The dramatic backdrop of the Taurus Mountains overlooks this classy and colourful area. From way back it’s attracted writers and artists, many of whom have called it home. If you like to pack in a good dose of everything when you’re abroad, holidays to Bodrum may well be the perfect choice for you.

Located in the south of Bodrum peninsula is Bodrum City and its bay, which is home to some fantastic All Inclusive hotels with private sun-lounging areas and access to a private beach. You can lay out here knowing that this area was a crucial spot for trade for thousands of years. Bodrum is home to some impressive monuments that show it’s historic importance, such as an ancient castle and an amphitheatre – testament to a 5,000-year history.

Bodrum is adorned with palm trees that sway in the hot breeze, while gorgeous yachts sit in the elegant marina. Local cafes are strewn with the colourful flowers that thrive in the region, while houses are painted white with blue fringes – a style influenced by the Greek Cretans who moved here in the 1920s. The style of architecture is a particularly charming aspect of Bodrum, and one that is still evident on many of the nearby Greek islands today.

A colourful history

The road to Bodrum winds through pine forests before going over the crest of a hill to reveal the town, which is dominated by the Castle of St Peter. It sits on a promontory that leads to the marina, nicely dividing the area into two equal-sized bays. Serving as a sanctuary for Christians in Asia Minor, this medieval fortress was built by the Knights of St John using stones from the Mausoleum. The construction no longer stands but was formerly one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

At the castle you’ll also discover the Museum of Underwater Archeology, where many artefacts from shipwrecks in the Anatolian Seas are imaginatively displayed with accompanying information panels, drawings, and even reconstructions. You can see cargo including coins and gold jewellery, and the incredible burial treasure of a Carian Princess who was buried in the 3rd century BCE. The exhibit evokes the last days of the ancient greatness of Halikarnassus, the capital city of Caria and the site on which Bodrum stands today.

The Amphitheatre of Halikarnassus is another great monument, originally built by the Greeks and completed on a grander scale by the Romans.

Not that anybody ever needs an excuse to go on holiday – but think about how much you could learn on holiday in Bodrum!

Villages that capture the imagination

In addition to Bodrum’s main city, the peninsula features various tranquil villages, beaches and bays, providing a traditional environment away from the excitement of Bodrum itself. Bitez is just 20 minutes by car from Bodrum and is one of the smaller, largely unspoilt villages that lie in the area. It has cosy tavernas and restaurants, and the centre is just 15 minutes’ walk away from the bay, where you will find sun loungers and umbrellas for sunbathing. As in much of the area, the winds here are favourable for watersports. What’s more, this is also where the only Turkish Delight in the area is made.

Next to Bitez but a bit further west are Ortakent and Yahsi, where you’ll find one of the loveliest and longest beaches in the peninsula extending from one village to the other. And with cafes and restaurants overlooking the beach, you won’t have to go far for some tasty treats. These areas can be reached from Bodrum by Dolmus, a local minibus service, or by car or boat, which is super affordable and perfect for day trips on your cheap Bodrum holiday.

Buzzing nightlife

After a day of exploring – or just basking under the hot sun, a delicious meal is certainly deserved. The ample restaurants in Bodrum vary from casual dining venues to fine dining in the marina. Seafood dishes are particularly popular here, but you’ll too find traditional Turkish restaurants, as well as your favourite international restaurants.

Bodrum nightlife is as fantastic as what’s on offer in the day. Most of the venues lie on the two-kilometre-long Cumhuriyet Street, where you’ll discover some fantastic bars serving refreshing Turkish beer and a good selection of cocktails. Visiting this spot is the perfect opportunity to try the most famous local drink, Raki. It’s mixed with water, giving it a milky colour, but don’t be fooled as it’s 45% alcohol!

When it’s time to hit the clubs, the open-air Halikarnas goes crazy with foam parties and dance shows, and you probably won’t leave until the sun rises over the horizon.

Marine Club Catamaran is a must too. This boat has a glass bottom that lights up the depths, leaving you mesmerised by the sea-life beneath it. Above water it’s just as exciting, as bright neon lights and hip-hop and Turkish music provide the atmosphere.