Turkey’s most popular resort, bursting with character and charm, Bodrum is dominated by its Crusader castle dominating two bays. This is where the Aegean and Mediterranean meet. The town is famous for its distinctive white houses and winding streets laced with bougainvillea. Bodrum has long been renowned for its friendly and bohemian atmosphere. The waterfront is exceptional, with striking views of the medieval castle, and numerous wooden sailing boats (‘gulets’) at anchor. Evenings are particularly special, with the Castle of St Peter illuminated, and frenetic activity on the quayside with guests dining on the gulets and stores being delivered. Hawkers ply their trade and in the background the muezzin calls the faithful to prayer. All this can be enjoyed from the numerous cafes, bars and restaurants that line the harbour.

Bodrum is lively whatever the season. In the winding streets of the town centre intimate cafes mingle with energetic waterside bars. Many venues offer live music whether it be traditional Turkish folk music, jazz or more modern dance music. At the end of the bay, the Halikarnus disco - the world’s largest outdoor nightclub - may be heard later in the evening.

The town centre offers excellent shopping amongst a maze of lanes and alleyways. Shops are often open until midnight, and offer great deals on leather, carpets, gold jewellery and pashimas. You are expected to barter a little and may well be offered apple tea, soft drinks or Turkish coffee, particularly in carpet shops. Other bargains include natural sponges, sandals, embroidery and items made with the local blue glass beads. Don’t forget to buy a good luck evil-eye charm (‘nazar bonjuk’).

Bodrum lies on the site of ancient Halicarnassus, capital of the kingdom of Caria. Herodotus, the ‘Father of History’ was born here in 484BC. The tomb of King Mausolus - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - was built here around 350BC. Only words (we get the word ‘mausoleum’ from here) and stones remain. The tomb was destroyed by an earthquake in the 14th century and extensively plundered. Many of the huge stones were used in the construction of the castle. The most impressive remains are now in the British Museum.

An ancient Greek amphitheatre dating from the 2nd century BC and seating 13,000 overlooks the town. Concerts are held here in the summer. On the west side of the town Myndos Gate - one of the two ancient entrances to the town - still stands.

Bodrum Castle is well worth a few hours of your time. Built by the Knights of Rhodes between 1415 and 1437, it was later captured by the Turks and in the 19th century used as a prison. Remains of prisoners chained together have recently been found. It now houses a world class Museum of Underwater Archaeology. The remains of several ancient ships are on display, including those of the world’s oldest known shipwreck - a cargo vessel from the 14th century BC found off Uluburun in southern Turkey. The remains of the Carian Princess, including a crown and some jewellery - found in the hills of above Bodrum - can also be seen. The castle provides excellent views of the town and harbour.

For more on the history of Bodrum click here.