Bodrum

The Mausoleum at Halicarnassis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, still stands today, albeit in remnants. Its true appearance remains a mystery to many, but it's believed that the renowned sculptor, Skopas, lent his talent to parts of its decoration — and it was undoubtedly extravagant. Nowadays, visitors can only gaze upon the remains of the once majestic building's walls, the rest having been claimed by earthquakes and the passage of millennia.

Home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, the castle stands as one of Bodrum's most recognisable landmarks. Constructed by the German knight-architect Heinrich Schlegelholt in 1404, it boasts a majestic presence with its impressive stone facades.

Located in within the Bodrum Castle walls, the Museum of Underwater Archaeology is an acclaimed, dynamic institution, well worth dedicating a few hours to. Its exhibits feature unique ancient artefacts, including a shipwreck from 1400 BC and a large collection of glass. Be sure not to miss the exquisite collection of amphorae.

Even if ancient ruins aren't your cup of tea, a trip to an archaeological site is worth the detour. The journey will take you through the quaint countryside, threading through small towns and villages that might otherwise escape your notice. Just a few kilometres from the holiday resort of Altinkum, in Yenihisar, you'll find Didyma — home to a grand temple dedicated to Apollo. Didyma was more than a religious site; its oracle rivalled the fame of Delphi's. While the original temple was destroyed by the Persians around 400 BC, the existing ruins hail from the Roman times. The remnants of 120 columns stand as testament to the temple's once monumental size.

The beaches around the Bodrum peninsula provide excellent opportunities for diving and snorkelling. With bathing boats or dolmuş, reaching them is a breeze. Bagla, located 14 km from Bodrum on the south coast, boasts fine sandy beaches, while Gümbet — just about 3 km west of Bodrum — is often the go-to for windsurfers. On the west coast, you'll discover inviting beaches at Akyar, Turgutreis, Gümüşlük and Yalıkavak. Each of these are quaint villages brimming with charming fish restaurants and popular anchorages for sailors. Don't miss Kara Ada (Black Island) Bay either, where you'll find caves hiding hot water springs.

Just a 6 km jaunt from Bodrum city centre, this 7 km stretch of coastline is beautifully framed by atmospheric mosques. Bitez Beach, with its sandy shores and shallow waters, is perfect for water sports or simply bathing. It's a bustling hub that pulses with life, making it an ideal gathering point.

Camel Beach — a favourite among both tourists and locals — is a little hidden gem nestled between Ortakent and Yahşi. Known for its crystal-clear waters and the resident camels that lend the beach its name, it also boasts an array of great eateries. The ideal way to reach this oasis is by boat, as navigating there might be tricky if you're not familiar with the area.

Just a 40-minute bus ride from Bodrum, Rabbit Island lies between the two beaches of Gümüşlük. Hiding beneath it are the ruins of the ancient city of Myndos. The shallow waters even allow you to walk from the mainland to this picturesque island which, true to its name, is home to a few fluffy bunnies.

Recommended for its scenic views, the 1.5-hour hike to the ancient city of Pedasa will captivate you with its rich history and the sight of the lush local flora. These are just some of the elements that make the city's remains a top attraction for tourists. The abundance of vineyards in the area further contributes to the spectacular vista.