Bodrum's Ancient Echoes: Stratonikeia, Lagina, Etrim Village Tour

Journey beyond Bodrum’s coastline and uncover the soul of ancient Caria. Wander through the ancient cities of Stratonikeia and Lagina, where marble streets, temples, and theaters whisper tales of gods, love, and devotion that have endured for millennia. Then, leave history behind and step into the heart of Etrim Village, a timeless haven of Turkish tradition. Here, warm smiles welcome you into village life as you enjoy a homemade Turkish lunch lovingly prepared with local ingredients. Watch artisans weave colorful carpets, savor the simplicity of rural life, and feel the deep connection between past and present. With a licensed professional guide and comfortable transfers from Bodrum hotels, the cruise port of Bodrum, Yalıkavak Yacht Marina, this tour offers a truly unforgettable blend of history, culture, and authentic local charm.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   10 min

   Departures from Cruise Port : Your private guide will meet you at the exit gate of Bodrum cruise port at your scheduled meeting time, holding a signboard with "YOUR NAME" on it.

2. 2

   Yalikavak Marina

   10 min

   Departures from Yalıkavak Yacht Marina : Your private guide will meet you at the Yalıkavak Yacht Marina at your scheduled meeting time, holding a signboard with "YOUR NAME" on it.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   10 min

   Departures from hotels in Bodrum : Your private guide will meet you at the reception of your hotel.

4. 4

   Stratonikeia Ancient City

   1.3 hours

   Stratonikeia, which hosted many civilizations from antiquity to modern times, is one of the significant archaeological sites in Asia Minor and has unique characteristics. The city continuously developed during the Classic, Hellenistic and Roman Imperial periods and gradually became a center of trade, art and culture. Stratonikeia has been known as the city of eternal love and gladiators throughout the ages. It was a center where gladiators were trained, did demonstrations and spent their life after retirement. Sport was clearly important to Stratonikeans, who built what might be the largest gymnasium in antiquity in the 2nd century B.C. just west of the north gate.

5. 5

   Lagina Antik Kenti

   40 min

   Lagina was connected to the ancient city of Stratonikeia by a sacra via, approximately 8.5 km long and 3-3.5 meter wide. Regular festivities were held every year in Lagina, and grand festivities were held every four years on behalf of Hecate. How these festivities would take place and what to do were arranged according to certain rules. During the annual festivities, there were "Key Carrying" ceremonies that were held regularly and lasted for a few days. Thus, the ceremonies continued annually in a certain order. In the key-carrying ceremony, a choir of young girls was singing hymns, leaving Lagina, reaching Stratonikeia, declaring their devotion to the city, and coming back to the sanctuary. After this choir entered the sanctuary, religious ceremonies in the place began. The gates of the temple were opened by the attendant girl carrying the key. People who came to the sanctuary sat on the steps arranged along the western edge of the sanctuary and watched the ceremony.

6. 6

   Bodrum District

   30 min

   As part of your tour, you will enjoy a short scenic drive to Etrim Village, where you will experience the authentic rural life of Bodrum. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of nature and the sea, making the journey just as memorable as the destination.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   2 hours

   Discover the authentic charm of Etrim Village, where you can experience real daily life in a traditional Turkish village. Nestled in nature, Etrim offers visitors a rare opportunity to connect with local culture as it is lived today. During your private tour, you'll explore the village streets, observe the rhythms of rural life, and enjoy a delicious home-cooked lunch made with local ingredients. Also, you will continue for weaving is a significant aspect of Turkish culture, with roots that trace back to Central Asia. This ancient tradition is still alive in this village today. During our tour, we’ll take a brief visit to a cooperative where world-renowned Turkish carpets are crafted, offering you the chance to learn about the intricate details of this age-old art form.

8. 8

   Bodrum City

   30 min

   At the end of your private tour, we will drop you back at the Bodrum cruise port or Yalıkavak yacht marina or your hotel in Bodrum, depending on your pick-up location. We hope to welcome you back to Turkey soon for more unforgettable tours.

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.