Bodrum, Turkey

Bodrum (formerly Halicarnassus) is a Turkish port in Muğla Province. It is on the Bodrum Peninsula, near the northwest entrance to the Gulf of Gökova, and faces the Greek island of Kos. Today, it is a center of tourism and yachting. It is the ancient Halicarnassus of Caria, renowned for the mausoleum of Maussollos.

The town is very popular tourist resort for northern Europeans due to its attractive coastline and active night-life (Bodrum has been humorously referred to as the "Bedroom of Europe"). It can safely be said that every year at least a few hundreds of thousands of tourists visit Bodrum. The current population is 32,227 (2000 census). In the town there is also a football team called Bodrumspor founded in 1931.

The city is centered around the old Castle of St. Peter which was called Zephyrion in ancient times. Today the Castle is the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology which is acknowledged as the First and the Best of its kind displaying artifacts dating as far back as the Bronze Age.

In the vicinity of the city, there are ruins of ancient Greek colonies - Halikarnas. At the tims of religious wars, knights built there a fortress which now decorates every postcard.

Bodrum is a paradise for divers. In the region there are over twenty bases for this sport and at night the city pulsates with life. In Halikarnas one can find partys the Hollywood style as well as ample bars with local music. Everybody can find something for himself here as well as experience the beauty of the Turkish culture. Definitely sppend your holiday in Bodrum if you like night life.

Bodrum probably has more bars per area than anywhere else in Turkey, appealing to all tastes. Intimate seaside cafes, with magnificent views of the illuminated castle mingle with busy, energetic streetside bars featuring the latest music. There are also a number of clubs that offer live music, either traditional Turkish folk music or jazz. A specialty of a number of hotels and tavernas is Turkish Night, where local musicians play the "saz", a guitarlike instrument and the "zurna" a type of flute in accompaniment to belly dancers swaying between tables.

How to reach

Accomodation
In Bodrum there are many luxurious hotels, resorts & clubs as well as cozy pensions. Furnished villas are available weekly or monthly.

Cuisine
You can taste various popular cuisines here. You'll be offered the best of Italian, Thai, Chinese, Mexican, European, Turkish cuisines and sea-food from simple meals to gourmet feasts. Fish is always a favorite in coastal areas and priced by weight. Delicious starters (meze) are traditionaly accompanied by a glass of Rakı to whet the appetite. Also fast food, Cafes and Patisseries are available all over the town.

Sports & Activities
A full range of professionally supervised adventure & incentive activities such as Scuba Diving, Surfing, Trekking, Boating, Horse riding and Jeep safaris.

Night life
Night life in Bodrum is as lively and diverse as you would expect. Pop, Rock, Jazz, Folk and Live music meets you everywhere till morning.

Properties for Sale & Decoration
Bodrum etches a special place in everyone's heart. Over the years it has become a specially desired place to settle for both the Turkish people from big cities and foreign visitors. Click here to lear about owning property in Turkey, and real estate agencies in Bodrum.

Excursions
Well organized tours offer opportunities to visit the Historical Sites and also provide fully equipped yachts for Blue Voyage.

Climate
Bodrum's climate is wonderfully pleasant. In summer, the dry heat rarely goes above 35°C, while the water is a balmy 25°C. In winter, although it gets chilly, it can be mild enough to dine outside, and all you will generally need is a sweater or lightweight raincoat.