Halicarnassus: The City of Wonders

About Halicarnassus

Beware!

You are stepping onto the lands where the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, known as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, stands. The remains, to be honest.

Halicarnassus has been a fisherman’s city originally, lying within the borders of amazing Bodrum. Being one of the most important historical destinations of Turkey, Halicarnassus is offering an unforgettable experience of discovering the ancient life on these lands.

If you are a fan of history, visit this ancient Greek city soon and create memories to remember for a lifetime.

Top attractions in Halicarnassus

How to get to Halicarnassus?

Halicarnassus is known today as Bodrum, located in southwestern Turkey. Here are the main ways to get to Bodrum:

By Air: The nearest airport to Bodrum is the Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV), located about 36 kilometers northeast of the city. There are numerous domestic flights to Bodrum from major Turkish cities like Istanbul and Ankara and many direct international flights from major European cities, especially during the summer.

By Bus: Turkey has a pervasive and reliable inter-city bus network. Buses to Bodrum can be found in almost all major cities in Turkey, including Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, and Antalya. The bus terminal in Bodrum is centrally located.

By Car: If you prefer to drive, Bodrum can be reached from Izmir in about 3.5 hours, from Antalya in about 5 hours, and from Istanbul in about 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and the exact starting point.

By Ferry: From the Greek islands of Kos and Rhodes, there are regular ferry services to Bodrum. The journey from Kos takes about 1 hour and from Rhodes about 2.5 hours. This can be a good option if you’re already visiting Greece.

By Cruise Ship: Bodrum is a popular stop for many Aegean and Mediterranean cruises. Check with your cruise line to see if they offer itineraries that include Bodrum.

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What to pack for Halicarnassus?

When packing for a trip to Halicarnassus (modern-day Bodrum), consider the following:

Clothing: Bodrum has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. In the summer, bring lightweight clothing, swimsuits, sandals, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection. If you are traveling in the winter, pack warmer clothing, including a jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings.

Sun Protection: As mentioned above, the sun can be quite strong, especially in the summer. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a hat.

Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring historic sites.

Travel Documents: Don’t forget your passport, ID, driver’s license (if you plan to rent a car), and travel insurance documents.

Toiletries and Medicines: Pack all the necessary toiletries and medications. While you can buy almost everything in Bodrum, it’s easier to have small sizes of everything you need.

Adapter: Turkey uses European-style two-pin round plugs (type F). The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. You’ll need an adapter or converter if your devices use different plugs or can’t handle this voltage and frequency.

Guidebook and Maps: Even though you can find a lot of information online, having a guidebook or map can be very helpful, especially in areas where internet service might not be reliable.

Money: While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s always a good idea to have some local currency (Turkish lira) on hand for small expenses, tips, or places that don’t accept cards.

Swimwear and Beach Towel: Bodrum is famous for its beautiful beaches, so be sure to pack your swimwear and a towel if you enjoy beach time.

Camera: Last but not least, don’t forget your camera to capture memories of your trip!

Where to stay in Halicarnassus?

Halicarnassus, known as Bodrum today, is a popular tourist destination in Turkey with a wide range of accommodations to suit various travel styles and budgets. Here are some categories of accommodations you might consider:

Luxury Hotels: Bodrum has a range of high-end luxury hotels and resorts. Some of the well-known luxury hotels in Bodrum include the Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum, The Marmara Bodrum, and Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay. These hotels often offer stunning views of the Aegean Sea, private beaches, and world-class service.

Boutique Hotels: If you prefer a more unique and intimate setting, Bodrum offers many charming boutique hotels. These smaller hotels often provide personalized service and are located in scenic or historic parts of town. Examples include Su Hotel and Art Suites, and El Vino Hotel & Suites.

Mid-Range Hotels: There are plenty of mid-range hotels that offer comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price. Some examples are Marina Vista Hotel and Ena Boutique Hotel.

Budget Accommodations: If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll find numerous affordable options such as guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels in Bodrum. Bodrum Ecofarm Camp & Hostel and Kavala Studio Hotel are examples.

Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals can be a great option if you’re traveling with a group or planning a longer stay. Websites like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo have listings for apartments and homes in Bodrum.

All-Inclusive Resorts: Bodrum has a range of all-inclusive resorts where your room, meals, drinks, and often various activities are included in the price. Examples include the Vogue Hotel Supreme Bodrum and the Lujo Hotel.

What type of climate does Halicarnassus have?

The climate is typically Mediterranean, characterized by long, hot, and dry summers, and mild, wet winters.

During the summer months (June to September), temperatures often reach above 30°C (86°F), with July and August being the hottest months. The summer period is also when Bodrum receives the most sunshine, with up to 13-14 hours of daylight per day. Rainfall is scarce during this period.

Winter months (December to February) are cooler and wetter. Temperatures can vary between 10-15°C (50-59°F), and occasionally drop lower, especially at night. This is also the period when most of the annual rainfall occurs.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (October and November) are transition periods, with milder temperatures and less rainfall than winter. These seasons can be a good time to visit if you want to avoid the summer heat and crowds.

When is the best time to visit Halicarnassus?

The best time to visit Halicarnassus, which is now Bodrum, depends on your interests and what you’d like to do during your visit.

Summer (June – August): This is the peak tourist season in Bodrum, thanks to the hot and sunny weather which is perfect for enjoying the beautiful beaches and water-based activities. However, it is also the busiest and most crowded time, and hotel prices are often at their highest.

Spring (April – May) and Autumn (September – October): These periods offer milder temperatures, fewer tourists, and lower prices than the summer months. The weather is usually warm enough for outdoor sightseeing and even swimming, making this a great time to explore the city’s historical sites and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Winter (November – March): The weather during this time can be cooler and rainier, but you’ll find the least crowds and the lowest prices for accommodation. Some restaurants and tourist facilities may be closed, especially in the beach areas, but the main attractions in the city remain open.

Top activities in Halicarnassus

The history of Halicarnassus

Ancient History: Halicarnassus was originally founded by the Dorians in the 11th century BC. It later came under the rule of the Persians and then Alexander the Great.

Mausoleum of Mausolus: Halicarnassus is perhaps most famous for being the site of the Mausoleum of Mausolus, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Mausoleum was a tomb built between 353 and 350 BC for Mausolus, a satrap in the Persian Empire, and his sister-wife Artemisia II of Caria. Unfortunately, the Mausoleum was destroyed by a series of earthquakes and its remains were used in the construction of the Castle of Saint Peter (Bodrum Castle).

Bodrum Castle: In the 15th century, the Knights of St. John of Rhodes built the Castle of Saint Peter, using stones from the Mausoleum. The castle was later captured by the Ottomans in the 16th century.

Modern Era: In the 20th century, Halicarnassus was renamed to Bodrum. Today, it is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant nightlife. It also houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which is situated inside Bodrum Castle and is one of the most important museums of its type in the world.

Famous Residents: The historian Herodotus, often referred to as the “Father of History,” was born in Halicarnassus in the 5th century BC.

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Famous firsts and greatest of Halicarnassus

First Historical Documenter: Halicarnassus is famous as the birthplace of Herodotus (484-425 BC), often referred to as the “Father of History.” He was the first historian known to have broken from Homeric tradition to treat historical subjects as a method of investigation.

Mausoleum of Mausolus: One of the greatest architectural achievements of Halicarnassus is the Mausoleum of Mausolus, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built between 353 and 350 BC, it was a tomb for Mausolus, a satrap in the Persian Empire, and Artemisia II of Caria, who was both his wife and his sister.

First Significant Naval Victory: The Battle of Mycale, fought in 479 BC near Halicarnassus, was a crucial naval victory for the Greek city-states against the Persian Empire. This was a significant turning point in the Greco-Persian Wars and marked the decline of Persian power in the Aegean.

Home to One of the Largest Amphitheatres: The ancient city was home to one of the largest amphitheaters in Asia Minor, which could seat around 10,000 spectators.

Birthplace of Renowned Artists: Two famous Greek sculptors, Bryaxis and Scopas of Paros, were part of the team that worked on the decorative sculpture of the Mausoleum of Mausolus.

Bodrum Castle: Built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century using the stones from the ruined Mausoleum, Bodrum Castle (Castle of St. Peter) is a notable achievement and an enduring symbol of the city.

Historical places of Halicarnassus

The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus: This was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and was a tomb built for Mausolus, a satrap in the Persian Empire, and his sister-wife Artemisia II of Caria, between 353 and 350 BC.

Bodrum Castle (Castle of St. Peter): This castle was built in the 15th century by the Knights Hospitaller. Today, it houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.

Bodrum Amphitheatre: This ancient theatre dates back to the 4th century BC and is one of the oldest theaters in Anatolia. It offers a stunning view of the surrounding city and the Bodrum Peninsula.

Myndos Gate: This gate is one of the surviving parts of the ancient walls that protected the city of Halicarnassus. The walls were mentioned by the historian Herodotus.

Museum of Underwater Archaeology: Located within Bodrum Castle, this museum houses artifacts from shipwrecks dating back thousands of years.

Windmills of Bodrum: These seven windmills, located on a hill between Bodrum and Gumbet, were built in the 18th century and used until the 1970s.

Ancient Agora: The marketplace of the ancient city is now a public square in modern Bodrum.

Who are the most famous people in the history of Halicarnassus?

The most famous person in the history of Halicarnassus is likely Herodotus. Born in Halicarnassus in the 5th century BC, Herodotus is often referred to as “The Father of History”. He is best known for his work “The Histories”, a detailed record of his “inquiry” (or ἱστορία historía, a word that passed into Latin and took on its modern meaning of ‘history’) into the origins of the Greco-Persian Wars, which includes a wealth of geographical and ethnographical information.

Another notable figure from Halicarnassus is Mausolus, a ruler of Caria (377–353 BC), under the Persian Empire. His tomb, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Artemisia I of Caria, a queen and naval strategist who ruled Halicarnassus and nearby islands, is also known for her role in the Battle of Salamis. Artemisia II of Caria, the sister and wife of Mausolus, is known for her administration after Mausolus’ death, and for the construction of the Mausoleum.

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The 15 best Things to do in Halicarnassus

Here are 15 best things you can do in and around Bodrum, the ancient city of Halicarnassus:

    1. Visit the Bodrum Castle: This castle is also known as the Castle of St. Peter and is now home to the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
    2. Explore the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus: Although only ruins remain, it’s a fascinating site, as it was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
    3. Visit the Bodrum Amphitheatre: This ancient theatre is one of the best-preserved structures from ancient Halicarnassus.
    4. Stroll around the Bodrum Marina: It’s an active port with plenty of boats, shops, and restaurants.
    5. Visit the Bodrum Windmills: Iconic features of the Bodrum skyline, these seven windmills date back to the 18th century.
    6. Explore the Bodrum Market: It’s a great place to find local goods, fresh food, and souvenirs.
    7. Enjoy the Beaches: The Bodrum Peninsula has plenty of beautiful beaches, such as Gumbet and Bitez.
    8. Visit the Myndos Gate: This is the only surviving gate of the ancient wall that once surrounded the city of Halicarnassus.
    9. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Try some traditional Aegean and Turkish dishes at local restaurants.
    10. Take a Boat Tour: Explore the stunning coastline and nearby islands on a daily boat trip.
    11. Visit the Ancient City of Pedasa: Explore the ruins of this ancient city, which is just a short drive from Bodrum.
    12. Try Watersports: With clear, calm waters, Bodrum is an ideal place for activities like snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing.
    13. Visit the Zeki Muren Arts Museum: This museum is dedicated to Zeki Muren, one of Turkey’s most beloved singers and performers.
    14. Explore Rabbit Island: You can walk to this small island from the mainland when the tide is low.
    15. Visit the Bodrum Maritime Museum: This museum offers an insight into the rich maritime history of the region.

Top things to do in Halicarnassus

What are the best places to visit in Halicarnassus?

Some of the best places to visit in this historic city include:

Mausoleum at Halicarnassus: While today only the foundation of the Mausoleum remains, it’s still worth a visit as it was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Bodrum Castle (Castle of St. Peter): This castle, which now houses the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, offers great views over the town and sea. The museum itself is considered one of the most important of its kind and exhibits a vast collection of artifacts recovered from shipwrecks in the Aegean Sea.

Ancient Theatre of Halicarnassus: This well-preserved theatre dates back to the 4th century BC and had a capacity of around 13,000 spectators. It’s a testament to the town’s rich history and is still used for performances today.

Bodrum Marina: This marina area is full of beautiful yachts, shopping areas, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a nice place to take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Myndos Gate: The only remaining gate of the ancient city walls. You can see the remnants of a moat and towers here.

Bodrum Windmills: These iconic windmills on the hill between Bodrum and Gumbet offer fantastic views over the Aegean Sea.

Pedasa Ancient City: Just a short drive from Bodrum, the ruins of this city are a step back in time and provide a glimpse of the Carian civilization.

Bodrum’s Beaches: Bodrum is famous for its beautiful beaches. Bardakci, Gumbet, Bitez, and Ortakent are among the popular ones.

Bodrum Market: If you want to shop like a local, the Bodrum market is a must-visit. You can find fresh produce, local delicacies, textiles, and souvenirs here.

The best Halicarnassus tours

While Halicarnassus is the ancient name for the city of Bodrum, many tours may still refer to the historic name when they include visits to sites like the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Here are some recommended tours in Bodrum/Halicarnassus:

Bodrum City Tour: This guided tour usually includes a visit to the Bodrum Castle, Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, Ancient Theater, and the Windmills, providing a deep understanding of the city’s rich history.

Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology Tour: Located in the Bodrum Castle, this tour offers you the chance to see fascinating artifacts recovered from shipwrecks in the Aegean Sea.

Jeep Safari Tour: This tour is for those who love adventure. It allows you to explore the Bodrum Peninsula, visit charming villages, and enjoy the beautiful nature around Bodrum.

Bodrum Boat Tour: A boat tour is an excellent way to enjoy the beautiful coastline of Bodrum, visit several coves, swim, and snorkel. Lunch is usually included on the boat.

Daily Trip to Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary: While not in Bodrum itself, the ancient city of Ephesus is within reach for a day trip. Many tours offer to take you there and also visit the House of the Virgin Mary and the Temple of Artemis.

Pedasa Ancient City Hiking Tour: If you’re into hiking and history, this tour might be for you. A guide will take you through the remnants of the ancient city and tell you about its history.

Traditional Turkish Bath (Hamam) Experience: While not a traditional “tour,” a visit to a Turkish Bath is an authentic Turkish experience not to be missed. Many establishments offer pickup and dropoff services.

Bodrum Food and Wine Tasting Tours: Discover the local flavors of Bodrum. These tours typically include sampling local dishes, learning about the region’s wines, and even visiting local markets.

Top tours in Halicarnassus

Bodrum

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Dalyan

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Marmaris

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Famous Lycian Tombs of ancient Caunos city, Dalyan, Turkey. Archaeological remains.

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