Bodrum Town in Turkey
Sun-Kissed Turkish Delight

Cruise to Bodrum, Turkey

When Turkish history and culture meets the blue waters of the Aegean, magical things are bound to happen. Some travelers will begin right at the sea, whether that means lounging under an umbrella on the shimmering sands of Bodrum Beach or sipping Raki cocktails at a waterfront bar along Milta Bodrum Marina. If you want to work up a sweat before you relax, one of the best things to do in Bodrum, Turkey, is explore its ancient history. The 15th-century Bodrum Castle pairs sweeping views of the sea with impressive architecture and historical exhibitions, while Halicarnassus is home to an ancient city and mausoleum from the Greek period nearly 2,500 years ago. Restaurant or retail therapy is the perfect way to cap off any day in Bodrum. Tear into tender, grilled octopus, or shop Turkish mosaic lamps and olive oil products amid the raucous stalls of Bodrum Market.
National Language Turkish
Currency Accepted Turkish Lira (TRY)

Things To Do in Bodrum

The only thing better than Bodrum Castle's architecture is its Aegean views.

Relish Regal Views

The only thing better than Bodrum Castle's architecture is its Aegean views.

The only thing better than Bodrum Castle's architecture is its Aegean views.

Relish Regal Views

Welcome to 15th-century Bodrum Castle, where the only thing more impressive than the medieval lookout towers are the views of the sparkling sea you enjoy from atop. Follow up your survey of the fortress by descending into the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which provides an overview of shipwrecks just offshore and a collection of glass artifacts found in them.

Take a trip way back in time with a stroll through Halicarnassus Citadel.

Go Greek for the Afternoon

Take a trip way back in time with a stroll through Halicarnassus Citadel.

Take a trip way back in time with a stroll through Halicarnassus Citadel.

Go Greek for the Afternoon

Head even further back in time when you set foot on the cobbled streets of Halicarnassus Citadel. Imagine yourself at a Greek performance in 350 B.C. when you climb up to the top of the site's intact amphitheater. Or, pay your respects at the sprawling mausoleum, where the local Anatolians who ruled present-day Bodrum on behalf of Greek imperial overlords are interred.

There are few more relaxing places in Turkey than Bodrum Beach.
There are few more relaxing places in Turkey than Bodrum Beach.

Soak up the Turkish Sun

Step into postcard-perfect scenery as your toes sink into the sun-warmed sands of Bodrum Beach. Take a dip in the still, crystalline waters lapping at the shore, or rent an umbrella or two, slather on the sunscreen and relax like never before. Order a shot of Raki, a distinctive local spirit that tastes like licorice, or order a milder Efes beer and say "cheers" to your beautiful day in Bodrum.

Bodrum is as much a culinary paradise as it is one for beaches.
Bodrum is as much a culinary paradise as it is one for beaches.

LOCAL CUISINE

When you work up an appetite, make your way to Milta Bodrum Marina, where you can enjoy views of majestic yachts reflecting in the water as you dine on fresh seafood and grilled meats. Choose locally caught izgara ahtapot (grilled octopus) served simply with a drizzle of olive oil and a wedge of lemon, or select a platter of grilled meats, kebabs and mezze appetizers for a more pan-Turkish culinary celebration.

Discount.Market in Bodrum
Discount.Market in Bodrum

SHOPPING

The main challenge of shopping at picturesque Bodrum Market? Getting out from behind the lens of your camera long enough to actually buy something! Traipse past colorful stalls, browse typical Turkish keepsakes, like colorful mosaic lamps and mysterious Nazar Boncuk evil eyes, or shop for products made with locally produced olives, including soaps and extra-virgin oils.

Insider's Tips
Insider's Tips
1 Given Bodrum's popularity among UK tourists, you can almost always find someone here who speaks English.
2 If you don't have any Turkish Lira on hand, most restaurateurs and shopkeepers are happy to accept Euros.
3 Bodrum is a popular jumping-off point for excursions into the Turkish islands and to Turkish coast destinations, such as Fethiye, Öludeniz and Antalya.

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