Bodrum Castle, Halicarnassus Mausoleum and Etrim Village Lunch

Enjoy a fascinating journey through history with our shore excursion, departing conveniently from the port of Bodrum, Turkey! Encounter ancient wonders, captivating landmarks, and a unique taste of rustic village life on this extraordinary excursion.

Starting with a brief journey from the bustling port, this engaging adventure takes you to the remnants of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, Bodrum’s oldest relic. Previously known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the mausoleum was a grand creation by Artemisia II in honor of her beloved spouse, King Mausolos. At its prime, this towering structure boasted an impressive height of over 150 feet, adorned with exquisite frescos and artifacts, some of which presently reside in the London Museum.

Following the path of history, a short stroll brings you to the majestic Bodrum Castle. Built with stone recovered from the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, the castle’s construction is a testament to adaptive reuse dating back to the Knights of Rhodes. Inside the Castle, the Sunken Boat Museum beckons, showcasing an array of underwater archaeological treasures spanning from the Bronze Age to the Middle Ages, including precious cargo from a 13th-century BC Syrian trade ship and the opulent golden tiara of the Carian Princess.

The tour notches up another experience as it ventures into Etrim, a traditional Turkish village, home to 300 residents and an exemplary lifestyle preserved for 500 years. Here, a scenic mountain backdrop cloaks the village activities, be it the local mosque, weaving shops, the cemetery, or craft stores. Savour an authentic village-style lunch, harvested fresh from local orchards, and explore the coveted carpet and kilim traditions that Etrim has championed since 1986. Concluding the tour with a unique shopping opportunity, this experience ensures every moment spent connecting with the rich past and vibrant present of Turkey is well worth it.