Bodrum
The jewel of the Aegean
Located in southwestern Turkey, Bodrum is a world-renowned holiday resort in the province of Muğla, situated on the coast of the Aegean Sea. With its whitewashed stone houses, indigo blue doors and windows, stunning bays, and warm atmosphere, Bodrum welcomes millions of tourists every year.
Natural Beauties: Bodrum boasts stunning natural beauties where the sea, mountains, and pine forests converge. The Bodrum Peninsula offers a 650-kilometer coastline with numerous beautiful beaches and bays. Areas such as Bitez, Gümbet, Yalıkavak, and Gümüşlük are ideal spots for those who want to enjoy the sea and sun.
Historical and Cultural Riches: Bodrum’s history dates back to ancient times. Formerly known as Halicarnassus, Bodrum is the birthplace of Herodotus, known as the father of history, born in 484 BC. The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is also located here. Additionally, historical structures such as Bodrum Castle, Myndos Gate, and the Ancient Theatre reveal the rich past of the region.
Activities: There are many activities you can do in Bodrum. Water sports, yacht tours, nature walks, and bike tours are great opportunities to explore the region’s beauties. Additionally, Bodrum is famous for its vibrant nightlife, bars, clubs, and restaurants. You can take a walk at Bodrum Marina, go shopping, and relax at the seaside cafes.
Accommodation: Bodrum offers accommodation options for every budget. From luxury hotels to boutique hotels, from guesthouses to holiday resorts, there is a wide range of places to stay. The warm and hospitable people of Bodrum will make your holiday even more enjoyable.
Bodrum provides visitors with an unforgettable holiday experience with its natural beauties, historical riches, and vibrant atmosphere. By visiting this enchanting region, you can discover the unique beauties of the Aegean.
The jewel of the Aegean
Bodrum Castle & Archeology Museum
Bodrum Castle, which has become the symbol of Bodrum, was built by the Knights of St. John between 1406 and 1523. Constructed on a rocky area between two harbors, the castle has a square plan measuring 180 by 185 meters. The castle features towers named after different countries, including the French Tower, which stands 47.50 meters above sea level, as well as the Italian, German, Snake, and English Towers.
Natural and Historical Beauties: Bodrum Castle stands out not only with its architectural structure but also with the natural beauties surrounding it. The castle is located on a rocky area that was an island in ancient times and later connected to the city, becoming a peninsula. Inside the castle, visitors can find 14 cisterns, a castle keep, a moat between double walls, a drawbridge, and the inscription of Mahmud II, offering a historical journey.
Underwater Archaeology Museum: Since 1960, Bodrum Castle has been used as the Underwater Archaeology Museum. The museum is considered one of the most important underwater archaeology museums in the world and received a “Special Commendation” in the European Museum of the Year Competition in 1995. The museum exhibits a collection of Eastern Mediterranean amphoras, as well as significant underwater finds such as the Uluburun Shipwreck, the Serçe Limanı Glass Wreck, and the Yassıada Shipwrecks.
Exhibition Halls: The museum has 14 exhibition halls. These halls feature various exhibits such as the Bath Display, Chapel/Castle Mosque, Amphora/Underwater Archaeology History, Caria History, Müsgebi Necropolis, Early Bronze Age Necropolises, Halicarnassus East Necropolis, Carian Princess, English Tower, Knights of Rhodes, and Late Bronze Age Shipwrecks. Additionally, various artifacts are displayed in open areas.
Visiting Information: Bodrum Castle and the Underwater Archaeology Museum are open to visitors every day from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM. The museum offers a unique experience for both history and maritime enthusiasts.
Bodrum Castle and the Underwater Archaeology Museum provide visitors with unforgettable memories through their historical and cultural riches. By visiting this enchanting site, you can discover the unique history and natural beauties of Bodrum.
Halicarnassus Mausoleum
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was built in 350 BC in Bodrum (ancient Halicarnassus) by Queen Artemisia in honor of her husband and brother, King Mausolus. This monumental tomb is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and is notable for its architectural design.
Historical and Architectural Features: The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus reflects the influences of Greek and Egyptian architecture. The monument was built on a base measuring 32 by 38 meters, with a total height of approximately 55 meters. The lowest part of the mausoleum features a high podium, above which is a temple section surrounded by Ionic columns, topped by a pyramid-shaped roof. At the very top, there are statues of Mausolus and Artemisia in a chariot drawn by four horses.
Artistic Value: The construction of the mausoleum involved some of the most famous sculptors of the time, including Scopas, Leochares, Bryaxis, and Timotheus. These artists added artistic value to the structure by creating different sculptures and reliefs on each side of the mausoleum. Some of the statues and reliefs from the mausoleum are now exhibited in the British Museum.
Historical Significance: The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus is not just a tomb but also a symbol of the power and wealth of the Carian Kingdom. Built after the death of King Mausolus, this monument was constructed to honor his memory and preserve the cultural heritage of the region. Over time, the term “mausoleum” has come to be used for all large tomb structures.
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus Today: The remains of the mausoleum are now open to visitors as an open-air museum in Bodrum. Architectural fragments, reliefs, and models of the structure are displayed at the site. Visitors can explore this historical site and discover the architectural and artistic richness of the ancient period.
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus offers a unique experience to its visitors with its historical and artistic value. By visiting this fascinating monument, you have the opportunity to discover one of the wonders of the ancient world.
Myndos Gate
The Myndos Gate in Bodrum: Located to the west of Bodrum, the Myndos Gate is one of the entrance gates of the ancient city of Halicarnassus. It was built on the city walls by Mausolus, the Satrap of Caria, around 360 BC. This gate is one of the two monumental gates of Halicarnassus and was constructed for defensive purposes.
Historical and Architectural Features: The Myndos Gate consists of two monumental towers and an inner courtyard where the gate to the city is located. The walls and towers to the north of the gate were reinforced with defensive ditches that thwarted Alexander the Great’s attacks on Halicarnassus in 334 BC. The towers measure approximately 7 by 8.5 meters and are significant examples of ancient defensive architecture.
Historical Significance: The Myndos Gate forms an important part of the western walls of Halicarnassus. This gate played a critical role in the city’s defense and withstood the attacks of Alexander the Great. Additionally, vaulted tombs from the Hellenistic and Roman periods are located in the area of the gate. These tombs shed light on the rich historical past of the region.
The Myndos Gate Today: Today, the Myndos Gate is one of Bodrum’s significant historical and tourist sites. The remains of the gate offer visitors the opportunity to explore the architectural and defensive strategies of the ancient period. Additionally, thanks to the restoration work around the gate, visitors can better understand and explore this historical structure.
The Myndos Gate offers a unique experience to its visitors with its historical and architectural value. By visiting this fascinating structure, you have the chance to discover Bodrum’s ancient past and cultural heritage.
Bitez Beach
Bitez Beach: Located approximately 8 kilometers from the center of Bodrum, Bitez Beach is known for its calm and peaceful atmosphere. This Blue Flag beach offers one of the most beautiful views of the Aegean Sea and is frequently preferred by both local and international tourists.
Natural Beauty: Bitez Beach stands out with its wide and clean sandy shore. The beach is crescent-shaped and is nestled among fragrant citrus and olive trees. The sea is usually calm and wave-free, providing ideal conditions for swimming and water sports. The natural beauty surrounding the beach offers visitors a peaceful environment.
Activities: There are many activities you can do at Bitez Beach. You can sunbathe, swim, or engage in water sports. Activities like windsurfing and sailing are particularly popular. Additionally, cycling and walking around the beach area offer a pleasant experience. You can enjoy nature by walking through Bitez’s mandarin orchards.
Food and Drink: There are many restaurants and cafes around Bitez Beach. In these places, you can enjoy the flavors of Aegean and Mediterranean cuisine, savoring fresh seafood and local delicacies. Also, don’t forget to try the fresh and delicious ice cream at Bitez’s famous ice cream shop.
Accommodation: Bitez offers accommodation options for every budget. From luxury hotels to boutique hotels, from guesthouses to campsites, there is a wide range of places to stay. By booking early, you can make your holiday even more enjoyable.
Bitez Beach provides an unforgettable holiday experience to its visitors with its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and various activities. By visiting this beautiful beach, you have the opportunity to discover the unique beauty of Bodrum.
Gümüşlük
Gümüşlük: Located on the western part of the Bodrum Peninsula, Gümüşlük is a coastal neighborhood known for its natural beauty and historical texture. Formerly known as Myndos, this area is famous for its ancient ruins and bohemian atmosphere.
Natural Beauty: Gümüşlük offers a peaceful environment to its visitors with its untouched nature and clean sea. The fish restaurants lined along the coast provide the opportunity to dine with stunning sea views. The view of Gümüşlük is especially enchanting at sunset. You can walk to Rabbit Island and explore the natural beauty of the island.
Historical and Cultural Riches: Gümüşlük is built on the ruins of the ancient city of Myndos. It is possible to see remnants from the ancient period all around the area. This historical texture contributes to the unique atmosphere of Gümüşlük. Additionally, you can find handmade products by local artists at the Gümüşlük Handicrafts Market and explore the cultural richness of the region.
Activities: There are many activities you can do in Gümüşlük. You can walk along the coast, swim, or engage in water sports. Additionally, you can taste fresh seafood at the local restaurants and experience local flavors. The bohemian atmosphere of Gümüşlük, along with its art galleries and handicrafts market, is also worth exploring.
Accommodation: Gümüşlük offers accommodation options for every budget. From boutique hotels to guesthouses, there is a wide range of places to stay. The calm and peaceful atmosphere of Gümüşlük will make your holiday even more enjoyable.
Gümüşlük provides an unforgettable experience to its visitors with its natural and historical riches. By visiting this enchanting area, you have the opportunity to discover the unique beauty of Bodrum.
Rabbit Island
Rabbit Island: Located 200 meters off the coast of Gümüşlük in Bodrum, Rabbit Island is notable for its natural beauty and historical texture. This small island separates two beautiful beaches of Gümüşlük and is one of the rare places that can be reached by walking through the sea.
Natural Beauty: Rabbit Island offers a peaceful environment to its visitors with its clear sea and stunning views. The water on the side facing the open sea is quite deep, and the rocks are high. This area provides ideal conditions for swimming and diving. Additionally, you can enjoy nature by walking around the island.
Historical and Cultural Riches: Rabbit Island hosts remnants from the ancient city of Myndos, with a history spanning 500 years. The historic King’s Road, built by order of King Mausolus of Halicarnassus during the Hellenistic period, allows you to walk to the island. According to legend, King Mausolus and his lover Artemisia used to visit the island to feed the rabbits living there. Hence, the island is known as Rabbit Island.
Activities: There are many activities you can do on Rabbit Island. Walking through the sea to reach the island offers a unique experience for visitors. Additionally, you can swim, dive, and go on nature walks around the island. The views you can watch from the island at sunset are unforgettable.
Transportation: Reaching Rabbit Island is quite easy. You can get to Gümüşlük from Bodrum center and walk to the island from there. It is also possible to reach the island by boat tours. There are regular bus services to Bodrum from many parts of Turkey, and it is also quite close to Milas-Bodrum Airport.
Rabbit Island offers a unique experience to its visitors with its natural and historical riches. By visiting this enchanting island, you have the opportunity to discover the unique beauty of Bodrum.
Bardakçı Bay
Bardakçı Bay: Located quite close to the center of Bodrum, Bardakçı Bay is known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Situated on the southwestern coast of the Bodrum Peninsula, this bay is famous for its turquoise-colored sea and the surrounding natural beauty.
Natural Beauty: Bardakçı Bay is an ideal place for swimming and water sports with its clear and calm sea. The sea in the bay is usually warm, allowing for comfortable swimming even in the morning hours. The beach offers a comfortable experience to visitors with its fine-grained and soft sand. You can enjoy the sea and sun with a view of Bodrum Castle.
Historical and Cultural Riches: Bardakçı Bay is also known as Zeki Müren Bay. This bay, where the famous artist Zeki Müren frequently swam, is named in his memory. The hotels and restaurants around the bay offer visitors comfortable accommodation and delicious dining options.
Activities: There are many activities you can do at Bardakçı Bay. You can swim, sunbathe, or engage in water sports. Additionally, you can enjoy nature by walking around the bay. Its proximity to Bodrum center and Gümbet makes it an ideal location for those who want to enjoy the nightlife.
Accommodation: There are many boutique and luxury hotels around Bardakçı Bay. These hotels operate the beach and offer amenities such as sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, and toilets. Additionally, you can taste the flavors of Aegean and Mediterranean cuisine at the hotels’ restaurants.
Bardakçı Bay provides an unforgettable holiday experience to its visitors with its natural beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and various activities. By visiting this beautiful bay, you have the opportunity to discover the unique beauty of Bodrum.
Windmills of Bodrum
Windmills of Bodrum: One of the symbols of Bodrum, the windmills stand out with their historical and natural beauty. Located on the hills between Bodrum center and Gümbet, as well as in Yalıkavak, these windmills were built in the 18th century and were actively used until the 1970s.
Historical and Architectural Features: The windmills were typically built on hills in locations that could capture the wind most efficiently. The mills were constructed in a cylindrical shape using local stones, and roofs that could rotate according to the wind direction were added on top. These roofs would turn the blades with the power of the wind, moving the millstones to grind grains such as wheat and barley.
Natural Beauty: The hills where the windmills are located offer stunning views of Bodrum. Especially at sunset, the views from these hills are enchanting. They also provide great opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture beautiful shots. Additionally, nature walks and bike tours in these areas are quite enjoyable.
Activities: There are many activities you can do around the Bodrum Windmills. You can visit the historic windmills and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Additionally, you can go for walks, join bike tours, and have picnics with stunning views.
Transportation: The Bodrum Windmills are located quite close to the center of Bodrum. You can reach the windmills with a short walk along the coast from the center of Bodrum. Additionally, there are regular bus services to Bodrum from many parts of Turkey, and it is also quite close to Milas-Bodrum Airport.
Bodrum Bazaar
Located in the heart of Bodrum, the Bodrum Bazaar offers visitors a unique shopping experience with its historical and cultural charm. With its narrow streets, colorful shops, and lively atmosphere, the bazaar is one of Bodrum’s most famous tourist attractions.
Shopping and Handicrafts: The Bodrum Bazaar is a place where you can find a variety of traditional handicrafts, local souvenirs, jewelry, leather goods, and carpets. There are also many shops selling delicacies such as olive oil, jams, and nuts. In these shops, you can buy unique Bodrum products to gift to your loved ones or collect beautiful memories for yourself.
Food and Drink: The bazaar is also filled with many cafes, restaurants, and bars. In these places, you can enjoy the flavors of Aegean and Mediterranean cuisine, savoring fresh seafood and local delicacies. Especially on summer evenings, the bazaar becomes quite lively and offers visitors unforgettable moments.
Cultural and Historical Riches: The Bodrum Bazaar is not only a shopping destination but also stands out for its cultural and historical wealth. It is surrounded by significant historical landmarks such as the Bazaar District, Bodrum Castle, and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Additionally, street performers and various events add a unique charm to the bazaar.
Nightlife: The Bodrum Bazaar is also the center of nightlife. The bars and clubs in the bazaar are ideal spots for those seeking entertainment throughout the night. Live music performances and dance shows reflect Bodrum’s energetic atmosphere.
Transportation: The Bodrum Bazaar is located quite close to the center of Bodrum and is easily accessible on foot. Additionally, there are regular bus services to Bodrum from many parts of Turkey, and it is also quite close to Milas-Bodrum Airport.
The Bodrum Bazaar offers visitors a multifaceted experience with shopping, dining, cultural events, and nightlife. By visiting this enchanting bazaar, you can seize the opportunity to discover Bodrum’s unique atmosphere.