Bodrum Castle Entrance Fee 2024

The Bodrum Castle entrance fee 2024 varies depending on your nationality and time of visit. For international tourists, the entrance fee is €23 per person, providing access to all sections of the castle as well as the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. This significant increase from earlier pricing reflects a general rise in entrance fees for Turkish museums catering to foreign visitors.

Meanwhile, Turkish citizens and residents enjoy a notably lower rate of approximately 150 Turkish Lira per adult, with discounted rates of 75 Lira available for students and children. Interestingly, some visitors have reported that Turkish citizens pay around €2, illustrating a striking price disparity between domestic and international guests.

Payment Methods and Requirements

When visiting Bodrum Castle, it’s important to be aware of the payment methods. Cash payments are only accepted in Turkish Lira. If you don’t have the exact amount, staff might need to round up your payment. The castle also accepts the Blue Card. Make sure to bring your ID or passport, as it’s required at the entrance and might also be needed as a deposit if you choose to use the audio guide.

What’s Included in the Entrance Fee

The entrance fee grants access to the entire castle complex and its various exhibitions. The Museum of Underwater Archaeology, housed within the castle walls, boasts an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient shipwrecks, including glassware, ceramics, and jewelry. One of the museum’s highlights is the Uluburun Shipwreck exhibit, dating back to the 14th century BCE, renowned as one of the oldest known shipwrecks in the world.

Visitors can explore the castle’s five distinctive towers—the English Tower, French Tower, Italian Tower, German Tower, and Spanish Tower—each named after the nations that contributed to its construction. The exhibitions also feature treasures of the Carian queen, ancient amphorae and ceramics, Greek altars, ancient anchors, and a mosque. Audio guides, available in several languages including Russian, are included in the entrance fee.

Opening Hours

Bodrum Castle is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with visiting hours from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The museum is closed on Mondays. It’s worth noting that some halls may close between 12:00 noon and 1:00 PM, with the Chapel, English Tower, and Glass Hall remaining open during this period. For more details on opening hours, visit the museum’s official website.

Planning Your Visit

A thorough exploration of Bodrum Castle and its exhibitions typically takes about three hours. The best times to visit are during spring or fall when the weather is mild. Be prepared to navigate many stairs and significant elevation changes throughout the castle grounds, so wearing comfortable shoes is advisable. Fortunately, several air-conditioned rooms house the exhibits, offering a welcome respite on hot days.

From the ramparts and towers, the castle offers spectacular panoramic views of Bodrum and the Aegean Sea, with turquoise waters dotted with sailboats and yachts that create perfect photo opportunities. Visitors will find café facilities and toilets on the castle grounds, ensuring a comfortable visit.

The Bodrum Castle experience is a blend of fascinating historical insights and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for travelers in Turkey.