TurgutreisTurkey · Ferry Destinations

All About Turgutreis

The city of Turgutreis, previously called Karatoprak, is named after Turgut Reis, a notable commander in the Ottoman Navy, who was born here in 1485. Located on the western coast of Turkey, it is the second-largest town in the Bodrum Peninsula and lies 20km west of Bodrum.

Having a population of 16,000 that escalates dramatically in the summers, Turgutreis is fast becoming a fancied holiday destination among international tourists. Blessed with gorgeous weather, inviting beaches alongside the deep blue Aegean Sea, a diverse topography, and a hearty combination of tradition meets modern thinking, Turgutreis guarantees an eventful vacation for all ages.
 

Routes and Ferries to Turgutreis

There are fast boats and catamarans to Turgutreis from Kalymnos, Kos, and Leros. Amongst the islands of Greece, ferry tickets to Turgutreis from Kos are the most in-demand. As a result, there are seven sailings a week for this journey during summertime, with return tickets costing €28. Since only one boat sails from Kalymnos during the week and two from Leros, you must book your ferry tickets to Turgutreis well in advance from these islands. Tickets for various connections on these routes are all available using the Ferryscanner website.

Port of Turgutreis

D-Marin is the ferry port and marina of the city. Passengers arrive here with ferry tickets to Turgutreis from the Greek islands of Kos, Leros, and Kalymnos. The newly renovated marina at the port has a rather contemporary look and is extremely impressive in its services. Located centrally, it can house over 500 yachts of varying sizes. Besides shops and restaurants nearby, the marina also has its own village consisting of a beach and yacht club.
 

Best Beaches

The municipality of Turgutreis has a 17km long coastline with plenty of beaches to enjoy during warm and sunny days. When searching for a hint of adventure, there is always the possibility to venture out and visit other equally magnificent beaches in the Bodrum Peninsula.

Günbatımı Beach

The main beach of Turgutreis is right next to the center and offers spectacular views of Kos. Sandy and ideal for families, Günbatımı has several cafes, shops, and bars nearby. When planning to relax on the beach, you can get umbrellas and sunbeds for free in exchange for spending a minimum amount on food at the restaurants that are renting them out.

Fenerburnu Sahili

Facing the open sea and 6km south of the city, the weather at Fenerburnu can occasionally get windy. Consequently, it is a must-visit for tourists wishing to enjoy wind or kite surfing. Moreover, the beach has a mix of sandy and rocky areas, both with access to clear blue waters. Situated in the peninsula’s southern part, close to Fener Lighthouse, the beach has a jetty with a deck, water sports, and restaurants.

Palamut Beach

Being a private beach, Palamut comes with an array of comforts and luxuries. About 5km from Turgutreis, it is an idyllic spot to view the sun hide behind the islands off the Turkish coast. Besides conveniences like toilets and changing rooms, Palamut offers a chance to play beach volleyball and eat food at the hotel responsible for the beach’s upkeep.

Kadıkalesi Halk Plajı

Kadıkalesi is a narrow strip of sand that is a quick 10-minute drive from the center. A line of cafes with tables on the sand is one of the charming aspects of this beach. Kadıkalesi is a public strand with a jetty and a deck. While floating seaweed is sometimes an issue and there are no showers or changing rooms, the beach does have free parking. Since there isn’t much space on the shore, a few seafront restaurants have covered private areas with sunbeds for rent.

Karaincir Halk Plajı

Karaincir is roughly 10km from Turgutreis. You can reach here by taking a 30-minute dolmuş from the town. As a beach that provides access to a warm and clean sea, it gets plenty of traffic from tour boats that arrive here throughout the day. Although crowded during the summer, this beach has several establishments that give free sunbeds when you buy a fixed amount (around €5) of food or drinks from them. Popular with local families, Karaincir has a small free-to-use public section. Furthermore, the beach edges along shallow and deep waters, making it perfect for kids and swimmers.
 

Things to Do

A holiday in Turgutreis is all about experiences. A chance to immerse yourself into the Turkish way of life while enjoying the spoils of a contemporary seaside retreat. After arriving by ferry to Turgutreis, check out these fun things to do.

Visit the Saturday Market

Come Saturday, and you’ll find residents, expats, and tourists at the famous Saturday Market of Turgutreis. Divided into two sections, one for food and the other for everything else, local merchants set up stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs at bargain prices. When at the market, explore the smaller side streets where home-based shops sell unique items like jewelry and clothing.

Take a Boat Tour

Passengers arriving with ferry tickets to Turgutreis get a faint introduction to the city’s coastal beauty during their boat ride. For a more captivating experience, you must sail around the 14-island archipelago that Turgutreis overlooks. Boat tours from the port either go to the North or the South. The former typically includes visiting the islands, while the boats heading south stop at different beaches. Either way, you can expect lunch, tea, and cake to be a part of your excursion.

Drive to Bodrum

Although Turgutreis is a lively destination, a day in Bodrum is a must to enjoy a more city-like atmosphere. Seeped in history, Bodrum proposes a day full of historical findings, from the Bodrum Castle and Antique Theater to the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. Additionally, you can also relish a Turkish bath, dance away at a club, or spend a thrilling time at an aquapark.

Relax at Sabancı Park

Primarily a memorial honoring Turgut Reis, Sabancı Park is a waterfront garden ideal for a peaceful afternoon or evening stroll. Beautiful palm tree-lined walkways, blooming flowerbeds, imaginative sculptures, and greenery all around create a calming environment to sit down and people-watch. If you’re at Sabancı in the morning, stop by the restaurant Mavi Park, famous for its breakfast.

Eat at Uncle’s Restaurant

One restaurant that every tourist eventually knows about in Turgutreis is the modestly named Uncle’s Restaurant. Located opposite the beach, the eatery is recognized for its friendly staff and diverse menu. Guests have the opportunity to try classic preparations ranging from Turkish, Mediterranean, Italian, and British cuisines. An excellent spot for a sundowner, the restaurant serves up large portions of delicious food at pocket-friendly prices. They also cater to guests lounging on the beach.
 

Transportation Around Turgutreis

To explore the central areas, the market, and the marina of Turgutreis, all you need is a pair of good walking shoes. Should you wish to travel further, the bus system in the region is safe and cheap. A trip on a dolmuş will cost you between €0.30 and €0.60. Taxis are present, but not the most economical of transportation modes.

Boat tours are perfect when you want to cover several beaches in one day, albeit for a short time at each stop. Renting a car is preferred since it allows you to traverse around the rest of the peninsula at will.