FRIENDSHIP OF SUN AND SEA

Bodrum, located on the west coast of Türkiye, is an incredible resort. It combines ancient culture with modern influences, offering a peaceful and leisurely holiday by the sea alongside a vibrant nightlife. Let's explore the world of Bodrum and discover what makes it so popular among tourists from all over the globe.

Why Bodrum?

Many people refer to this city as the "party capital" of Türkiye. Its residents claim that while Ankara is the official capital of the country, Bodrum can be confidently considered the cultural and entertainment capital. This assertion is not only accepted in Türkiye but also recognized in Europe, as tourists flock to it every year. Bodrum is often compared to Greek Mykonos, Spanish Ibiza, or French Saint-Tropez due to its numerous high-quality bars and clubs. The locals proudly state that they have two esteemed places: Istanbul and Bodrum, as the others tend to be overcrowded with tourists.

It is no surprise that the relatively small Bodrum welcomed more than 1.375 million foreign tourists in 2023. Visitors arrive not only by air and bus from different regions but also via large cruise ships. The distinction between Bodrum and other resorts lies in the fact that tourists from Central Europe, Great Britain, and Germany are predominantly present here.

Bodrum occupies a central position on a peninsula in the Aegean Sea, on Türkiye's southwest coast. One of the main reasons tourists favour this resort is its active nightlife. Its proximity to the Greek islands adds to its European charm while giving it an oriental flavour. Bodrum can be described as a hub for active tourism since it sits at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, where the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas converge.

Everyone can find something enjoyable to do here. People come for wedding trips, host corporate events, and spend holidays with friends and family. Natural therapeutic resources provide opportunities for recovery, while historical sites offer cultural excursions and pilgrimages. The islands, bays, nature, and favourable climate attract yachtsmen from around the world. It is one of the ideal destinations for seaside holidays, active tourism, and sports. Naturally, all this is not inexpensive, but it is worth investing in such a holiday at least once a year.

Bodrum is popular among surfers and kite surfers due to its frequent winds, while diving enthusiasts explore numerous reefs, underwater caves, and cliffs in the bays. Fishing and octopus hunting enthusiasts find joy here. The mountain ranges of up to 2000 meters above the bay are perfect for extreme paragliding, while the dense pine forests provide excellent conditions for jeep safaris.

Keep in mind that Bodrum, like several other Turkish resorts such as Marmaris, Kusadasi, and Cesme, holds the Blue Flag, an international environmental quality label established by the European Environment Foundation (EEF) under the European Commission. This flag is awarded for outstanding efforts in caring for the environment and maintaining clean beaches and sports harbours. There are about two thousand such flags worldwide.

Another important factor is the weather. Everyone knows that many Turkish resorts experience extreme heat during the summer holiday season, with the Antalya region being particularly hot. However, unlike other Turkish resorts where high humidity makes the heat unbearable, Bodrum has always been distinguished by the milder climate provided by the Aegean breeze. The traditional tourist season in Bodrum begins in May when sea temperatures warm up to +18-20°C, while comfortable air temperatures range from 25-30°C. The air and water continue to warm up, peaking in July and August. September is considered the best time for holidays along the Turkish coast: the heat subsides while the water remains pleasantly warm, especially at night. Many Europeans prefer visiting Türkiye during early autumn, making hotel bookings common at that time, unlike during the peak season in June, July, and August.

How much does it cost?

Holidays in Bodrum offer a variety of accommodation options, from modest guest-houses to luxurious five-star hotels, each promising comfort and enjoyment. Whether your holiday plans involve a relaxing family getaway, a romantic escape, or an exclusive stay in luxurious surroundings, there is a hotel in Bodrum that will meet all your needs and perhaps even exceed expectations within its category.

In the centre of Bodrum and on its outskirts, you can find many cozy guest-houses and small hotels offering comfortable accommodations at relatively affordable prices. Many have already heard about the increase in prices in Türkiye during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Despite a 20-30 percent rise last season, prices have increased by at least another 30 percent in 2024. This has led to costs for basic hotels and guest-houses with essential amenities and breakfast rising to €70-90 per night for two people this year. Three-star and simple four-star hotels provide comfortable double rooms in good locations (close to beaches or city centres) with breakfast for €110-180. Four-star and luxury hotels offering high service standards and extended facilities such as spa centres, upscale restaurants, outdoor pools overlooking the sea, and private beaches now cost between €200-400. For those seeking ultimate comfort and luxury, exclusive hotels with first-class service and lavishly furnished rooms are available. These hotels are often located on the outskirts of the resort, providing privacy and seclusion. Prices for accommodation in such five-star hotels start from €300-400 per night and can reach several thousand dollars for the most exclusive options.

An important consideration when selecting a hotel is its location. The centre of Bodrum is an ideal choice for those who want easy access to nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Prices here may be higher; however, the convenience of being close to everything makes this location attractive. Nearby villages such as Gümbet, Bitez, Turgutreis, Torba, and Yalikavak offer peace and quiet along with beautiful beaches at more affordable prices—making them great choices for families or those who prefer a secluded environment.

Prices in Bodrum are higher than at resorts such as Antalya, Alanya, Kemer, Alacati, Fethiye, Kusadasi, and Marmaris but are comparable to Cesme. Given various circumstances, purchasing a ready-made tour package will often be cheaper than booking flights, hotel stays, and transfers separately. For example, if you already have an air ticket (which costs at least ₼800 during non-peak seasons from Baku), planning to book a week's stay at a three-star hotel in Bodrum with an all-inclusive system will cost at least €550-650 for two people. A seven-night stay in a four-star hotel will average an additional €300-400 more; for a five-star experience you'll need to spend over €900-1000.

For those who prefer not to deal with planning their trips independently, it is better to opt for ready-made tour packages. If you are fortunate enough, you might find a package deal for Bodrum lasting 6-7 days for around €800 (including flight, accommodation, all-inclusive meals, transfers, and insurance). Typically, tour packages to five-star hotels start from €1000-1200 per person for double occupancy.

With a tour package in hand upon arrival at the airport you will be greeted by representatives from your tour operator who will transport you to your selected hotel. Self-guided travellers have three options: taxi, bus or hotel shuttle service. Surprisingly enough the most expensive but fastest option is usually the hotel shuttle—averaging around €50. A regular taxi will cost around €20-30 at best to reach central Bodrum; this is the minimum fare for a half-hour ride. The budget-friendly alternative is to take municipal buses Havaş or Muttaş running between Milas Airport and Bodrum's central bus station—a journey lasting about 45-50 minutes with a one-way ticket costing 150 Turkish lira (€4), payable either in cash or by credit card directly on board. These buses operate approximately every 1-1.5 hours.

What to do for fun and what to see?

Bodrum, known in ancient times as Halicarnassus, is one of Türkiye's oldest cities. Its history stretches back thousands of years from its foundation by ancient Greeks through Roman influence and subsequent civilizations. One of its most significant monuments is the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—whose ruins can still be seen today.

Due to its location at the crossroads of the Aegean Sea and Mediterranean Sea, Bodrum has witnessed significant historical events over centuries; geographically it remains one of Türkiye's most densely populated regions. In antiquity this area—encompassing parts of present-day Mugla and Aydın regions—was called Kariya. It was inhabited by tribes known as Kariya and Leleg who constructed their villages atop high hills surrounded by walls.

One symbol of the city is St Peter's Fortress which perches atop the peninsula; it functions as a historical complex crucial for defending the harbour while providing stunning views over both Aegean Sea and cityscape alongside housing a House of Modern Art featuring sculptures among its collection. Bodrum Fortress with its museum dedicated to underwater archaeology remains one of the most frequented tourist attractions.

The city centre abounds with small travel agencies offering various daily tours catering to diverse interests. One of their most popular options includes a 6-7 hour boat tour priced around €20-25 which includes lunch; guests travel along coastal waters stopping off at islands thermal springs or beaches—ideal for swimming enthusiasts eager immerse themselves within crystal-clear although cool seas.

Another exciting option involves going on a jeep safari (€35-40 including lunch). Throughout this exhilarating excursion participants drive open-top jeeps through mountains hills villages beaches along west coast visiting locals plus centres showcasing carpets olive oil production—often culminating with an opportunity partake in 'water wars' using water guns! On scorching hot days tour-goers delightfully engage splashing neighbouring jeeps—a fun experience enjoyed by all ages!

Local agencies also provide numerous alternatives such as trips to Dalyan offering mud baths tours visiting Pamukkale Ephesus fishing diving horse riding quad biking trips water parks Turkish Nights among many others! Furthermore Schengen visa holders can easily venture over nearby Greek island Kos.

For those seeking relaxation during their holiday nothing can compare to Bodrum's myriad beaches featuring fine pebbles alongside pristine waters belonging to Aegean Sea! Beaches found within Gümbet Bitez prove perfect venues suitable families whereas Yalikavak Gümüşlük Geltürkbükü others situated further away attract individuals desiring tranquility amidst peaceful surroundings.

Bodrum's beaches serve not only sunbathing swimming spots but also act cultural hubs brimming cafés restaurants serving local delicacies beverages while clubs host lively open-air parties!

Moreover every year various cultural events festivals celebrating music art traditions take place throughout Bodrum attracting both locals visitors eager indulge within festive atmospheres creativity!

Night hours

Bodrum has long been celebrated across Europe thanks to its vibrant nightlife scene! From intimate bars overlooking azure waters bustling discos nightclubs featuring international DJs there exists something appealing every nightlife enthusiast!

The primary nightlife hub resides within Gümbet where famed bar street can be found; reaching here from central Bodrum merely requires taxi ride lasting about 6-7 minutes alternatively  shuttle buses (dolmush) operate until 1am providing access within approximately 10-12 minutes! Notably animators from resort hotels actively promote excursions bringing clients along bar street costing around 15-20 euros which includes small cocktail served upon arrival!

Bar Street essentially represents epicentre where bars clubs restaurants congregate; ranging from cozy intimate venues through expansive complexes equipped multi-level dance floors catering diverse tastes!

Between midnight until four o'clock morning throngs young individuals tourists create lively atmosphere throughout street! Patrons encounter varied styles—from contemporary hits electronic music live performances; however be mindful that many clubs impose strict entry regulations preventing entrance shorts flip-flops (closed shoes only). Additionally single-gender male groups face restrictions prohibiting access unless accompanied females!

Bars offer extensive selection drinks including classic cocktails local spirits raki alongside regional beers; therefore visiting bar street represents unique opportunity experience dynamic nightlife whilst immersing oneself local traditions connecting individuals hailing from every corner globe!

Outdoor parties continue into late night providing unforgettable experiences anyone craving adventures after dark! For those preferring musical enjoyment away from clubs numerous cafés bars line central coast Bodrum catering similarly!

Inexpensive restaurants and shopping

Türkiye boasts rich culinary traditions exemplified beautifully within Bodrum! Here visitors can savor authentic local delicacies like meze fresh seafood kebabs sweets paired beautifully traditional tea local wines!

Most establishments operate tourist-oriented located along route leading from Bodrum Castle towards bus station stretched alongside coast; while daytime central coast remains idyllic beach haven evenings transform into endless stretch delightful eateries welcoming patrons not only delectable meals but splendid vistas overlooking sea! Menus feature national European dishes including pasta pizza seafood lasagna desserts assorted beverages!

However caution should be exercised visiting these relatively pricy establishments; given high-end nature resort prices typically surpass averages found throughout Türkiye although inflation food costs have risen further during 2024 season intensifying demand services including dining experiences significantly!

Below are some average restaurant prices along coastal boulevard during July 2024 shown in Turkish lira (numbers in brackets show price in Azerbaijani manat): Fish soup - 190 (10), cheese plate - 620 (32), choban salads - 190 (10), doner kabab - 400 (20), adana kabab -