Traveling to Bodrum
Keep read for one of the best up-to-date traveling to Bodrum & How to get to Bodrum Turkey information page. Bodrum is one of the most popular travel destinations in the country. It’s famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, luxurious resorts, historical sites, and crystal-clear waters. Bodrum is a fascinating mix of ancient history, luxury lifestyle, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. It’s one of Turkey’s most iconic destinations, drawing visitors with its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
Bodrum was once known as Halicarnassus in ancient times and was home to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although little remains of the original structure, its influence is still felt throughout the city. Find more details about traveling to Bodrum below.
How to Get to Bodrum Turkey
- By Air: The easiest way is to fly into Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV), which is about 36 km from Bodrum’s city center. The airport has direct flights from many European cities and frequent domestic flights from Istanbul, Ankara, and other major Turkish cities.
- By Car: If you are traveling from Istanbul, it’s approximately an 8-hour drive (700 km). From Izmir, it’s around 3 hours by car (230 km).
- By Bus: There are several bus companies offering trips to Bodrum from cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. The bus journey from Istanbul takes about 12 hours.
- By Ferry: If you’re coming from the Greek islands like Kos or Rhodes, there are daily ferries to Bodrum.
How Far is Bodrum from Istanbul by plane
The flight distance between Istanbul and Bodrum is approximately 460 km (285 miles).
Closest International Airport to Bodrum Turkey
- Flight Duration: The flight from Istanbul to Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV) typically takes around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and AnadoluJet frequently operate direct flights between Istanbul and Bodrum.
- Airports:
- Istanbul has two main airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side.
- Bodrum’s airport is Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV).
Travel Time to and from Airports:
- From Milas-Bodrum Airport to Bodrum city center, it takes around 30-40 minutes by car or shuttle bus.
- In Istanbul, the travel time to the airports can vary. It usually takes:
- Around 45-90 minutes from the city center to Istanbul Airport (IST), depending on traffic.
- Around 30-60 minutes to Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) from the Asian side of Istanbul.
Total Travel Time:
Considering check-in, security checks, and transfer times, the total journey can take approximately 3-4 hours. If you prefer a quicker travel experience, flying is the best option compared to driving (8-10 hours) or taking a bus (11-12 hours).
Top Things to Do in Bodrum
- Explore Bodrum Castle: This iconic castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter, is a must-see. It houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology and offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
- Visit the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus: One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, although only ruins remain, it is still worth visiting for its historical significance.
- Relax on Beaches: Some of the most popular beaches include Bitez Beach, Gümüşlük, and Türkbükü. If you prefer a quieter spot, head to Karaincir or Aspat Beach.
- Stroll Around Bodrum Marina: The marina is full of luxury yachts, chic cafes, and boutiques. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk and people-watching.
- Experience Bodrum’s Nightlife: Bodrum is famous for its nightlife, with a wide range of options from beach bars to high-end nightclubs. Popular spots include Club Catamaran, Halikarnas, and Marina Yacht Club.
Where to Stay
- Luxury: For a 5-star experience, you can stay at places like The Bodrum Edition, Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay, or Mandarin Oriental.
- Mid-range: Hotels like Sianji Well-Being Resort and Elysium Hotel offer great amenities at a more affordable price.
- Budget: For budget travelers, options like Costa Maya Hotel or Bodrum Backpackers provide comfortable stays without breaking the bank.
Local Cuisine to Try
- Seafood: Fresh seafood is a must-try in Bodrum. Head to restaurants like Gemibasi in Gümüşlük or Orfoz in Bodrum Marina for a great dining experience.
- Bodrum Mantı: A local twist on the traditional Turkish dumplings, this dish is a treat for foodies.
- Meze Plates: Enjoy a variety of cold and hot appetizers paired with rakı (Turkish anise-flavored drink).
- Bodrum Döner: A local variation of the classic döner kebab, often served with pita and a side of salad.
Yacht Charters and Blue Cruises
Bodrum is one of the main starting points for blue cruises along the Aegean coast. You can charter a private yacht for a day trip or a multi-day tour exploring secluded bays, islands, and historical sites like Knidos and Datça. As a yacht agency owner, you might already be familiar with this aspect, but for those looking for an exclusive experience, there are options ranging from luxury gulets to motor yachts.
Enjoy your traveling to Bodrum! If you need specific recommendations or have questions about arranging yacht charters or other activities, feel free to ask.
