer. Zeki Muren was a cultural icon in Turkey, and his former home is now a museum filled with personal artefacts such as elaborate costumes, jewellery and paintings.

Succulent seafood, Mediterranean meals and waterfront restaurants all feature on Bodrum’s brilliant dining scene. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to try traditional Turkish cuisine.

• Seafood: Thanks to Bodrum's coastal location, you'll find a wide range of fresh seafood dishes on most menus. Take your pick from grilled sea bream, sea bass, octopus salad and calamari. Karides Guvec is a flavoursome shrimp casserole cooked with tomatoes, peppers, herbs and spices.
• Balik ekmek: This is one of Bodrum’s best street food dishes. Balik Ekmek is a sandwich made with freshly grilled or fried fish, typically served in a crusty bread roll with fresh vegetables and a squeeze of lemon.
• Waterfront restaurants: Head to the marina to dine at elegant restaurants by the water’s edge. The Marina Yacht Club is an upscale eatery offering views of Bodrum Castle and a menu filled with seafood, Mediterranean, and Turkish dishes. They also have a range of refreshing cocktails and host live music nights.
• Authentic eats: Trying traditional Turkish dishes is a must on your holiday. Pide – the Turkish version of pizza – is a tasty flatbread served with various delicious toppings like meat, vegetables and feta cheese. For something sweet, savour traditional Turkish delight, tasty baklava and refreshing ice cream.
• Drinks: When it comes to beverages, Raki is considered Turkey’s national drink, and it pairs perfectly with meze dishes. You can also head to local cafés to try rich Turkish coffee and a variety of flavoured teas.

Bodrum is known for its buzzing nightlife, so make sure you don’t miss out. Whether you’re looking for parties at lively nightclubs or you'd prefer to sip on cocktails at beachside bars, there’s something for everyone.

• Bar Street: For vibrant nightlife head straight to Cumhuriyet Street. More commonly known as Bar Street, this mile-long stretch is the perfect place to go for a fun night out. Bar-hop between beachfront spots before moving on to karaoke bars or nightclubs hosting spectacular shows and parties.
• Marina Yacht Club: The Marina Yacht Club overlooks the historical harbour and beautiful Bodrum Castle. As well as being a great choice for dinner, it’s a nightlife hotspot that transforms after dark. Expect live bands, DJs and dancing until the sun comes up.
• Laid-back nightlife: If you’re after a few drinks after a day of sightseeing, choose a chilled-out bar by the marina. While Moonlight Bar is open until the early hours, its beachfront location provides a laid-back vibe and a scenic place to sip on cocktails. Nearby Bitez is also great for cosy sunset dinners on the seafront.
• Mandolin Bodrum: For fantastic live music and an incredible atmosphere, Mandalin Bodrum is the place to go. You can enjoy amazing cocktails while listening to Turkey’s top musicians perform. The music here covers all kinds of genres, including rock, jazz and blues. If you love listening to live music, a night out here is a must.
• Gumbet: The nearby beach resort of Gumbet also boasts a bustling ‘Bar Street’. This is the place to party, with lots of late night venues to choose from. Head to local bars, discos or lively nightclubs with lasers, neon lights, DJs and live performances. Chico’s Cocktail Bar and O'Connors Bar are popular venues.

Beach holidays in Bodrum offer golden sands, secluded coves, modern beach clubs and plenty of fun aquatic activities. Check into a beach hotel to be close to the action.

• Kumbahce Beach: A peaceful beach close to the centre of town. Kumbahce is a pretty pebble beach that lets you admire views of Bodrum Castle while you swim. This is also a good place to come to watch the sunset, as you can appreciate stunning city vistas.
• Yahsi Beach: Crystal-clear waters lap the golden sands of Yahsi Beach, which boasts Blue Flag status and offers views over to the Greek island of Kos. Shops, craft stalls, cafés and restaurants line the beach, so you’ll have lots to do when you step away from the sand.
• Ortakent Beach: This golden stretch merges with neighbouring Yahsi Beach, so you can easily beach-hop between the two. The Ortakent end is a pretty mix of golden sand and pebbles with clear, calm waters that provide safe swimming conditions. Family-friendly water sports include kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing.
• Gumbet Beach: When you want action and adventure by the sea, head to Gumbet Beach. Water sports enthusiasts can try jet skiing, water skiing, windsurfing and parasailing. Its curve of golden sand is scattered with sun loungers, so you’ll have the perfect place to laze the day away if you’d prefer something more laid-back.
• Bitez Beach: This sandy beach has sun loungers, cafés and a shallow bay, making it a favourite with families. It’s also a hotspot for water sports, particularly windsurfing, as the strong winds provide perfect conditions.

Get ready to explore the Bodrum Peninsula. Discover blissful beaches and secluded swimming spots or take a day trip to the Greek island of Kos.

• Torba: Bodrum is just a short drive from the small fishing village of Torba. It’s a peaceful place to spend the day but still has lots to do. Embark on a fishing or boat trip, walk along the beach or simply wander through the village admiring the picturesque olive grove hillsides.
• Kos: You can get to the gorgeous Greek island of Kos in just 30 minutes by ferry. Start by exploring the charming old town and stop to savour delicious Greek dishes in local tavernas. If you’re looking for top attractions, visit the Archaeological Museum of Kos and the Roman Odeon of Kos amphitheatre.
• Gumusluk: Family-run seafood restaurants are reason enough to visit Gumusluk, although that’s not the only draw for tourists. The beach offers views across to Rabbit Island, which is named after the adorable rabbits that call this place home. To get there, you can simply walk through the shallow water along the causeway.
• Aquarius Bay: This is a popular place to visit on boat trips from Bodrum. The setting is spectacular, and you won’t want to miss the chance to swim in the glistening turquoise waters. Afterwards, admire the beautiful scenery and enjoy a tasty lunch aboard the boat. Some trips also include a visit to the thermal springs on Black Island.
• Turgutreis: This is the second largest town on the Bodrum Peninsula and makes for a great day trip on your Bodrum holiday. Spend time lounging on the beach, swimming in the blue waters or dining at waterfront restaurants along the modern marina. There are lots of shops and chic boutiques to discover, as well as a traditional Turkish bazaar.

There are lots of family-friendly attractions to enjoy on holidays to Bodrum. Explore a historic castle, make a splash on colourful water slides, try wonderful water sports and much more.

• Bodrum Aquapark: Prepare to take the plunge at Aquapark Dedeman Bodrum – commonly known as Bodrum Aquapark. This fun-filled waterpark is ideal for family holidays. Enjoy a host of exhilarating attractions like thrilling raft rides, exciting water slides and a fantastic wave pool. Ready to unwind? Head to the lazy river.
• Fun Town Yahsi Park: There’s not much you can’t do at Fun Town Yahsi Park! Kids and big kids alike can try go-karting, paintballing, darts and table tennis. There’s also a football pitch and a huge children’s playground with giant inflatables and a trampoline.
• Water sports: Bodrum is a popular destination for water sports thanks to its selection of brilliant beaches. Windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing and family-friendly banana boat rides are all available. Scuba diving and snorkelling are great options if you want to marvel at marine life beneath the surface.
• Jeep Safari: Add excitement to your family holiday by embarking on an exhilarating Jeep Safari tour. This is a good option for families with older children who can enjoy exploring the green countryside and stunning coastline together. On some tours, you’ll head into the hills for panoramic views and stop for swims at breathtaking bays.
• Historical attractions: Give children a glimpse into Bodrum’s rich history with a day trip to Bodrum Castle and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. They’re in the same building which makes visiting them even easier. Children will love stepping inside a castle and discovering the impressive shipwrecks on display in the museum.

Whether you’re looking for an action-packed holiday or a tranquil getaway that puts you steps away from the sand, holidays to Bodrum are ideal for couples. Here are a few things we’d recommend adding to your itinerary:

• Shopping: Don’t forget to pack your Turkish lira because Bodrum has a diverse shopping scene with bustling bazaars, farmers’ markets and modern malls. Midtown Shopping Center is a large mall with high street shops and international brands. There are over 150 shops, plus restaurants, coffee shops, a cinema and a gym.
• Scuba diving: Bodrum is a popular destination for scuba diving as it has a host of fantastic dive sites. Get ready to explore the underwater world as you delve into crystal-clear waters and get close to magnificent marine life. You can also find fascinating shipwrecks and see an aeroplane wreck.
• Turkish baths: When you want to unwind, head to one of Bodrum’s hammam centres for a traditional Turkish bath. The treatment involves using hot steam, as well as massage and exfoliation techniques to nourish and revitalise the skin. This amazing experience is one you won’t want to miss. Some hotels also offer treatments at sleek on-site spas.
• Boat cruises: For something extra special, book a private boat cruise. This is one of the more indulgent activities to enjoy in Bodrum and one you’ll never forget. Set sail across the Aegean Sea, taking in Bodrum’s natural beauty before stopping for a romantic lunch.
• All inclusive holidays: All inclusive holidays to Bodrum are perfect if you want to sit back, relax and soak up the sunshine. With your key costs covered in advance, you’re guaranteed a stress-free getaway. Bodrum is home to some of the best hotels in Turkey, and you can upgrade your stay by checking into a luxury all inclusive hotel with fantastic facilities on site. Expect à la carte restaurants, dazzling infinity pools and relaxing spas at the best Bodrum resorts.