4 Popular Places to Live in Bodrum
The relaxed lifestyle of western Turkey easily lures in expats of various nationalities of which some choose to live in Bodrum, a rugged peninsula made up of small coastal resorts and a bustling town.
Along with foreign expats, Turks highly favour the Bodrum peninsula, often buying summer homes or even retiring to the region to daily soak up the hedonistic vibes that have made it famous. Making the pursuit of pleasure a priority of an average day, the carefree lifestyle has also made it a hangout for wealthy and influential celebrities and business CEOs from around the world.
Offering a variety of lifestyles to suit budget or luxury, expat or holidaymaker, each district has a distinctive characteristic, whether it be modern and glitzy or rustic and traditional. When choosing where to live in Bodrum, the ambience plays just as a significant part of the decision as transport, shopping or nightlife choices do.
So, any potential buyers unfamiliar with the Bodrum peninsula would do well to complete a viewing trip before signing on the dotted line. With time to explore and soak up the vibes of each potential destination, they can find a place to live that suits them and their lifestyle preferences. However, when it comes to real estate trends and popularity, some Bodrum resorts receive more attention than others and for apparent reasons.
4 Popular Places to Live in Bodrum
1: Yalikavak: The Queen of Bodrum
From small fishing village to a British expat haven, Yalikavak is now a major player in the Bodrum real estate market. It has come a long way since its humbling beginnings, and the construction of the millionaire Palmarina boosted its reputation on the Turkish Riviera.
Of course, as the destination in Turkey for luxury partying, entertainment and shopping as well as brand name restaurants such as Salt Bae’s Nusr-et steakhouse, the jet-setting crowd are easily lured. Having said that, parts of Yalikavak still cater for the middle range classes of society, and the nostalgic old part with its harbourside restaurants perfectly set the scene for an idyllic expat lifestyle.
2: Gumusluk: Individualistic Culture and Lifestyle
Sitting close to Yalikavak, one aspect is bluntly clear about Gumusluk, and that is, it doesn’t follow trends or conform to what a coastal seaside lifestyle should look like. The entire world could pass Gumusluk by, and it would matter no one iota to the people who live there.
However, the rustic ambience has not made its way into the real estate market of the village. Residents enjoy modern homes with all comforts including beautiful sea views and private swimming pools. Evening entertainment also revolves around beachside BBQs and al fresco dining in the seaside restaurants that have earned a stealthy reputation all around Turkey for serving up the best fish and seafood in the country.
3: Gundogan: The Rising Star
Gundogan’s status as a charming coastal village is attracting buyers who want to live in Bodrum, but don’t want to be in the heart of the action. The pine and olive tree landscapes, an active fishing community and low-key nightlife scene mainly appeal to middle age buyers as well as retirees.
The real estate price bracket is slightly higher than surrounding coastal resorts, but a massive choice of new build apartments and villas, in the Kucukbuk neighbourhood, are driving availability. Its strategic position at the north of the peninsula means residents enjoy quick and easy access to surrounding resorts including upmarket Turkbuku or ritzy Yalikavak, both of which are just 15 minutes’ drive away.
4: Bodrum Town Centre
People living in Bodrum town centre, have everything on their doorstep. Famous for its ancient castle sitting on the coastline, ruins of the mausoleum that are one of the seven wonders of the ancient world as well as a lively nightlife scene, it accommodates everyone no matter what your budget.
The old harbour district still oozes nostalgic vibes, while the marina and brand name shopping malls offer modern, trendy and sometimes extremely expensive life pleasures. Much of the appeal for Bodrum town centre is that during winter, the low season for tourism life still carries on, while some of the other smaller coastal resorts virtually grind to a halt.
Where to Live in Bodrum: Further Reading
Our area guide for Bodrum talks about each coastal resort and town centre in more detail. Otherwise, contact us to arrange a viewing trip or receive a portfolio of properties for sale that are perfect for year-round living.
Bodrum
