Idyllic whitewashed houses, windmills, ancient ruins, and phenomenal scenery can be enjoyed on a trip to Bodrum. This captivating town lies on the shores of the Aegean and is famed for its clear turquoise waters, making it a popular haunt for sailors and superyachts. If you’re looking to discover the town’s delights, here are a few interesting things to do in Bodrum.

MAUSOLEUM OF HALICARNASSUS

The tomb of Halicarnassus is listed as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It was built for the Carian ruler Mausolus between 353 and 350 BC and was designed by some of the leading architects of the time. This impressive structure was 45 m in its heyday but was almost destroyed during earthquakes before 1400 BC, and most of the remains were taken by the Knights of John to use during the building of Bodrum Castle.

Mausolus planned Halicarnassus Mausoleum before his death, and his wife Artemisia oversaw its completion after his passing. This magnificent building once dominated the area, with white marble columns capped by a 24-step pyramid and a quadriga (four-horse chariot) carrying Mausolus. Today, very little is left to see except for some large marble column drums, the entry to Mausolus’ chamber, and the scattered remains of corridors and walkways. The elaborate friezes from the site were incorporated into the walls of Bodrum castle, and the statues of Artemisia and Mausolus are on show at the British Museum. Still, the mausoleum is one of Türkiye’s most important ancient sites and worth visiting. You can view models, documents, and drawings, giving you an insight into its former significance and dimensions.

BODRUM CASTLE

Bodrum Castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter, is one of the town’s main attractions. Unlike most castles, it is not built at the top of the city but on a rocky peninsular between the two main harbours leading it to dominate Bodrum’s skyline.

The Knight of St. John built the castle between 1402 and 1437 AC, covering 30,000 m2. It has five towers and is exceptionally well preserved, with highlights including the Coin and Jewellery Hall, Carian Princess Hall, Glass Hall, English Tower, and the Dungeons. Today, Bodrum Castle is home to a museum and the Bodrum Archaeological Museum, both areworth visiting if you are in the vicinity.

BODRUM MUSEUM OF UNDERWATER ARCHAEOLOGY

Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology was established in 1964 and is the world’s largest museum of its kind. It is located inside Bodrum Castle, so it is a convenient excursion for guests in Milta Marina or moored near the castle.

The museum boasts 14 exhibition halls displaying an impressive array of artefacts found beneath the sea, including glassware, vases, urns, jewellery, coins, and other treasures. It also features a range of shipwrecks, the tomb of a Carian Princess, and a charming old chapel where you can view items from the Mycenaean Age dating back to the 12 century BC.

BODRUM AMPHITHEATRE (HALICARNASSUS)

Bodrum’s Antique Theatre was initially commissioned by the Carian Satrap Mausolus in the 4^th century BC but was enlarged and took on its current form during the Roman period in the 2^nd century AD. The theatre is an excellent example of a classical theatre, with a width of 86 m and an 18 m orchestra diameter. It is remarkably well preserved, can hold up to 10,000 people, and it is still used today to hold many performances and cultural events, including the International Ballet Festival. Keep an eye on our newsletters and blog posts for info on upcoming events at Halicarnassus Theatre.

BODRUM MARITIME MUSEUM

The Bodrum Maritime Museum, located near the town’s bazaar, is small but worth a visit. It celebrates the maritime history of Bodrum, a town that was the birthplace of the Blue Voyage and was once one of the most significant ship-building locations in Türkiye, with a seafaring history dating back to the Bronze Age. The museum displays several maritime documents, models of ships, artefacts, and the Hasan Güleşçi Seashell Collection, a permanent exhibition with displays from around the world.

THE MUSEUM OF ZEKI MUREN

Zeki Müren was one of Türkiye’s most famous singers and a man who loved Bodrum, spending the latter years of his life living in a white-washed two-story home in the town. He was a great showman and an eccentric, known for his incredible voice and flamboyant costumes, and he was often likened to Liberace. This museum, which opened in 2000, is in Müren’s former home and is dedicated to his life and achievements. It has a beautiful display of his costumes, letters, artwork, music, and photographs. A visit here is a glimpse into this icon’s past and should appeal to anyone familiar with his music and lifestyle.

ADD BODRUM TO YOUR CRUISING ITINERARY

Bodrum town has three marinas, but if you’re seeking a berth for a larger yacht, Bodrum Milta Marina is where to head. Due to heavy traffic during the summer season, it may be difficult to find space, so please get in touch with us for assistance. Superyachts anchor off the castle, but this requires special permission from the authorities. The municipality dock or marina fuel dock is generally used for drop off and pick up’s. Access can be granted with a fee to the marina.

For Bodrum berth requests, clearance procedures, provisions, or if you would like us to arrange a guided tour of the town’s highlights, please CONTACT US.