6-steps to experiencing the Aegean coast
Bodrum peninsula at night
Bodrum is belted by half a dozen tiny beaches washed by the warm waters of the Aegean sea. Numerous night clubs, delightful Turkish cafes and restaurants and small jewellery shops dot this magical town. Follow our quick guide to Bodrum for an unforgettable holiday in Turkey.
Sunbathing on the Aegean coast The tiny beaches in and around Bodrum are perfect for swimming, diving and even surfing. The main beach of Bodrum is a sunbathing spot at daytime which transforms into a dining location at night when the seaside restaurants open doors. The camel beach takes its name for the numerous camels herded there for the sole purpose of giving tourists rides. A short trip out of Bodrum takes you to Yahsi beach which is the largest and least crowded.
Shopping at Bodrum’s Markets Bodrum’s endless stall markets displaying anything from authentic Turkish fabrics and foodstuffs to non-authentic designer labels have the very authentic touch and feel of the typical Oriental market; and after typically Oriental fashion you can haggle here for the price of just about anything. Turkish merchants take delight in serving their customers well and haggling. The street wise tourists will be at a profit if they know how to do the latter. Our recommendations: Friday market for seasonal grub and Tuesday market for colourful locally manufactured textiles.
Party at Halikarnas Night Club Halikarnas which opened doors back in the mid-70s has gained the reputation of Bodrum’s largest, loudest and most popular night club. Famed local and international DJs have performed on its stage. Rated the 3rd biggest disco in Europe, this amphitheatrically built club features mesmerising laser shows and theme nights, some of which like the foam party are rather slippery.
Sightseeing at Bodrum Castle The castle of St Peter, as it was originally called by its builders, the knights of Rhodes, is the historical hallmark of the area. A marvellous place to behold and explore it offers even more marvellous views over Bodrum’s harbour. Construction of this massive fortification took nearly two centuries starting at the beginning of the 1400s and finishing near the end of the 1500s. Some of the stones used were taken from the ruins of the nearby mausoleum of the ancient king Mausolus. The place is imbued with history and the hundreds of coats of arms on display inside are a real allure for the fans of heraldry.
Time Travelling at the Underwater History Museum Bodrum castle houses the Underwater History Museum. The museum’s rich collections exhibit objects recovered from the sea bed, treasures and relics carried by vessels that were shipwrecked and lost in the sea depths. The exhibitions are a real journey back in time, as artefacts offer a glimpse into the lives of different cultures that inhabited those lands or brought their merchandise here over the course of the last three millennia.
Relaxing in the Turkish Bath Stay at Bodrum Boutique Resort Hotel and get yourself fully immersed into the pleasures of the ancient Turkish bath. The spa therapists at the hotel know how to pamper their guests. Spend your holiday in style and choose between beautifying treats for the ladies and getting fit gym sessions for the gentlemen.
Browse Bodrum holidays for your perfect match.
Photo credits: yilmaz ovunc, skl8em, bazylek100
