Posted on Tuesday, 13 February 2024

Located on Turkey's southwest coast, elegant Bodrum attracts millions every year - from the cash-rich jet set to fun-seeking package tourists.

The town, also known as ancient Halicarnassus, has developed over decades to offer the complete holiday package: from trendy restaurants to ear-popping nightclubs, from the vast marina to the flower-filled cafes, providing a sense of tranquility even in high season.

Wisely, town planners have aimed to maintain the resort's unique Aegean character, from the picturesque blue-trim, white-washed houses to the iconic castle - one of the few high level buildings in a city with otherwise strictly-enforced low-level building codes.

Food lovers are also well-catered to, with fresh seafood, olive oil-drizzled lamb kebabs, kofta meatballs and baked potatoes among the favourites. And if you fancy a full English breakfast, it won't take long to hunt one down!

The best way to work up your appetite is to explore Bodrum to its fullest. Here are six of this vibrant city's must-see attractions.

Ancient Halicarnassus

This fascinating set of ruins was once the city of Halicarnassus, built by Carian King Mausolus after he moved his capital from Mylasa.

In all honesty, not a lot remains (much was reused for the castle), but the pre-mausoleum tombs and stairways, the old drainage system, column drums and the narrow entry to Mausolus' tomb chamber all evoke the old city and Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The entry fee to Ancient Halicarnassus is 70 TL (about £2).

Bodrum Castle

Construction of Bodrum Castle began in 1402, instigated by the Knights of St John as the Castle of St. Peter - or Petronium.

The structure features English, Spanish, German and Italian towers, each funded and built by those respective nations.

The marble used for construction was often taken from the ruins of the Mausoleum (see above).

Despite being a mighty fortification, it was taken over by the Ottoman Empire soon after completion.

The entry fee to the castle has increased in recent years and now costs 500 TL per person to visit. However, the stunning views still make a visit to Bodrum Castle worthwhile.

Museum of Underwater Archaeology

Inside Bodrum Castle is the fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which features a 16-metre ship that sunk in AD 1025 and a Greek ship that floundered in the 4th century BC. But the most interesting displays are arguably in the Uluburun Wreck Hall and adjacent Treasure Room, where you'll find all manner of items recovered from Bronze Age shipwrecks.

An additional charge applies to visit the museum.

Aspat Beach

As with other attractions in Bodrum, prices have increased to access Aspat Beach in recent years. Entry fee is now around 500 TL (£13) per person, for which you get access to the beach loungers with drinks included.

Expect clean water - perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Located seven kilometres from Bodrum, Aspat is one of many pretty beaches nearby.

Windsurfing or sailing lessons are also available here at the Aspat Sailing School.

General Seaside Fun

Walking around Bodrum you can't fail to notice the large number of yachts and boats bobbing around. As such, it's no surprise that one of the most popular activities is taking a boat trip, with both half and full-day trips available.

Many resorts also offer fishing, kayaking and jet-skiing.

Bodrum Theatre

Boasting one of the finest views in Bodrum this superbly-restored amphitheatre faces the mountains and bobbing yachts of Bodrum marina.

It once held 13,000 people, and is still used today for events and concerts.

A relaxing day out if you've been enjoying Bodrum's nightlife a little too much!

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