Bodrum

Pistes

Bodrum Castle The Castle of St Peter, a massive bastion dominating Bodrum's skyline, was built by the Knights of St John during the 15th century. Within its battlements, where you get wonderful views of the town and sea, are several mighty towers, a chapel, dungeon and Turkish bath, all set in gardens and linked by steep steps and passageways. Imaginatively displayed within the buildings are various treasures, particularly glass and pottery, recovered over the years from local shipwrecks with some items date back as far as the 14th century BC. In the former chapel a replica of the hull of a 7th century fishing vessel has been constructed. Another highlight is a display devoted to the life of Queen Ada who ruled the area in the 4th century BC; it includes her sumptuous jewels. The castle is also a big hit with kids who can play on the stone steps and parapets and the torture chamber. Open daily 8.30am-5pm.

Amphitheatre, Kibris Sehitleri Caddesi. Although this large amphitheatre has seen better days (it was built about 300 BC) extensive restoration is now in progress and one day it may be used again. Its position on the south-facing slope of Goktepe hill with panoramic views across the town to the sea was clearly the perfect location. However, now the setting is somewhat spoilt by the main road which runs right beside it. Open daily.

Mynos Gate, between Turgutreis Caddesi and Caferpasa Caddesi. Two towers have survived from the defensive wall, which Mausolos built around the ancient city of Halicarnassus in the 4th century BC. Today they look truly impressive amidst modern houses and roads on the edge of the town. Open daily.

Boat-tripsLarge smartly-appointed excursion boats - traditional Turkish gulets - line up along the Inner Harbour waterfront waiting to take visitors on day-trips to islands and beach resorts along the peninsula, often with swimming and sunbathing on the way.

KosFor a change of country, the Greek island of Kos is only a 25-minute ride away by hydrofoil or it's 45 minutes by ferry. There are also day excursions to Rhodes.

Turgutreis market The Saturday market at Turgutreis, a small resort (30-minute drive) on the west coast of the peninsula, is one of the largest you're ever likely to visit. Stalls line street after street selling mainly cheap clothes, but also pottery and accessories. Venture on an organised trip (10am-4pm) or go by the local 'dolmus' mini-bus

Top Tip Before booking an excursion, shop around as the price varies depending on the demand.