10 Best Things to Do With Kids in Bodrum

The magnificent, 15th-century Bodrum Castle and the adjoining Museum of Underwater Archaeology is a fascinating and unique attraction for an engaging, full-day outing on the Bodrum Peninsula. Children can learn facts about the history of Bodrum and explore sea life, plus view the museum’s mesmerising collection of preserved relics of ancient shipwrecks.

Parents should take note that the castle isn’t pram friendly as there are many steep steps to climb. Plan your visit in the early morning or late in the afternoon because many rooms and towers close around noon for the staff to have lunch.

Gumbet Beach on the Bodrum peninsula boasts 1 km of soft golden sand, safe, serene water and abundance of shade, making it the ideal setting for visitors with children. While little ones happily splash about in the calm shallows, teenagers can sign up to waterskiing, banana-boat rides, pedalos, fly fishing, and even parasailing.

The exotic, sandy beach is lined with restaurants, convenient for rumbling tummies at lunchtime. You can also hire sunbeds and umbrellas if you prefer to soak up some sun.

Bodrum Aquapark Ortakent lies around 9 km northwest of Bodrum's city centre. One of the biggest water parks on the Bodrum Peninsula, it covers an area of over 40,000 square metres and combines adrenaline-pumping rides older children can enjoy with relaxing wave pools and a huge jacuzzi.

Made with young family members in mind, its 400-square-metre, 3-tier pool includes water bikes, water totter, and a baby bungee. Teenagers can have fun at Bodrum Aquapark Ortakent's foam parties. After a couple of hours of exhilarating experiences, take a break at one of the fast-food restaurants or on the sunbeds and bean bags dotted around the park. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen.

Fun Town Yahsi Park is a family-friendly destination on the Bodrum Peninsula. It's the go-to place for outdoor activities that even adults like to indulge in. The park offers go-karting, table tennis, paint-balling, and horseback riding, as well as a children’s playground. 

Its location in Ortakent, a holiday town about 12 km west of Bodrum’s city centre, makes it an easy day trip for children of all ages. You can reach Fun Town Yahsi Park by driving your own car or organising a private transfer. 

Horseback riding through Bodrum Peninsula’s stunning natural environment is an unforgettable experience for both adults and kids. The trail goes through pine forests, along mountain rivers and past beautiful countryside landscapes. You will also have the option to take a break at a river.

Horses are well-trained, therefore suitable for beginner to experienced riders. And before you begin, you will be briefed with necessary horse riding safety instructions and given an obligatory helmet. Children below the age of 6 can sit in front of an accompanying adult.

A 4x4 off-road adventure around the stunning Bodrum peninsula makes for an exciting day out with the family. After an early start, you will journey along the coast, climbing rugged roads to reach high points offering breathtaking views of turquoise bays and lush green countryside.

You’ll swim and sunbathe on a beautiful beach with sparkling blue waters and drive to a rural village that’s famous for its traditional stone houses. The trip is suitable for children over the age of 6. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, bathing gear and a towel.

Get ready for an incredible day of sea, sun and swimming when you sign up for a boat trip around the spectacular Bodrum Peninsula. The boat makes several stops during the cruise, including the bay of an island that's only accessible by boat, giving you and your children many opportunities to swim and snorkel in the transparent water.

The boats are comfortable and come with bathrooms, snorkelling gear, a bar selling snacks and beverages and sun loungers perfect for enjoying the sea breeze and beautiful views. Lunch is often included. Be sure to pack a towel and sunscreen.

Every day of the week, you’ll find a local market happening somewhere in or close to Bodrum. Visiting a busy, buzzing market gives you and your family the unique opportunity to experience an authentic and favourite Turkish pastime. Plus, you can practice your bargaining skills.

Central Bodrum hosts a textile market on Tuesdays, where you can buy handmade clothing and bags. On Fridays, piles of local fruit and vegetables and the day’s best catch are on display. Every Thursday, the traditional Yalıkavak Market, 18 km northwest from Bodrum, sells everything from spices, desserts (including Turkish delight) and dried fruit to accessories, toys and souvenirs.

Rabbit Island is connected to the Gumusluk coastline by a thin strip of land. The quaint seaside village of Gumusluk is located 22 km west of Bodrum city centre and boasts fresh fish and crystal clear water. The island is the site of the ancient city of Myndos and is now an archaeological site, and is indeed home to wild rabbits.

At low tide, it’s possible to wade over a submerged causeway to the island to try and spot the furry animals. Older children will also love jumping off the rocks and snorkelling in the warm waters. It’s recommended to wear water shoes to avoid slipping.