The Aegean coast in western Turkey is a great place for a luxury holiday, with superb beaches, charming towns and plenty to see and do. Here are ten of our top recommendations for holidays in Bodrum and the Aegean coast.
Bodrum City
The stylish seaside town of Bodrum is a fantastic place to stay and spend your holiday. The famous Bodrum fish market, sometimes called “manavla”, is a great way to explore the city and sample local dishes. Also enjoy an afternoon or evening at the Blue Flag Bodrum Marina, which offers visitors a shopping mall next to a variety of restaurants and bars.
Bodrum Castle
A must for anyone visiting Bodrum is the famous Castle of St. Peter. Built in the 15th century by the Knights of St. John, the fortress has several impressive towers, a chapel, a Turkish bath, and a dungeon. The castle itself is impressive, but so is the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which houses artefacts from shipwrecks from the First Crusade and the ancient city of Halicarnassus.
Kos
The Greek island of Kos is actually just a 15-minute drive from Turgutreis. Explore the cosmopolitan town with its trendy bars and restaurants, visit medieval sites or relax on the sandy beach.
Turkbuku
If you're looking for high-end restaurants, designer boutiques and a little something special, then Turbuka is worth a visit. The coastal harbour is perfect for a leisurely swim, the promenade offers fine dining, stylish bars and a display of stunning luxury yachts.
Pamukkale
About four hours from the coast, take a day trip to Pamukkale. The “Cotton Castle” or Pamukkale consists of cliff-side thermal springs where calcite waters form natural pools, mineral forests, and petrified waterfalls. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a natural wonder and one of the first places to visit in Turkey.
Blue Cruise
Those of you who want to relax should head to Blue cruise. Sunbathe, swim and discover the azure Aegean coast. Blue cruises can be easily arranged from Bodrum.
Hilt
Ephesus is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Turkey. This is the best-preserved classical city in the Mediterranean. The site, built in 1000 BC, is dedicated to the huntress goddess Artemis, and the Temple of Artemis is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Admire the great theater, stroll the ancient marble streets, visit the Roman baths and the House of the Virgin Mary, where St. Mary is believed to have stayed for the last few years of her life. Ephesus is about two and a half hours from Bodrum.
Waterpark "Dedeman" in Bodrum
As the largest water park in Turkey, Dedeman in Bodrum is a fantastic choice for families with children. Spend a fun-filled day racing down the slides, splashing in the pools and sunbathing. The park is only 8 kilometers from the center of Bodrum and is open from 10:30 to 17:00 every day from 21 May to 05 October each year.
Experience a traditional Turkish bath
The Turkish bath aims to cleanse and relax, so you will be left with the best feeling of freshness and rejuvenation.
Turgutreis
With its abundance of superb sandy beaches, it’s no wonder that the sunny seaside town of Turgutreis is a favourite with holidaymakers. Ideal for families and couples alike, you can relax on the beach, take part in water sports or dine at the elegant marina.
