Bodrum Excursions & Day Trips

Bodrum Castle

Bodrum Castle, built by the Knights of Saint John between 1406 and 1522 in honor of Saint Peter, stands on the site of an earlier Byzantine and Turkish fortress. It is one of the most impressive and well-preserved castles in the Eastern Aegean. During its construction, architectural blocks from the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, were repurposed, as well as stones from various sites within the ancient city. The castle came under Turkish control in 1523 after the conquest of Rhodes and was transformed into a prison in 1895. The castle is a significant monument, showcasing both the Gothic architectural style of 15th-century Europe, reflective of the Knights of Saint John era, and Ottoman-era structures. With its layered historical significance, Bodrum Castle has been included on the temporary UNESCO World Heritage List since 2016.

Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum

Scientific underwater excavations began in the 1960s along the shores of Turkey, with significant discoveries housed at the Bodrum Museum starting in 1964, when the Bodrum Castle was repurposed as a museum. In 1981, the museum's name was changed to the Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum to reflect its extensive collection of underwater artifacts, dating from the 14th century BC to the 16th century AD. It is the only museum of its kind in Turkey and one of the most important in the world. In recognition of its significance, the Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum was awarded the European Special Commendation Award in 1995.

Amphora Depot Exhibition

The Bozburun shipwreck was excavated from 1995 to 1998 under the leadership of Fred Hocker from the Institute of Underwater Archaeology. Several amphorae, recovered from a small Byzantine vessel that sank in the late 9th century, are now showcased in a storage area located in the historical seaside section south of the Castle.

Bodrum stone artifacts, ancient anchors and cannon display

In the central courtyard of Bodrum Castle, an open display features stone artifacts discovered on land across the Bodrum Peninsula and the Caria region. This collection primarily includes altars, statues, and architectural elements. Additionally, various types of metal anchors from different historical periods, recovered through underwater excavations and research, are also on display in the same area. Iron cannons dating back to the Middle Ages are exhibited in the small courtyard to the west of the Geçit Tower.

Bodrum Castle Mosque/Chapel

Built as a chapel by the Knights of Saint Jean in the 15th century, likely on an earlier structure, the building was later repaired in the Gothic style by the Spanish Knights in the early 16th century. Following the conquest of Rhodes by Suleiman the Magnificent in 1523, Bodrum Castle was taken over peacefully, and in line with Ottoman tradition, a minaret was added to the chapel, transforming it into a mosque. Beneath the structure, there are multiple burials from the period before the chapel, as well as Byzantine grave remains and foundation remnants from the 4th century BC Mausolus Period, which are displayed under glass flooring. You can listen to more detailed information during the Bodrum city tour.

Yassıada Shipwrecks Exhibition

Yassıada is situated around 3.5 nautical miles off the Turgutreis area on the Bodrum Peninsula. To the southwest of Yassıada, there is a rocky shoal known as Yassıada Shoal, which extends about 200 meters and reaches a depth of roughly 1.5 meters below sea level. This location, known as a ship cemetery, has served as the final resting place for numerous vessels from various periods, ranging from the 1st century BC to the 20th century AD. Excavations have been completed for three ships: one from the Late Roman period (5th century AD), another from the 7th century Byzantine era, and a third from the 16th century Ottoman period.

Turgutreis

Turgutreis, the second-largest town on the peninsula after Bodrum, is named after Turgut Reis, a renowned Ottoman naval commander known for his victories across the Aegean. Along its 2.5 km coastline, you’ll find numerous hotels and guesthouses. D-Marin Turgutreis Marina serves as a hub for yachting activities, offering port and marina services alongside amenities such as a shopping center, supermarket, bank, gym, business center, and cafes, creating a welcoming space for both sailors and visitors. Adjacent to the marina is Şevket Sabancı Park, featuring a 5,000 m² area dedicated to sports, events, and recreational activities. Kadıkalesi, located 4 km south of Turgutreis, dates back to the Hellenistic Period. The name is believed to have been derived from a judge who resided in the castle during the Ottoman era.

Gumbet

Gümbet, located just a 5-minute minibus ride from the city center, is a bustling bay filled with hotels, bars, and restaurants. It’s known for its dynamic nightlife, with activities beginning at sunset and continuing until dawn. Minibuses run late during the summer, making transportation to Gümbet straightforward and convenient.

Bitez

The nearby bay of Bitez is favored by both local and international visitors for its crescent-shaped sandy beach, shallow waters, beachfront hotels, and a variety of restaurants lining the shore. As you move inland, you’ll encounter stone houses nestled within tangerine groves, adding to the area's unique appeal. Next along the coast is Ortakent, located 12 km from Bodrum’s city center. This bay, with its wind-friendly conditions, is ideal for surfing. Its blue-flagged waters make it a popular spot for swimming and water sports, and it also offers a range of accommodation options.

Aspat

Aspat Castle, located on a hill near Bağla Bay, 14 km from the center, can still be visited despite some sections being partially ruined. During the summer months, Aspat hosts a Painting-Sculpture Symposium, showcasing contemporary art and providing an opportunity to view impressive works created by artists.

Karaincir

Karaincir, once famous for its fig orchards, is a peaceful bay featuring a 500-meter-long sandy beach and a location sheltered from the north wind. Behind the beach, modest fish restaurants await, offering a simple yet enjoyable dining option for visitors.

Akyarlar

Akyarlar (Kefaluka) Bay, located 22 km from Bodrum center, marks the southernmost point of the peninsula and lies just 3 miles from Kos Island. This area, now a significant hub for tourism, is well-suited for surfers thanks to its steady winds and offers a safe environment for children with its shallow waters. Notable attractions include the local fish restaurants, Kemer village, the Hüseyin Burnu Lighthouse constructed by the French in 1931, and the unique experience of a sand bath.

Gümüşlük

Gümüşlük, built upon the ancient city of Myndos, is one of the must-visit spots in Bodrum. Retaining its charm as a small village, it offers a peaceful atmosphere, with numerous fish restaurants along the coast serving a variety of seafood. You can walk through the sea to Tavşan Island, and if you dive in, you’ll find some of the partially submerged ruins of Myndos. With its blue-flag beach, Gümüşlük is a protected area. The region, rich in history, was founded by the Lelegians around five thousand years ago. It is also known that Antonius and Cleopatra passed through here on their journey to Rome. Gümüşlük stands out for its historical significance, natural beauty, and its fishermen. Along the road leading to the coast, you'll find shops selling local handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, ornaments, and various souvenirs, as well as a market on Wednesdays. On your way back to Bodrum from this historic village, be sure to catch a glimpse of the windmills still in operation in the area.

Yalıkavak

Yalıkavak , located 18 km from the city center, is a popular tourist destination known for its windmills, market, and seafood restaurants. One of the first things that will capture your attention in Yalikavak is the stunning view when approaching from the hill. The peninsula, with its intricate coastline and beautiful bays, is not only a natural wonder but also a growing hub for tourism. The Yalıkavak Market, established 43 years ago, draws significant interest from both local and international visitors. Held every Thursday on a 12-acre site, the market offers an array of local produce, delicatessen items, spices, sweets, dried fruits, and regional herbs. In addition to pastries and gözleme, you'll find colorful fabrics, leather goods, bags, silver jewelry, pottery, jugs, casserole dishes, as well as handmade home textiles like curtains, tablecloths, and bedspreads. Attracting around 1,200 vendors from surrounding regions, the market is also a favorite among tourists from the nearby Greek islands.

Karaada

Karaada, located just 4 miles across from Bodrum, is a popular stop for both daily and overnight boat tours. The island is renowned for the healing waters and mud found in a cave on the Bodrum side, which are believed to have therapeutic properties. Legend has it that Cleopatra's beauty was enhanced by this very mud. Visitors can indulge in a mud bath, relax in the thermal waters inside the cave, and then enjoy a swim in the stunning sea. Be sure to capture these unforgettable moments in Karaada with your camera.

Gündoğan

Previously known as Farilya, meaning "sunrise" in Greek, Gündoğan is situated on the slope of a rocky hill along the road connecting Yalıkavak and Göltürkbükü. The town is renowned for its upscale resorts, hotels, and holiday villages and boasts one of the longest beaches on the Bodrum peninsula. The rock monasteries, churches, and mosques in the area highlight its rich historical heritage. Gündoğan is a great spot for water activities such as windsurfing, underwater fishing, sponge hunting, diving, and underwater photography. Additionally, boat tours to Apostol Island, just a 15-minute boat ride away, offer a unique experience. The island’s lush greenery, fascinating rock formations, and the largely intact Byzantine church on the hill—accessible by a half-hour walk—are some of its highlights. The church's frescoes, cistern, and the ruins of structures once used by priests further enrich the visit. Those wishing to spend the evening in the area can enjoy a meal at the fish restaurants by the shore. Also notable is the Cheese Flower Cave, famous for its stalactites and stalagmites, where ancient settlement remains dating back 5,000 years have been found, offering a glimpse into the peninsula’s deep history.

Golturkbuku

Göltürkbükü, often referred to as the St. Tropez of Turkey, has become a highly sought-after destination for celebrities and foreign tourists arriving by yacht. Located 45 km from the airport and 14 km from Bodrum, it is home to lavish villas, luxury yachts, exclusive hotels and restaurants, and trendy nightclubs. Torba Bay, just 6 km from the city center, is a serene and picturesque bay with a bay-shaped cove, as its name suggests. This unique feature makes the bay calm and shielded from the wind. While exploring Torba, you’ll encounter the stunning stone houses of Bodrum, along with charming holiday villages and hotels.

Güvercinlik

In Güvercinlik, you can enjoy a swim in a tranquil sea, as calm as a lake, and start on daily boat trips. Heading in the opposite direction of the peninsula from Bodrum, you'll reach Yalıçiftlik, with its long beach surrounded by pine forests. Just 4 km further, you’ll arrive at Çiftlikköy, a traditional Aegean village. Orak Island, a popular stop for boats on Gökova tours, lies across from Kargıcak Bükü. If you're seeking to swim in Gökova's crystal-clear waters, relax under the shade of tangerine and olive trees, and recharge, head to Mazı. There, you can bask in the sun and enjoy the fresh seafood at İnceyalı Beach. Mazı’s villagers are known for their carpet weaving, making it an interesting stop for enthusiasts who can witness the weaving process. If you continue downhill from Aşağı Mazı village, you’ll reach Hurma Beach. At the base of Ilgın, Sedef, and Kargılı Bays on the left side of Hurma Beach, you'll find a fresh, sweet water source. The area, a natural protected zone, also offers pleasant walking paths. Near Mazı, Çökertme Beach is another essential stop for blue cruise boats. On the beach, you can dine at fish restaurants catering to yachts, and on your way back, don't miss the opportunity to purchase the renowned Milas carpets.