The Bodrum Castle (St. Peter) Guide: What to See? Tickets, Tips

With its historical charm, stunning sea views, and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology housed within, Bodrum Castle stands out as one of the most visited landmarks in Bodrum. Built in the 15th century, this impressive structure offers a window into the past and panoramic views over Bodrum Bay from its high stone walls.

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This guide includes useful information such as Bodrum Castle ticket prices, visiting hours, must-see areas inside the castle, how to get there, and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit. If you’re looking for a cultural and visual experience during your Bodrum trip, this site deserves a place on your itinerary.

At a Glance: 7 Fascinating Facts About Bodrum Castle

Located right in the heart of Bodrum with a commanding position over the sea, Bodrum Castle is like an open-air treasure where history and architecture intertwine. It’s one of the most striking structures on the Aegean coast—captivating not just for its views but for its rich past. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be surrounded by details that take you centuries back.

Here are seven interesting facts to know before your visit:

Built by the Knights of St. John in 1406
The castle was constructed as a military fortress and served as a defensive stronghold for the port of Bodrum.
Home to towers representing five nations
The English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish towers represent the countries that supported the Knights during its construction.
Hosts Turkey’s most significant Museum of Underwater Archaeology
Inside, you’ll find artifacts recovered from ancient shipwrecks—such as glassware, weapons, and everyday items from the seabed.
Contains a former church turned mosque
The Church of St. Peter was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman period and remains one of the standout features within the castle walls.
Used as a prison throughout its history
From the Ottoman era through to the early years of the Turkish Republic, the castle also functioned as a prison before becoming a museum in the 1960s.
Offers some of the best views in Bodrum
From its towers and walls, you can enjoy breathtaking sights of the harbor, marina, and coastline—ideal for photography.
Built using stones from the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
Stones from the ruins of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World were repurposed in the castle’s construction, and traces of them can still be seen in the walls.

History of Bodrum Castle

Bodrum Castle was first constructed in 1406 by the Knights of St. John, during a time when the Ottoman influence in the region was still limited and the Knights of Rhodes were asserting their control along the Aegean coast. The castle was built over the remains of the ancient city of Halicarnassus, using stones taken from the famous Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

One of the most striking features of Bodrum Castle is its five towers, each representing a different country: English Tower, French Tower, German Tower, Italian Tower, and Spanish Tower. These towers symbolize the international backing the Knights received and highlight the castle’s strategic and political importance beyond its military function.

In 1522, after the Ottomans conquered Rhodes, the castle was surrendered and Bodrum became part of the Ottoman Empire. During this time, the church within the castle was converted into a mosque, marking a shift in both architectural and cultural identity. Later, the castle was repurposed as a prison, a role it continued to play for many years.

Restoration efforts began in the 1960s, transforming the structure into a cultural site. It was during this period that the Museum of Underwater Archaeology was established inside the castle, helping it gain recognition as one of Turkey’s most important museum complexes.

Today, Bodrum Castle stands as a rare blend of Medieval architecture and multi-layered Aegean history. Each stone reflects traces of the Knights, the Ottomans, and modern Turkey, making it a powerful symbol that connects centuries of transformation.

What to See Inside Bodrum Castle

Bodrum Castle is one of the most extensive open-air museums in Turkey, shaped by centuries of history and multiple civilizations.

From the moment you enter, you’re greeted not just by towering stone walls and medieval structures, but by a series of museums, halls, towers, and scenic overlooks that reflect its layered past.

This site is ideal for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and photographers alike. Here’s a breakdown of the main attractions inside:

🏺 Museum of Underwater Archaeology

One of the highlights of Bodrum Castle, Museum of Underwater Archaeology is globally recognized for its rare collection of underwater artifacts. Inside, you’ll find:

Uluburun Shipwreck, one of the oldest shipwrecks ever discovered
Glass Hall, showcasing ancient glassware, bottles, and jewelry
Amphora Hall, filled with clay storage jars once used in ancient maritime trade
Special sections like the Pirate Shipwreck Exhibit and Tomb of the Warrior
Bilingual displays in Turkish and English provide detailed historical context

🏰 The Five Towers Representing Different Nations

The castle features five towers dedicated to the countries that supported the Knights of St. John. Each tower has unique architectural features and exhibits:

English Tower: Displays armor and medieval weapons
French Tower: Showcases items from daily knightly life
Italian, German, and Spanish Towers: Decorated with period furniture and artifacts

Most towers are open to visitors, offering different panoramic views of Bodrum from each.

🕌 Church of St. Peter (Later Converted into a Mosque)

Originally built as a Christian church, this structure was later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman era.

Features simple yet elegant architecture
Contains religious artifacts and small exhibition areas
Reflects both Christian and Islamic cultural layers, making it historically significant

🧱 Courtyards, Gardens, and Living Quarters

Within the castle are open courtyards, interconnected terraces, and cisterns.

Explore the kitchen areas, living rooms, and armories once used by knights
Gardens feature ancient statues, sarcophagus fragments, and gravestones
Stone pathways lined with flowers create a peaceful setting

🌅 Scenic Terraces and Castle Walls

The walls and viewing terraces provide some of the best views in Bodrum.

Overlooks the harbor, Bodrum Marina, Castle Square, and Kumbahçe Beach
Ideal for sunset photography, with wide angles over land and sea

🎭 Thematic Exhibition Halls and Activity Areas

Several halls host rotating exhibitions and art events throughout the year.

Interactive screens explain shipwreck discoveries, excavation methods, and artifact histories
Educational and visual experiences enhance the museum’s appeal to all ages

Visitor Information for Bodrum Castle

📍 Where Is Bodrum Castle? Location & Access

Address: Çarşı Mahallesi, Kale Cd. No: 102, 48400 Bodrum / MUĞLA
Location: Right in central Bodrum, next to the harbor. It’s within walking distance from the marina and the old town bazaar.

🎟️ Entrance Fee

around €20
Children under 6: Free admission
Note: Ticket prices may vary by season. For current pricing, visit muze.gov.tr

🕘 Opening Hours

Open daily
Opening Time: 08:30
Closing Time: 19:00
Last Ticket Entry: 18:30

♿ Accessibility

Bodrum Castle is a historic site and not fully accessible. The area includes stone staircases, narrow passages, and uneven courtyards, which can be difficult for visitors with mobility limitations.
The entrance courtyard and ground-level museum halls can be visited with a wheelchair, but towers and upper walls require climbing stairs.
There are no elevators or modern ramps.
Resting areas are available, though most of the flooring is stone-paved and includes inclines.

Tip: If you have mobility limitations, the courtyard and ground-level exhibits are the most accessible parts to visit comfortably.

📍 Nearby Attractions

Thanks to its central location, Bodrum Castle is close to several notable places you can explore on foot:

Bodrum Marina – A lively promenade lined with luxury yachts, cafes, and restaurants
Zeki Müren Art Museum – The former home of the beloved Turkish artist, now a nostalgic museum
Ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus – A key archaeological site tied to Bodrum’s ancient history
Bar Street (Barlar Sokağı) – A popular nightlife spot full of cafes, bars, and souvenir shops
Bodrum Maritime Museum – Offers insights into local maritime culture and sponge diving traditions

Tip: The area around Bodrum Castle is compact and walkable. Visit the castle in the morning, then enjoy the marina or nearby museums in the afternoon.

🚶‍♀️ How to Get There

On Foot: If you’re staying in central Bodrum, it’s just a 5–10 minute walk.
By Minibus (Dolmuş): Local minibuses from various neighborhoods stop near the town center, close to the castle.
By Car: Paid parking lots are available nearby. In the summer months, it’s best to arrive early to avoid parking difficulties.

Tips and Things to Know Before Visiting Bodrum Castle

👟 1. Wear Comfortable, Non-Slip Shoes

The castle grounds are paved with stone, and some areas feature narrow and steep stairs.
Shoes with non-slip soles provide better comfort and safety, especially in sloped or uneven parts.

📷 2. Visit in the Morning for Better Photos

The light is softer and the crowds are fewer in the early hours.
From the castle walls, you can capture stunning views of the marina and Bodrum streets—ideal for photography lovers.

🔇 3. Be Quiet and Respectful in Museum Areas

Some indoor exhibition halls and artifact displays require a quiet atmosphere.
Avoid speaking loudly in these spaces to help maintain a respectful and calm environment for all visitors.

🧃 4. Bring Water—But Use It Responsibly

The castle is quite large and involves lots of stairs, so staying hydrated is key, especially in summer.
However, drinking water is not allowed inside enclosed exhibit areas. Make sure to drink in open-air sections only.

🧭 5. Don’t Rush—Explore Every Section

The structure is multi-layered and has far more than just towers.
Allocate enough time for courtyards, museum halls, and religious sites. A full visit typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours.

🧒 6. Important Notes for Families with Children

Stairs and high ledges can be risky for kids.
Keep children close and don’t allow them to run, especially in elevated areas.

🗺️ 7. Follow the Directional Signs Inside

Some towers or exhibit rooms can be missed without proper guidance.
Use the map given at the entrance or follow the directional signs throughout the site for a smooth route.