Stretching into the Aegean Sea in Turkey’s south-west is the Bodrum Peninsula, which forms part of the sun-drenched Turquoise Coast. Its namesake city is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World while blissful beaches dot the coast.
Things to do in Bodrum Peninsula
Whether you want to wander through the Old Town of Bodrum, cruise the peninsula’s idyllic beaches or venture into the world of underwater archaeology, the Bodrum Peninsula is just waiting to be explored.
Sightsee in Bodrum. Dominated by the 15th-century Castle of St. Peter, Bodrum is a vibrant coastal city built atop the ancient settlement of Halicarnassus. Witness one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World at the 4th-century-B.C. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus and visit the Museum of Underwater Archaeology where you’ll find Hellenistic shipwrecks and antiquities from the Ottoman and Crusader years.
Relax on the Bodrum Peninsula’s beaches. The Bodrum Peninsula is fringed by beautiful beaches where umbrellas and sun loungers are available for rent. Kick back on the golden sands of Yahsi Beach, enjoy the views of Bodrum Castle from Kumbahçe Beach or swim in the crystal clear waters of Bodrum Yali Public Beach. For jet skiing, windsurfing and parasailing, head to Gümbet Beach.
Cruise around the Bodrum Peninsula. One of the most popular ways to explore the Bodrum Peninsula and its tiny offshore islets is onboard a yacht. Spend the day swimming and snorkelling in the warm waters of the Aegean Sea or enjoy sunbathing and soaking up the coastal scenery on deck.
Hike to the Bodrum windmills. Perched atop a hill between Bodrum and Gumbet are the remains of seven whitewashed windmills, which were established in the 18th century. The site offers magnificent views across the Bodrum Peninsula, which stretch all the way to Kos on a clear day.
Getting around Bodrum Peninsula
Milas–Bodrum Airport is the main aviation gateway to the Bodrum Peninsula and has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Buses connect from Bodrum to towns and villages across the Peninsula while ferries travel from the Bodrum Port to nearby Kos and Rhodes.