Things to Do in Bodrum: Turkey’s Aegean Jewel

When it comes to exciting and diverse things to do in Bodrum, the peninsula truly delivers something for everyone. This ancient city blends rich history with a modern, vibrant vibe that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re all about dancing the night away in buzzing beach clubs or you’d rather wander through centuries-old ruins, Bodrum has you covered. It’s the kind of place where the past and present live side by side—and that’s exactly what makes it so special.

Historical Lesson at Bodrum Castle and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology

One of the first places that people visit is the Bodrum Castle. This ancient spot is a top-rated place in our Bodrum travel guide. It dates back around 650 years, and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Bodrum Castle was built by the Knights Hospitaller, also known as the Knights of St. John. These knights were based on the island of Rhodes and needed a stronghold to hold off the Ottoman Sultanate. Hence, they decided to build the castle, which has four towers. Each tower is a nod to the nation that helped build it.

Apart from serving as a historical hub, the Bodrum Castle was named the Museum of Underwater Archaeology by the Turkish government in 1962. It’s the biggest museum of its kind and is home to numerous ancient shipwrecks and amphoraic artefacts.

Apart from going on a historical trip to an ancient world and exploring the underwater shipwrecks, Bodrum Castle offers one of the best views of Bodrum and the surrounding area. The admission here is free.

For the Museum of Underwater Archaeology:

• Opening hours: 08:30 to 17:30 (winter) / 08:30 to 19:00 (summer)
• Ticket price: €20
• Location: Kale, Bodrum
• How to get there: Mainly accessible by car or public transportation

Explore Bodrum Old Town

Bodrum’s Old Town is packed with Ottoman-style streets, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants to explore. This is also where the marina is located, and it’s among the biggest Bodrum tourist attractions.

Get Your Tan on in the Bodrum Beaches

The number of Bodrum things to do doesn’t include visiting historical sites only. You can also dive into beach activities and get your tan on. If that’s the case, then summertime is the best time to visit Bodrum.

• Gümbet Beach: Located near the city centre, Gümbet Beach is a perfect destination for young adults. It features tonnes of water activities, and there are a lot of bars in the area.
• Camel Beach: The perfect place for families and people who like to enjoy the natural beauty of Bodrum. It’s definitely worth visiting due to its serenity and crystal-clear waters.
• Bitez Beach: The shallow water makes Bitez Beach ideal for people who are travelling with younger children. Casual cafes and local restaurants are in the vicinity of this beach.

The good thing about the best beaches in Bodrum is that there are options for all types of travellers.

Take a Boat Trip to Experience the Aegean Sea

Going on a boat trip in Bodrum is a must. Not only can you schedule Bodrum boat trips for a day, but you can also go on multi-day cruises.

Day Trip vs Multi-Day Trip

If you’re visiting for just a few days and want to check out all of the best attractions in Bodrum, a day trip is the best option. Whereas multi-day trips are a fantastic option for those who are going to spend more time in the city.

Well-Known Boat Stops

Those who like to go on multi-day boat trips will usually be able to visit the following places:

• Rabbit Island: Located in the east of Bodrum, Rabbit Island is home to picturesque beaches and ancient archaeological sites.
• Aquarium Bay: One of the top destinations for snorkelling and scuba diving. An excellent destination for those who also want to go on a quiet beach stop.
• Black Island: A big island off the coast of Bodrum and home to many natural hot springs. This island is one of the biggest highlights.

Tips for Booking a Boat Trip

To get the best experience, try booking with local operators at the marina. This way, you can compare options, negotiate prices, and even get insider tips on hidden coves and quieter routes.

• The best time to go on Bodrum sightseeing boat trips is between May and October.
• Only book trips via reputable sources – the Bodrum marina or local travel agencies.
• Compare the offerings. Make sure that you find the most cost-effective solution.
• Wear protective sunscreen, swimsuits, hats, cameras and motion sickness tablets.

Explore the Ancient Ruins of Bodrum City

Visiting ancient historical sites in Bodrum offers a trip to history and allows you to explore Roman, Greek, Byzantine and Ottoman ancient ruins. Some of the most beautiful places in Bodrum of this character are:

1. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus: Labelled as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus represents the tomb of Mausolus, an ancient ruler of Caria. It was built between 353 and 351 BC.

• Opening hours: 08:30 to 17:30
• Ticket price: €3
• Location: Bodrum
• How to get there: Mainly accessible by car or public transportation

2. Ancient Theatre of Bodrum: The Bodrum Amphitheatre was built during the Hellenic Age, and it was primarily used for theatrical purposes. These days, the theatre is a hub for many events, including the Bodrum International Ballet Festival.

• Opening hours: 08:30 to 17:30 (winter) / 09:00 to 20:00 (summer)
• Ticket price: None
• Location: Bodrum
• How to get there: Mainly accessible by car or public transportation

3. Myndos Gate and City Walls: Research shows that Myndos Gate was built somewhere around 360 BC. This is one of the best-preserved ancient ruins in Bodrum, and it’s located on the west side of the city.

Experience the Nightlife in Bodrum

Younger adults will be pleased to know that the Bodrum nightlife offers a unique glimpse into the party potential here. There are countless bars, restaurants, beach clubs and nightclubs that work as late as 4 am.

Bodrum Bar Street is one of the most popular places for going out. This lively street has many pubs and bars, all of which are close by. You can try bar hopping from one place to another.

The clubs on the Bodrum beaches will allow you to drink cocktails or local beverages such as Raki. Halikarnas is one of the most popular nightclubs and was voted the best not just in the region but also in Europe.

Try the Local Turkish Cuisine

Every expert will tell you one of the best ways to experience the local culture is to try their food and beverages. Bodrum (and Turkey in general) has plenty to offer in this regard.

What to Eat?

As a coastal city, Bodrum is known for its fresh seafood dishes. You can also check out mezes, Adana kebab, doner and durum, midye dolma and much more.

Where to Eat?

Bodrum has plenty of great restaurants. You can try out traditional meyhanes for an authentic experience.

Street Food

Street food vendors offer great dishes and sweets such as simit, baklava and dondurma. You can check them out if you want a quick bite.

Explore the Vicinity of Bodrum

Exploring the surrounding area is one of the top things to do in Bodrum for families. From charming coastal villages to peaceful countryside escapes, the peninsula offers plenty of spots perfect for a relaxed day out.

Greek Islands

Bodrum day trips to the island of Kos are quite popular. The trip takes about 45 minutes, but remember that you’ll need your passport, as you’re travelling to a different country. You can learn more about this topic in our Turkey visa guide.

The average cost for this trip is around €80 round-trip, but depending on the season and ferry operator, prices can range from €25 to €145. It’s a fun and easy way to add a touch of Greek flair to your Turkish getaway.

Natural and Cultural Wonders

Exploring nearby cultural wonders is also among the best things to do in Bodrum. Ephesus and Pamukkale are the top places that you can check out, but we should note that the trip to these places takes about 2-3 hours.

A day trip to Ephesus typically costs around €78 per person, including lunch, with some tours priced between €45 and €108, depending on the package.

For Pamukkale, the average price is about €73, though options range from €42 to €128. These full-day tours usually include visits to the ancient city of Hierapolis, the stunning white travertine terraces, and often the chance to swim in Cleopatra’s Pool.

Both destinations offer a rich mix of history and natural wonder that’s well worth the journey.

Local Escapes

Nearby villages are hidden gems that you shouldn’t miss, especially if you’re staying in Bodrum for a longer period. Gümüşlük and Yalıkavak will give you a unique experience.

Gümüşlük charms visitors with its laid-back atmosphere, seaside cafes, and bohemian spirit, while Yalıkavak combines traditional charm with a touch of luxury, thanks to its upscale marina and boutique shops.

A New Adventure in Bodrum Awaits

Adventures await everyone who is thinking of what to do in Bodrum during their stay. This ancient city offers a perfect blend between the past and the present and has year-round activities that will keep you entertained. If you’re planning on visiting Bodrum, you can check our Turkey eSIM plans to stay connected while you explore its wonders!