Bodrum: glamour with an ancient soul

From luxurious resorts to mysterious ruins, Bodrum combines jet-set flair, Mediterranean joie de vivre and thousands of years of history, making it one of the most fascinating destinations in the Aegean region. A place where Turkey shows off its stylish side.

Façades of white houses with blue shutters, narrow streets lined with bougainvillea and the imposing Castle of St. Peter make for a unique atmosphere. During the day, visitors can sail along secluded bays in luxurious gulets, relax at exclusive beach clubs or discover the excavations of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. In the evenings, award-winning restaurants, atmospheric rooftop bars and a vibrant nightlife await. All in all, Bodrum is a destination for culture lovers, bon vivants and those who appreciate the Mediterranean lifestyle.

The ancient soul of Bodrum

Luxury resorts and superyachts dominate the image of Bodrum today, but the town’s roots have a long and rich history. In the 4th century BC, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World was built here: the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. The tomb of the Persian ruler Mausolus was so impressive that it gave the world a new word: ​‘mausoleum’.

Centuries later, Christian knights built the Castle of St. Peter, Bodrum’s second iconic landmark, on the ruins of the ancient city. They used stones from the destroyed mausoleum – an act of symbolic appropriation and architectural continuity. Today, the castle is home to the renowned Museum of Underwater Archaeology and serves as a reminder that behind Bodrum’s white façade lies a history carved in stone.

Bodrum from the water

To truly understand Bodrum, you have to head out to sea. The peninsula is not only a hotspot for superyachts – such as the award-winning Yalıkavak Marina, one of the most exclusive harbours in the world – but also the heart of traditional gulet sailing.

The elegantly curved wooden sailboats, once simple fishing boats, are now floating boutique hotels – with private chefs, crews and sun decks. A multi-day gulet trip in the Aegean Sea is one of the most stylish ways to explore the region with its bays, ruins and turquoise waters. Bodrum thrives alongside the sea and often tells its best stories from the water.

Five exceptional hotels in Bodrum

If you want to immerse yourself in Bodrum’s culture and landscape, these five hotels are both stylish retreats and the perfect starting points for adventure.

Amanruya

A peaceful retreat in a pine grove near Türkbükü. The design: Ottoman aesthetics meet Asian minimalism. Private pools, stone terraces and absolute discretion – the Amanruya is probably Bodrum’s most secluded hideaway.

aman​.com

Bodrum Loft

A modern village concept for aesthetes with a penchant for nature. Sustainable architecture, Mediterranean gardens and a lifestyle community with fine dining and art. Everything appears deliberately unpretentious and that is precisely what makes it so appealing.

bodrumloft​.com

Six Senses Kaplankaya

Premium wellness with stunning coastal scenery. The design is minimalist, the service holistic: from Ayurveda to biohacking. A retreat with international charm and views of the unspoilt Aegean Sea.

sixsenses​.com

Rixos Premium Bodrum

A family-friendly luxury hotspot with oriental flair. Large pool areas, high-quality all-inclusive dining and spa experiences with sea views. Ideal for uncompromising enjoyment – with or without children.

rixos​.com

The Marmara Bodrum (SLH)

A stylish location with panoramic views of the city and castle. As a design hotel with boutique charm, it offers art, tranquillity and, situated within walking distance of the old town, it is close to the action. Adults only – for urban connoisseurs.

themarmarahotels​.com

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