Known for its more than 300 days of sunshine and attracting 1.5 million annual visitors, Bodrum is a stunning coastal town sitting on the western coast of Turkey adored for its seaside resorts with history and tangible charm.
Blending art, culture, and history, step back in time at the Dibeklihan Culture and Art Village, a historic stop on the ancient Silk Road! Today, the village is beautifully restored to its heyday, selling artisanally made objects for all visitors wanting to bring a piece of Bodrum back home.
Check out one of the Seven World Wonders, the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus! The burial sight of the leader, Mausolus, of the ancient region of Caria, now modern-day Bodrum.
Learn more about the historic region, and its grandeur, with a visit to Bodrum Castle and its collection of burial items left behind that belonged to his wife, the Carian Princess.
Lastly, visit the Bodrum Amphitheater – a 4th-century amphitheater used for concerts with uninterrupted views of the sea!
Ready for more? let’s see the rest of the fun things to do in Bodrum!
1 – Explore the artifacts inside Bodrum Castle
Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Bodrum Castle, a structure dating back to the 15th century made up of 3 exterior towers and containing an exquisite courtyard, amongst many other highlights!
Explore the interiors of the castle, open to the public, and check out the artifacts found in the Aegean Sea, from shipwrecks to gold jewelry, pottery, and even pieces of burial artifacts that belonged to the Carian Princess of modern-day Bodrum.
To explore Bodrum Old Town and the castle’s history a bit more, consider joining a walking tour to check out other nearby landmarks and the nearby spectacular sights!
2 – Let your hair down on a boat tour
Feel the cooling air of the Aegean Sea on a hot day when you board a scenic boat tour, to your choice of nearby Black Island, Orak Island, and more!
Nature lovers, consider hopping on the Dalyan River Cruise with sea turtle watching while enjoying some delicious grilled blue crab and other local dishes on board.
Want some extra activities added to your boat tour? Look into a Bodrum boat tour with a panoramic ride through the Turkish coast, with swimming opportunities and lunch included!
Check out more of the action-packed and chilled, relaxed boat tours in Bodrum, starting at $27 USD.
3 – Feel the healing properties in a Turkish mud bath
Enjoy some of Turkey’s healing mud baths on an exciting and relaxing outing to nearby Dalyan, with a few other attraction stops along the way.
Mud baths are not only healing for the skin but also remove impurities and prove to be relaxing for the joints – perfect after so much walking and sightseeing!
From wildlife-filled beaches to ancient tombs, a delicious seaside lunch, and dipping into a healing mud bath, an organized trip from Bodrum is the easiest and smoothest way to know exactly where the ideal mud baths are. Plus spot rare loggerhead turtles on the way!
Mud bath tours start at $70 USD.
4 – Go under the sea at the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology
Set inside the historic Bodrum Castle, the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology is a fascinating collection of artifacts found in the sea from old shipwrecks, and even items that belonged to sailors!
As one of the historic and main ports in Turkey, the museum houses tons of fascinating pieces that belonged to boats of different eras, each telling a story that you’re able to read about as you go through the exhibits.
In addition to the ship pieces, you’ll also learn about the rich biodiversity that lives in the Aegean Sea, including extinct sea life. Consider a tour for an immersive experience!
5 – Admire the ruins of the Myndos Gate
Don’t miss a visit to see the remnants of a once-strong defense gate built to ward off invaders, including Alexander The Great called Myndos Gate!
Dating to the 4th century BC, the Myndos Gate served as an important piece of construction that helped the city of Halicarnassus keep out attackers.
It was a grand gate that unfortunately didn’t stand the test of time, however, it’s still worth seeing as part of the gate and the wall that it’s attached to it are standing.
The views of the Aegean Sea from there are nothing short of spectacular, as well as the other historical sights nearby including the Bodrum Castle and amphitheater.
6 – Get your picture with the windmills
Want to update your profile picture while in Bodrum? Head to the towering windmills located on the peninsula!
Dating to the 18th century, the windmills were originally built to grind grain to make flour, but today, they have been unofficially dubbed one of the official images of Bodrum.
While today not all 18 of them are still standing, the ones that are, are truly worth the visit, especially during sunset. Situated on the hilltops of the peninsula, close to the city center of Bodrum, the windmills serve as a beautiful postcard background.
On especially clear days, you may even get views of the Greek island of Kos!
7 – See the rest of Bodrum on a thrilling Jeep tour
Ready for a day on the roads less traveled? Book a Jeep tour to explore all the hidden paths around the Bodrum peninsula, plus pass through some of the peninsula’s most remote villages and natural landscapes, not too commonly seen by other travelers.
As part of your experience, you’ll stop by for a refreshing dip at the beach, and replenish your energy with a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Some tours may also include pick up and drop off to and from your hotel.
Many of these tours are full-day tours, so rest assured that there will be tons to do and experience on this unique road trip activity!
8 – Soothe your body at the thermal baths of Pamukkale
Pamukkale is a wondrous city located 3.5 hours away from Bodrum and offers scenes of light-colored rocks slopes and mineral-rich thermal waters.
A popular sight for many tourists, Pamukkale is a must-see sight not only for its natural blessings but also for its historical landmarks nearby.
Book a day tour from Bodrum to Pamukkale and indulge in the rich mineral thermal baths, and also get to stop by the neighboring city of Hierapolis, an ancient Roman city with its baths and cemetery.
Lunch, entry, and transportation to the sites are included in your package.
9 – Catch some sun rays at the best beaches in Bodrum
Karaincir Plaji and Aspat Beach are two beaches near each other that offer a mix of local and tourist ambiance when it comes to beachgoing. From the hills on the coast of the beach to the calm waters, perfect for families, these are two great beaches to consider.
Enjoy the crystal blue waters at Camel Beach, and depending on what time you visit the beach, some camels may even appear and be available for a ride. Surrounded by a bustling resort town vibe, Yahsi Beach has beautiful sandy and pebble shores. Enjoy the abundance of sun chairs and local restaurants to enjoy after your swim!
If you’re looking for a peaceful time at the beach, visit Bitez Beach, and nearby Gumbet Beach is great for those looking for a bit of a party vibe, with local restaurants, bars with DJs, and hookah bars dotting the shore.
Admire the views at Akvaryum Bodrum of the rocky white cliffs touching the stark turquoise blue waters, perfect to view from laying out on the shores, or even hopping on a boat tour from there! Bardakci Cove is another great beach, with its beautiful coves being an attention grabber, aside from its powder sand beaches.
10 – Swim the crystal blue waters near Orak Island
Book a tour to Orak Island from Bodrum, and spend the day on another scenic island, boating, swimming, and enjoying a delicious local lunch!
A 40-minute journey from Bodrum city center, an organized day trip will include all your ground transport, the boat ride, lunch, and an afternoon snack of Turkish tea and cookies.
Admire the scenery right from the boat the minute you get on, viewing the crystal blue water, the coast of Bodrum and its many beaches, and the natural beauty of Orak Island not too far. Upon arriving, you’ll get free time to do as you please! Just make sure to bring your SPF and swimsuit!
11 – Sit inside the historic Bodrum Amphitheater
Check out the 4th-century-built Amphitheater, one of the best things to do in Bodrum for culture seekers.
Marvel at the historically rich amphitheater, which opened to the public again as recently as the 70s.
The amphitheater is located in what is known today as modern-day Bodrum, however, this is one of the only well-preserved structures left standing of the ancient city of Halicarnassus.
Today, the space is open for visitors to climb up the steps of its 13,000 audience capacity and take in the wide views of the peninsula from above. It also hosts concerts and other cultural events, so check them out!
Admission is free.
12 – Absorb the rich seafaring tradition at Bodrum Maritime Museum
Get a sample of the rich maritime heritage of Bodrum, one of Turkey’s most important seafaring and shipbuilding sites at the Bodrum Maritime Museum!
The small yet complete museum beautifully displays different ship models built in Bodrum historically, and what they were used for, as well as plenty of photography, documents, and other relics that shed light on the dense maritime culture of this coastal town.
Learn about the city’s rich sponge diving practice and other local fish and beautiful sea shells that live in the waters of the Aegean. Admission is 30 Turkish Lira.
13 – Spend an afternoon at Dibeklihan Culture and Art Village
Visit the collections inside the Dibeklihan Culture and Art Village, a creative social space that invites locals and visitors to check out and engage in art and cultural experiences.
Initially, the place where the Silk Road once passed, and once housed numerous travelers stopping for the night on the trading route, the Dibeklihan Culture and Art village today has revived the creative spirit with tons of artisan-made objects, accessories, paintings, and more for sale.
The art village with locally crafted items set inside the colorful age-old stone houses, is located a 16-minute drive from Bodrum. Admission is free.
14 – Do some yacht watching at the Milta Bodrum Marina
Stroll through one of the most prestigious and luxurious marinas on the Aegean and Mediterreanean – the Milta Bodrum Marina.
Centrally located in Bodrum, enjoy the multiple amenities available at the marina for all who visit, from seaside restaurants to local bazaars, art galleries, and more! Try some of the local delicacies like freshly caught Sea Bass served Turkish style at the restaurants on the marina!
After your meal or quick coffee break, stroll the marina’s promenade and take in the abundant blue colors of the sea, which complement the whitewashed houses settled on the coast near the marina, and the boats.
15 – Fly across the Aegean on a helicopter flight
Take your Bodrum adventures to new heights on a flight across the Aegean, taking in the marvels of the sea, the sparkling Bodrum coast, and a few of the islands close to Bodrum!
Listen to your pilot as they share fascinating facts about the Byzantine and Roman influences in the areas you’re flying over, and even pop some bubbly champagne as you see the sites.
Choose from different times including sunset for a romantic escape into the sky with your partner, or a midday flight to see all the historical sights in broad day, and choose specific itinerary routes to see special sights!
16 – Pack your towels for a trip to Iztuzu Beach
Also known as Turtle Beach, the award-winning Iztuzu Beach is a 5-kilometer-wide beach where on one side, you have views of a freshwater lake, and on the other, you have the transparent refreshing sea.
Located a 3-hour trip from Bodrum, the best way to see and enjoy this majestic beach is to book a day trip from Bodrum. Enjoy a full-day experience exploring multiple activities, from relaxing mud baths to spotting turtles at Iztuzu Beach, a delicious lunch seaside, and more!
This day-long experience starts at $99 USD and includes comfortable ground transport and hotel pick-up and drop-off.
17 – Learn about one of Turkey’s most famous musicians at Zeki Muren Arts Museum
Step inside the previous home of Turkish artist Zeki Muren, a renowned classical music artist, located in Bodrum, and take a peek inside the 2-story house to view some of his most prized possessions, while learning a little bit more about him, his life, and inspirations.
The house, which is still furnished the way that the artist had it until he died in 1996, also has the artist’s car on display. Photography, jewelry, clothing, and more are left on display to help visitors get a sense of the person behind the artist known as “The Sun of Art”.
Admission is 10 Turkish Lira.
18 – Walk through the ruins of Ephesus
Ephesus was a grand civilization founded in the 10th century in the central Aegean region, and today, much of the ruins of the ancient baths, commerce sites, and idyllic squares are left to see and explore by visitors.
Hop on an educative and exciting tour from Bodrum, and head off for a day-long trip with a tour guide sharing a fascinating look at the day-to-day life and history of this grand civilization. Your package also includes entry into the Virgin Mary’s House (a catholic shrine).
Enjoy a buffet lunch as part of the experience, tasting local Turkish cuisine.
19 – Hold on to your horse on a horseback riding journey
Trek through a shady forest on an epic horseback riding experience, whether you’re a horse riding expert or not.
From the beach to the pine forests and fragrant fruit orchards, you’ll create wonderful memories of meeting your horse, learning a few horseback riding tips, and then embarking on your ride through some of Turkey’s most scenic and natural sites.
Enjoy super flexible departure times, whether you want something as early as 10:00 AM or 4:00 PM.
Your horseback riding tour includes round-trip transport between your hotel and the horse club. Horseback riding experiences start at $57 USD.
20 – Take a dip in the mineral hot springs at the Black Islands
The Black Islands are a few islands off the coast of Bodrum, and the first major island to visit is locally known as Karaada and Kara Adasi (Black Island), only 3 miles off the coast of Bodrum.
Famous for its healing Black Island Hot Spring, you can pay a small fee to take a dip in yourself and swim around as the healing properties seep into your body. Next move onto a mud bath, another famous activity to soak in the soil’s minerals.
The island has incredibly delicious restaurants, and there are tons of water activities to take part in, from boating to snorkeling as well!
21 – Cool off at the pool at Bodrum Aquapark
Looking for things to do in Bodrum with kids? Make a splash at Bodrum Aquapark! Enjoy everything from the twisty water slides, the lazy river, refreshing waterfalls, and a fun ride on a 4-person boat and more!
The aquapark offers more than your average waterpark, with tons of delicious restaurants on site, both Turkish and globally known cuisines, live music, a DJ, ample space for sunbeds, and even a fun zip line!
Whether you have a family you’re traveling with, or you’re traveling on your own and you’re looking for a cool activity to do, check out Bodrum Aquapark, with tickets starting at 750 Turkish Lira. Simply pick the day of your visit and purchase your ticket online!
22 – Rejuvenate at the best spas & Turkish baths
For a traditional Turkish bath experience, visit Bitez Hamam and the Bodrum Hammam Public Baths, both offering healing massages and treatments from massages to treat specific muscles in the body, to public baths to soak in and relax for a while.
If history and relaxation are your callings, visit Historic Bardakci Hamam – the oldest Turkish bath in Bordum!
Book a session inside the sauna or try a traditional hammam at Queen Spa & Wellness Center Bodrum. Feel the zen atmosphere the second you’re greeted at the door, and offered a drink before your treatment starts.
Splurge a little and visit Mandarin Oriental and Six Senses Spa, and enjoy a menu of different spa experiences from Forest Therapy, to Oriental Harmony, and wellness treatments that are sustainable.
23 – See the rugged terrains nearby on a quad tours
Rev up the fun on a 2-hour quad tour experience, heading to the Bozburun Peninsula, viewing a secluded region full of dramatic mountains, the sea, and wildlife local to the area!
Continue the drive through dunes and dirt roads running through shady forests, with ample opportunities to stop by for a photo of the scenery!
Some tours may even bring you across mud puddles, so make sure to dress appropriately!
If you’re looking for an experience that you can do as a family that has a bit of a kick to it, then pick a quad tour for families, allowing children to ride along as well.
24 – Take a cruise along the scenic Bodrum Peninsula
Enjoy the sun as you cruise through the beautiful Bodrum Peninsula, with a few snorkeling and swimming breaks in between!
The Bodrum Peninsula is famous for its views of the beautiful green hills in the distance, and the long stretch of sandy shores, perfect for an afternoon cruise!
Enjoy a peninsula tour where you’ll get to stop by Kara Ada island, known for its healing waters for a dip, as well as a stop by for lunch consisting of grilled seafood and other local cuisine!
A tour through Bodrum Peninsula is the perfect plan for those who want something relaxing to do!
25 – Shop around the best markets in Bodrum
Bodrum Bazaar is a beautiful seaside market that takes only Fridays and Tuesdays, and each day is dedicated to a separate theme. Fridays are dedicated to vegetables and fruits, while Tuesdays are all about clothes and fabric-made options for the home like curtains and bedspreads.
Turgutresi Bazaar only takes place on Saturdays, and is a great place to visit to take a look at local Turkish products, from Turkish-style bread, figs, spices, honey, and more! If food markets are your thing, consider joining the Bodrum Market visit and cooking class!
Looking for the latest high-end fashion style? Visit Midtown Shopping Mall, only 12 minutes from Bodrum city center.
26 – See the incredible sea life up close scuba diving
Discover the sea life under the surface of the sparkling Aegean when you go on a scuba diving expedition!
Take a tour of the sea, and with a guide, learn about the living creatures, vegetation, and impressive sights that lay under the Aegean Sea.
From the more than 10 incredible diving points on the Bodrum coast, you’ll be taken to the most popular ones, while being guided with safety tips and expertise from your knowledgeable guides.
So if you’ve never gone scuba diving, let this be your sign to jump in feet first, with all necessary equipment included in the price of your package.
27 – Analyze the ruins of the grand Mausoleum of Halicarnassus
Visit the fascinating site of the ruins of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, the burial site of Mausolus who was known as the head of the ancient empire situated in Caria, which is modern-day Bodrum.
The mausoleum, which dates back to 353-350 BC, was once a very ornate mausoleum designed by the Greeks. Today, you can visit the site and learn more about the grandeur of this site, known as one of the Seven World Wonders.
Learn about the column and statues of gods amongst other details of this once very tall structure.
The mausoleum is located centrally within the city of Bodrum.
28 – Do a little Golfing on the green
Include some Tee Time into your list of things to do in Bodrum, and check out some of the city’s best golf courses!
Check out the natural and beautiful Regnum Golf & Country Club known as an “organic” golf course for its sustainability efforts, a nearby garden that grows herbs, and little to no intervention with the local nature. The course has 18 holes, and incredible views of the nearby forest.
Play a game, take a golfing lesson, or watch a golfing tournament at Bodrum Golf & Tennis Club! To visit for a game, simply check the course’s upcoming events calendar, and to book a golfing lesson, refer to the easy booking instructions online!
29 – Take a cruise to Dalyan
Escape the busy streets of Bodrum and make it to Dalyan, a beautiful town situated next to the Dalyan River.
With many natural and historical attractions to take advantage of, check out tours that allow you to get in touch with the local sea turtles on a Dalyan river cruise, or check out a healing Dalyan mud bath with a stop by the 9th-century rock-cut tombs, and wildlife spotting at the beach! Lastly, enjoy a delicious lunch to round out the day’s activities.
Want to learn more about the history of Dalyan? Hop on board a Dalyan Cruise Tour, taking sight of the local landscapes and ancient monuments nearby.
30 – Wine and dine on a wine tour
Savor the sweet samples of local wine and the perfect snacks to go along on a wine tour! Arrive at the magnificent Karnas Vineyard, and indulge in the local wines produced on the grounds, starting with a delicious glass of Zinfandel.
After taking a tour of the vineyard, learning about the wine-making process, and peeking at the underground wine cellars, you’ll be served a decadent 4-course meal!
With pristine views of the vineyard, you’ll learn what pairs best with these local wines, as well as learn local wine-drinking traditions.
Looking for something a bit more adventurous? Opt for the helicopter tour to the Mor Salkim Vineyards!
31 – Chill out at the best beach clubs in Bodrum
With exquisite sea views, Moon Beach Club is a beautiful beach club with ample opportunities to sit down and relax, or take advantage of the sports rentals from paddleboard or kayaking. Afterward, replenish your energy with some Turkish delicacies.
Flamm Bodrum and MIya Beach are two beach clubs situated in front of the Aegean, featuring lush gardens, chic decor, divine food options, and live music to set the mood.
Visiting with your family? Check out Xuma Village in Yalikavak, only 27 minutes away from Bodrum. Enjoy the chill vibes, attentive staff, and delicious snacks up for grabs! This beach club offers activities for all members of the family.
32 – Dine at the best restaurants
Check out Demeter Restaurant, located centrally in Bodrum, featuring a beautiful terrace space to enjoy the scent of fresh mandarin trees with your delicious Turkish meal. Freely choose from the menu, featuring fresh ingredients from local farmers, and the Aegean sea.
From kebabs to fresh fish, grilled vegetables, and shawarma, a typical slow-roasted meat dish, the options at Konya Ugurlu are nothing short of mouthwatering. Located centrally in Bodrum, closer to the sea, the restaurant is easy to spot on your sightseeing ventures.
Dukkan is a perfect place to stop by and enjoy all things Turkish, Greek, and Mediterranean cuisine, from gyros to marinated Sea Bass, and other traditional dishes.
33 – Go all out enjoying the nightlife
Looking for a rock live show? Hit up Kule Rock City Bar, featuring local musicians taking center stage. If you make it in before 11:00 PM you may score a drink deal!
Party on a boat! Kind of. Check out Club Catamaran, a nightclub floating on the Aegean Sea! On board, you can expect everything from entertaining shows, to live DJs, dancing, and more!
Gumbet Bar Street is the ultimate strip for all the best bars and clubs, where specifically, Chico’s Cocktail Bar is located. Offering amazing music, exciting ambiance, and good drinks at a reasonable price, Chico’s is a good place to kick off your nights out in Bodrum!
Looking for shore excursions in Bodrum?
Explore the rest of the beautiful landscapes near Bodrum on a shore excursion, taking you throughout Bodrum, and beyond to see some of the least easiest sights to see. From a visit to Black Island dipping into the thermal waters, to checking out the local coves, and more!
Shore excursions are typically around 3-5 hours long escapes.
How to get to Bodrum?
The main airport to fly into the city is Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV), 35 kilometers away from Bodrum city center.
As of now, there is no public transport connecting travelers to and from the airport to the city center, so an airport transfer is the best way to get to your hotel in town. Pre-arrange your ride and find the best rate!
Where to stay in Bodrum?
Enjoy the whitewashed Costa Maya Bodrum hotel, featuring clean and spacious rooms, beautiful courtyards, and the perfect attention to detail by the staff. Relish the delicious breakfast served daily, and the closeness to the marina.
Wake up to sea views inside the modern rooms of Cape Bodrum Luxury Hotel & Beach. With beautiful walkways through lush gardens, delicious cuisine served at the on-sight restaurant, and highly-rated comfortable beds – this hotel is a hit!
Stay near the beach while enjoying the peace at Costa Bordum City. Enjoy the hotel’s interior of natural wood and white walls, along with many quiet corners inside the hotel to relax in. Try the breakfast, which received the stamp of approval from many past travelers!
Another chic hotel, the Radisson Collection Hotel Bodrum is nothing short of comfortable, clean, and hospitable, and with views of the sea and the mountains- the atmosphere is simply unmatched!
Where to go next?
Explore Bodrum even more with all the different multi-day trips available, from the Pamakkule thermal baths to the historic city of Ephesus, and more!
Visit Kos Island in Greece, and view the historic ruins of the temple of the Greek God known for medicine at Asklepieion, or get lost in the colorful streets of Kos Old Town.
Explore the rest of the other places to visit in Turkey, this time in Marmaris! Watch the wealthy make their appearance via their yachts, or dive into the historical sites with a visit to the Marmaris Old Town and Castle!
Make it to Side and admire the Greco-Roman structures, from the Apollon Temple to the Antique Theater. Lastly, check out the Manavgat Waterfalls to feel the cooling mist!
Head to Kusadasi for its beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and Ephesus ancient Greek theatre.
Stroll along the historic streets of the ancient Roman Agora of Izmir, and marvel at the impressive ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus nearby.
From its azure beaches to the picturesque mountain scenery, Fethiye is a sun-kissed paradise that caters to both the adventurer and the relaxation seeker.
Whether you’re drawn to Alanya‘s quiet charm or Antalya‘s vibrant energy, both destinations are gateways to the splendor of Turkey’s turquoise coastline.
Lastly, Istanbul is always a good idea. From the historic Hagia Sofia to the grand Blue Mosque, discover the lay of the land from the idyllic Bosphorus on a scenic boat tour.
Final thoughts
From the opulence of the Milta Bodrum Marina to planning a day trip to numerous historical sights like the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus and soaking up the rejuvenating properties of the thermal baths in Pamukkale – the things to do in Bodrum offers a variety that accommodates pretty much every traveler.
Where will go first? Let us know in the comments!
Happy travels!