Bodrum Travel Guide
Jewel of the Aegean and Lively Resort
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Bodrum’s name is known through out Europe as a place where the pleasures of a beach-type holiday can be enjoyed. It’s true that there is plenty of lively entertainment but, unlike some modern resorts, Bodrum has managed to retain an element of charm with pretty, bougainvillea-covered houses tumbling down the hill to its port.
In antiquity Bodrum was called Halicarnassus and was the home to one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World, the Mausoleum of King Mausolus. Today little remains, it having been destroyed by the Crusaders who used the marble for building material. The Crusaders were here in the early 15th century. With bases on the nearby Greek islands of Kos and Rhodes the mainland was the frontier in the fight against Tamerlane. Little more than a fishing town for centuries the port rose to fame again as the start of the famous Blue Cruise described by Cevat Şakir Kabaağaç, the famous Turkish author and political exile. Today the town relies very heavily on tourism with enough bars, restaurants and discos for even the most ardent night-owl to enjoy.
Attractions in Bodrum
Attractions are many with Bodrum being blessed with natural and manmade wonders. Heading south to Bodrum from Ephesus travellers should endeavour to pause at Priene, Miletus and Didyma – each with its own attractions. Nearby, at Lake Bafa, there is history, birding and some excellent walking to almost unvisited sites that litter the lake shore, or just enjoy a boat trip on this pretty lake. In town itself you can wander the passageways and towers of Bodrum Castle, the Castle of St Peter, within which the Museum of Underwater Archaeology has some amazing exhibits from many periods of history. The Bodrum peninsular itself is a walkers paradise with many trails to discover. Finally, embark on your own Blue Cruise with a traditional gulet boat ride to the coves and islands offshore.
Activities in Bodrum
Walking on the Bodrum peninsula is a popular way of seeing the countryside with day walks available from several on the small resorts (enquire prior to leaving home though as trails are unmarked and you may benefit from a guide), whilst a day trip to some of the relatively nearby archaeological sites can be rewarding. Of course taking a gulet out for a day or longer is possible and can be arranged from home prior to departure with a local travel expert. The nearby Lake Bafa makes for a great day trip if you have your own transport or on a guided sightseeing tour. The town itself has its own historical attractions – leave a half day to explore the castle and museum.
Relaxing
Bodrum has dozens of restaurants, bars and discos catering to all tastes, from relaxed meals over a bottle of good local wine, to nights out that start at midnight.
Getting Around
Bodrum town is easily explored on foot, but transport will be needed to see the outlying sites. The best option is to arrange a sightseeing tour over a day or two.
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