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Bodrum Old Town Guide

Explore Bodrum's historic heart. From the medieval castle to bustling bazaars, discover centuries of history and culture.

📍 Old Town at a Glance

Historic Sites
5+ monuments
Shopping
100+ shops
Marina
1000+ berths
Cafés
50+ options

Historical Sites

Bodrum Castle (Castle of St. Peter)

MUST SEE
€15
entry
Type: Medieval Fortress
Built: 1402-1523
Hours: 08:30-18:30 (summer)
Duration: 2-3 hours

Highlights:

  • Museum of Underwater Archaeology
  • Glass Wreck Hall
  • Carian Princess Hall
  • English Tower
  • Peacock courtyard
  • Panoramic harbor views

💡 Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat

Ancient Theatre

MUST SEE
€3
entry
Type: Hellenistic Theatre
Built: 4th century BC
Hours: 08:00-19:00
Duration: 30-45 minutes

Highlights:

  • 13,000 seat capacity
  • Still hosts concerts
  • Panoramic city views
  • Well-preserved structure
  • Sunset photography spot

💡 Climb to the top for best views, check for summer concert schedules

Mausoleum of Halicarnassus Site

€3
entry
Type: Ancient Wonder
Built: 350 BC
Hours: 08:00-17:00
Duration: 30 minutes

Highlights:

  • One of Seven Wonders
  • Archaeological remains
  • Scale model
  • Garden setting
  • Historical information

💡 Limited remains, but historically significant

Myndos Gate

Free
entry
Type: Ancient City Gate
Built: 4th century BC
Hours: Always open
Duration: 20 minutes

Highlights:

  • Ancient city walls
  • Alexander the Great siege site
  • Restored sections
  • Information panels

💡 Good for history buffs, combine with nearby restaurants

Marina & Waterfront

Bodrum Marina

Luxury yacht harbor

Highlights:

  • Mega yacht watching
  • Waterfront dining
  • Designer shopping
  • Evening strolls
  • Café culture
Best time: Sunset to late evening
DiningShoppingPeople watchingPhotography

Milta Bodrum Marina

Modern marina complex

Highlights:

  • Shopping mall
  • International restaurants
  • Cinema
  • Supermarket
  • Free parking
Best time: Afternoon and evening
ShoppingDiningEntertainment

Harbor Promenade

Scenic waterfront walk

Highlights:

  • Castle views
  • Street performers
  • Souvenir shops
  • Ice cream vendors
  • Photo opportunities
Best time: Early morning or sunset
WalkingPhotographyStreet food

Shopping Districts

Old Bazaar (Çarşı)

Type: Traditional Market
Location: Behind the marina

Specialties:

  • Leather goods
  • Turkish carpets
  • Jewelry
  • Spices & Turkish delight
  • Ceramics & pottery
  • Evil eye talismans

💡 Bargain expected - start at 50% of asking price

🛍️ Best buys: Leather bags, sandals, Turkish towels

Tuesday Market (Salı Pazarı)

Type: Weekly Market
Location: Cevat Şakir area

Specialties:

  • Fresh produce
  • Local cheese & olives
  • Clothing
  • Household items
  • Fake designer goods

💡 Arrive early (8-9am) for best selection

🛍️ Best buys: Fresh fruits, vegetables, local products

Oasis Shopping Center

Type: Modern Mall
Location: Kibris Sehitleri Cad

Specialties:

  • International brands
  • Turkish chains
  • Food court
  • Supermarket
  • Cinema

💡 Air-conditioned escape from summer heat

🛍️ Best buys: Turkish brands like Mavi, LC Waikiki

Cafés & Local Life

Zeki Müren Arts Museum

Museum & Café

Former home of Turkish music legend

  • Personal memorabilia
  • Garden café
  • 1960s time capsule
€2

Perfect for: Culture lovers, quiet afternoon

Kafedaki

Rooftop Café

Hidden gem with castle views

  • Panoramic terrace
  • Turkish breakfast
  • Sunset views
€€

Perfect for: Instagram photos, relaxed meals

Nazik Ana Garden

Traditional Tea Garden

Local favorite courtyard

  • Shaded seating
  • Turkish tea & coffee
  • Backgammon

Perfect for: Authentic experience, escaping crowds

Perfect Old Town Walking Route

Duration: 3-4 hoursDistance: 3km
1
Start: Bodrum Castle
60-90 min
Morning visit for fewer crowds
2
Castle Gardens
15 min
Photo opportunity with peacocks
3
Marina Walk
30 min
Window shopping and yacht spotting
4
Old Bazaar
45 min
Souvenir shopping and bargaining
5
Lunch Break
60 min
Try local restaurants in back streets
6
Ancient Theatre
30 min
Sunset timing ideal
7
End: Harbor Promenade
30 min
Evening stroll and dinner

Old Town Tips

📌Wear comfortable walking shoes - cobblestone streets
📌Carry water - limited shade in summer
📌Castle closes 30min before sunset
📌Avoid midday heat (12:00-15:00) in summer
📌Tuesday market gets very crowded - go early
📌Many shops close on Sunday
📌Bargain in the bazaar but not in modern shops
📌Free WiFi available in most cafés
📌Public toilets in marina (€1) and castle
📌Best photography: golden hour at castle