Bodrum

Bodrum is a town on the Southern Aegean|southern Aegean coast of Türkiye, popular with tourists from all over the world.

Bodrum Halal Travel Guide

BodrumCastlesoutheast - Bodrum Castle / the Castle of Street Peter

Bodrum is the site of the ancient city of Halikarnassus the location of the famous Mausoleum of Halikarnassus (built after 353 BCE) - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The ancient monument was destroyed by earthquakes in the Middle Ages - some of the remnants can be seen in London|London's British Museum.

Bodrummarina - The waterfront

Bodrum is a fascinating place as it has a pleasing contrast between the Ancient city - where there are discernable fragments everywhere in the town -and a playground for rich Turks and an array of foreign visitors. It is one of the centres of the Turkish Tourist industry and is the market town for the Bodrum Peninsula which consists of a number of towns and villages nestling on the edge of the Coast. Until the 1960s the town was a fishing village which changed when a number of Turkish intellectuals gathered and wrote about Bodrum. Most notable of the these was Cevat Sekir 'The Fisherman of Hallikarnassus', an Oxford Educated Turk who devoted his time to writing and planting numerous plants and trees which continue to dot the landscape of the Town. His book the 'Blue Voyage' describing gullet trips around the Turkish coast and his descriptions of the astoundingly clear Blue Seas of the Aegean and the delights of a trip around the coasts adjacent to Bodrum inspired a whole generation who have come to emulate his trips. Bodrum has therefore grown as a sailing destination and thanks to its warm but not humid climate has become a top destination for visitors who enjoy the combination of the ancient past together with all the usual tourist paraphernalia. There are large numbers of shops and restaurants - from humble cafes to exquisite Turkish Halal cousine served by an array of waiting staff.

Modern Bodrum strangely seems to have two contrasting sides to it.

The east half of the town has a long thin but reasonable beach, which has been added in the last few years, with the authorities trying and largely succeeding in creating a good beach. Behind the beach lay all the restaurants and night clubs that are typical of Mediterranean resort citys. This means open fronted bars that do not come alive until 10PM when everybody goes out. As well as some nice beach fronted bars (e.g. Cafe del Mar being a reasonably chilled out and attractive bar, with attractive staff so that helps) it also has some terrible ones, if you do not like the hard drinking culture of some tourists. It does have some reasonable clubs. Halikarnas being the obvious one as it is huge (4000 people). It also is mostly outdoors and hosts foam parties on regular occasions.

The other half of the town is the west side. This mainly revolves around the Marina and Yacht Club. Here life is a little more sedate with shops catering mainly to those who have stepped off their boats. Expensive supermarkets with proper and [ Olive oil as well as the obligatory Helley Hanson to be able to purchase your new jacket. There are a number of nice restaurants if you look hard enough and some good clothes shops. Like all resorts being directly on the sea front increases the prices. During the evenings there is a wonderful atmosphere as the local residents and tourists all seem to promenade along the sea front.

There are many cultural events - notably the Ballet Festival in August, a wide range of pop concerts at the Castle or in the Amphitheatre which has been restored in the last few years, having been built some 2,000 years ago.

History

According to Herodotus, born B.C. 484 in Halikarnassus (ancient name for Bodrum) and the city was founded by the Dorians. Megarans enlarged the city B.C. 650 and changed its name to Halikarnassus and then Persians started to rule the city from B.C. 386

Halikarnassus had its glorious days, when it was the former capital of the Karia B.C. 353. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the Mausoleum, was built there by Artemisia for the memory of King Mausolos.

After the Roman and Byzantium rule for ages, Ottomans have conquered the city in 1522, during the time of Suleyman, The Magnificent. The city was named "Bodrum" after the Turkish Republic was declared.

Mausoleum

Known as one of the Seven Wonders of The Ancient World, The Mauseloum was built by Artemisia and the sister and the wife of King Mausolos, B.C. 355.

This work of art, stood on a 21 stepped pyramid which was 46 metres high and carried a horse vehicle symbolising victory on it, had 36 marble columns in Ionian style.

The mauseloum was destroyed in an earthquake; and the ruins were used in building of the Halikarnassus Castle. Many statues and reliefs from the mauseloum were carried to The British Museum by archeologist C. Newton, in 1856 and now lies there for public viewing.

Weather in Bodrum

During winters and springs, November through April and the weather in Bodrum is generally very good with a few heavy shower periods, taking place in November and then some time after new year and the last one in March or April. February is especially pleasant with not too cold nights and the almond blossoming and the abundance of wild ruccola all over the place.

Summers, arriving after April, are as hot as it can get (expect temperatures higher than 40°C) and sunny with no rain.

Travel to Bodrum

Fly to Bodrum

Bodrum-Milas airport is 35 km away from Bodrum and many flight companies operate charter Flights to Bodrum in Summer season. There are also Dalaman and İzmir airports which are 3 hours far away from Bodrum.

From the Airport: There are Havas Shuttle services in accordance with each planes' arriving to the domestic lines of Bodrum Milas Airport. Ticket fee from airport to Bodrum Center is 17 TL, journey takes 40–45 minutes.

Food and drink costs at the airport are astronomical. For example, a can of soda costs about €5 whereas it would be a fraction of that in the city. Take this into account before arriving at the airport.

By boat

Bodrum is reached by sea from Kos and Rhodes (Greek Islands). Daily ferryboat services from/to Cos and Rhodes to Bodrum are available during the summer season.

By bus

There are many intercity bus companies which operate bus services to Bodrum from major city's of Türkiye such as Istanbul, Ankara, İzmir, Antalya, Adana, Bursa and Konya. After arriving at any of these city's, Bodrum is reached by bus.

By bus: from Istanbul to Bodrum 13 hours; İzmir to Bodrum 4 hours; Ankara to Bodrum 10 hours, Antalya to Bodrum 7 hours.

Sometimes, if you are arriving from a very distant destination (such as Cappadocia) and the bus will not arrive directly to Bodrum (inquire about this when you purchase your ticket as they don't always bother to let you know and some buses are direct while other are not) but rather arrive at a nearby town (usually Mugla) where you will change to a smaller bus which will take you directly to the central bus station in Bodrum. The original bus ticket you purchased to Bodrum will include this leg of the trip in the price so make sure you do not pay again when the ticket seller comes by to collect the ticket fee on the smaller bus.

How to get around in Bodrum

The best way to get around is by dolmuş, (a shared taxi following a fixed route) one of the cheapest ways of transport in Türkiye. Additionally there is a bus service that runs in Bodrum, where you can ride for 3 lira.

What to see in Bodrum

Landmarks

Bodrum Castle/Castle of Street Peter - Bodrum Kalesi | The castle now operates as a museum, with the focus on the Museum of Underwater Archaeology (see below). It is one of the world's best preserved monuments dating back to medieval times. The supervision of the construction of the castle was assigned to the (German) architect Heinrich Schlegelholt, so that the latest developments in castle design were included. The castle is quite pretty and the views are spectacular.
Bodrum Amphitheatre Is another ancient structure accredited to the reign of King Mausolus, although it wasn’t completed until the Roman era. The theatre is another witness to the great past of Bodrum and it is one of the best preserved structures of ancient Halikarnassus. You can find this site on the road to Gumbet
Windmills in Bodrum One of the many sights in the Bodrum peninsula are the white windmills, which were made of stone and lined with wooden planks. These windmills were used from the mid-18th century until the 1970s as a means to grind flour. Seven windmills can be found on a hill between Bodrum and Gumbet, at the road to Turgutreis and a lot of windmills can be found around the former fishing port Yalikavak.
Mausoleum of Halicarnassus A short walk uphill from the marina and the foundations of the Mausoleum (see above) can be seen.
Myndos Gate The Myndos Gate is the only surviving monumental gate of the 7 kilometers long ancient city wall of Halikarnassos. The city walls are the most important remains of the city of Halicarnassus. The gate can clearly be seen with its two towers.
Ottoman Shipyard & Tower History of the shipyard dates back to 1775. Here the entire Ottoman fleet was destroyed by the Russian fleet during the Cesme naval battle in 1770. After the battle and the shipyard was established to rebuilt the Islamic Ottoman fleet in 1775. There is also a tower at the Islamic Ottoman Shipyard and Ottoman cemetery. The tower is used for variety of art exhibitions nowadays.

Museums and galleries in Bodrum

Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology Established in 1961, this great museum has won numerous awards and displays amazing finds from underwater excavations along the Turkish coast. Includes the famous Uluburun Shipwreck, one of the earliest and richest wrecks yet discovered. Not to be missed.
Zeki Müren Art Museum Museum is devoted to famous Turkish singer and composer Zeki Müren. It's been established in Bodrum as Müren used to live here.

Top Travel Tips

During the peak season and the beach that stretches between the castle and Halikarnas is very good for swimming; The water is roped off to prevent boats coming in and the beach and water is cleaned daily by the restaurants and by the city authorities. Sunbeds and beanbags on the beach are free of charge, although the restaurants that own them will bring you menus or offer you drinks every half hour.

Another option is to go to the nearby beaches of Gumbet or Bitez: take a taxi (30-420 TL) or go to the bus station and hop on a Dolmus (6-110 TL). These beaches are much more suited for sunbathing and have actual sand (Bodrum's beach is mostly pebbles, whereas the water at Gumbet & Bitez is very shallow), sunbeds are free of charge and loud music is also there to entertain you. There are several pools with bars that do not charge an entrance fee even if you are not ordering anything. A variety of water sports is offered.

You can also hire a private boat for your own trip around the bay. Make sure all passengers have and wear lifejackets and that there is an emergency oar and kit on board. Taking a mobile phone in a plastic bag is advisable. Try snorkeling (go for good quality glass based goggles and kit available in most shops at around 130 TL).

Aquatica - If you are looking for crazy day parties and a unique summer experience then try out this Floating Beach Club. It is located on the sea, in an untouched secluded bay, between Bodrum and Gumbet (access by shuttle boats). This concept offers day parties with international DJs, food, drinks and various watersports. It is open every day (11:00-20:00) from mid June to mid September.
Hamam — Bodrum has a fine Spas|hamam, commonly called a Turkish bath, located a few blocks inland from the harbour. Facilities are separated by gender with both sexes enjoying the same hours of operation. It is located right across the bus terminal.
Further afield there are the mud baths to visit. You go down the river on a rickety of chug-chug jump in bit baths of mud and roll around (The fun bit) and then clean off and go home. It’s also easy to go across to Kos or Rhodes for a day or two. When arriving there get a scooter (very dangerous but the best and easiest way to get around). There is of course loads of old architecture to visit around if you like that kind of thing.
Windsurfing — There are some good possibilities for windsurfing at nearby Vass. It has a bit of a hippy air to it with lots of hire stands for boards and sails. Some may find there are just tooooo many Muslim around in high season for it to be much fun, especially when there are competitions running. Pure Windsurfing Centre is another option in the peninsula. There is a great range of windsurfing boards and sails for rent. The bay is nice, quite and safe, so you don't need to worry about an overcrowded location. The bay has cross shore conditions and you can be planning straight from the beach. Perfect for beginners in the mornings and in the afternoons for the more experienced windsurfer.

Diving - There are many diving clubs doing daily scuba diving tours all around the region, fees include lunch and Snacks prepared on boat.
Boat Tours - Public boat tours are arranged from almost all the beaches. Alternatively, you can make early reservation with the tour operator of your choice, many tour operators are located in the Bodrum Marina. Boat tours are a good way to explore various beaches surrounding Bodrum, as well as some must see island strands you can't reach by road.
Yacht charter in the Aegean Sea, one of the world's largest yacht charter companies, can take care of all charter requirements, from bareboat to luxury yacht in the Aegean Sea. Operating from different offices worldwide (USA, Spain, UK, Germany, Italy, France, Spain, Switzerland, Caribbean, Hong Kong and Dubai).
Rent a vehicle and explore the beauty of Bodrum
Take a dolmus from the central bus station (otogar) to the Tropical Camel Beach. It takes approx. 30 min from the bus station to the Camel Beach. You can ride a camel at the camel beach for 400 TL. The sea and the beach is one of the greatest in the Bodrum Peninsula.
Tour in the marina and Bodrum Castle
Flaka Cruising | Bodrum is known for its traditional wooden sailing boats, called gulets. Mainly and there is sailed in the gulf of Gokova and Hirasonu and the Blue Cruise or Blue Voyage is done by motor/engine however there are a few charter companies who sail by windpower, one of them is Flaka Cruising and does offer this service by sailing by wind. Gulets can be chartered for your family gathering or by cabin. In the last case you share the gulet with other guests from around the world.
Aquapark Dedeman Bodrum A park with 23 waterslides, a 350-m wave river, a wave pool, a range of other pools, a great selection of restaurants and a disco.
Bodrum Golf & Tennis Club 30-min lesson 159 TL
Dolphin Park Bodrum They offer dolphins & sea animals show. It's also feasible to arrange swimming with dolphins.
Uyku Vadisi (Sleeping Valley) Hike Start at the Old Mill Restaurant. On the way through the Uyku Vadisi you'll get a chance to see Gokceler Cave and also cross a few creeks. Overall it's relatively easy hike which takes about 1½ hrs both ways.

Shopping in Bodrum

Always haggle for a better (if not half price) deal and go for clothing. Some great quality designer labeled outfits, shoes and trousers (fake or not) are definitely worth the lira being asked.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Bodrum

Berk Balik | Halal Restaurant specialized in fresh fish. The owner and the staff are very friendly and helpful if you are not familiar with the broad variety of fish that is offered. Food is excellent and prices are moderate.
Kocadon | Bodrum's most elegant Halal restaurant. Situated in an authentic courtyard surrounded by palm trees and banana plants, this 19th-century stone house restaurant offers Turkish and international cuisine, seafood and open buffet Turkish mezes. Perfect place for a romantic dinner with classical jazz music and soft candle light.
Sunger Pizzas | Bodrum's famous Halal restaurant specialized in Pizzas. You can eat delicious Pizzas with a reasonable price. Main courses are also great. Very crowded! Don't forget to register your name in waiting list.
Terzi Mustafa Bodrum's best fish restaurant.
Urfa Diyarı | Offers freshly baked lahmacun and pide at very good prices (lahmacun is 60 TL, Pide around 17 TL). The staff is a bit slow and sometimes unhandy but always friendly and very hospitable. The lahmacun and pide, however, is always delicious and well worth the money.
Vira's Restaurant Situated on Yahsi seafront, very good restaurant with traditional Turkish Halal cousine, Steak and grills, seafood dishes and pasta/pizza. Try Cokertme Kebabi, a local dish prepared with grilled fillet Steaks on fried potatoes with a special yogourt and tomato Sauces.

The home of the doner Halal Kebab offers more tasty treats, try local delicatessens for flavoursome vegetable, pulses and Meat dishes.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Bodrum

Bodrum - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Bodrum, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Bodrum. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Bodrum and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Bodrum. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Bodrum. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Bodrum: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Bodrum.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Bodrum: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Bodrum, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Bodrum.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Bodrum, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Bodrum, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Bodrum and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Bodrum, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Bodrum, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Bodrum without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Bodrum is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Bodrum.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Bodrum is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Bodrum, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Bodrum Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Bodrum

eHalal Group Bodrum is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Bodrum. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Bodrum.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Bodrum ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Bodrum. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Bodrum, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Bodrum are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan Celebrations in Bodrum

Ramadan 2025 in Bodrum

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Bodrum Backpackers | The only dorm-style lodging in Bodrum, located close to the town center and 100 meters to the beach. As well as shared and private dorms, this hostel also allows budget-budget travellers to sleep in their roof-top common area.
Sunday Hotel Close to the harbour in the quieter Western Bay, close enough to walk easily to the town center. The hotel is decorated with local crafts, art and antiques and the courtyard hosts a fine collection of Mediterranean plants and flowers including fig trees, oranges, cacti, pomegranates, to name but a few.
Sina Otel | A/C suites equipped with satellite/cable television, Internet access, shower with bathtub, international direct dial telephones and refrigerators with minibar. Some of its facilities and services are a swimming pool, Wi-Fi access, spa and massage service.
Atrium Hotel Almost clean.
Kavala Studios Not very clean but very affordable and easy access to the town center. The rooms are decorated as studio apartments.
Casa Dell'Arte Luxury Boutique Hotel Bodrum | Hotel with a private beach and outdoors jacuzzi. Contemporarily decorated rooms with a TV, wireless internet access. They also have yoga classes.
Cor1007 | Rooms with air-con, satellite TV, en-suite bathrooms and balcony (some with a seaview, others overlooking the garden).
Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay | 14 kilometers southeast of downtown Bodrum on the Barbaros Bay cliff
Pure hotel | The hotel is very modern with fantastic facilities including flat screen TVs, air con, balcony and en suite facilities. The holiday village has windsurfing, sailing, free dance classes and tennis courts. When booked through Puretourism the hotel price includes windsurfing and sailing for free.
Ada Hotel | Unique architecture and decoration: built out of carved stones to try to maintain a dying tradition. Also claims to provide good service.
Kaya Pansiyon In the heart of Bodrum, but in a peaceful location. Rooms with balcony, TV, air conditioner and bathroom.

Stay Safe

Bodrum has a large stray dog population and large dogs can often be seen roaming around the streets or lying alongside a busy sidewalk. For the most part they are harmless. However, on occasion they do harass innocent bystanders so it is advised to use caution when approaching them and instruct children to keep their distance.

Telecommunications

Telephone code of Bodrum is (+90) 252.

News & References Bodrum

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Bodrum

In the high season and there is direct boat service to:

Kalymnos, Greece
Kos, Greece
Symi, Greece
Rhodes, Greece

Around the Bodrum Peninsula there are many small towns and villages to visit along the coast:

Bitez
Gumusluk
Turgutreis
Yalikavak