Top 24 Things To Do In Bodrum, Turkey - Updated 2024

Ryan Joshua
Ryan Joshua 
Updated
| 11 min read

Bodrum in Turkey offers a wonderful place to visit not only for the rich and famous but also for budget travelers. It is also considered as a very historic place, which is perfect for history enthusiasts. Enjoy your dose of vitamin “sea”, learn about local history and enjoy the natural landscape of the environment as you visit Bodrum. One of the World’s Seven Wonders can also be found here, so you will never get bored during your stay at Bodrum. You can also stay in one of the luxury villas or Airbnb vacation rentals to make the most of your vacation. Here are just some of the best things to do when you are in Bodrum, Turkey. Scroll down to find out more.

1. Discover local art at Zeki Muren Arts Museum (from USD 211.0)

Found right at the heart of Bodrum is the Zeki Muren Arts Museum. It is known to be the former home of Zeki Muren, a Turkish singer who is known to be the country’s Elvis Presley. Get to know the life of the renowned artist and discover how he lived his life as you embark on a tour of the Zeki Muren Museum. By joining this tour, you also get to check out the historic houses around Bodrum Center. Also part of the tour is a visit to the Naval Museum and the Mausoleum, which is known as one of the seven wonders of the world.

Visited this place?

Bodrum City Afternoon Walking Tour

Duration: 4 hours

3 reviews

2. Explore the ocean on this Scuba Diving Tour (from USD 65.03)

things to do in bodrum turkey | explore the ocean on this scuba diving tour

Bodrum is also known to be one of Turkey’s best diving spots. With more than 15 dive points across the city, you will surely fall in love with the scenery that is tucked and hidden underwater. This diving tour is very perfect for everyone, even for first-timers! Enjoy exploring the coral reefs and seeing the fishes and other aquatic creatures live in action as you are swimming in Bodrum’s crystal clear waters. You also don’t have to worry as you will be provided with all of the required equipment like oxygen tanks, weights, and weight belts. There’s even a lunch waiting for you after your whole adventure under the sea!

Visited this place?

Bodrum: Full-Day Scuba Diving Tour

Duration: 7.0 hour

35 reviews

3. Delve into Turkish history at Bodrum Castle

Bodrum Castle 4
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ad Meskens used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Having stood the test of time, Bodrum Castle is one of the city’s most historic landmarks that has survived a lot of battles during its lifetime. Known to the locals as the Castle of St Peter the Liberator of the Order of the Knights of the Hospital of St. John of Rhodes, the castle has been proudly standing for over six centuries. It is also known as one of the most important military bases during its time. From being a military garrison, the castle has now opened its doors to everyone and became a historical museum.

Bodrum Castle

Address: Çarşı, Kale Cd., 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Opening hours: 8:30am - 6:30pm (daily)

Visited this place?

4. Learn about the ocean at Bodrum Museum Of Underwater Archaeology

Turkey.Bodrum054
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user JoJan used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Awarded as the European Museum of the Year in 1995, the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology was established in 1964 and can be found within the Bodrum Castle. This museum showcases a wide collection of artifacts from the past, which were found underwater. Included in the artifact collection are relics from local shipwrecks, the most interesting findings from sunken vessels, and many others. A majority of the relics inside the museum can be touched and felt by visitors, making the tour an interactive experience for everyone. The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology also features the world’s largest collection of Eastern Mediterranean Amphora.

Bodrum Museum Of Underwater Archaeology

Address: Çarşı Mh., 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Website: Bodrum Museum Of Underwater Archaeology

Opening hours: 8:30am - 6:15pm (daily)

Visited this place?

5. Visit the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (from USD 275.0)

The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus is a large tomb that was specially built for Mausolus. He was the ruler of Caria around 350 BC. It is regarded as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World because of its marvelous marble structure that is intricately decorated with sculptures. Get to explore the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus and two more historic sites in Bodrum, plus a three-hour shore excursion when you join this tour in Bodrum. In this tour, you will also get to explore the hilltop Roman Amphitheater that was built way back in the second century AD.

Visited this place?

Bodrum Shore Excursion: Private Bodrum Express Sightseeing Tour

Duration: 3 hours

2 reviews

6. Take part in a vineyard tour (from USD 119.22)

things to do in bodrum turkey | take part in a vineyard tour

Turkey is also known for its authentic wines that have a very unique taste compared to other wines around the world. Get to visit one of the Chateau vineries in Bodrum that was established by the Ismen family nearly two decades ago. Learn how the family produces their best wines and how meticulous they are during the whole wine-producing process by participating in this tour. You will also get to know how they made the first Zinfandel and Syrah vineyard in the whole of Turkey. The tour also includes a farm-to-table five-course meal with some wine tasting.

Visited this place?

Bodrum Vineyard Tour with Dinner and Wine Pairing

Duration: 3.0 hour

8 reviews

7. Be amazed by the architecture of the Bodrum Amphitheater

The theatre of ancient Halicarnassus
Source: Photo by Flickr user Carole Raddato used under CC BY-SA 2.0

The Bodrum Amphitheater is one of the best-preserved structures in the whole of Turkey, that has been in existence since the ancient Halicarnassus. Just like the other ancient theaters, it features a classical Greek structure that can seat up to 13,000 people. A few of the seats in the amphitheater even feature the inscriptions of the names of the people who contributed to building the theater. It has become an open-air museum after it was dug up in 1973 and is now sometimes used for concerts and shows.

Bodrum Amphitheater

Address: Yeniköy, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Opening hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm (daily)

Visited this place?

8. Discover the wonders of the sea at the Bodrum Maritime Museum

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Bodrum Deniz Müzesi on Wednesday, March 16, 2022

The city of Bodrum is known for its very rich maritime history. To celebrate and promote this maritime history, they have established their own museum called the Bodrum Deniz Müzesi or the Bodrum Maritime Museum. It first opened its doors to the public on October 15, 2011. The museum features a vast collection of seashells from around the world, which were collected for 40 years by Hasan Güleşçi. There’s also a section that commemorates the life and work of Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı, known as the Fisherman of Halicarnassus.

Bodrum Deniz Müzesi

Address: Çarşı, No.4/1, Nazım Hikmet Sk., 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Website: Bodrum Deniz Müzesi

Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)

Visited this place?

9. Swim at Yahsi Beach

If you are craving some fun under the sun or to take a dip in the beach, then Yahsi Beach is the perfect place for you. This is a family and kid-friendly beach that is located on Bodrum Peninsula’s southern coastline. Everyone surely loves the clear waters and beach facilities. There are also a lot of cafes, restaurants and shops right at the beachline, meant to keep you full and hydrated all throughout the day. The beach can be easily accessed from the city by riding on a dolmus or the minibus.

Yahsi Beach

Address: Ortakentyahşi, Bodrum-yalıkavak Yolu, 48420 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Visited this place?

10. Stroll around the Milta Bodrum Marina

Mosk and marina in Bodrum, Turkey (5654333038)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Michal Osmenda used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Known as one of the most prestigious marinas in the Mediterranean and Aegean coastal waters, the Milta Bodrum Marina features great infrastructure, an accessible location from the city center, and a squad of experienced staff that will guide you through your journey across the sea. There is a total of 450 berths, security and health care that is available 24/7, a shopping center full of world-class brands, sophisticated restaurants, and lively bars that everyone will surely enjoy. Despite its modernness and state-of-the-art facilities, the Milta Bodrum Marina is committed to taking care of our environment, earning it the prestigious Blue Flag and Five Gold Anchor Awards.

Milta Bodrum Marina

Address: Eskiçeşme, Neyzen Tevfik Cd., 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Website: Milta Bodrum Marina

Visited this place?

11. Try Turkish sweets at Bodrum Çikolata Meyflower

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Bodrum Çikolata Butik Cikolata & Butik Pasta on Friday, June 18, 2021

Turkey might not be famous for its chocolates, but they surely produce very delicious ones, especially in Bodrum. One of the best chocolate places in the city is Bodrum Çikolata Meyflower. They are known to produce handmade chocolates and dried figs, creating a very unique flavor. They also bake special cakes and fruits covered with chocolate, which are perfect for any kind of occasion. Aside from that, they are known to be one of the finest caterers in the city.

Bodrum Çikolata Meyflower

Address: Eskiçeşme, Cafer Paşa Cd. No:39, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Website: Bodrum Çikolata Meyflower

Visited this place?

12. Go on a Jeep safari (from USD 57.44)

go on a jeep safari

Get to experience a whole new side of Bodrum and Turkey when you join this full-day Jeep safari tour. Traverse the rolling landscapes of the mountains where you get to see dusty valleys, clear rivers and mountain ranges. You will get to experience this while riding a 4x4 all-terrain vehicle far from the busyness of the city. The tour also includes a stop at a quaint Turkish village, a swim in a river, and a sumptuous lunch at a local restaurant.

Visited this place?

Full-Day Jeep Safari from Bodrum

Duration: 7.0 hour

38 reviews

13. Get to visit and admire the windmills in Bodrum

Eskiçeşme, 48400 Bodrum-Muğla, Turkey - panoramio (5)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user karel291 used under CC BY 3.0

If you are craving for some nice sights in Bodrum, then here is the best place where you can go. The windmills of the Bodrum peninsula offer the best sights of the Bodrum and Gumbet Bay at the Aegean Sea. The windmills were built way back in the 18th century and were even used until the 70s. Since a majority of them are located right at the top of the hill between Gumber and Bodrum, visitors will surely be amazed by the sight of the two bays between them.

Windmills in Bodrum

Address: Dağbelen, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Visited this place?

14. Take a day trip to the Bodrum Peninsula

Bodrum
Source: Needpix

The Bodrum Peninsula is known to be Turkey’s top resort area. It extends westward into the Aegean Sea and borders the Mediterranean Sea. It features 12 resort towns and villages along its shoreline, one of which is Bodrum itself. But the other towns also feature their own beaches, hotels and other forms of entertainment. Besides the fantastic beaches, the Bodrum Peninsula also has a very historic side where everyone will surely be amazed by the stories behind the numerous castles and mausoleums.

Bodrum Peninsula

Address: Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Visited this place?

15. Tour the city on a Segway

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Aegean Gingers on Thursday, August 8, 2019

In this article, we have already told you how fun it is to explore Bodrum while riding a horse. You can also try riding on a Jeep. But how about riding on a Segway? Well, now you can try touring the city on this very unique ride. You don’t have to be as good as Paul Blart, the mall cop, in riding the Segway to tour the city. Aegean Gingers Segway Tours will help you with that. A tour guide will always be with you all throughout your tour.

Aegean Gingers Segway Tours

Address: Çarşı, Eski Hükümet Sk. D:No: 64, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Website: Aegean Gingers Segway Tours

Visited this place?

16. Relax at Bardakci Cove

The Bardakci Cove is one of the most hidden and underrated gems in the whole of Bodrum. It is a lovely yet tiny cove with a very nice, sandy beach that is tucked in a very private area. Everyone surely loves to swim and stay here, mainly because of its perfect location. The cove is also the best place for everyone to snorkel and explore the life that is teeming underwater. It is just a short water taxi ride away from Bodrum’s city center. Accommodation is also not a problem since the cove is surrounded by some nice hotels.

Bardakci Cove

Address: Türkkuyusu, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Visited this place?

17. Try authentic Turkish food at Eski Köy Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Bazı tabaklar o kadar güzeldir ki yemeden önce uzun uzun izlemek istersiniz… SİPARİŞ HATTI: 0 543 382 32 00- 0 252 317...

Posted by Eskiköy Bodrum on Wednesday, June 15, 2022

Everyone knows that Turkish cuisine is one of the most loved and well known in the whole world. When trying the most authentic Turkish dishes in Bodrum, the best place to go would be at Eski Köy Restaurant. They serve the some of the best kebabs, sweets, breakfasts, soups and pies in the whole city. Their world-class chefs are trained to serve you the best and the finest Turkish cuisine. They also use the freshest and natural ingredients to cook your meal.

Eski Köy Restaurant

Address: Yeniköy Mahallesi, Severcan Cd. No:2, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Website: Eski Köy Restaurant

Visited this place?

18. Experience the local nightlife at Küba by Sebastian

Editor’s note: Establishment is permanently closed

When you are in a lively and amazing city like Bodrum, you can’t help but experience the local night scene by dancing all night long, coupled with some drinks. The best place to do that is at Küba by SEBASTIAN. It is not your usual night club. Rather, it encourages you to dine first before you go partying. You will surely love the energetic atmosphere and the nice music played by their DJs.

Küba by SEBASTIAN

Address: Tepecik, Neyzen Tevfik Cd. No:50, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Website: Küba by SEBASTIAN

Opening hours: 8pm - 4am (daily)

Visited this place?

19. Take the kids to Park Bodrum Lunapark

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Levent Lunapark on Saturday, April 2, 2022

If you are traveling with your family and are taking the kids with you, then you should not miss out on taking them to a carnival or an amusement park. The best place for your kids would be Park Bodrum Lunapark. There are a lot of exhilarating rides, fun stalls and other entertaining areas that your kids will surely love. Of course, the staple rides such as the merry go round, Ferris wheel, rollercoaster and bumper cars are available at Park Bodrum Lunapark.

Park Bodrum Lunapark

Address: Yeniköy, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Visited this place?

20. Explore the history of Bodrum at Halicarnassus Ancient City

The ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user FollowingHadrian used under CC BY-SA 4.0

We all know that Bodrum is one of the greatest cities in Turkey. But did you know that it was already great even during ancient times? 5000 years ago, the city of Bodrum was known as the Halicarnassus. The city was founded by the Dorian settlers from Greece way back in 1,000 BC. Today, only the remnants of the great city can be found, which includes the Mausoleum, Myndus Gate, the Castle, the amphitheater and the Cevat Sakir. Get to know the rich history of Bodrum by visiting the old city of Halicarnassus.

Halicarnassus Ancient City

Address: Tepecik, Turgut Reis Cd. No:93, 48440 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Visited this place?

21. Appreciate the view at Pedasa Harabeleri

Visiting the Pedasa Harabeleri is like hitting two birds with one stone. You get to explore and know more about the rich history of Bodrum while appreciating the scenic landscapes that surround you, including the breathtaking view of the whole city. It is truly a hidden gem in the hills. However, reaching the Pedasa is not easy since you have to climb one kilometer uphill. But as you reach the top of the hill, the climb is really worth it.

Pedesa Harabelerı

Address: Cumhuriyet, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Visited this place?

22. Relax in the Black Island Hot Springs

Castle from afar
Source: Photo by Flickr user musti_ used under CC BY 2.0

If you want to relax and regain your strength to explore Bodrum, then there are a lot of spas around the city. But there’s nothing better than relaxing in a natural way. The best place to relax in Bodrum is by heading to Karaada or the Black Island, known for its very relaxing and therapeutic mineral springs. It is just a short jetty ride away from the Bodrum City Center. The mineral springs are open to everyone regardless of age. There are also some mini caves surrounding the springs, where you can enjoy a private time while relaxing.

Black Island Hot Springs

Address: 48440 Bodrum/Muğla, Turkey

Visited this place?

23. Experience an authentic Turkish Bath at the Bodrum Hammam (from USD 29.17)

experience an authentic turkish bath at the bodrum hammam

Every tourist that steps into the Turkish land will surely want to try the famous Turkish bath. It has made everyone really curious as it is known to be very cleansing, relaxing, and therapeutic. For starters, the Turkish bath is somehow like a sauna, but is combined with the bathing methods of the ancient Romans and Greeks. Get to enjoy this as you embark on this two-hour visit to the Bodrum Hammam. You will surely love the sauna, peeling, foam massage and oil massage that will make your skin feel rejuvenated. You can also try having a body scrub and soap massage if you want to feel relaxed and calm.

Visited this place?

Bodrum: Turkish Bath Experience

Duration: 2 hour

19 reviews

24. Experience horseback riding in the Bodrum Peninsula (from USD 107.3)

experience horseback riding in the bodrum peninsula

The Bodrum Peninsula is surrounded by lush greeneries, amazing landscapes, rolling hills and tall mountains. There’s no better way to adore them than on a horseback tour. Experience horseback riding around the Bodrum Peninsula by joining this tour. Everyone can join, even those without any prior experience in horseback riding. You will be briefed and instructed on how to handle your horse. Explore the picturesque environment of the countryside that surrounds you while you breathe the freshest air. You will also be accompanied by a tour guide, who is also an expert in horseback riding, to walk you through the journey.

Visited this place?

Bodrum: Horseback Riding Experience

Duration: 2.0 hour

31 reviews

An enjoyable stay in Bodrum

Bodrum indeed has a very unique combination of history and modernity that makes it a great destination for tourists around the world. Make sure to put Bodrum on your must-travel destinations and experience all of these best activities in the city.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!

In light of the February 2023 earthquake that devastated Turkey and Syria, Trip101 urges you to be apprised of the latest news if you have any plans to travel to Eastern Turkey. Other parts of the country remain open to travelers.

Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

History


Get Trip101 in your inbox

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Ryan is a Computer Engineer with a heart for traveling and writing. Born in Pasay City, Philippines, and raised in Melbourne, Australia, he is now based in the Philippines' City of Smiles, Bacolod...Read more

 Want to contribute as a Local Expert?
Explore Bodrum - Aegean Region
x
Good things are meant to be shared!
Back to top
Visited any of these places? Click this button to activate our "Add a Tip" feature to share your experience.