What Are Some of the Best Things to Do in Bodrum Turkey?

Exploring the natural beauty of Bodrum, visiting the historical sites, relaxing on the sandy beaches, and participating in cultural activities are some of the best things to do in Bodrum. Located on the southwestern coasts of Turkey, on the shores of the Aegean Sea, Bodrum has many unique places to explore and countless leisure options.

Its natural beauties, rich history, culture, and a wide variety of activities make Bodrum a popular place for both visiting and settling. Every year, millions of people from both all around Turkey and all around the world flock to Bodrum to have a pleasant vacation. In fact, thousands of them buy summer houses in Bodrum to have enough time to explore every part of Bodrum.

However, if you have limited time to explore Bodrum’s charms, we have listed some of the best things you should not miss when you’re in Bodrum.

The Best Things to Do in Bodrum Turkey Top 10

If we are to list every attraction and activity to do in Bodrum, the list could go on forever. Here are the top 10 best things to do in Bodrum Turkey;

1. Sunbathe in the Sandy Beaches

Sunbathing on the fine sandy beaches is one of the very first things you should do when you arrive at Bodrum. Bodrum Turkey beaches are world famous for their golden sands, crystal clear waters, and evergreen surroundings. The beaches in Bodrum Turkey are one of the city’s main attracting points and one of the reasons why is buying property in Bodrum a good idea.

Famous beaches in Bodrum such as Bitez Beach, Gümüşlük Beach, Yalıkavak Beach, Yahşi Beach, and Camel Beach attract countless people. These beaches are generally packed during summer. If you want to enjoy these beaches with peace of mind you should prefer the spring and fall seasons.

On the other hand, you can avoid the crowdedness of the busy season and earn a high rental income by buying a house in Bodrum and renting it out during the summer.

2. Explore the Islands Near Bodrum

Bodrum is located on the shores of the Aegean Sea and as a result, it neighbors many islands in the Aegean Sea. Some of the islands in the Aegean Sea are small and inhabited. The untouched nature and pristine beaches on these islands are truly fascinating.

On the other hand, some islands are decorated with many chic cafes, fancy restaurants, pubs, and many other amenities. Some of these places are even among celebrities’ holiday destinations. You should definitely not miss exploring these islands when you’re in Bodrum.

Luckily, there are many scheduled yacht and boat trips to these islands from Bodrum Peninsula at regular intervals. It’s also possible to rent private boats as well. Sedir (Cleopatra) Island, Kargı Island, and Göcek Island are among the most popular islands. Also, if you’re able to do it, don’t forget to visit the islands of Kos (İstanköy), Leros (İleryoz), and Rhodes (Rodos).

3. Visit the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

The ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus are one of the most famous Bodrum Turkey attractions. The tomb was designed by Greek architects in the 4th century BC and is one of the must-see historical sites in Bodrum Peninsula. It was once defined as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The mausoleum got destroyed over the years due to earthquakes, however, it still continues to attract visitors as an open-air museum.

4. Enjoy the Panoramic Views from the Bodrum Castle

The Bodrum Castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter, was completed in the 15th century by the Knights of St John. It has 4 different towers showcasing English, French, German, and Italian architectural styles. The castle was inscribed in the Tentative list of World Heritage Sites in Turkey in 2016.

In Bodrum Castle, you can witness the rich history of Bodrum and enjoy panoramic views. Although homes for sale in Bodrum Turkey present marvelous views as well, the view from the top of the Bodrum Castle is something else. Set between two sheltered bays in Bodrum, Bodrum Castle presents impressive sea and city views. Sightseeing the nearby islands and the turquoise sea during the day is a must-do activity in Bodrum.

5. Pay a Visit to the Museums

Bodrum has several museums that you should definitely pay a visit to. Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology is one of the most important museums in Bodrum. This museum is the 2nd largest one in the world in its field and displays shipwrecks dating back to the Hellenistic period and many antiquities from the Ottoman eras.

There are also many other museums in Bodrum, namely Zeki Müren Art Museum, Bodrum Maritime Museum, and Bodrum City Museum. Named after and dedicated to the famous Turkish classical musician, Zeki Müren Art Museum is especially popular among locals.

The abundance of museums and social amenities in Bodrum is also one of the reasons that make people choose Bodrum when deciding where to buy property in Turkey.

6. Take a Stroll Amid the Remnants of the Myndos Gate

Myndos Gate is the only surviving gate of the wall surrounding the ancient city of Halicarnassus today. The remnants of the gate might not look impressive to others, but it’s a noteworthy site for history lovers. The strong walls of the city were built in the 4th century BC for defensive purposes.

According to historians, Alexander the Great tried to breach these walls in order to conquer the area in 334 BC. His first attack was on the Mylasa Gate of the walls; which no longer exists. He then shifted his attacks to the Myndos Gate and succeeded to breach the gate on the second try.

7. Climb up to the Ruins of the Ancient City of Pedasa

Pedasa was home to one of the oldest civilizations in Anatolia. It was first constructed and later developed by the Leleges and Carians presumably in the 4th century BC. The ruins located on top of a hill can be only reached by walking as there isn’t a road for vehicles, but, it’s not far from the Yahşi and Bitez beaches.

Today, you can find the remnants of a fortress wall, two internal towers, and several dome-shaped tombs in the Ancient City of Pedasa.

8. Participate in the Concerts in the Ancient Bodrum Amphitheatre

Bodrum Amphitheatre is an Ancient Greek theatre dating back to the 4th century BC. The architecture of the amphitheater is considerably similar to the ancient theatre in the Greek city of Epidaurus. The ancient amphitheater in Bodrum presents views of the modern Bodrum, the harbor, and the stunning Aegean Sea.

Today, the amphitheater is probably the most well-preserved structure from the ancient city of Halicarnassus and is still in use. You can participate in concerts of artists performing various genres of music during summer.

9. Experience Different Water Sports

Located on the shores of the Aegean Sea, Bodrum is one of the best places to experience different water sports. The coasts of the Bodrum peninsula and the surrounding islands provide the perfect environment to do various water sports. The best trait of water sports is that it's suitable for people looking for a thrill and people who just want to chill out.

Water sports can be competitive and thrilling or relaxed and soothing depending on your choice. Scuba diving, windsurfing, yachting, canoeing, parasailing, jet skiing, and fishing are among the popular water sports to do in Bodrum. There is no need to hesitate if you’re a first-timer because you’ll be accompanied by a professional instructor throughout the event.

10. Try Out the Local Cuisine and Have a Fancy Meal

The cuisine and the restaurants of Bodrum are also among the most famous traits of Bodrum. The mesmerizing peninsula accommodates some of the fanciest restaurants in Turkey. Especially Gümüşlük village in Bodrum is home to one of the most unique and best restaurants in Bodrum Turkey. The famous seaside restaurant is decorated with bohemian accessories and serves a wide variety of delicious foods.

Almost all restaurants in Bodrum have a rich and diverse menu. You can try out the local cuisine, fill your stomach with tasty sea foods, and find meals from different cuisines throughout the world. Hence, the food in Bodrum Turkey is suitable for everyone. However, beware that the cost of food in Bodrum Turkey is relatively higher than in other parts of Turkey.

Although the reasons we’ve listed above are not the only good sides of living in Bodrum, we believe that they are enough to convince you to live in Bodrum by purchasing a property. If you’ve decided to settle in, you can contact us for questions related to how to purchase property in Turkey and available property options in Bodrum.

Leyla Zengin

AUTHORLeyla ZenginMarketing Services Manager

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