Bodrum Shore Excursion

This full day Bodrum shore trip visits the famous Castle of St. John and the site of the Mausoleum, which was one of the Seven wonders of ancient World. After lunch, you visit the peaceful village of Gumusluk to enjoy free time for swimming or shopping.

After meeting your private guide at the pier in Bodrum, you immediately depart for the Bodrum Castle which is known as the Castle of St. John. The castle's construction began in the early 15th century and it is located high on a rocky peninsula offering wonderful views of the town and its picturesque harbor. The castle was built from green stones and marble slabs from the mausoleum and it dominates the harbor front.

Once inside the castle, you visit the excellent Museum of Underwater Archaeology. You will see displays of findings from the world's oldest known shipwrecks along the Turquoise Coast of Turkey. Included are displays of Late Bonze Age Shipwrecks and amphorae. These vase-shaped ceramic containers have two handles and a long neck. In ancient times they were used to transport wine and Olive Oil.

Next you drive through the narrow streets of Bodrum until you reach the the hilltop where old windmills are located. You enjoy a scenic photo stop of the town and harbor below.

Finally, you visit the site of the Mausoleum (built in 353 BC) which was one of the Seven wonders of ancient World. You see the remains of the old city walls and the amphitheater. The Amphitheater is accredited to the reign of King Mausolus (4th century BC), however it was enlarged during the Roman era (2nd century BC). Today the well preserved theater is used for concerts and other shows.

After your morning Bodrum excursion you will enjoy lunch in a local restaurant (meal not included) before driving around the peninsula with a stop at Gumusluk Bay for swimming and / or shopping. The peaceful village of Gumusluk is one of the oldest on the Bodrum peninsula. Charming houses with lots of flowers abound. Gumusluk is the perfect antidote for our fast paced lives, its a place to unwind in a beautiful setting. The area is also well known amongst famous Turkish actors, artists and musicians who holiday here in the summer.

At the end of the day, you drive back to the pier in Bodrum.

Mobility: NO wheelchairs

Tips on visiting Turkey:

Shopping - If additional time is available during your Bodrum tour, many guides will ask if you are interested in seeing how Turkish carpets are made or if you wish to shop. These free demonstrations are very interesting and quite informative, but they are also a selling opportunity. Decide on your interest and tell your tour guide clearly whether shopping interests you or not. You should never feel obligated to make a purchase on any tour.