Bodrum has so much more to offer the discerning tourist besides beaches, bars and restaurants. If you are feeling the need to break away from this routine, with its rich array of history right on your doorstep, why not take a walking tour of this fascinating city and its imposing peninsula castle? The ancient historian Herodotus once walked the ancient streets and even today, it can surprise you to find the ancient and modern go hand in hand.
Beyond the bright lights and the plethora of music bars and restaurants, is thankfully, Bodrum’s worst kept secret – the ancient city of Halicarnassas. Right on your doorstep the ancient city tour begins at the castle gates, where your guide will be waiting to take you through the history of this Aegean city gem.
The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus is considered to be one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, it was constructed in 350 BC for King Mausolus of Caria. When built it was over 50 metres high, adorned by several columns and a pyramid shaped roof. Earthquakes have destroyed the greater part of this once great work of art. What you see today is all that remains.
In 2024, price of Bodrum City Tour is ( Ask Price ) € for adults, ( Ask Price ) € for children between age 8 and 12, free for children under 7 years old.
You may choose to start your tour in the morning at 09:00 or the evening at 18:00. The walking tour departs every day at these times except for Mondays and you should be prepared to meet your guide in front of the castle in Bodrum. Your walking tour begins here at the entrance to the castle of St Peter in the city.
You will then enter the castle of St Peter where your guide will give you detailed information of its history. Built during the 15th century for the defense of the town, the walls are imposing even to this day. The several large chambers of the castle now house the Underwater Archaeological museum. With over 14 exhibits to see there are ancient relics taken from shipwrecks and the surrounding area.
From St Peters Castle you will head towards the Zeki Muren Arts Museum. The famous Turkish composer, lived in the house before it became a museum. You will be given information by your guide about this great mans work, one of the most famous of Turkish classical music’s composers.
The next stage of your walking tour takes you to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassas. Where you will have a chance to witness one of the ancient seven wonders of the world.
Keeping in with the history of the city your last stop will be the Myndos Gate. Once again these walls and gate were built for the defence of Halikarnassos around the fourth century BC. To date this is the last surviving gate of the wall.
As you walk in the shadows of Herodotus and the kings of ancient Caria, you will return to your original meeting point, with the breathtaking views of Bodrum from the antique theatre, tired, but with a new perspective of this beautiful city and its history.
