Planning to visit the coastal town of Bodrum and looking to see as much as possible? This Bodrum itinerary will help you make the most out of your stay there.
Bodrum may be well known for its beaches and resorts, but there’s way more going on in this storied town than sun, sea, and sand.
Once known as Halicarnassus, this ancient city has been home to the Persian Empire, the Greeks, and the Romans over the centuries, and it shows with its array of ruins and intriguing sights — enough to pull you away from the beach for at least a day.
And with all that exploring you’ll be doing, you’ll be thankful for the many eateries serving up an array of delicious food along the cobbled streets, and overlooking the harbor.
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Table of Contents
Best Things to Do in Bodrum
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
This funerary monument is quite literally the original mausoleum. This once-enormous tomb was built in 353 to 350 BC for Mausolus, a ruler of the Achaemenid dynasty, in what was then known as Halicarnassus.
This huge structure is thought to have been planned before Mausolus himself passed away, allowing him to choose the best spot (overlooking the city) and making sure it was as big and as lavish as it could be.
In its heyday, the mausoleum stood 45 meters high, with each of its sides skillfully and painstakingly decorated with intricate sculptural reliefs. In total, there were more than 400 sculptures once surrounding the mausoleum, with dozens of columns on top holding up the tomb’s enormous roof.
It’s no wonder that it was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World (alongside the Pyramids at Giza). Today only ruins remain of this once great structure, but visitors can glimpse stairways, various other tombs, the remnants of walls, and even drainage systems involved in the infrastructure of the architecture. A scale model on display gives visitors an idea of what the Mausoleum complex would have looked like in its heyday.
Myndos Gate
The Myndos Gate is believed to have been part of the seven-kilometer defensive walls that ringed the ancient city of Halicarnassus — part of the grand works carried out under the reign of Mausolus. The site itself doesn’t have much pomp surrounding it; it’s free to see the ancient gate, which is out there in the open, with a modern road passing through it.
Make sure to take a look at the ditch nearby, which is actually what remains of a moat where Alexander the Great’s soldiers drowned during the Siege of Halicarnassus 334 BC.
The Theatre at Halicarnassus
Another remnant of 4th century BC Halicarnassus, this ancient theatre was built right into the hillside itself. It originally would have had enough room to seat 5,000 people, but over the centuries it was enlarged; finally, during the Roman era around the 2nd century AD, it is believed to hold a capacity of an estimated 13,000.
Today the theatre still acts as a venue for entertainment and cultural events. For example, the Bodrum International Ballet Festival takes place here each summer, alongside other events.
Ottoman Cemetery
Located overlooking the marina of Bodrum, this old cemetery is the final resting place of a famous local sea captain and governor of Rhodes called Mustafa Pasha and his son, Chief Admiral Cafer Pasha. The pair played an important part in the maritime history of Bodrum and the Ottoman Empire.
The location of both of their tombs also happens to be the location of an old Ottoman shipyard. Here galleons were built for use by the Ottoman navy, part of a rebuilding program after almost the entire fleet was destroyed during the Battle of Chesma by the Russian navy in 1770.
Bodrum Castle
Bodrum Castle is hard to miss; it is the main landmark along the coast here after all. The UNESCO-recognised castle also goes by the name of Castle of St Peter, due to its history of being a stronghold for the Knights Hospitaller.
In fact, it was this religious military order that built the castle, prompted by the invasion of the Ottoman Empire by the fearsome Turco-Mongol ruler, Tamerlane. The chaos that the invasion created enabled the knights to establish an enclave for themselves on the otherwise Ottoman-dominated Anatolian Peninsula.
The castle was built with huge stones and marble that were hewn from Mausolus’s mausoleum itself. The mausoleum at this point was lying in ruins following an earthquake. The fortress was completed by 1437, but the additions of moats, walls, and extra towers continued into the early 16th century.
The knights fled in the wake of Suleiman the Magnificent’s conquest of Rhodes, leaving the castle to the sultan. The chapel within was turned into a mosque, complete with a minaret. The castle withstood for centuries but was eventually damaged during a bombing campaign of World War II. The castle can be visited to this day (open hours 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology
Bodrum Castle also plays host to the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology. This interesting museum opened in 1964 and explores the various ruins of ships and their ancient cargo that have been found in the waters around Bodrum’s harbor.
Here you can learn about shipwrecks, while a multitude of artefacts including amphorae and coins can be seen on display in this intriguing look into the ancient world.
Bodrum Market
It’s not just ancient and Mediaeval sights that make up the town’s list of attractions; modern life also plays a part in the charm of this old city. Bodrum Market is one such place, offering a glimpse into the hustle and bustle of daily commerce.
It’s a vibrant place to explore and a great place to pick up some interesting souvenirs and gifts, from T-shirts and memorabilia to practical bags and hats. There’s also a fresh fruit and vegetable section at the market, and a place to pick up local snacks to eat there and then too. It’s a good spot to sit down with a coffee and take it all in.
Tepecik Camii
This small, white-washed mosque sits on the waterfront of Bodrum overlooking the marina. It’s a shady spot along a leafy road, complete with lawns edging the perimeter. Come evening, and the mosque is elegantly illuminated and makes for a picturesque photo opportunity during a sunset stroll of the waterfront.
Merkez Adliye Camii
Situated in Bodrum’s Old Bazaar, close to the harbourfront, Merkez Adliye Camii is the central courthouse mosque. Constructed in 1901 from gleaming stone, it’s a mosque with a difference as it certainly doesn’t follow classic Islamic architecture (though there is a single, slender minaret rising from the otherwise almost residential roof).
It’s on the way to Bodrum Castle, so stopping off here is a good idea during your day itinerary of Bodrum — not least because the mosque welcomes non-Muslim visitors to come in and learn more about the history and heritage of the building.
Windmills
Head out of Bodrum and onto the hills to the west of town to discover the old windmills of the city. There are seven remaining, all dating back to the 1700s but in use all the way until the 1970s.
What remains of these once hardworking structures provides a handsome backdrop to your views out over the sea and back into town. From here you can also catch a glimpse of the Greek island of Kos in the distance.
Bodrum Maritime Museum
Bodrum’s location on the coast means that its history has been largely dictated by the sea, and a visit to the maritime museum offers an understanding of Bodrum’s heritage. Set across two floors, here you’ll find scale models of boats, examples of boat building, and tales of the sponge-diving heritage of the town. There’s also a collection of over 6,000 seashells on display at Bodrum Maritime Museum.
Zeki Muren Arts Museum
Zeki Muren was once one of the most popular singers in Turkey. He sold countless phonographs and records and was much loved by people across the nation. His music career spanned from the 1950s all the way to his death in the 1990s. His memory is marked at this museum, which is set in his former home.
His house is now a backdrop to all things Zeki Muren. Here you can see his paintings, many examples of his outlandish costumes, jewels, and gowns, and you can glimpse his personal belongings and furniture on display. For fans, it’s a dream; for those who don’t know him, it’s like a time warp into another world.
Practical Tips for Your Bodrum Itinerary
Where to stay in Bodrum
METT Hotel & Beach Resort Bodrum: If you’re looking for a place to stay in Bodrum where you can sit back, relax, and not have to lift a finger, then METT Hotel & Beach Resort is the place for you. Guest rooms at this sophisticated resort are decidedly upscale and feel plush and comfortable; they boast ocean views, private balconies, and chic style.
Elsewhere there’s the chance to dine in one of the four onsite restaurants or enjoy a drink (or a few) at one of the two bars. Want to relax further? Just head to the spa center or the private beach to unwind.
Click here for more information and to book your stay.
Su Hotel – Bodrum: For something low-key and charming, Su Hotel is the place to be. Set inside a traditional stone building, this rustic accommodation option is centered around a sunny terrace where you can chill out after a busy day of exploring.
It may be pared back, but that doesn’t mean that rooms here aren’t stylish. In fact, they feel quite boutique — think white-washed walls, blue color pops, and eye-catching artwork. In terms of amenities, there’s an outdoor swimming pool, an onsite restaurant, and an enticing cocktail menu to keep you entertained.
Click here for more information and to book your stay.
When is the Best Time to Visit Bodrum?
Summer is undoubtedly the peak tourist season in Bodrum. From June to August, the weather is hot and sunny, making it perfect for beach lovers. The crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea beckon visitors to indulge in water sports or simply relax by the shore. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this time.
If you prefer a quieter visit with milder temperatures, spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are ideal. During these shoulder seasons, you can still enjoy warm weather while avoiding the summer rush. It’s also a great time to explore Bodrum’s historical sites without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.
Winter in Bodrum is relatively mild compared to other parts of Europe. Although not as popular as summer or shoulder seasons, visiting during this time has its own charm. You’ll have more affordable accommodations and fewer tourists around you can truly immerse yourself in local life.
Personally, my favorite time to visit is during Autumn as the sea is still warm from the summer months and the crowds are fewer.
Where to Eat in Bodrum
Iki Sandal
Iki Sandal is a classic meyhane (traditional Turkish eatery) — a down-to-earth restaurant set in an old stone building. The setting here is particularly charming, with the front terrace providing views out over the harbor below.
Here diners can enjoy a carefully crafted menu of local dishes in the form of mezze, which is top quality, while a la carte fish dishes (this being by the coast) are also well recommended. Make sure to reserve a table on the terrace; it’s a very popular spot and gets booked up quite quickly.
Marina Yacht Club
The Marina Yacht Club isn’t just a place for people who own yachts — it’s actually one of the best-known destinations in the city for dinner, drinks, and views in the evening (or in the daytime). Serving up a delicious range of both Turkish and Italian fare, the Marina Yacht Club features an ever more party-friendly atmosphere as the evening wears on.
Find yourself a spot at one of the small tables scattered across the terrace and enjoy live music performed by various bands during the summer nights. There’s a good selection of local beers to sample here, as well as an enticing array of cocktails.
Otantik Ocakbaşı
If you’re in the market for a kebab, look no further than Otantik Ocakbaşı. This easy-going grill house has been cooking up local Turkish dishes since 1999. It’s not the fanciest of places, so don’t come here expecting extensive wine lists or 5-star service, but what brings people coming back, again and again, is its delicious kebabs, selection of grilled meats, and its friendly staff.
Located on the outskirts of the busy city centre, and featuring a leafy courtyard for al fresco dining, Otantik Ocakbaşı sees a mix of tourists and locals pass through its doors for good food and good times.
La Pasión
Complete with its courtyard scenery, this Spanish restaurant makes for a romantic spot to dine on an array of tapas. These carefully curated dishes alone are enough to entice visitors in, but the paella and fisherman’s stew are equally good.
The restaurant actually takes up space inside a crumbling old stone home and is shaded by the leaves of fig trees, adding to the charming setting of the eatery. La Pasion is also well known for its lunch menu, with a three-course set that (happily) seems to go on for hours; perfectly accompanied by a glass or two of wine.