What makes it great
Nearby beaches: Although Bodrum’s own beach is certainly not the best in Turkey, you’ll come across some wonderful stretches of coastline in the surrounding area. The cool breeze over Bitez beach makes it great for windsurfing, while you’ll find a slice of sandy paradise in Bardakci!
Lively nightclubs: One of the best places to party in Turkey, Bodrum has open-air clubs, live concerts and traditional bars all waiting to entertain you. Even Bodrum Castle becomes a stage over the summer!
Rich history: The Castle of St Peter is a remarkably well-preserved example of Crusader architecture. Of course, that’s not forgetting the ancient Greek ruins of the Mausoleum and Mydnus Gate.
Sights worth seeing
Mausoleum of Halicarnassius: Mausolus ruled In Bodrum for nearly 25 years, and the word ‘mausoleum’ is even named after his monumental tomb built here. Sadly, the Mausoleum of Halicarnassius (to give its proper title) is no longer standing after earthquakes reduced it to rubble. But the ruins are still important as a site of one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
Mydnos Gate: The recently restored Mydnos gate is in a slightly better state. This was also built by Mausolus, primarily as a defence tower which was then put to the test by the Macedonian leader Alexander the Great.
Amphitheatre: Clearly Mausolus has had a huge impact on the area, as aside from the Mydnos Gate and his namesake, the Mausoleum, he also had a hand in creating a huge 13,000-seater amphitheatre. This amazing structure is still fully intact, and is even stable enough to host open-air concerts in the summer!
Castle of St Peter: This castle was actually built using the broken stones from the Mausoleum by the Crusaders. It sits on a stunning location looking out to the sea and also houses a fascinating museum dedicated to underwater archaeology.
Things to do
Watersports: There are watersports a-plenty around Bodrum, thanks to its calm, crystal clear sea. Diving schools cater for all abilities, including excellent beginner courses which take you on a tour around huge old shipwrecks. Of course, you can expect all the usual activities on the sea too, like paragliding, jet-skiing and even rides on the good old banana boat!
Boat tours: For those looking for something more sedate, you could always hop on a boat and take a tour of the beautiful Bodrum coastline. You’ll get some lovely snaps on your camera, and may even come across some hidden beaches for a spot of peaceful sunbathing!
Beaches
Bodrum beach: Given Bodrum’s popularity, it’s somewhat surprising that its only beach is a strip of shingle – not good for the feet! Although being a major resort it can still get pretty crowded in the summer.
Bitez: Velvety soft sand gently curls around a natural bay, with some pine-clad mountains drifting off into the distance. The shimmering emerald-coloured water is very calm too, making it an ideal choice for families and windsurfers alike.
Bardakci beach: Only a short walk or bus ride from Bodrum town centre, golden coastline backed by palm trees make it an idyllic setting for lapping up the bright warm sunshine.
Tasty places
Meyhane Evgenia: This family-run restaurant offers up a huge range of authentic dishes, including smoked aubergine and feta cheese pastry.
La Jolla Bistro: They certainly know how to cook steaks here! This steakhouse and wine restaurant also receives rave reviews for its cheesecake.
Cafe Cafen: A perfect place to relax and enjoy a strong but sweet Turkish coffee. And you could always add a delicious home-made cake if you’re feeling naughty!
Nightlife
Bar Street: Along the narrow cobbled roads of Bodrum you’ll find the aptly named Bar Street. Here you’ll find all kinds of bars and clubs to party the night away. Mavi Bar, White House and Deja Vu are all highly recommended, and play anything from chart hits to pop rock and Turkish classics. Then there’s the huge Halikarnas Disco – one of the largest open air clubs in Europe.
Gumbet: Just a short hop down the road from Bodrum, this is the ideal place for younger revellers who want to dance into the night. X Bar, Roxys and Shakers are the places to be – all offer a lively atmosphere and a fabulous range of cocktails.
Shopping
Bazaar: Bodrum has a world-famous bazaar which is on almost every day. It’s an exhilarating mix of markets that make up a shopper’s paradise. There’s an amazing array of craftware on offer, from leather belts to glassware, silks and jewellery. You’ll also find plenty of food markets selling fresh local produce like honey, halloumi, and olive oil, their bright colours and sweet smells providing a delight for the senses.
Bordum Marina: Or maybe you’re up for a bit of upmarket shopping? Head to the Bodrum Marina, where you’ll discover classy designer boutiques that line the waterfront. Then there’s always the Oasis shopping centre with many famous brands you’ll recognise sitting alongside exotic Turkish labels. And with Turkey being outside of the Euro currency, you get great value for money at nearly everywhere you shop too.
