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 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!
Despite being a wee peninsula in the grand scheme of Turkey, Bodrum is big and covers a large area. It’s jam-packed with sub-European intrigue, outdoor pools, and private yachts, which come with beach clubs, luxury hotels, and beach resorts. As is the case in these places, accommodation can be hard to find!
So, to aid you in your search for where to stay in Bodrum, 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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But there’s plenty to choose from…
Below you’ll find a map for easy navigation so you can start sussing out the place. Read on through if you want to see our recommendations.
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.
Bodrum is a fairly small town and development is strictly regulated. This is both good and bad. It means that the city has managed to retain its historical and cultural features and charm…
…And fills up faster than an egg cup under a pressure washer. So book early, and if you do end up disappointed, there are a ton of other great places to stay in Turkey!
Bodrum town (Bodrum city?) is the main event, great for the beach, bars, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s full of all the local flavour and culture you could want, with easy access to the beach and exciting nightlife. Within the area, you’re best off in the downtown, near Bodrum city centre.
Bitez is just 4 kilometres east of Bodrum City and is a quieter alternative, as well as a little more budget-friendly. That doesn’t mean that you can’t find some of the top Bodrum hotels (possibly equipped with private pools, or private beaches) swanning around either.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Continuing along the Bodrum peninsula is Gumbet. There is a large collection of restaurants and nightclubs in this area, as well as 5-star hotels, seaside resorts, and budget gems.
Yalikavak is just out of Bodrum and is a popular place for British ex-pats because of its laid-back vibe. It also has amazing beaches, seafood, and a fascinating historic centre.
And if you want a smaller, quieter area with great seafood restaurants set against the ocean, then spend some time in Gümüslük. The food in this area can get fairly expensive, but the taste and the experience are worth it.
Bodrum’s Five Best 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 in Bodrum for Your First Time
Bodrum City Centre 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 City Centre is the beach downtown. This area has been popular amongst Turkish travellers for years, and it’s starting to become popular amongst foreign travellers as well.
Bodrum town has the coolest places to stay in Bodrum for travellers looking for everything from amazing food to history and lots of local flavours.
Top Things to Do in Bodrum Town
- 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 in Bodrum Town: Swissotel Resort Bodrum Beach
Swissotel Resort Bodrum Beach is the dreeeeam! Located on its own private beach this hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool so you can cool off in your style. This beach resort in Bodrum is all time and worth every penny.
This beach hotel offers wonderful views of the sea and the islands and has air conditioning in each of the rooms. Surely I’ve sold ya by now?! Get yourself jumping off the Bodrum Peninsula into that Aegean Sea!
Best Hostel in Bodrum Town: 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 in Bodrum Town: WHITE BODRUM
Five guests, fully private pool, colour coordination, rooftop terrace (with ocean views)… This sensational Airbnb is a stylish combination of class and functionality, offering some of the best hospitality that Bodrum has to offer.
Only a short walk from the city centre, and Bodrum City’s epic beaches, this place is great for families or groups of mates. WHITE BODRUM is located in a pretty quiet district, so everyone will be able to fully take on the day after a good night’s rest!
2. Bitez – Best Place to Stay in Bodrum 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.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Top Things to Do in Bitez
- 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 in Bitez: Costa Bitezhan Hotel
This is an amazing all-inclusive hotel with a private beach! And, all the facilities you could want whether you’re deciding where to stay in Bodrum with kids or on your own. Costa Bitezhan Hotel is just 500 meters from the centre and beachfront and offers facilities like a sauna, bar, outdoor pool, and a hammam.
Best Airbnb in Bitez: Bitezde Seafront House
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Bodrum for one night or for longer, this small beachfront house might be the answer. It accommodates up to three guests and is suitable for children and adults. The ocean, bus stop, shops, and a taxi stand are all within walking distance and the house itself is clean, comfortable, and welcoming.
3. Gumbet – Best Area to Stay in Bodrum for Nightlife
Gumbet is one of Bodrum’s best neighbourhoods for all the attractions of the centre without the busyness and noise. This is a small area that has a good collection of restaurants and nightclubs. As well as that, there’s 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.
Top Things to Do in Gumbet
- 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 in Gumbet: 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 in Gumbet: 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!
Best Airbnb 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.
4. Yalikavak – Coolest Place to Stay in Bodrum
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 at every price point. So, it’s a good choice if you’re deciding where to stay in Bodrum on a budget.
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.
Top Things to Do in Yalikavak
- 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 in Yalikavak: Sezz Hotels Spa Wellness
A hidden pearl in Yalikavak, Sezz Hotels Spa Wellness is (a bit of a mouthful) your beachfront – outdoor swimming pool included – paradise. All the rooms at this boutique hotel have air conditioning and are adults-only, perfect for romancing in this sexy beach hotel. There’s obviously a spa and wellness centre onsite and the breakfast on offer would rival a luxury hotel.
Best Luxury Hotel in Yalikavak: 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.
Best Airbnb in Yalikavak: Stylish home with Marina View
This stylish home with a marina view includes everything you could want in a vacation stay. The property has sensational top-floor views and even access to a shared pool!
The place is relatively new, with a brilliant design, and a lot of light. Someone knew what they were doing here, and you can tell. The space has room for up to four guests, free wifi, a kitchen, and free parking.
5. Gümüslük – Best Neighbourhood in Bodrum 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 stay in Bodrum for cosy little homestays and B&Bs.
Top Things to Do in Gümüslük
- 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.
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 wifi, air conditioning, and beach access directly from the house.
FAQs About Where to Stay in Bodrum
Here’s what people usually ask about the best places to stay in Bodrum…
What is there to eat in Bodrum?
The food in Bodrum is unreal. I always ask my accommodation for advice on where to eat and I do fancy a bowl of fries. But, you can eat at these bomb restaurants that will put your beach club fries to shame.
Where’s the best swimming pool in Bodrum City?
I’d spend my time at Sezz Hotels, it’s on the opposite coast of the Bodrum peninsula to Bodrum City but I rate it that highly. That beachfront swimming pool with massages available on the side gets me going. Even if you don’t stay here, I’d recommend visiting, there are millions of wonderful swimming pools to explore!
What is the best luxury hotel in Bodrum City?
Stay at Swissotel Resort Bodrum Beach, the Bodrum Castle is around the corner, and you can roam the streets and the private beach, ooh lala! You can run amuck in the beach club and lay back by the swimming pool, pick your adventure baby.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Bodrum
You never know what’s going to happen, everyone needs good travel insurance all the time!
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.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay 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 such a wide variety of accommodations in Bodrum from luxury hotels to hostels, each hotel offers something unique.
That’s true whether you’re deciding where to stay in Bodrum for your first time or returning to get another taste of Bodrum City. SO if you’re still confused, I get it, let me make it simple. If you have capacity, stay at Swissotel Resort Bodrum Beach, it’s a no-brainer, the private beach and the swimming pool!?
**Chefs kiss!
If you (like me) have a much tighter budget than that, there is one hostel in Bodrum City Centre that is a cut above. Bodrum Ecofarm Camp & Hostel is so special and the homemade daily breakfast and dinner are unreal. I’m in love with Turkish food and I feel like if you give yourself the chance to taste this you will be too.
Wherever you stay in Bodrum peninsula, I’m sure you’ll have a blast. The Beach clubs are poppin’, there are swimming pools a’plenty and that Aegean sea is always tempting.
Have you been or are you going to Bodrum? Hit me up in the comments and let’s chat, I’d love to hear if you think I’ve missed anything, I relish new intel!
- 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.