Bodrum districts: where to stay for a successful vacation
Ah, Bodrum! A luxurious Turkish resort on the Aegean coast, where you can vacation alongside Saudi Arabian princes, world-famous top models, oligarchs, or even members of the British royal family. Indecently long yachts, trendy beach clubs, the best parties, and turquoise lagoons. But where should you look for all this and how not to make a mistake when choosing a district? We explain in detail in this article.
Bodrum is called the Turkish "Saint-Tropez," which is absolutely justified: if desired, the resort will sweep you into a real celebration of life in "Gatsby" style. However, for this, you'll have to spend considerably—this is not Antalya, and you need to know the right places. Bodrum is a peninsula divided by a bay into two coves. It contains the city of the same name and several villages that form different districts. By the way, it will be quite difficult without a car (or a yacht) here. It's convenient to move around by taxi, but walking between locations and districts is definitely not what Bodrum is about.
Bodrum's districts differ in atmosphere, but are similar in the following ways:
▪︎ Greek architecture is present in many places (snow-white houses are immersed in colorful details and flowers);
▪︎ Low-rise buildings (meaning finding an apartment here will be rare; the peninsula mainly offers private houses and villas);
▪︎ Stunning nature everywhere (Bodrum is famous for its hills, pine forests, olive and mandarin groves, and turquoise sea).
Now let's look at each district. We've arranged them according to the map and distance from the center of the peninsula.
Bodrum's districts differ in atmosphere, but are similar in the following ways:
▪︎ Greek architecture is present in many places (snow-white houses are immersed in colorful details and flowers);
▪︎ Low-rise buildings (meaning finding an apartment here will be rare; the peninsula mainly offers private houses and villas);
▪︎ Stunning nature everywhere (Bodrum is famous for its hills, pine forests, olive and mandarin groves, and turquoise sea).
Now let's look at each district. We've arranged them according to the map and distance from the center of the peninsula.
Bodrum
Why stay here: to live in the very center surrounded by ancient heritage and main attractions
Location on the map: Bodrum
The Bodrum district is located on the site of the ancient city of Halicarnassus. So, if you're interested in the ancient component, this is the place for you. One of the seven wonders of the world, namely the mausoleum of Carian ruler Mausolus, built around 350 BCE, ancient theaters, the old town, the amazing 15th century Castle of St. Peter — all of this is in central Bodrum. In addition to historical relics, the district has decent beaches (Bardakçı koyu, Kumbahçe Sahili, and Taşburnu halk plajı), numerous bars/restaurants by the sea, and good hotels for reasonable prices. One of the clear advantages: it's easy to get anywhere from here. And if in addition to historical attractions you want to explore the best islands and bays, then boldly set off on a voyage across the Aegean Sea for a whole day. Wow-effect guaranteed!
Location on the map: Bodrum
The Bodrum district is located on the site of the ancient city of Halicarnassus. So, if you're interested in the ancient component, this is the place for you. One of the seven wonders of the world, namely the mausoleum of Carian ruler Mausolus, built around 350 BCE, ancient theaters, the old town, the amazing 15th century Castle of St. Peter — all of this is in central Bodrum. In addition to historical relics, the district has decent beaches (Bardakçı koyu, Kumbahçe Sahili, and Taşburnu halk plajı), numerous bars/restaurants by the sea, and good hotels for reasonable prices. One of the clear advantages: it's easy to get anywhere from here. And if in addition to historical attractions you want to explore the best islands and bays, then boldly set off on a voyage across the Aegean Sea for a whole day. Wow-effect guaranteed!
Gümbet
Why stay here: for nightlife without limits
Location on the map: Gümbet
Turkish Gumbet is like Thai Bangla Road, just without transvestites (but that's not certain). And if other parts of the peninsula are famous for chic and high standards, then in Gumbet everything is exactly the opposite: the area is the epicenter of nightlife accessible to everyone. Relatively budget prices, hotels of different categories, lots of noisy bars, uninhibited crowd, and not the best beaches. If you want a party in the style of "The Hangover in Vegas," then this is the place. In addition to discos, Gumbet is famous for its variety of water sports: on the beaches, you'll find many diving, windsurfing, and parasailing centers. Central Bodrum is also nearby.
Location on the map: Gümbet
Turkish Gumbet is like Thai Bangla Road, just without transvestites (but that's not certain). And if other parts of the peninsula are famous for chic and high standards, then in Gumbet everything is exactly the opposite: the area is the epicenter of nightlife accessible to everyone. Relatively budget prices, hotels of different categories, lots of noisy bars, uninhibited crowd, and not the best beaches. If you want a party in the style of "The Hangover in Vegas," then this is the place. In addition to discos, Gumbet is famous for its variety of water sports: on the beaches, you'll find many diving, windsurfing, and parasailing centers. Central Bodrum is also nearby.
Bitez
Why stay here: for a peaceful vacation and picturesque views
Location on the map: Bitez
The picturesque Bitez Bay is located seven kilometers from central Bodrum, but this does not affect the hellish traffic jams that are very difficult to break through in the evenings during the season. The main feature of the area: a long pebble-sand beach dotted with nice establishments and hotels. The atmosphere here is pleasant, the landscapes are picturesque, there are amazing views of the bay, and there is an opportunity to try your hand at diving or windsurfing.
Location on the map: Bitez
The picturesque Bitez Bay is located seven kilometers from central Bodrum, but this does not affect the hellish traffic jams that are very difficult to break through in the evenings during the season. The main feature of the area: a long pebble-sand beach dotted with nice establishments and hotels. The atmosphere here is pleasant, the landscapes are picturesque, there are amazing views of the bay, and there is an opportunity to try your hand at diving or windsurfing.
Ortakent Yahsi
Why stay here: to feel like a local
Location on the map: Ortakent Yahşi
This area is often chosen for vacation by Turks themselves and those who intend to stay in Bodrum for a longer time. A quiet location with the necessary infrastructure for living (banks, supermarkets, shopping centers, hammams, etc.) and a secluded atmosphere where many locals live. The beaches of the area technically still belong to Bitez, from here you can wave to the Greek island of Kos. The wide coastline provides space for both lazy relaxation and water sports and yacht trips. And the citrus and olive groves located here add aesthetics and coolness to hot summer days.
Location on the map: Ortakent Yahşi
This area is often chosen for vacation by Turks themselves and those who intend to stay in Bodrum for a longer time. A quiet location with the necessary infrastructure for living (banks, supermarkets, shopping centers, hammams, etc.) and a secluded atmosphere where many locals live. The beaches of the area technically still belong to Bitez, from here you can wave to the Greek island of Kos. The wide coastline provides space for both lazy relaxation and water sports and yacht trips. And the citrus and olive groves located here add aesthetics and coolness to hot summer days.
Bagla, Aspat and Akyarlar
Why stay here: here are the most picturesque bays and everything great for a beach vacation
Location on the map: Bağla, Aspat and Akyarlar
These three small areas are located next to each other and are famous for their stunningly beautiful bays and beaches. The hotel situation here is progressive: Bagla is not famous for a large number of hotels, but there are many beautiful places for camping. In Aspat, there are preserved ancient ruins of the city of Termera and some mind-blowing natural locations with panoramic views, such as a volcano crater and this beach. Akyarlar — where the Greek fishing village of Kefaluka used to be — already offers developed infrastructure and accommodation in five-star hotels.
Location on the map: Bağla, Aspat and Akyarlar
These three small areas are located next to each other and are famous for their stunningly beautiful bays and beaches. The hotel situation here is progressive: Bagla is not famous for a large number of hotels, but there are many beautiful places for camping. In Aspat, there are preserved ancient ruins of the city of Termera and some mind-blowing natural locations with panoramic views, such as a volcano crater and this beach. Akyarlar — where the Greek fishing village of Kefaluka used to be — already offers developed infrastructure and accommodation in five-star hotels.
Turgutreis
Why stay here: for great windsurfing
Location on the map: Turgutreis
Named after an Ottoman admiral, Turgutreis is the second largest city on the peninsula after central Bodrum. Hotels here cater to different budgets, there are many bars/restaurants with sea views, Turkish markets, and a marina from where you can head to the Greek islands or take a water trip around the area. Thanks to its location, there's windy weather and good waves here, so learning windsurfing in Turgutreis is ideal: pay attention to Fenerburnu Coast. Overall, the area is quite far from the center (25 km) and is more suitable for living than for vacation.
Location on the map: Turgutreis
Named after an Ottoman admiral, Turgutreis is the second largest city on the peninsula after central Bodrum. Hotels here cater to different budgets, there are many bars/restaurants with sea views, Turkish markets, and a marina from where you can head to the Greek islands or take a water trip around the area. Thanks to its location, there's windy weather and good waves here, so learning windsurfing in Turgutreis is ideal: pay attention to Fenerburnu Coast. Overall, the area is quite far from the center (25 km) and is more suitable for living than for vacation.
Kadikalesi
Why stay here: for a summer cottage atmosphere
Location on the map: Kadıkalesi
This small picturesque bay is suitable for a measured family vacation: rent a nice villa on the shore, have leisurely breakfasts, learn sailing sports (it's also windy here), read books, explore the preserved Orthodox church from the Ottoman Empire, and contemplate the sea. You can interrupt the carefree country mood with a trip to the azure islands with a break for swimming.
Location on the map: Kadıkalesi
This small picturesque bay is suitable for a measured family vacation: rent a nice villa on the shore, have leisurely breakfasts, learn sailing sports (it's also windy here), read books, explore the preserved Orthodox church from the Ottoman Empire, and contemplate the sea. You can interrupt the carefree country mood with a trip to the azure islands with a break for swimming.
Gumusluk
Why stay here: resort romance without the hustle and bustle for good money
Location on the map: Gümüşlük
This quiet area with beautiful sea lagoons and mandarin groves is more like a village, but not the kind you might imagine—rather a stylish and carefree one. There are many nice villas and guesthouses, fish markets, and restaurants with good service (this is where you should come for seafood). Hotels in Gumusluk can be found at really pleasant prices (if you can even say that about Turkey nowadays) and the promenade here is absolutely charming.
Location on the map: Gümüşlük
This quiet area with beautiful sea lagoons and mandarin groves is more like a village, but not the kind you might imagine—rather a stylish and carefree one. There are many nice villas and guesthouses, fish markets, and restaurants with good service (this is where you should come for seafood). Hotels in Gumusluk can be found at really pleasant prices (if you can even say that about Turkey nowadays) and the promenade here is absolutely charming.
Yalikavak
Why stay here: to live bohemian-style alongside world-class celebrities, spend a lot of money, and compare yacht lengths
Location on the map: Yalıkavak
From a once fishing village, Yalikavak has transformed into one of the most luxurious places on the entire Aegean coast. This happened thanks to the opening of Yalıkavak Marina in 2014, near which oligarchs' yachts began to actively dock.
In this area, there's a real celebration of life and corresponding first-class service for people who have big money. Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels, helicopter pads, world brands, and premium beach clubs are based here. In general, heavy luxury and the epicenter of social life.
The only drawback for a long stay here is that the sea part is not the most favorable for swimming. But who cares about that when you can get on your yacht and sail into the sunset.
Location on the map: Yalıkavak
From a once fishing village, Yalikavak has transformed into one of the most luxurious places on the entire Aegean coast. This happened thanks to the opening of Yalıkavak Marina in 2014, near which oligarchs' yachts began to actively dock.
In this area, there's a real celebration of life and corresponding first-class service for people who have big money. Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels, helicopter pads, world brands, and premium beach clubs are based here. In general, heavy luxury and the epicenter of social life.
The only drawback for a long stay here is that the sea part is not the most favorable for swimming. But who cares about that when you can get on your yacht and sail into the sunset.
Gundogan
Why stay here: to see how wealthy Turks vacation
Location on the map: Gündoğan
A favorite place for summer pilgrimages for wealthy Turks, and we completely understand them! Here is the picturesque side of the peninsula with watercolor sunrises and sunsets, rocky coastline, good five-star hotels, high-class service, wonderful equipped beaches, and the charming "Little Bay". If in addition to simple contemplation you want to arrange a full-fledged voyage at sunset, then you're welcome: an evening cruise with swimming in secluded bays and meeting the golden sunset is at your service.
Location on the map: Gündoğan
A favorite place for summer pilgrimages for wealthy Turks, and we completely understand them! Here is the picturesque side of the peninsula with watercolor sunrises and sunsets, rocky coastline, good five-star hotels, high-class service, wonderful equipped beaches, and the charming "Little Bay". If in addition to simple contemplation you want to arrange a full-fledged voyage at sunset, then you're welcome: an evening cruise with swimming in secluded bays and meeting the golden sunset is at your service.
Golturkbuku
Why stay here: to see Kate Moss, if you're lucky, and spend an indecent amount of money
Location on the map: Göltürkbükü
The Golturkbuku area is somewhat divided into two small bays with first-class hotels and beaches: Turkbuku and Golkoy. Turkbuku is a small village with a legendary reputation! Episodes of summer vacations from here often appeared on the pages of tabloid press of Turkish and world production. It was this area that the New York Times called "the real Saint-Tropez," Kate Moss regularly came here for detox, and very long yachts docked near the marina. However, the former glory has been pushed aside by the Yalikavak area you already know. But Turkbuku is still loved by celebrities and businessmen, so by coming here for first-class service, good hotels, luxurious villas, spa, and stylish beach clubs, you won't go wrong.
Location on the map: Göltürkbükü
The Golturkbuku area is somewhat divided into two small bays with first-class hotels and beaches: Turkbuku and Golkoy. Turkbuku is a small village with a legendary reputation! Episodes of summer vacations from here often appeared on the pages of tabloid press of Turkish and world production. It was this area that the New York Times called "the real Saint-Tropez," Kate Moss regularly came here for detox, and very long yachts docked near the marina. However, the former glory has been pushed aside by the Yalikavak area you already know. But Turkbuku is still loved by celebrities and businessmen, so by coming here for first-class service, good hotels, luxurious villas, spa, and stylish beach clubs, you won't go wrong.
Torba
Why stay here: surprisingly, for an all-inclusive vacation
Location on the map: Torba
Just five kilometers from central Bodrum is the quiet and measured Torba, where its own way of life reigns. This is a small bay surrounded by pine forest and sea, where all-inclusive hotels are located. If you're in favor of this vacation format, then welcome. But keep in mind: you won't be able to feel the festive mood of Bodrum here, but a chilled family vacation at a hotel surrounded by beautiful nature and compatriots—that's definitely available.
Location on the map: Torba
Just five kilometers from central Bodrum is the quiet and measured Torba, where its own way of life reigns. This is a small bay surrounded by pine forest and sea, where all-inclusive hotels are located. If you're in favor of this vacation format, then welcome. But keep in mind: you won't be able to feel the festive mood of Bodrum here, but a chilled family vacation at a hotel surrounded by beautiful nature and compatriots—that's definitely available.
These are the main districts, but also pay attention to Bodrum's "neighbors": the quiet resort area of Güvercinlik, the picturesque lagoon in Milas, and the increasingly popular Yalıçiftlik (the beach surrounded by pine forest here is 10 out of 10, and traditional Turkish breakfasts and Aegean cuisine dishes are the best in the area).
Whichever district you choose, we are sure that Bodrum will win everyone's heart! And Courage-Voyage, in turn, is ready to contribute and show the best bays of the Aegean Sea. Bon Voyage!
Whichever district you choose, we are sure that Bodrum will win everyone's heart! And Courage-Voyage, in turn, is ready to contribute and show the best bays of the Aegean Sea. Bon Voyage!