Also known as the Turkish Saint-Tropez, Bodrum is one of Turkey’s top vacation destinations, a stopover for many cruises. Located on the Gulf of Cos, in the province of Mugla in the southwest of the country, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every summer, both locals from the Istanbul bourgeoisie and foreign tourists. Party-goers flock there to sample its famous nightlife.
Bordered by the Aegean Sea, the city has nevertheless retained an authentic charm, its alleys of white Cycladic-style houses, scented with flowers and adorned with colored details, testify to this. In addition, the remains of the ancient city of Halicarnassus mark the places and history buffs will be able to discover invaluable remains.In short, it is a destination of choice that has much strength. Find out what to do in Bodrum to make the most of your stay. As you opt for Excursions In Bodrum you can have all the deals.
The Château Saint-Pierre
The Castle Saint-Pierre is the emblem of Bodrum:
It is from this one that comes the name of the city, deformation of the Latin Petreum or Petronium. It was built in the 15th century on the initiative of members of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, from the ruins of the mausoleum of King CarienMausole.
Despite the many attacks that the castle has suffered since its construction, especially during the First World War, it remains extraordinarily well preserved and visitors will even be able to observe the arms of the Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem on some windows. You can walk freely on the ramparts and at the same time enjoy the exceptional view offered by the castle, which overlooks the Aegean Sea. It also houses a garden which showcases an important collection of Mediterranean plants and their mythological meanings.
The Museum of Underwater Archeology
The museum was housed in the Château Saint-Pierre in 1962, at the request of the Turkish government. It exhibits the finds made during numerous expeditions to the Aegean Sea. From the wreck dating from the Bronze Age, witness to the trade of the time, to the Roman merchant ships of the 7th century, the museum is full of treasures. It houses an important collection of amphorae spanning several centuries of history, one of the four most important collections of ancient glassware, jewelry and many Greco-Roman, Egyptian and Ottoman wares.
The Museum of Underwater Archeology has a very pleasant setting within the walls of the castle. The visit will give you the opportunity to admire its rooms steeped in history, but also magnificent panoramas. Allow a budget of around ten euros for the visit.
The beaches
Bitez Beach is a large sandy beach with a charming and authentic setting near the small town of Bitez, located six kilometers from Bodrum. This is a relaxing break, far from the tourist bustle. The Torba Beach is also located a few kilometers from Bodrum and has a perfect setting for wild nature lovers. Surrounded by hills and pine forests, it has managed to preserve the salt of a small fishing village. You can also opt for the Bodrum Boat Trip here.
The Final Word
Finally, in Bodrum itself, near Saint-Pierre Castle, Kumbahce offers good facilities (deckchairs, restaurants, etc.) and a pleasant view of the port. If you want more peace without going too far from the city, opt for Gümbet beach, touristy but large enough to be peaceful.
