Situated on a beautiful peninsula, Bodrum is one of the most spectacular resorts in Turkey with its charm residing in its blend of relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, historical architecture and its proximity to a vast array of fantastic beaches, fishing villages and trendy nightclubs. The city, known in ancient times as Halicarnassos, town of Herodotus, has grown dramatically in recent years with the opening of an international airport - yet its delightful charm remains intact with palm-lined streets and whitewashed, flat-roofed houses dotted across its terraced hillsides.
The views of the city are exceptionally striking against the stunning backdrop of the Castle of St. Peter, which stands formidably between the city's twin bays. It is even more spectacular in the summer as Bodrum bursts into color with cascades of bright pink and purple bougainvillea flowing from the dazzling white houses that line its narrow streets, winding down towards the sea. Bodrum is also the yachting centre of Turkey and its world-class Marina is a favorite destination for yachts that cruise the Aegean and Mediterranean. October is the month of the Bodrum Cup Race, attracting yacths from around the world.

Another major attraction of Bodrum is its buzzing cafes, restaurants and shops, as well as its wealth of trendy and sophisticated nightlife. By day, the central bazaar is a great place for shopping with its array of leather, clothes, carpets and assorted souvenir and gift shops. Or, if you venture into the narrow streets of the old town around Meyhaneler Street, you will discover chic boutiques and souvenir shops, along with rustic Turkish restaurants. There is also a weekly market near the bus station if you want a colorful taste of the native produce, including the delicious locally grown tangerines. But the city really comes to life at night, with a magical atmosphere that doesn't sleep until dawn.

Whether you are searching for romantic harbor-side dinners, an evening promenade or sipping cocktails in the up-market marina, there is something to suit everyone. Bodrum also boasts some of the most sophisticated and trendy bars and clubs in Turkey, many with imported DJ's, including the internationally famous Halikarnas Disco complete with stunning views of the bay below. Bodrum has accommodation to fit all tastes and budgets dotted in and around its pretty town centre, but the quietest places to stay are in the west of town and in the hills towards the east.
 

Gumbet
Named after the domed water-cisterns that speckle the countryside near-by, Gumbet is the closest beach to Bodrum - just 10 minutes away by car - and is very popular with British holidaymakers, many of whom choose to stay here close to the beach and venture into Bodrum at night. As it has grown in popularity, however, Gumbet has developed in its own right and now offers a wide choice of lively bars and restaurants, popular with a young crowd. Its long sandy beach is lined with hotels and pensions which attract many young people and water-sports enthusiasts with its large windsurfing school and diving courses.

Gumusluk
Reached by a winding road from Gürece, Gumusluk is very popular for its secluded setting. Ever since being designated as an archaelogical site, no major buildings have been allowed to alter the landscape, making it a very pleasant place to stay with its unspoilt scenery, long sand and gravel beach and a handful of excellent fish restaurants perched right on the sea-front. The site of the ancient Myndos, Gumusluk is scattered with remnants of its historical past: as you look out towards the harbour you will spot the fortification wall, an ancient tower and submerged walls. Also, if you walk towards the south end of the beach, you will also be able to swim very close to some of the ruins, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling. Gümüşlük is accessible by dolmuş from Bodrum or from Turgutreis.

Turgutreis
A sophisticated new marina adorns the waterfront at Turgutreis, complete with exclusive cafes, restaurants and boutiques, as well as a host of new bars and discos. Thought not very sandy, its beach is very popular with families because the sea is shallow for quite a way out, making it safer for young children. For a more peaceful alternative to the main beach, there is also a long and sandy beach near the lighthouse on the way towards Akyarlar. There is also good access to Bodrum from Turgutreis, with a regular dolmuş service that stops at the main square in Turgutreis.

Yalikavak
Formerly the area's main sponge-fishing port, the village of Yalikavak maintains a relaxing atmosphere for quaint seaside eating. Its position in the north-western corner of the peninsula, 18 km from Bodrum means it is one of the least developed spots in the area with fewer hotels and self-catering apartments, making it an enjoyable stay away from the crowds. As you reach the bay, you will notice the ruins of three old windmills on the hills - the hills around the village are also perfect for picnics and walks, particularly in the spring when they are covered with a colourful carpet of wild flowers bursting newly into bloom.

Turkbuku
Turkbuku is one of the Bodrum's best-kept secrets with its array of exclusive hotels, excellent sea-front restaurant s situated on wooden piers and trendy bars that burst into life after sunset. By day, its beach-front cafes and hotels are havens for the jet-set, with fantastic views of the beautiful bay and wooden platforms dotted with sophisticated sun-loungers from which to swim.

Bitez
Bitez lies on a bay, a few kilometers west from Bodrum, attracting an older, more up-market crowd. The gently-sloping coarses and beach has wooden piers for swimming and is lined whitewashed hotels and resort villas, whilst also host to a popular windsurfing and sailing school - Its sheltered cove and swallow water are perfect for beginners. Backed by lush tangerine orchards, Bitez is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds, whilst also having good access to Bodrum with direct dolmuşes to and from the city.

Ortakent
You can reach Ortakent from the main highway west of Bodrum and it is very popular with Turkish families. Its two-kilometer long beach is considered by many to be one of the best on the peninsula and is dotted with several restaurants, motels and some unique tower-houses.