Bodrum: What Should You Do During Your Visit?

Situated on the south-western coast of Turkey, Bodrum has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its fantastic atmosphere and its spectacular views of the Aegean Sea and neighboring countries. Whether you’re looking for a summer break in the sun, or a cultural adventure, Bodrum has something for everyone. For those considering a visit to this exciting city, here is a guide to the best things to do during your stay.

Explore Ancient History in Halicarnassus of Caria

One of the main reasons to visit Bodrum is the fantastic range of historical sites, located in the ancient city of Halicarnassus. Here you can find a range of fascinating archaeological sites, tombs, and ruins from many different eras. The most popular of these is the Bodrum Castle, which was built by the Knights of Saint John in the medieval era. Other sites include the Myndus Gate, the Hieron’s Gate, and the Heracleion. The ancient amphitheatre, which dates back to 4th century BC, is a particularly interesting sight to behold.

Discover the Museum of Underwater Archaeology

Bodrum is also home to the fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology, located within the Bodrum Castle. Here you can explore two levels of fascinating displays and multimedia exhibits focusing on the deepwater discoveries of famous archaeologist and marine explorer George Bass. Highlights of the museum include a replica of a 4th-century BC shipwreck, a simulated dive around to the sunken city of Kekova, and an interactive display illustrating the wrecking of two ships near the Greek island of Tilos in 1978. The museum also houses an anchorage point for visitors to charter a boat and explore some of the nearby underwater sites.

Enjoy a Stroll Around Bodrum’s Old Town

One of the best ways to take in the atmosphere of this beautiful city is to take a stroll around Bodrum’s old town. As one of the most well-preserved bits of medieval architecture in Turkey, this area has remained largely unchanged since its initial construction in 1402. There are plenty of souvenir shops and restaurants in later buildings which add a contemporary feel to the area but have been built according to traditional guidelines. Wandering through the old town is a great way to get lost in Turkish history and take in stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Visit Rabbit Island

Rabbit Island, officially known as Güvercin Adası or Pidgeon Island, is a small but picturesque island located off the coast of Bodrum. The island boasts two beaches located at opposite ends and offers a wide variety of activities such as beach volleyball, sailing, banana boating, and snorkeling. It also houses a small village which serves as an interesting cultural insight into life on this beautiful island. Guided tours around Rabbit Island are available which focus on its history and culture in much more detail than you’re likely to find elsewhere.

Party in Ortakent

Ortakent is a popular resort town located on the outskirts of Bodrum and it makes for an exciting night out for those looking for something different to do during their visit. Bars such as Bardak or Dükkan open late into the night and offer spectacular views of the Aegean sea with great music and party atmosphere. A popular spot for bar-hopping is The Spirit Street, located at the top end of the beach just outside Ortakent. Here you can find any number of bars and pubs, many with live music and entertainment.

Explore the Castle Walls of St Peter

Originally constructed as part of fortifications against naval attacks, St Peter’s Castle allows visitors to explore one of the largest castle walls ever built by the Knights Hospitaller during the Middle Ages. Nowadays it mostly serves as an interesting attraction offering spectacular views of Bodrum’s surroundings and makes an impressive backdrop to old photos taken in the city. Located just outside Bodrum city centre, this castle is a must-see for any history lover looking to experience an authentic piece of medieval architecture. As you can see, there’s no shortage of interesting things for visitors to see and do when visiting Bodrum. From its rich historical sights to its vibrant culture and vibrancy, this Mediterranean city has something for everyone. Whether it’s relaxing on Rabbit Island or dancing until dawn in Ortakent, your time here is sure to be full of special moments. To learn more about what to expect when visiting Bodrum, be sure to read Bodrum Bay’s guide, detailing some of the top attractions in this beautiful region of Turkey.