Bodrum Travel Guide: The Castle, the Marina and the Peninsula's Bays

Where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, with its whitewashed houses and bougainvillea, Bodrum is one of Turkey's best-loved holiday towns. Carrying the legacy of ancient Halicarnassus, the town is known for its history and bays by day and its lively atmosphere by night.

Bodrum Castle and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology

Guarding the harbour, Bodrum Castle was built in the fifteenth century by the Knights of St. John and today houses one of the world's foremost Museums of Underwater Archaeology. The amphorae and glass artefacts recovered from shipwrecks are well worth seeing, and the view over the bay from the ramparts is unforgettable.

The marina, white houses and nightlife

The promenade along the marina is lined with cafés and shops; at sunset the boats and the castle together make a picture-perfect scene. Wandering among the white houses in the narrow streets is a pleasure. Bodrum is also famous for its vibrant nightlife.

The peninsula's bays and tips

The quiet fish restaurants of Gümüşlük, the breeze of Bitez, the marina of Yalıkavak and the sunset at Turgutreis reveal the peninsula's different faces. The most ideal months are May–June and September; July–August are hot and crowded. Consider a boat trip to see the bays.

Exploring Bodrum and its peninsula easily takes a few days. Planning your villa and accommodation options in the region in advance helps you make the most of your holiday.