I walked along the picture paved, coastal walkways about a metre and a half above the waterline of the Aegean Sea winding around the coastline… Bodrum Castle sits pretty in the background like a jewel in the crown, which is the Turkish Riviera. I can see it now and damn, Bodrum City is a sight to behold.
With beach clubs, boutique hotels and my personal favourite, private beaches dotting the shores of the Turkish Riviera, Bodrum is dreamy. The Bodrum peninsula is a wonderful place to explore and launching yourself into the Aegean Sea is more tempting than a beer on a school night!
The best thing about wandering through this big wide world is that…
YOU CAN!
As is the case in these resort-heavy places, accommodation can be hard to find. So, to aid you in your search for where to stay, I have created this unreal guide to the top accommodation. I’ve got boutique hotels, seaside beach resorts, and sweet hostels in the region.
Let’s dive in!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Bodrum Town
Downtown Bodrum is a small historic area that’s become one of Turkey’s most popular seaside destinations. You’ll step into another world when you explore this small town with its lush greenery, stark white buildings, and stunning minarets.
Bitez
Bitez is located close to Downtown Bodrum but far enough away that you can enjoy a bit of peace and quiet. There are still great restaurants, cafes, and shops in this area though, clustered around a lovely beach which is perfect for kids and people who love watersports like surfing and sailing.
Gumbet
Gumbet is one of Bodrum’s best neighborhoods for all the attractions of the center without the busyness and noise. This is a small area that has a good collection of restaurants and night clubs as well as shops and beautiful beaches where you can swim without the crowds.
Yalikavak
Yalikavak is popular amongst British expats for its relaxed beach vibe. It’s a small area that’s slowly getting more popular but is still great for luxury and budget travelers, with lots of accommodation options at every price point.
Gümüslük
If you’re looking for a quieter stay without the nightclub vibe, then try Gumusluk. This area can be a little more expensive, especially the restaurants, which is why it’s a popular place for risk Istabulites to grab a meal.
My Top 5 Bodrum Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Bodrum accommodation options fill up fast. So, use this easy guide to work out where to stay and make your booking as soon as possible! Turkey is generally pretty safe, so you don’t have to worry about where you’re staying too much!
1. Bodrum Town – Where to Stay for Your First Time
Bodrum ‘s main town is a small historic area that’s become one of Turkey’s most popular seaside destinations. You’ll step into another world when you explore this small town with its lush greenery, stark white buildings, and stunning minarets.
But this area isn’t all architecture and history. At night, this is a popular nightclub and bar area and has a maze-like market that you could get lost in for days.
But the real draw of Bodrum town is the beach area. This area has been popular amongst Turkish travellers for years, and it’s starting to become popular amongst foreign visitors as well.
Bodrum town has the coolest places to stay for travellers looking for everything from amazing food to history and lots of local flavours.
- Best For: First-time visitors and nightlife addicts.
- The Vibe: Pretty lively at both day and night.
- Proximity to Airport: Around an hour away with Uber.
- Transport Level: There are several buses around, plus Uber. It’s fairly walkable though.
- Budget: Since this spot is central, it’s more expensive than other areas of Bodrum.
- Crowds: High. It’s busy by both day and night.
Top Things to Do
- Swim and snorkel in the beautiful bays of Orak Island on this boat trip and spend a day at sea enjoying the clear waters and the sun.
- Discover Etrim, a nomadic village situated in the heart of Bodrum Turkey, on a private trip from Bodrum. Experience rural village life and savour a local lunch with tea and coffee.
- Check out the 15th-century castle of St. Peter, the most prominent landmark in the area.
- Leave the crowds behind on a privately chartered yachting day out. Explore some of the lesser visited bays and beaches, unbothered by the rest of the holiday crowd!
- Head slightly out of town to hear live music at a Graeco-Roman amphitheatre.
- Spend a day browsing the stalls of the market and visit Bodrum Castle.
- Get hands-on with Turkish cuisine on a local cooking course!
- Get a glimpse of the past at the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.
- Spend some time in a Hamam or Turkish bath, and wash your troubles away.
Best Hotel: Bodrum Marma Otel
As broke backpackers, we relish in the cheap and cheerful, so what beats a private room around the town centre for cheaper than most other places?
I was a big fan of the outdoor pool, which was great to relax in after a long day exploring. The staff here were super welcoming when I arrived. For the cost and what you get in return, this place is pure class.
Best Hostel: La Luna Hostel
La Luna Hostel in Bodrum is family-run and it’s right in the centre of the action, only 100 meters away from the beach. The owners are also environmentally friendly and have decorated with resourceful furnishings that are both functional and attractive.
You can choose from a range of rooms at this hostel and enjoy your time by the Aegean Sea.
Best Airbnb: Hotel Gulec
One of the cheapest Airbnb offerings around, that still has decent ratings, if this family run hotel located in a tangerine garden.
The rooms are simple, but well-equipped with towels and other amenities included. You even get a breakfast thrown in which is rare for an Airbnb. Mehmet’s a decent bloke. This place is a winner for me.
2. Bitez – Best Place to Stay on a Budget
Bitez is located close to Downtown Bodrum but far enough away that you can enjoy a bit of peace and quiet. There are still great restaurants, cafes, and shops in this area though. It’s all clustered around a lovely beach which is perfect for kids and people who love watersports like surfing and sailing.
This is one of the best areas to stay in Bodrum on a budget as the accommodation options are incredibly varied. No matter how much money you want to spend, you’ll find a variety of options in Bitez. It also has a laidback, relaxing vibe that’s the perfect antidote to busier parts of this area.
- Best For: Families and couples.
- The Vibe: Way more chilled than the main town area, with more of a relaxing feel.
- Proximity to Airport: Just under an hour by Uber.
- Transport Level: Pretty good with regular buses running to the main town, and Uber as a decent option too.
- Budget: Mid-range. It’s cheaper than the town for sure.
- Crowds: Mid-range at best. I love the cool and calm feel of Bitez.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to Do
- Walking on the promenade and doing some people-watching.
- Go surfing, sailing, or any other water sport you enjoy.
- Have a lazy morning, and then spend the afternoon at a Turkish bath and Spa. The only way to truly understand why everyone kept invading this country…
- Relax on the beach and work on your tan.
- Get romantic (or just have a good time with your mates) at a local vineyard’s wine pairing evening, with free hotel pickup!
- Stake out a chair in one of the nearby restaurants and have a meal looking out at the ocean.
- Rent a boat charter for a day or two.
Best Hotel: Sevin Hotel Pension
The most budget-friendly option in Bitez is just 15 minutes from the beach, meaning you beach bums don’t have to go far to lie down and tan for the day.
There’s free tea and coffee every morning. Plus the Wi-Fi is decent, and the staff are very friendly here. I would say on the negative side that the building is a bit dated, and the cleaning could be improved, but overall it’s a great cheap pad.
Best Airbnb: Gaia Tiny Houses Hotel
Few places are better value for money than this cutsie 3-person minature house in Bitez. As the name suggests, it’s tiny, but fortunately for you, so is the price, and you won’t find cheaper round here.
There’s even a small kitchen and garden tucked into these little properties. Plus you get access to the communal pool which sweetens the deal even further. Staying here is a lovely experience, and literally the only downside is the limited space inside.
3. Gumbet – Best Area to Stay for Nightlife
Gumbet is one of Bodrum’s best neighbourhoods for all the attractions of the centre with a little more noise. This is a small area that has a good collection of restaurants and nightclubs. As well as that, there are shops and beautiful beaches where you can swim without the crowds.
There are a range of accommodation options available in Gumbet. You’ll find the 5-star hotels just outside of the area and smaller hotels in more central streets.
- Best For: Foodies and party lovers.
- The Vibe: Upbeat and lively. People mostly come here for restaurants, clubs and water activities.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 55 minutes by Uber in good traffic.
- Transport Level: Great, with regular buses running to and from here.
- Budget: I found it fairly cheap here.
- Crowds: To be honest, it’s a bit busier. Bitez is better for a quiet stay.
Top Things to Do
- Go bar hopping at night with a group of friends.
- Visit the hot springs at UNESCO World Heritage Site Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis on a day tour from Bodrum. Bathe in natural hot springs, and walk along the travertine rock formations.
- Relax on the beach and soak up the rays and the relaxed vibe.
- Go snorkelling, swimming, surfing, or do pretty much any other water sport you enjoy.
- Visit the local Marina bars for drinks overlooking the ocean.
- Head down to the local market for bargain souvenirs and people watching.
Best Budget Hotel: Canna Garden Hotel
The Canna Garden Hotel is a budget, adult-only property that couldn’t be better suited to enjoying the nightlife of Gumbet! There is an outdoor pool, bar, and restaurant that serves a mix of Western and local Turkish dishes.
This is one of the best hotels, just one kilometre from Bodrum Castle and just a short walk from the ruins of the Myndos gate. There is both free wifi and free private parking available.
Best Hotel: Maison 48 APart Hotel
One of the best hotels in Bodrum isn’t really a hotel, or in Bodrum city actually! I love Maison 48 APart Hotel for the independent feeling of the apartments, rather than traipsing along corridors of repetitive doors. The outdoor swimming pool gives big “beach resort Bodrum” vibes and there’s a pool table too.
Yeah, it’s one of the best hotels and hard to leave but get out and see Bodrum Castle while you’re here! It’s a little on the higher end for a broke backpacker, but if you share costs then it’s a lovely treat for a night or two.
Best Apartment in Gumbet: Degirmenburnu Residence
Degirmenburnu Residence in Gumbet is stunning, safe, and has a sexy ass pool with views out to the sea. All of this and just a 20 minute downhill walk to the beach (or much quicker if you utilise the taxi stand around the corner). Enjoy the sensational sunsets from the balcony and then walk to a nearby restaurant to enjoy your time in Turkey, just one km from Bodrum centre. Not the cheapest option on this list, but affordable if you share the costs with 1-3 others.
4. Yalikavak – Coolest Place to Stay
Yalikavak is popular amongst British expats for its relaxed beach vibe. It’s a small area that’s slowly getting more popular but is still great for luxury and budget travellers, with lots of accommodation options. The budget options are a little harder to find here though.
So, if you just want to relax and kick back, then Yalikavak is a great area to check out. It has a lovely beach, great restaurants with amazing food, a historic centre, and a new marina where you can have a few drinks and watch the sun go down.
- Best For: Long-term expats and slightly-less-broke backpackers.
- The Vibe: Laidback with a touch of class.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 70 minutes by Uber.
- Transport Level: Decent with many bus connections, but a rental car won’t hurt here.
- Budget: Expensive. Sorry folks, if you want nice things, you gotta pay for them.
- Crowds: Mid-range. The luxury vibe prices out a lot of the lower-quality tourists.
Top Things to Do
- Head down to the famous craft market for some unique and well-made souvenirs.
- Spend some time in the older section of this area and just explore the twisting streets.
- Check out the landmark stone windmill on the harbour front.
- Spend a little time and money at the Palmarina, set up to cater to luxury travellers.
- Find a restaurant overlooking the water and watch the most gorgeous sunset you’ve ever seen.
Best Hotel: Elementa Boutique Hotel
I won’t lie guys, there’s no such thing as a cheap hotel in Yalikavak. But this one is the cheapest you’ll find, and it’s not too bad if you find someone to share with.
It offers stunning sea views, plus a fantastic swimming pool, and a handy mini bar in each room ready for when the urge to hit the beers kicks in (and trust me, it will). Late breakfast is one perk on offer here, which is a lovely touch after you’ve spent the night sinking a ton of booze.
Best Luxury Hotel: The Bodrum EDITION
Even if I had been paging through the latest edition of Vogue earlier, this would still be the sexiest thing I’ve seen today. Overlooking the Turkish Riviera, the Bodrum EDITION is home to a unique, state-of-the-art spa facility. Offering Turkish Hammam, a salt treatment room, a sauna, a steam room, a plunge pool and 14 tranquil treatment rooms.
And the beds are comfy too at this beach hotel! So you can bounce between napping indoors and bopping at the beach club to your heart’s content. Don’t get me wrong, this is a rare exception to the cheaper options we generally offer for budget-conscious travellers, but if you want to splurge, then you can do much worse.
Best Airbnb: Bodrum Yalikavak Marina Walking
This centrally-located spot by the marina is an absolute banger, and if you can cobble together a crew of 5, it becomes super cheap – the cheapest place in this swanky part of Bodrum in fact.
The properties here are all “tiny homes” which seems to be a theme in Bodrum. They’re air conditioned though, and have all the amenities you need including a shower and a small kitchen, plus TVs if you wanna watch a documentary or whatever. Overall, a decent spot, best for multiple people sharing.
5. Gümüslük – Best Neighbourhood for Families to Stay in
If you’re looking for a quieter stay without the nightclub vibe, then try Gumusluk. This area can be a little more expensive, especially the restaurants, which is why it’s a popular place for ritzy Istabulites to grab a meal. But once you taste the seafood, you probably won’t mind spending a little extra for the privilege.
Gumusluk sits on a curve of the peninsula that creates a secluded bay and houses Rabbit Island. The area is strongly regulated to prevent overdevelopment, which is why it retains its slow, relaxed vibe.
This has also preserved many remnants of the ancient culture that once lived there. Equally important is the fact that it’s the best neighbourhood to find cosy little homestays and B&Bs.
- Best For: Families, foodies, and upmarket backpackers.
- The Vibe: It’s more of a quiet spot here.
- Proximity to Airport: It’s a 1.5-hour Uber ride away, bit of a trek!
- Transport Level: Meh… there aren’t so many buses round here.
- Budget: Upper mid-range. It’s cheaper than Yalikavak, but still a little spenny.
- Crowds: Much lower than other parts of Bodrum, I love how chilled it is!
Top Things to Do
- Grab a seaside seat and have some drinks while the sun goes down in front of you.
- Try some of the restaurants and then try to convince yourself that they aren’t worth the price.
- Have a beach party and dance around the bonfire on cooler nights.
- Visit the local market for unique arts and crafts as well as tourist souvenirs.
- Just relax in a café and take in the scenery.
Best Hotel in Gümüslük: Hotel Gumusluk
Located in the best neighbourhood in Bodrum to stay in, Hotel Gumusluk is one of the best hotels for families and for groups. It’s a boutique hotel located only 100 meters from the beach. There’s an outdoor pool, kids’ pool, outdoor bar, and sun lounge area where you can soak up the sunshine.
There is also a range of rooms available that will suit every travel style and group. It’s better for groups due to the price if I’m honest. For a solo traveller, this isn’t suitable for a broke backpacker (see our hostel tip below instead), but for larger groups, it can be a bargain.
Best Hostel in Gümüslük: Bodrum Ecofarm Camp & Hostel
Offering a delicious homemade breakfast and dinner daily, the Bodrum Ecofarm makes life easy and creates a sense of community that brings travellers together. Despite being in the minority of places not offering a swimming pool, there are lots of things to do, including boat trips, hill climbs and beaching. The farm is a great place to meet other travellers, enjoy some of the fruits, and make friends with the dogs!
Best Airbnb in Gümüslük: Beachfront house with Incredible Terrace
Oh, so you want a holiday that you actually enjoy this time? Then look no further than this unbelievable seafront property, top-tier for a beach vacation. Situated on the shores of the Aegean Sea, overlooking Rabbit Island, there is room for up to five guests. The property offers a kitchen, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and beach access directly from the house.
Pricy for solo travellers or couples, but a decent budget stay for groups of 5 in an area that isn’t known for bargains.
FAQs About Where to Stay in Bodrum
Here’s what people usually ask us about the best places to stay in Bodrum when they’re looking for a suitable spot…
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Bodrum
You never know what’s going to happen, everyone needs good travel insurance all the time! Even in a safe spot like Bodrum, food poisoning or an accident are real possibilities.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Where I Suggest Staying in Bodrum
If you’re ready for a really authentic trip in a place that has centuries of history, great food, and culture, then it’s time to visit Bodrum! And, you need accommodation options that will match your trip and your unique travel style. There’s a variety of places to stay here, but one trend I noticed is the emergence of “tiny homes” with a bed, small kitchen, and bathroom.
My recommendation if you’re still struggling to decide would be La Luna Hostel. This family-run spot gets the nod from me because it’s in a great location in Bodrum town centre, and as a broke backpacker, it’s budget-friendly which makes it affordable for those who can’t afford the big resort hotels here.
I thoroughly enjoyed my trips to Bodrum, it’s easily a top 10 travel destination for me. I’ll be back again and again, so check this list every so often as I’ll be adding new places in the future! Well, if they’re good of course. Poor quality places won’t make the cut.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Turkey.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Turkey.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
I recommend to travelers Swissotel Resort Bodrum and Beach and Luna Hotel for accommodation.