Lodging Recommendations

Private Villas

BITEZ VILLA

Konacık Mah.Mehmet Akif Ersoy Cad. No:15-1/1 Bodrum
+90 252 363 85 28

Hotel

THE MARMARA BODRUM

Yokusbasi Mah., Suluhasan Cad. No:18 48400 Bodrum
+90 252 999 10 10

Hotel

LA QUINTA

Eskicesme Mh. Bardakci Mevkii 29, Bodrum

+52 (614) 742-0446

Hotel

ELEMENTA

Dirmil, Tilkicik Cd. No:89, 48990 Yalıkavak/Bodrum/Muğla
+90 538 238 17 18

Hotel

ASKA HOTEL

Eskiçeşme Mh. Suat Kaya Sok. No: 12, Bardakçı Koyu, 48400 Bodrum / Muğla
+90 252 316 89 92

Hotel

SALMAKIS

Bardakçı Koyu / Bodrum / Türkiye

+90 (252) 316 65 07

What to do, eat and see when in Bodrum

Explore Bodrum Castle and the Underwater Archaeology Museum

The medieval castle houses fascinating finds from ancient shipwrecks, including amphorae and other maritime treasures. It’s an excellent introduction to Bodrum’s history as ancient Halicarnassus. The Danish Archaeology team found remains of the palace of Mausollos (4th Century BCE) in the foundations. 

Tip: Go early or late to avoid the midday heat. Check entrance fee and opening times closer to July 2027. It usually stays open until 10pm in the summer.

Enjoy a sunset dinner in Gümüşlük

Seaside dining and a relaxed village atmosphere. It takes about 30 minutes to drive to from Yalikavak or the centre of Bodrum. Most restaurants along the stretch are the same quality and similar prices.

Gümüşlük is a lovely choice for an evening out, with waterfront restaurants, fresh fish, meze and views across the bay towards Rabbit Island. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere than central Bodrum’s busier nightlife.

Visit the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. See the remains of the monumental tomb built for Mausolus, the Carian ruler, in the 4th century BCE. Although little of the original building survives, it is a memorable stop for anyone interested in ancient history and archaeology. The word Mausoleum comes from this tomb. 

Tip: Combine it with a walk around central Bodrum but visit in the morning before temperatures rise or late afternoon as there is no real shade. You only need one hour here at the most. It’s a small site.

Wander around Bodrum Marina and the Old Town

Shopping, browsing, Turkish cafés, dinner and evening drinks. There are also some art galleries on the east side of the castle and also in the Marina Yacht Club. There is also live music in the Yacht Club area. This is open for everyone. 

Explore the whitewashed streets, browse local shops, stop for Turkish coffee and enjoy the yachts around the marina. In the evening, the waterfront comes alive with restaurants and bars, making it an easy option for guests with different interests. The west side of the castle is more expensive. The east side is more laid back with trendy bars and cheaper eateries.

Restaurants

Papermoon

Lika

Miam

Kitchen

Orkide

Raha

Mezra

Kavanoz

Kurul

Perran

Yaka

Hodan

Gigi

Zuma

Maison revka

Parlé

Trendy Spots

Wam by Karma

Peperin

Eleos

Daha

Sia Eli

Tipsy Crab

Tuzz

Sips

Roka

Arsipel

Ferhunde Meyhanesi

Jacquemus Mandarin

Boleka

Local Favorites

Terzi Mustafa

Tuz Duman

Atilay

Karma

Beynel Bitez

Bagarasi

Garos

Arka Ristorante

Sisko Perihan

Kurul

Derekoy

Zai

What to do, eat and see when in Istanbul

Stay in Galata or Karaköy, two great neighborhoods to experience Istanbul’s charm. Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast and coffee before exploring Galata Tower, Serdar-ı Ekrem Street, and the Camondo Stairs. Then, cross the Galata Bridge toward the Old City to discover Istanbul’s historic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Sultanahmet Square. Continue to the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar for shopping, Turkish delights, and souvenirs. To end the day, enjoy a scenic ferry ride or a short Bosphorus cruise and admire Istanbul’s beautiful skyline from the water.