Car hire Bodrum

Introduction

The Turkish Bodrum used to attract artists and Bohemians who often had a second house here. Since the middle of the last century the port city has more and more developed into a 'normal' seaside resort. The main attraction is formed by the surrounding beaches, but Bodrum itself also has some places of interest, including the Castle of St. Peter, the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology and the remains of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.

Population

The city has 120,000 inhabitants, but in high season (the summer months) many more people stay in and around Bodrum.

Location

Bodrum is located on the coast in the southwest of Turkey opposite the Greek island of Kos. Near Bodrum you'll find popular beaches like Bitez, Torba and the vacation spot Gümbet which by now has grown together with the city.

Economy

Like many other seaside resorts in the Mediterranean, Bodrum used to be a village of fishermen and people specialized in diving for sponges. Nowadays tourists form the main source of income for the population of Bodrum.

Airports

Bodrum-Milas Airport is situated 35 kilometers northeast of the city. It's easily reachable by rental car via the D-330. The way to the airport is clearly signposted.

Public Transport

The most popular means of public transport in Bodrum are the so-called dolmuş, minibuses that run set routes; you can get on or off anywhere along the route. It's an extremely cheap way of moving around. There are also many 'normal' taxis in Bodrum and the nearby tourist centers. In summer months there are also ferry connections with the Greek islands Kalymnos, Kos, Simi and Rhodes.

Traffic and Parking

During summer months it can be extremely busy in and around Bodrum. Finding a parking place in the city center is therefore not easy. Fortunately there are underground parking garages where you can safely park your rental car: two in the city center (near the bus station) and one near the harbor. The roads on Bodrum Peninsula are narrow and in this hilly area also winding. Also be cautious of people and cattle on the road. In short: drive carefully and expect the unexpected.

Hotels

There's no shortage of hotels and holiday resorts in and around Bodrum, ranging from basic hotels in the city center to luxurious resorts on the beaches. If you are looking for a peaceful environment: there are several accommodations in the hills east and west of the city.

External Sources

For more information about Bodrum, we recommend Google and the following sources:

• Wikipedia, Bodrum
• Official website Bodrum
• Tourist Information Bodrum