Bodrum Peninsula Area Guide
Tourists love the coastal Bodrum peninsula sitting in Western Turkey. Fronting the Aegean Sea, this cosmopolitan destination has much to boast about. Most travellers recognise whitewashed houses dotted over the hillside, yet it is about much more than that. Of course, this seaside hub has a scattering of sand beaches, ancient ruins, and family-friendly, all-inclusive hotels. Still, all Turkish people also know it as an iconic destination with a reputation for non-conformity. Consisting of a central city centre and small villages and towns, locals collectively welcome everyone with open arms and wholeheartedly encourage everyone to express themselves.
Bodrum Peninsula Area Guide
1: How to Get Here
Most tourists arrive at Bodrum airport itself, or an alternative in winter is Adnan Menderes international airport in Izmir. If driving from other parts of Turkey, get onto the D330 highway, although Bodrum town centre is home to the main otogar that runs cheap and frequent bus services from all around the country. Otherwise, Gulluk and Bodrum town centre are official ports of entry if arriving by sea.
2: Weather and Climate
Tourists can look forward to a great summer temperature and cool winters. The rainy season lasts from roughly Jan to March, and that is when temperatures start heating up. To explore, visit from April to June, or October to December as during July to September, temperatures can reach as high as the mid-40s.
3: Prominent Tourist Resorts
Gundogan beach resort: This picturesque Turkish resort sees many Turks from big cities buying homes for summers or retirement. The laid-back pace suits many, although the hillside locations put some visitors off walking. Gundogan is a popular spot for yachts docking into the bay because of the stunning views.
Gumbet Holiday Resort: Ah, water sports Gumbet. Gumbet also boasts of a spectacular beach and is a family-friendly destination and time-honoured favourite of British holidaymakers. The nightlife revolves around restaurants with international menus and sit-down bars with entertainment.
Pristine Yalikavak: To experience the upmarket style of Bodrum, head to Yalikavak. Home to the mega-yacht marina, millionaires flock from all over the world, and even the odd royal figure has dropped by. However, the old part of town still portrays its working-class roots and is a delight to dine there are night.
Unspoiled Gumusluk: For relaxation and to stroll along the beach, Gumusluk delivers in abundance. Staying true to its fishing village roots, there is nothing fast-paced about this small village. The local landmark, Rabbit Island, stands out among the coastline, or head into the hills to find small, select cafes with incredible coastline views.
4: Best Beaches in Bodrum
To swim in calm coastline waters, the peninsula offers many choices of sandy beaches. When you head to the beach, most have services to rent an umbrella and sunbed for the day. Surrounding restaurants backing the promenade serve refreshments and food, so enjoy clear blue waters and sunbathing. Bodrum is also a water sports hub featuring scuba-diving and snorkelling, jet skis and banana boats. Some of our favourite beautiful beaches include Yalikavak town centre, tranquil Ortakent, Gumbet and the Bodrum municipality public beach.
5: Cafes, Nightlife and Eating Out
One thing is sure when you visit Bodrum, and that is the vast range of bars and restaurants ensure everyone enjoys the peninsula after dark. From restaurants serving traditional Turkish cuisine to nightclubs playing the latest dance music, the peninsula accommodates everyone, young or old. The most famous spot to party is the old Ottoman part of town that is home to lively Bar street, or head to Yalikavak or the main town marina for upmarket dining.
6: Sailing the Peninsula
It is not unusual to see a large millionaire yacht docked into Bodrum, given its high-profile reputation on the sailing scene. As part of the Turkish riviera, calm waters and beautiful islands make this sailor's paradise enticing. One way to reach secluded coves and bays is jumping onboard one of many yachts or daily boat cruises leaving from the harbour. A blue cruise on a gulet follows a set sailing route, while a private yacht charter allows passengers to set the itinerary. Bodrum is also the perfect spot to access the Greek Aegean islands, like the Dodecanese or Cyclades.
7: Sightseeing and Excursions
There is much to do within Bodrum, including exploring the local landmarks like the windmills or signing up for a jeep safari to visit small villages and the whole peninsula. However, if relaxation is your aim, do book a traditional Turkish bath that will cleanse your skin and destress you at the same time. Daily boat trips are big business in Bodrum, or to go further afield; two day-trip excursions win many fans. The first visits Ephesus ancient ruins near Kusadasi, Izmir. This ruined city left behind prominent landmarks like the Celsius library, a large theatre, and Roman terrace houses. Otherwise, head inland to see the natural calcium pools of Pamukkale. No matter what you do, when the days end, sit back and watch marvellous sunsets descend on the horizon.
8: Major Landmarks of Bodrum
Overlooking the coastline, the tall and proud 15th century Bodrum castle was famously used by Ottoman sultan Suliman to launch an attack on Rhodes. Within the castle, the Underwater Archaeology museum is worth a visit because to see Uluburun, the world's oldest shipwreck. Bodrum was also home to the famous Halicarnassus mausoleum, one of the world's seven ancient wonders. Unfortunately, little remains today because soldiers took stones to build the Bodrum fortress. Meanwhile, at the back of the town centre, get a fantastic coastline view from the small ancient theatre, which lacks crowds.
9: The Peninsula Property Market
Many foreigners flock to beachfront places in Bodrum to buy a villa or apartment. The large ex-pat population thrives, and many foreigners own holiday homes there. Although Bodrum isn't the cheapest place to buy property in Turkey, the esteemed reputation speaks volumes. More so in the last ten years, as award-winning architects have designed many millionaire villas. Additionally, in recent years, more trends have boosted its market. Istanbul Turks who have spent their whole life in the city are slowly moving out in search of less frantic and slower-paced destinations. Since the COVID virus, many buyers also want detached houses to ensure social distancing and privacy. Bodrum is the perfect place to fulfil both these criteria. If you are interested in the Bodrum property market, browse our portfolio of apartments and villas. Each listing contains everything to know, including contact details to arrange a viewing.
About Mediterranean Turkey
From Western Aegean delights to the southern Mediterranean region, a whole plethora of new destinations await travellers. Also known as the Turquoise coast, our travel guide to Mediterranean Turkey is a good starter guide of where to go and what to do. Discussing prominent places like Marmaris, Dalaman, the blue-water lagoon of idyllic Fethiye, and famous Antalya, we also discuss where to stay, nightlife and eating out. We are positive you will love this area of Turkey, just as much as Bodrum.
About Us: We are Turkey Homes, a real estate investment specialist with offices in all major destinations, including Istanbul, Fethiye, Antalya and the Bodrum peninsula. Our many years of combined experience have helped buyers find their dream home, whether this is to use for holidays or permanent living. We have also collected all our local knowledge into our blog about Turkey, which talks more about Turkey's Bodrum peninsula and other destinations.
Bodrum
