Bodrum City nightlife

Drinks and nibbles at Captain Mahmud's

Open six months of the year, you can eat, drink and be merry late into the night in this authentic taverna. Located in a basement, the walls are covered with pictures of the hundreds of musicians who’ve played here. The food includes cold mezzes such as fried calamari, anchovies and kofte – meatballs. It’s a very popular place that’s packed from May through the entire summer season.

A little something different at Marine Club Catamaran

This is Europe’s biggest floating nightclub and a must-visit on any Bodrum holiday. Situated on a giant catamaran, it can accommodate an amazing 2,000 people who dance the night away to hip-hop and Turkish music. Neon lights illuminate the club, which has a lit glass-bottomed floor, offering a glimpse of the marine life below. At 1.30am the boat sails away for three hours taking everyone with it.

Authentic Turkish vibes at Helva Bar

Named, no doubt, after the crumbly sweet made from tahini – which is delicious and found all over the region – this venue has an authentic and elegant air about it. Located in a lovely stone building and offers panoramic views to the sea. DJs will help you party the night away, while there’s a terrace for when you need some time out.

Mingle with the locals at White House

If you enjoy live bands and house music, this is a great spot. Popular with discerning Turks, it has a tree going down the middle of the bar with an illuminated sign saying White House on it. It’s the kind of venue that will make you smile and not just because of the sign. The outdoor space features relaxing rattan furniture.

Stay all evening at Trata Meyhanas

This taverna’s located on a small side-street. Friendly owners and staff keep visitors coming back time and time again. The food is recommended, especially the mezze and wide selection of seafood dishes. But get ready to push your meal to one side when the live music and dancing begin.

Rock and roll at Kule Rock Bar

This bar is popular with locals, especially fans of rock music. It’s a relaxed venue but once the bands stop playing, it’s time for the DJs to start their set. Head down for happy hour to make the most of cheap Bodrum holidays. The drink of choice is usually beer – but the cocktails are good, too.

Enjoy live music and dancing at Mandalin

Open all year around, this is a cool club set on the seafront right next to St Peter’s Castle. It’s a popular spot with well-known bands and singers who come from across Turkey. While DJs keep the party going, you can enjoy lovely views of the bay from the terrace. It’s best to book tables in advance.

This small venue is located in a peaceful spot right on the pebbly beach with views to the castle. Sit and enjoy a coffee or beer, use the free Wi-Fi, play a traditional game of backgammon, or take a dip in the sea before the sun sets.

This small venue is located in a peaceful spot right on the pebbly beach with views to the castle. Sit and enjoy a coffee or beer, use the free Wi-Fi, play a traditional game of backgammon, or take a dip in the sea before the sun sets.

Step back in time at Adamik Bar

A flashback to the days when you could watch music videos on a screen at your local bar. Find yourself captivated by the out-there scenery and sing along to your favourite bands such as Depeche Mode, AC/DC and Pink Floyd. Try their brilliant cocktails – especially the Serum with vodka and green apple, or the apple mojito.

Watermelon is the flavour of the day at Karpuz

Karpuz means ‘watermelon’ and you’ll recognise the place from the image on its signage. A modern and artsy venue, with lots of brightly-coloured lighting giving it a nightclub feel. But this is a bit cooler than that with live bands and some great cocktails – try their watermelon vodka, strawberry mojito and delicious coffee-pot shots.