Bodrum Travel Guide: Castle, Coves and the Best of the Peninsula

Whitewashed houses, a Crusader castle and a glittering marina make Bodrum the Aegean's most stylish resort. Around it, the Bodrum Peninsula is lined with bays, each with its own character – from fishing villages to chic beach clubs.

Bodrum town

1. Bodrum Castle

The 15th-century Castle of St Peter, built by the Knights Hospitaller, now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, with ancient shipwrecks and treasures.

2. The marina and old town

Stroll the waterfront and the bazaar lanes, then watch the yachts at sunset.

3. The ancient theatre and Mausoleum

The remains of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – and a hillside theatre with views over the bay.

4. The windmills

Old stone windmills on the hill between Bodrum and Gümbet offer one of the best views of the town.

Around the peninsula

5. Gümüşlük

A fishing village on the site of ancient Myndos, with seafood restaurants on the water and famous sunsets.

6. Yalıkavak

An upmarket marina with designer shops and restaurants.

7. Türkbükü and Gölköy

Wooden jetties, beach clubs and turquoise water on the north coast.

8. Bitez and Ortakent

Calm, family-friendly bays with water sports.

9. Turgutreis

A lively resort with a long promenade and sunsets over the Greek islands.

On the water

10. Take a boat trip to the coves

Day boats visit Orak Island, Black Island and quiet bays for swimming.

11. Go on a Blue Cruise

A multi-day gulet cruise is the classic way to explore the Gulf of Gökova.

12. Hop over to Kos

Ferries cross to the Greek island of Kos in under an hour – bring your passport and check entry rules.

Getting around

Milas–Bodrum Airport serves the peninsula; book a private transfer to your hotel. Dolmuş minibuses connect the bays.