The Best Things to Do When Visiting Bodrum Turkey

Bodrum Turkey is a breathtakingly beautiful destination for vacations or a weekend away. The Mediterranean port city has a stunning range of attractions, activities, and sights to explore. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, cultural experiences, or thrilling nightlife, this city offers something for everyone. Here are the best things to do when visiting Bodrum Turkey that you won’t want to miss out on.

1. Visit the Ancient Ruins of Halicarnassus

The ancient ruins of Halicarnassus in Bodrum were once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Caria. This archaeological site is home to some of the most important monuments and structures of ancient times, preserving 17 centuries of history in one place. On your visit, see the famous Mausoleum of King Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, as well as the Temple of Artemis, the Castle of Saint Peter, and the Culture House Gallery.

2. Catch the Sunset from Mausoleum Hill

No visit to Bodrum is complete without catching a stunning sunset from Mausoleum Hill. The panoramic vista of the city and harbor at sunset is one of the most picturesque scenes in all of Turkey, and a trip to Mausoleum Hill is worth it for this alone. Plus, it’s only a 20-minute walk away from the city center, so you can easily make it back to enjoy a sunset dinner in town afterwards.

3. Spend a Day Exploring Miletus

The ruins of Ancient Miletus are located just outside Bodrum, and offer another fascinating look into the city’s ancient history. Though much of Miletus is still underground and yet to be excavated, there are many wonders here to explore such as the city’s ancient theater and two agoras – public gathering places in classical times. You can even see the remains of an old fish market from the Roman Empire era. Make sure to bring adequate water and snacks for your day trip, as these ruins are located in an isolated area outside Bodrum.

4. Dine on Delicious Local Cuisine

No visit would be complete without indulging in some delicious local cuisine. Bodrum is known for its unique dishes and variety of flavors, most notably its Mediterranean-style seafood. Experience authentic Turkish flavors at local restaurants like Hezarfen in Turgutreis and Koy Sofrasi in Gumbet, both of which offer an incredible selection of seafood options. Other local specialties include recipes like Doner kebab, karniyarik (an eggplant-based dish), patates dolma (stuffed potatoes), and sis kebab (meat skewers).

5. Shop Until You Drop in Gumbet

Gumbet is also known as little Istanbul due to its vibrant ambiance, bustling nightlife, and fantastic shopping scene. The streets are scattered with souvenir shops where you can find everything from jewelry to handmade Turkish carpets, colorful kilims and wooden crafts from local artisans. You can also score some great deals here if you’re willing to haggle with the shopkeepers.

6. Get Pampered at Pamukkale Thermal Baths

Relax and rejuvenate your body and mind at the Pamukkale thermal baths located just outside Bodrum. This thermal spa offers a variety of treatments from Turkish baths to spa treatments made with natural minerals from the calcium travertine spring waters. Take a soak in one of their healing thermal pools surrounded by lush gardens and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

7. Go Boating on the Aegean Sea

Boat tours are a fantastic way to explore the stunning beauty of Bodrum’s coastlines while relaxing on-board. There are many different themed boat tours you can take here, from sunset boat tours to private luxury sailing excursions. Experience swimming stops at crystal-clear bays around Bodrum and enjoy delicious meals prepared freshly on-board with freshly caught seafood.

8. Discover Stunning Beaches Around Bodrum

Spending time at the beach is one of the highlights for any vacation in Bodrum Turkey. There are many gorgeous beaches around Bodrum to choose from such as Bitez Beach with its golden sand stretching along the shore beyond endless sea views. Other excellent beach spots include Büyükbükü Beach for its crystal clear waters which are perfect for swimming and Yaliciftlik Beach for its calm ambiance and secluded atmosphere.

9. Party Your Nights Away at World-Class Clubs

For those looking for some nightlife action, Bodrum is home to world-class clubs that keep the party scene thriving throughout the night. Popular clubs include Club Catamaran for electronic music club nights and Halikarnas with its famous terrace overlooking Bodrum Castle providing an unforgettable backdrop. There’s also Opium Club for clubbers who love international DJs and event parties, as well as Zero Beach Club for its unparalleled beachfront location overlooking Yalıkavak Bay and Mediterranean Sea views – truly stunning!No matter what you choose to do during your visit to Bodrum Turkey, there’s no doubt that you won’t be disappointed with all that this Mediterranean port city has to offer visitors. From ancient ruins and sunsets over stunning harbor views to seaside relaxing and all-night partying – you won’t be able to get enough of this invigorating destination in southern Turkey! For more information on what do do while visiting Bodrum, please visit Turkey Travel Planner, which offers detailed information on activities, attractions, accommodations, dining options, festivals and more in and around Bodrum.