Turgutreis is a popular alternative to Bodrum as a Turkish holiday resort. Once a tiny village surrounded only by dusty roads, it is now a thriving tourist destination loved for its beautiful lengths of sandy shoreline, smart marina, market place and covered bazaar. Oozing charm in abundance, Turgutreis is the largest of the three cove villages that make up the Bodrum Peninsula and many people argue that this is the place that boasts the best sunsets.
While this picturesque seaside village is a haven for beach lovers, it is also a great place to fill your shopping itinerary, whether you enjoy buying souvenirs in the labyrinth of tourist shops, searching out local crafts or are on the look out for some fresh produce. Here is our guide to what is on offer.
Weekly Saturday Market
This is one of the largest markets on the Peninsula and it is a fabulous place to spend a morning exploring. The many stalls are split into two main sections. The food and produce is located in what is usually a car park on the north of the town’s main street, and the second section – which sells clothing and textiles – is on the opposite side of the main street. Stalls line a narrow street and sell all manner of goods, including cotton sarongs that are great for the beach!
To get there, head down the main road with the beach in front of you. When you see the Migros store on your left, take any one of the side streets leading off the main road, before you get to the Mosque on the right, just up ahead of you. Any of these streets will lead you straight to the food area of the market.
Artist Street
This is a quaint little street tucked away close to Turgutreis Marina.
Full of local artists displaying and selling their crafts and artwork, this is the place to go if you are looking for something a little different to buy. Buzzing with locals in the evening, it has real atmosphere and is a great place to linger.
Marina Handicrafts Corner
Continuing on through Artist Street, you get to the Marina where you will find the Handicrafts Corner.
This pedestrianised walkway hosts several stalls exhibiting an eclectic mix of modern and traditional art. From gourd lamps decorated with that artistic Turkish flair to felt puppets and paper beads – this charming array of unique shops will please any discerning arts and crafts lover.
Tourist Souvenirs in the Bazar Area
The best place to buy your souvenirs is in the area behind the main mosque in town.
This melange of shops, cafes and bars pulsates with energy and makes for a fun afternoon or evening out.
Supermarket Necessities
While shopping on holiday is usually about fun, shopping for practical reasons is also important, especially if you are self catering.
In Turgutreis, the Migros supermarket on Turgut Reis Cad. No: 259 opposite the Mosque is the one most often used. It is open 8.30am until 9pm daily.
How To Get to Turgutreis
It is little wonder that this is such a popular summer holiday destination when you consider that it only takes a 4-hour flight to get you from London to Bodrum, which is the closest airport. The majority of visitors will arrive by plane and take one of the Bodrum airport transfers to their hotel, but if you are more intrepid you might find yourself travelling over land – from another resort for example.
If this is the case, you may well arrive on a local minibus known as a Dolmus. There are lots of these doing the rounds daily, so you will always be able to access one.
For those of you joining the majority and arriving into the airport, it is likely you will have flown in on one of the several low cost airlines that serve Bodrum. Thomas Cook fly direct from London, Manchester, East Midlands, Newcastle and Glasgow, and from April you can fly from London Gatwick to Bodrum with easyJet for less than £150!
From Bodrum airport, transfers to Turgutreis take less than an hour, and if you book with us here at Shuttle Direct you are guaranteed a top class service. Friendly professional drivers whisk you straight to resort so that you can leave the stresses of travel behind you and begin enjoying your holiday in no time at all.
Where to Stay
Kortan Hotel – A great budget option in Turgutreis is Kortan Hotel, which benefits from a great beachfront location. Simple yet friendly, spacious and bright, this hotel has an air of charm. The breakfasts are delicious and evening meals are prepared with local ingredients. There is also a bar for those times when you don’t want to venture out too far.
Dragut Point North Hotel – This classy hotel with a pool overlooking the sea has lush gardens and plenty of areas in which to relax. Rooms at the Dragut Point North Hotel are light and beautifully decorated, with clean lines and a classy style. Poolside parasols and loungers are provided, but if you want a break form the sunshine, why not treat yourself to an on-site Turkish bath or massage? The terrace is the ideal spot for enjoying the famous local sunsets, and with a bar and a restaurant, what more could you want?
Swissôtel Resort Bodrum Beach – If it’s private facilities you are looking for in your accommodation, the Swissôtel Resort Bodrum Beach has them in abundance. Choose between the indoor and outdoor pool, or take a stroll along the private beach before taking some time out in the wellness centre and spa. Beautifully appointed, this hotel oozes elegance. The contemporary artistic touches give the establishment an air of sophistication, which is carried through into the stylish restaurant. If you have had a hard day of shopping, this establishment is the perfect antidote.
