Bodrum St.Peters castle & Underwater Archeology Museum tour!

If you’re planning a visit to Bodrum and want a meaningful glimpse into its storied past, a tour of Bodrum Castle and the Underwater Archaeology Museum might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect: a blend of history, scenic views, and fascinating maritime relics—all wrapped in a manageable 1.5-hour package.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guidance of a licensed expert who brings the history alive. Second, the opportunity to see actual shipwreck artifacts from underwater excavations, offering a rare peek into ancient maritime life. Third, the beautiful setting of Bodrum’s castle, with its shaded courtyards and breezy towers, providing a welcome break even during the hottest summer days.

However, a key consideration is the additional cost for entry to the museum itself, not included in the tour price. This means if you want to see everything, you’ll need to budget extra. That said, this tour suits travelers who appreciate a structured, educational experience that fits neatly into a morning or afternoon outing, especially those keen on history and archaeology.

Key Points

• Guided Experience: Led by a licensed expert, ensuring you gain insightful historical context.
• Compact Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes makes it a manageable activity, even in busy itineraries.
• Historical Highlights: Includes visits to the treasury room of the Carian Princess, and various towers named after European nations.
• Shipwreck Artifacts: Access to galleries showcasing underwater excavations, providing a tangible connection to ancient seafaring.
• Accessible and Convenient: Meeting point right at the entrance gate of Bodrum Castle simplifies logistics.
• Additional Costs: Entrance to the museum isn’t included, so plan for an extra fee if you wish to explore further.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Allure of Bodrum Castle

Built between 1406 and 1522 by the Knights of St John, Bodrum Castle (also known as St. Peter’s Castle or Petronium) is a monument to medieval history and military architecture. According to reviews, the castle’s design is impressive, featuring seven main gates and towers named after various European nations—French, Italian, English, German, and the iconic Snake Tower (Spanish).

Travelers often comment on the use of stones from the ancient Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, which adds an intriguing layer of history to the structure. After the Ottoman Turks took over in 1522, the castle transitioned from a fortress to a prison in 1895, and later faced damage during WWI from bombings. Today, it’s a museum of underwater archaeology, where visitors can explore the stories buried beneath the sea.

The walls and fortifications remain remarkably well-preserved, with double walls, battlements, a moat, and drawbridges making it a fortress full of both history and photo-worthy sights. If you’re interested in Ottoman architecture or medieval military design, the castle’s layout will be a treat. As one reviewer pointed out, “the castle is a marvel with its towers and coats of arms”—a true testament to its layered past.

What to Expect During the Tour

The 90-minute guided tour begins at the main entrance, where the guide greets you and sets the scene with a brief overview of Bodrum’s history. As you wander through shaded courtyards and walkways, your guide will share stories about the castle’s construction, its role through centuries, and the various nations that contributed to its architecture.

You’ll visit the Carian Princess’ treasury room, a highlight for history enthusiasts eager to imagine what treasures might have once been stored there. The guide will also point out coats of arms, dragon and lion figures, and explain their significance, adding layers of context to what might otherwise be just stonework.

The Underwater Archaeology Museum: A Window to the Past

The museum housed within the castle showcases artifacts recovered from underwater excavations, primarily shipwrecks. These pieces give a rare, tangible connection to seafarers of the past—ranging from ancient pottery to metallic relics. One reviewer noted, “The galleries are fascinating, and you get a real sense of how seafaring was crucial in this region.”

Access to these galleries is included in the tour, but visitors should be aware that additional entrance fees apply if they wish to explore the museum independently. The exhibits are displayed in a way that’s accessible for general visitors, with informative plaques and some reconstructed ship parts.

Practical Details You Should Know

The tour is designed to be relaxing and comfortable, especially with the castle’s shaded areas and breeze. The meeting point is conveniently located right at the castle’s entrance, making it easy for cruise passengers or day-trippers to join without fuss. The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, which balances enough time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed.

The cost of $88 per person covers the guided experience, but travelers should set aside additional funds for museum entry. The tour is available in English, and you can reserve your spot with the flexibility of paying later—plus, cancelation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and maritime archaeology in a compact format. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided, educational overview of Bodrum’s most iconic site. The small group setting often leads to more engaging conversations and personalized insights from the guide.

If you’re a history buff, particularly interested in Ottoman, medieval, or naval history, you’ll appreciate the detailed explanations and behind-the-scenes stories. For families or those with limited time, the short duration packs a lot of value into a manageable activity. And for anyone who enjoys scenic, shaded environments during the heat of summer, Bodrum Castle offers plenty of respite.

However, if you’re keen to see all the museum exhibits or explore the castle more extensively, keep in mind that additional fees are involved, and the tour focuses on highlights rather than comprehensive coverage.

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, archaeology fans, and culture seekers looking for a guided, informative visit. It’s also suitable for visitors wanting a balanced mix of outdoor exploration and indoor exhibits, with a manageable time commitment.

Travelers who value expert narration and insights will find this tour particularly rewarding. Those traveling with limited time on a cruise or in Bodrum for a short stay will get a meaningful overview without needing to spend an entire day.

Is the entrance to Bodrum Castle included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fee to the castle is not included, so you’ll need to budget for that separately if you want full access to the site and museum.

Where does the tour start?
The guide will meet you right at the entrance gate of Bodrum Castle, next to the ticket office—making it easy to find, especially if arriving by cruise shuttle.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering enough time to explore key areas without feeling rushed.

What languages is the tour offered in?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most international travelers.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Is this tour suitable during hot summer days?
Absolutely. The castle has plenty of shaded and breezy areas, making it a comfortable activity even when temperatures rise.

Booking a tour of Bodrum’s castle and underwater archaeology museum provides a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s layered past. It combines historic architecture, maritime relics, and engaging storytelling—all wrapped in an accessible, short-format experience. The presence of a licensed guide ensures you contextualize what you see, enhancing your appreciation of Bodrum’s strategic importance in history.

Whether you’re a history lover, a curious traveler, or someone eager to learn about Turkey’s rich maritime legacy, this tour offers solid value for the price. The combination of impressive fortifications, insightful commentary, and captivating shipwreck exhibits makes it a memorable part of any Bodrum itinerary.

If you’re looking for a convenient, educational, and visually stunning activity, this guided tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who want a structured experience with expert narration, without spending a full day exploring. Just remember to account for additional museum entry fees if you want to see everything the site has to offer.

Enjoy your trip to Bodrum and soak up its history—this tour might just be the highlight of your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: