Bodrum is situated exactly as Halicarnassus was many years ago. The main road runs inland from Bodrum Castle, which is set on a rocky headland between two bays. This main road and the bays on either side form the town centre. Visitors should take a small walk to appreciate the boats in the harbour, the unforgettable smell of the sea, the narrow streets adorned with colourful bougainvillea and the tranquility of the white-washed houses.The bays around the peninsula, with their multiple shades of blue, will strengthen any affinity with nature. In the town centre, the smell of history pervades the nights full of entertainment.As you travel around the peninsula, the windmills that you see are the remains of an ancient tradition. Their basic function was to grind the wheat for making daily bread. At the same time they signal the wind situation on the peninsula; a wind that cools even the hottest days in the Mediterranean.A product that is always associated with Bodrum is the mandarin orange. White houses nestle amongst the green orchards bursting with orange fruit. A feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

BITEZ
One of the peninsula’s peaceful, leafy settlements. Along the dried-up river beds sit old Bodrum stone houses in secluded corners of large gardens, where everyday life goes on, just like anywhere else in Turkey. The coast is relatively quiet and on the beach you’ll find everything you need. This is the perfect spot for water sports, and windsurfing in particular. Every year, Bitez houses a number of windsurfing races and tournaments.

From the central bus station, if you take a minibus with the ‘Bitez’ in the front window, it will get you there in 20 minutes. During the summer, minibuses depart for Bitez every 7 minutes

KONACIK
Konacik is located towards the middle of the peninsula and is the highest of its settlements. Within its borders lies Pedasa, the ancient site of most that remains of the Leleg culture on the peninsula. The ruins are accessible on foot from the village of Gцkз;eler above Konacik. Taking a guide with you is recommended. The surrounding area is rich in wild flowers and herbs such as sage, thyme and lavender. After a steep climb, you will be rewarded by a spectacular panoramic view.

Konacik is also the main artery for commerce, with several modern shopping centres, stores and hypermarkets at the side of the road.
Minibuses with the sign ‘Konacik’ will get you there in about 10 minutes. Minibuses depart from the central bus station every 7 minutes during the summer.

ORTAKENT
Located at the centre of the peninsula where all the main roads cross, Ortakent has examples of 300 year old traditional Bodrum architecture. Apart from the market, village weddings and the goings-on of daily life in its flourishing gardens, the beaches are well worth a visit. Along the coast there are many possibilities for water sports. Camel Beach in Kargi Bay is a long natural sandy beach. It takes its name from the camels that lie on the beach and, for a fee, take tourists on a ride. It’s interesting to see the small lilies that grow in the sand, here.
Ortakent market takes place every Wednesday, offering the freshest fruit and vegetables imaginable.

Minibuses to Ortakent depart from the central bus station every 10 minutes and the journey takes around 20 minutes.

TURGUTREIS
This town takes its name from the famous Ottoman seaman Turgut Reis and is the second largest settlement after Bodrum. Its sandy beach runs for 2.5 km and is bordered in places by tangerine gardens, and sometimes by hotels. Karaincir is another beautiful beach in the vicinity and has interesting cacti.

The weekly market takes place on Saturday and offers the most extensive variety of goods. As well as local goods, you can also find well-known brands at very cheap prices. Turgutreis’ modern marina has facilities for visitors arriving by boat.

On the recreation grounds, festivals and other activities follow on throughout the summer. Off the island of Yassıada, adjacent to Turgutreis, underwater excavations have been going on since 1961.

Minibuses to Turgutreis depart from the central bus station every 10 minutes and the journey takes around 20 minutes.

YALIKAVAK
As soon as you approach Yalikavak, you will appreciate how different it is. Just after the ‘Yalikavak 3km’ sign, you will reach ‘windmill pass’ and get a bird-eye’s view of Yalikavak. It’s impossible to tire of this incredible panorama! As the windmills suggest, Yalikavak is quite a windy spot. It’s also famous for its citrus trees, fish and new marina. Many of the Yalikavak inhabitants are still seafarers. In the village bazaar you’ll find a wide variety of souvenirs, especially textiles, rugs and items made from felt.

Another impressive sight is the abandoned village of Sandima with its unspoilt Bodrum architecture, and it’s easy to reach from Yalikavak.

Minibuses to Yalikavak depart from the central bus station every 15 minutes and the journey takes about half an hour.

MUMCULAR
The most remote settlement of the Bodrum region is Mumcular. The village is located on the road to two beautiful Blue Cruise stops, Mazi and З;цkertme, in the Gulf of Gokova. Enjoy the turquoise waters of the gulf and the untouched coastline. No construction beyond the normal needs of the village has affected these places, so the surrounding woodland is just a step away, and a delight for all nature lovers. Traditional Milas carpets and kilims are still woven today in most Mumcular houses. The women of Mumcular collect specific roots and herbs for dyeing the yarn. It’s possible to go and visit these houses to watch the women at their looms.

Minibuses to Mumcular depart from the central bus station every 15 minutes and the journey takes about 40 minutes.

NIGHT TIME
Bodrum is a unique town with exceptional appeal where you can be entertained around the clock. Just as it’s possible to drift off to sleep to a chorus of bird song in a tranquil cove you can also have a wild time out on the town until dawn. As a visitor to Bodrum you’ll meet new people at unforgettable parties. Dance until daybreak aboard Turkey’s only floating disco or get caught up in the atmosphere in one of the worlds few open air nightclubs. Famous faces come from far and wide to entertain and be entertained in Bodrum. You too can become a part of the Bodrum nightlife and experience all the delights it has to offer. In Meyhaneler Street a tempting variety of meze is best complimented by a glass of Turkish Rakı. Here you will discover the more traditional kind of entertainment favoured by Bodrum residents.

As the night progresses join in a song with one of the groups of musicians who wander between the tables.

DAY TIME
The Aqua park should be at the top of the list for those seeking daytime fun. A favourite with children, there’s a great time to be had by all in Turkey’s biggest water park.

Days fly by on the Bodrum peninsula where an extensive range of interesting activities are on offer. You can go horse riding through mountain villages or trek through forest trails. Feel the adrenaline course through your veins on a jeep safari which affords a birds-eye perspective of the landscape. You can embark on a journey of discovery by renting a bicycle or motorbike and visiting an antique site.

Don’t miss the opportunity to join one of the daily boat trips which provide views of the coastline from a different perspective. On your tour you will wonder at the crystal clear turquoise waters known as “aquariums”. Boats offering daily tours can be found at jetties in Bodrum, Gombet, Turgutreis, Yalikavak, Gцltьrkbьkь and Torba. Your tour operator can provide you with further information.