Travel by Flight
The quickest and simplest way to get from Istanbul to Bodrum is by flying. Bodrum-Milas Airport is a convenient to travel to the town. As many as two dozen flights can depart from Istanbul to Bodrum daily making it very convenient and direct.
The combined estimated flight time from Istanbul to Bodrum is only 1 hour and 5 minutes on average, allowing travelers to reach their destination quickly and in comfort. Most flights from Istanbul to Bodrum are operated by Turkish Airlines and Sun Express, who provide both direct and connecting services on the route. Many other airlines such as Pegasus Airlines, Corendon Airlines, Anadolu Jet, Onur Air, and Atlas Global also offer routes to and from Istanbul and Bodrum. Fares tend to vary greatly between airlines and it is worth doing some research to find the best deal for your particular journey.
Travel by Car
If you wish to explore the area and make a road trip of it, driving from Istanbul to Bodrum is a great option. The 400 km journey will take around 7 hours in total via the E87, making it a long but picturesque journey as it passes through the Turkish countryside. The route follows the shore of the picturesque Marmarha Sea and tourists can take time to explore the small villages and beach resorts that line the route.
Although driving from Istanbul to Bodrum is relatively straightforward, it is worthwhile planning your route in advance and taking note of the tolls and taxes that are payable along the way. Additionally, the route passes through some densely populated areas and can become very congested in the peak summer months, making it essential to plan ahead and factor in travel time for delays.
Travel by Bus
Taking the bus is another affordable and practical way to get from Istanbul to Bodrum. Daily services are available from the largest bus terminals in Istanbul and the journey takes around 12 hours from door-to-door. If you plan to take the bus for your journey, it is worthwhile researching your journey in advance as departure times may be subject to change.
Buses to Bodrum tend to leave from opposite the Mecidiyekoy metro station on the outskirts the city. Tickets can typically be bought from either the ticket kiosks or online and major bus companies such as Ulusoy, Metro Turizm and Kamil Koc run regular services. When riding on the bus, it is essential to have a valid form of ID such as a passport or driver’s license as travelers may be asked to produce this upon boarding.
Travel by Ferry
The most common way to travel by sea between Istanbul and Bodrum is by ferry-boat. The journey takes approximately 11 hours with ferries departing Muedala port in Istanbul daily throughout the summer months. The ferries tend to make one or two stops en route before reaching its final destination in Bodrum harbor. As the boats continue along the eastern shore of the Marmara Sea, travelers can take in the breathtaking view as they sail.
The cost of a one-way ferry ticket from Istanbul to Bodrum is relatively affordable, ranging from 30 – 50 USD. Passengers can enjoy a wide range of dining and accommodation options onboard most ferry boats but it is recommended to take your own snacks and drinks for the journey. When booking your tickets, make sure you double check the schedule and departure times as services can sometimes be delayed due to inclement weather or other natural factors.
Travel by Train
Traveling to Bodrum by train can be cumbersome and the journey will usually involve at least one transfer. The route will take passengers from Istanbul’s Haydarpasa station and travelers will need to transfer to Izmir and then onto Bodrum. The overall journey time can take around 17 hours in total, making it significantly longer than the other transportation options on this list.
Train fares are often more expensive compared to the other transport methods and tickets can be purchased from the official Turkish Railways website. When taking the train, it is advisable to check local regulations on ticketing, luggage limits and travel restrictions prior to booking.
Preparation for the Journey
Before starting any journey, preparation is key and the same is true whether traveling from Istanbul to Bodrum. Despite Bodrum being a widely popular tourist destination, crime rates remain relatively low and it is still important to take basic travel safety precautions. As the country is relatively conservative, it is also essential for travelers to ensure that they dress appropriately for their journey and respect the local customs and cultural norms of the area.
When traveling from Istanbul to Bodrum, it is advised for travelers to purchase a good travel insurance policy prior to their departure. This ensures that you are adequately covered in the event of flight delays or cancellations, illnesses or injuries, medical expenses and other mishaps that may occur during your trip.
Weather and Best Time to Travel
Bodrum is located on the tip of the Taurus mountain range and approximately 150 km east of the Aegean Sea. Summers in the region can be extremely hot and humid with daytime temperatures often reaching 40°C and higher. The best time to visit is generally during the spring and early summer during months such as May and June when temperatures are slightly lower and rain is less likely.
The winter months tend to be colder with temperatures typically ranging between 10 to 15°C during the day, making it ideal for those who prefer cooler weather. The weather in Istanbul and Bodrum will experience a significant change during the winter months and temperatures can dip significantly in the evening, so it is advisable to bring warm layers of clothing and suitable footwear to guard against the cold.
Best Attractions
As well as being a popular summer destination, Bodrum also offers visitors a range of exciting attractions to explore. Some of the most popular must-see attractions include the stunning white sand beaches of Gumbet, the ancient theatre of Bodrum, the Myndos gate is an impressive sight and the 15th century Bodrum Castle.
Those looking for something more alternative can take a Glass Boat trip around the Bodrum peninsula or visit the breathtakingly beautiful Cleopatra Island. There are also an array of water sports and activities to enjoy such as sailing, jet skiing and diving, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Local Distributaries and Cuisine
Bodrum is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the country and it is easy for tourists to find dishes to suit their palate. Seafood enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice at the numerous restaurants and street stalls lining the city’s main promenade. Tourists can sample some of the local favorites such as sardines, calamari, sea bass or the salty white cheese, “otlu peynir”.
The local drinks of the region are also worth sampling such as the popular fresh squeezes fruit juices “meyhane sulari” or the fruity local wines “karasakiz”. Visitors should also take the opportunity to experience the many charming cafes and bars that line the seaside and enjoy a Turkish coffee with some freshly made baklava.
Relevant Travel Documents
In order to travel from Istanbul to Bodrum, travelers will need to ensure that they have the correct and valid travel documents. It is important to research the various visa requirements for the country before planning your trip to ensure that you meet all the necessary rules and regulations. Additionally, travelers may also need to obtain a relevant visa or passport and car documents if they plan to drive from Istanbul to Bodrum.
It is also worthwhile researching the local laws prior to arrival, as there are often restrictions on certain activities such as swimming or driving at night. Before driving or crossing the border, it is essential to check that the correct insurance is in place and confirm that all travelers are carrying valid passports with an up to date photo in case of emergencies. Being prepared and doing proper research will help to ensure that travelers have a safe and enjoyable journey from Istanbul to Bodrum.
