Something Old and Something New in Bodrum

Holidays in Bodrum

Bodrum is a popular seaside resort on the south western coast of Turkey. A city of ancient history, scuba diving and sailing, significant natural beauty, clubbing, socialising and shopping - Bodrum appeals to visitors from every walk of life. Some say the unique appeal of Bodrum is that its roots are noticeable despite modern influences, and that it’s a great destination for people who appreciate the ancient past as well as modern luxuries.

Blessed with a typical Mediterranean climate, Bodrum has endless days of sunshine and, particularly after April, temperatures can soar beyond 30 degrees in cloudless skies. Few showers darken the winter months, and in February, spring temperatures are comfortable and the town is filled with flowers just beginning to blossom.

Located on a beautiful peninsula in a region that’s home to holiday hotpots like Marmaris and Antalya, Bodrum is ideal if you like holidays in an historic and relaxed atmosphere. Fill in your dates to look at deals on holidays to Bodrum, and adjust the settings if you’re interested in all-inclusive, full or half board, self-catering, room only or bed and breakfast accommodation. Select the type of star rating you prefer to find the services that match your taste and budget.

Learn about Ancient Times in Bodrum

Bodrum is built on the remains of an ancient city – Halicarnassus – which was home to one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The Mausoleum of Mausolus was a tomb built between 353 and 350 BC for the then-governor of the Persian Empire, his wife and sister. The tomb measured 148 feet in height, was decorated with sculptural reliefs by four sculptors and was considered to be an aesthetic triumph. It was sadly destroyed (probably by an earthquake) in the 15th century.

The grand Bodrum Castle was built by the Knights Hospitaller of Jerusalem and has an impressive view looking over Bodrum’s harbour. Today, however, it’s the home of the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, a large collection of underwater discoveries from shipwrecks in the Aegean Sea. Stop by this museum to pore over this vast collection of ancient amphoras, silver coins, glassware, pottery, Egyptian jewellery and other items collected from the sea.

Exploring the peninsula, you can walk to Rabbit Island using an underwater causeway of ancient city walls. Home to an archaeological site, access to the island is now restricted since an ancient theatre constructed during the Hellenistic period was recently discovered there.

Get Adventurous in Bodrum

It isn’t all history books and bloody battles in this seaside town, however; the Dedeman Aqua Park near Bitez and Gumbet on the main highway attracts younger visitors, but the adrenaline-packed kamikaze slider, wave swimming pool and huge Jacuzzi appeal to parents looking for a bit of fun as well. With plenty of space for sunbathing, restaurants, cafes and retail outlets, it’s a great way to spend the day cooling off.

Scuba diving is a popular adventure activity in Bodrum, where the clear water provides excellent visibility. Bodrum town is one of the best places to enjoy scuba diving and snorkelling in the warm Aegean Sea. You can book a course or beginners day with dive centres in town, and join scuba diving boats travelling to nearby reefs including Big Reef, Small Reef, Aksona Bay, Poyraz Bay and South Point.

If adventure isn’t quite your thing, book a Turkish Bath (hamam) in town, enjoy the ambient steam and massage and come away feeling rejuvenated.

Visit Bodrum with Holiday Hypermarket

Whether you’re a history buff, underwater nut or eager to discover Bodrum’s nightlife, this Turkish town has something for everyone. Fill in your dates to find holidays to Bodrum today.