Guide to Bodrum

'Tucked into two stunning bays on the southern Bodrum peninsula, exciting, historic Bodrum offers fascinating sights, endless shopping and phenomenal nightlife.'

You'd better believe it. Bodrum has it all. Mind-boggling sightseeing, shopping, nightlife and glittering beaches nearby, all crammed into a natural setting that's so beautiful it'll make you weep.
A flurry of whitewashed houses spilling into two idyllic bays, the town is a feast for the eyes. Dividing the two bays is the impossibly romantic St. Peter's Castle, a 15th century edifice testifying to Bodrum's tempestuous history as a Crusader outpost. With its spooky dungeons, medieval exhibits and acclaimed Museum of Underwater Archeology, it's a must on your sightseeing list. Grab your guidebook and then follow it up with a visit to the crumbled Mausoleum of Halikarnassus and 4th century BC Myndus Gate.
Cultural highpoints covered, dive into Bodrum's Old Town. Meander through the labyrinth of narrow streets where innumerable jewellers', leather, kilim and sandal shops clamour for your custom. Haggle with gusto and you'll emerge, several hours later, laden with traditional trinkets and mementos. And while you're here, visit Bodrum's hamam – the authentic Turkish bath – for a truly calming experience.
Ready to eat? There's a bewildering choice. Along the eastern bay, you'll find endless waterfront bars, cafes and lokantas. Or make for the marina, where crowds of gulets lie nose-to-nose with upmarket shops.
For a day out, choose from the array of nearby watersports-loaded beaches including Bardaci Bay, Bagla and Turgetreis, all a dolmus ride away. Or hire a car and throw yourself into the surrounding countryside and hidden villages.
By night, Bodrum rocks. After dinner at a waterfront restaurant, disappear into the Old Town, where a heaving mass of music bars and clubs, including the famous open-air Halkarnas disco, keeps every evening lively and very, very late.

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