Bodrum is a small and very picturesque town in southwestern Turkey. This is the capital of the country’s nightlife: there are many bars, nightclubs and discos, and often young people come here, from all over Europe. But there are also plenty of attractions in Bodrum. We tell you what to do on the weekend.
Rules for entry into Turkey
From June 1, 2022, entry into the country is free – the results of a PCR test for coronavirus are no longer required. Citizens of the Russian Federation also do not need a visa.
How to get there
You can fly from Moscow and St. Petersburg to Bodrum with a transfer in Sochi or Istanbul (depending on the airline). The minimum travel time from the capital is 7 hours, from St. Petersburg – 8 hours. From Sochi to the Turkish resort city, only two hours in the sky on Aeroflot flights.
Where to stay
We have selected several hotels with good ratings for every taste and budget:
- Regnum Escana Boutique Hotel (rating 10 points out of 10)
- Ha La Bodrum (rating 9.4 points out of 10)
- Jasmin Elite Residence (rating 8.9 points out of 10)
What to see
Bodrum is a place with history. Once upon a time, the rich city of Halicarnassus was located here, which was home to one of the seven wonders of the world. The antiquities have not survived to this day, but the city still has interesting sights.
St. Peter’s Castle (Bodrum Kalesi)
Address: Bodrum, Mugla, Carsi Mh.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 to 16:30, closed on Monday.
The impressive walls of the 15th century castle are visible from anywhere in the city, so you definitely won’t miss it. Once upon a time it was a powerful fortress that defended the city more than once. By the way, during the construction of the castle they used marble columns and stones from the destroyed Halicarnassus mausoleum.
Today there is an interesting Museum of Underwater Archeology, which houses the world’s richest collection of Mediterranean amphorae, as well as ancient household utensils and other artifacts. And in the Uluburun hall you can see in detail a small sunken ship, which dates back to the 14th century BC.
Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
Address: Bodrum, Tepecik Mahallesi, 48440.
Working hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00 to 19:00, closed on Monday.
Today the word “mausoleum” is familiar to everyone, but for the first time it was used here: in the city of Halicarnassus during the burial of King Mausolus in the middle of the 4th century BC. His luxurious tomb looked like an ancient temple – and for its beauty and monumentality it became one of the seven wonders of the world.
Unfortunately, the mausoleum was destroyed as a result of a powerful earthquake in the 13th century, and most of the rubble was used to build St. Peter’s Castle. Today you can visit the ruins of the tomb – look at the remains of the foundations, stairs and numerous stone fragments. It is best to take a tour with a guide who will tell interesting stories and amazing facts.
Amphitheater
Address: Bodrum, Cevre Yolu Kıbrıs Sehitleri Cd.
Working hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 to 16:30, closed on Monday.
In the northern part of Bodrum, you can briefly travel back to the ancient past – there is a perfectly preserved amphitheater built in the 4th century BC. Once upon a time, up to 13,000 spectators gathered here to watch gladiatorial fights, and today the amphitheater hosts concerts and music festivals. But even if you don’t get to see the show, it doesn’t matter – just come and admire the sunset and the wonderful view of the city and St. Peter’s Castle. Admission outside concerts is free.
And in the western part you can get acquainted with the restored Myndos Gate, which was once part of the fortress wall and the central entrance to Halicarnassus.
Windmills
One of the few attractions of Bodrum, which can be seen at any time of the day for free, is located in the outskirts of the city. The mills are located on a hill between the bays of Bodrum and Gumbet; the most convenient way to get here is by car or taxi. Come for the beautiful photos – the hill offers wonderful views of the city and the sea – and is also a great place for a sunset picnic.
The white stone buildings were built in the 18th century and were actively used until the 70s of the last century. The roofs and blades of most of the mills have been destroyed, but one, in Yalikavak Bay, has been restored and today houses a restaurant.
Island of Karaada
The island of paradise, famous for its mineral pools, healing springs and mud baths, is located 6 km from Bodrum. You can get here by excursion boat, which regularly depart from the port, or by negotiating with one of the local residents – they are happy to take tourists on boat rides for a small fee.
“Kara ada” is translated from Turkish as “black island”, but in fact it is very green here – numerous pine and amber trees grow on the banks. The local mud is considered healing; there is even a belief that Cleopatra owes her beauty to the mud baths of the island of Kara Ada. Here you can also swim in natural mineral springs and, of course, swim in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
