Bodrum is one of the most iconic yacht charter destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean. Known for its whitewashed houses, castle-topped harbor, and lively marina, it offers a mix of culture, coastline, and cosmopolitan charm. Once the ancient city of Halicarnassus, Bodrum has grown into the beating heart of the Turkish Riviera, attracting both traditional gulet charters and modern superyachts.

Start your journey at St. Peter’s Castle, a 15th-century fortress built by the Knights of St. John using stones repurposed from nearby ancient ruins. It stands at the center of Bodrum’s harbor and remains one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the eastern Mediterranean. Inside, the Museum of Underwater Archaeology offers a remarkable display of ancient shipwrecks, amphorae, and maritime relics from the Bronze Age through the Byzantine era. The castle itself is divided into towers representing the different nations of the knights—English, French, German, and Italian—which once guarded this strategic outpost.

A short walk inland leads you to the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, the grand tomb of Mausolus, the Persian satrap of Caria, and his sister-wife Artemisia II. Constructed around 350 BCE, it stood approximately 45 meters high and was adorned with sculptural reliefs by the most celebrated Greek artists of the time. The word "mausoleum" itself comes from this structure, which was so admired it became one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though the original structure was destroyed by a series of earthquakes during the medieval period, its foundations and fragments can still be seen today. Some sculptural elements were used to build the nearby castle, and others are displayed in the British Museum. Bodrum’s ancient theatre is another highlight. Built into the hillside and still in use today, it offers panoramic views over the harbor. It once seated around 13,000 spectators and continues to host concerts and cultural events in the summer months.

Down by the water, the marina is a lively blend of luxury yachts, classic gulets, seaside cafés, and boutique shops. It’s the social hub of the city, especially at dusk when the waterfront glows and the sounds of music and laughter carry across the docks. Restaurants serve up everything from fresh seafood and mezes to international dishes. Not far from the marina, Bar Street (Cumhuriyet Caddesi) comes alive after dark with open-air clubs, lounges, and beach bars.

Away from the main harbor, places like Bitez, Yahşi, and Gumbet offer slower-paced beach life. Bitez is popular with windsurfers. Yahşi has laid-back beach clubs and excellent dining. Gumbet is close to town but offers its own stretch of sand and nightlife. You can even hop over to nearby Greek islands like Kos or Rhodes if you’re after a cross-border sailing experience.

A yacht charter here lets you dive into the soul of the Aegean. You’ll explore ancient ruins, drift between island coves, and return each evening to the warmth of a buzzing harbor town. View all available luxury yacht charters in Bodrum and start planning your Eastern Mediterranean adventure.