Greek ruins and Christian castles stand alongside seaside hotels and umbrella-lined beaches in this resort town built on an ancient city.
The home of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Bodrum is now one of the world’s richest historical sites. Museums, archaeological digs and ancient artifacts are scattered throughout the city. Additionally, Bodrum is a resort town that attracts thousands of tourists every year to its beachside hotels. Enjoy both modern luxuries and ancient wonders in this city on the Aegean Sea.
More than two millennia ago, Bodrum was the Greek city of Halicarnassus. In the 4th century B.C., a 164-foot (50-meter) high tomb was built here forKing Mausolus. It was later named one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Visit the ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus to see a scale model of the marble tomb alongside many pieces from its pillars and reliefs.
Bodrum Castle, which rests on a peninsula south of the city, was built in large part from stones taken from the ruined mausoleum. Pay to enter this 15th-century structure built by Christian crusaders. Today, the castle houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which exhibits well-preserved relics taken from dig sites and shipwrecks from around the area.
Further ancient artifacts can be found in the northern hills of the city. Catch a concert at the 4th century B.C. Amphitheatre or climb up into the only remaining portion of the Halicarnassus city wall at Myndos Gate.
Spend a day enjoying the Aegean Sea. Walk the long beach lining Gumbet Bay. Swim in the protected waters of the small Bardakci Beach, featuring umbrellas and sun loungers provided by the neighboring seaside resort. Book a spot on a dive boat to explore the local waters. Colorful fish, shipwrecks and even underwater plane wrecks can be found nearby.
Visit Bodrum during the mild months between November and April for the most pleasant experience. Reach the city through the Milas-Bodrum Airport, which is 21 miles (33 kilometers) north of town. Flights from Istanbul arrive here daily. Take a taxi into Bodrum from the airport. Most of the city’s historical attractions are closed on Mondays, but the beaches are always open.