Turkey has a long and complicated history and having your own transport will allow you to explore the many sites of interest that dot the Bodrum Peninsula. In Bodrum itself, you should start with Bodrum Castle, which was built by the Knights Hopitaller, beginning in 1402. In recent years the site has been transformed into a museum celebrating underwater archaeological discoveries and the collection now is both interesting and diverse.

Bodrum is close to a number of resorts including Gumbet, Bitez, Altinkim, Ortakent, Yalikavak and Turgutreis, so the beaches in these areas can be busy. The resorts themselves are world famous and if you are looking for an opportunity to let you hair down, this is definitely the place. As the airport here is used as a common entry point for most of these resorts, it is possible to do as most travellers do and book a particular resort for the duration or, if you want to enjoy all the resorts around Bodrum, car hire will allow you to do so.

You will find that most of the resorts and resort towns offer a wide range of accommodations and activities to suit most people. Water sports are very popular here and, in addition to equipment hire, you can take part in classes to get you started. Often there is entertainment or clubs on throughout the day for children and adult entertainment in the evenings.

For those looking to enjoy the nightlife, you will find Bodrum second only to Istanbul as a hub of night-time entertainment in the country. Bodrum itself is a pretty town full of winding alleyways and courtyards that are packed with restaurants, cafes and bars where you can enjoy quiet sidewalk drinks whilst watching the revellers go by.

Later on you can meander to any one of the major clubs in town such as Halikarnass Disco or head off to one of the other resort areas to dance the night away. World renowned DJs often do sets in this area of Turkey and, with a little bit of planning, you can enjoy a different atmosphere and genre of music every night.

In order to truly make the most of your trip to Bodrum car hire really is essential. It will allow you to get out and explore all of these wonderful places at your own pace and in your own time. Pick up your car after flying into Bodrum Airport (BJV), but pre-book in the UK to get the very best rental prices. The airport itself has pick up and drop off points for a number of companies, so it couldn't be easier to organise and will enable you to get out and about for a true exploration of the area.

If your interest lies in more ancient history you will definitely want to make the trip to visit the two Ancient Wonders of the World that Turkey is home to. The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus is the furthest from Bodrum but is definitely worth the trip. The temple is in outstanding condition with some pillars still standing despite its construction being 550 years before the current era.

The second Ancient Wonder, the Tomb of Mausolos, lies in Bodrum Peninsula itself. At one time, the mausoleum stood forty-five metres high and was decorated by some of Ancient Greece's most famous sculptors. The archaeological dig at Troy is also well worth the drive and is a must-see if you have the time.

For those who are more interested in relaxing on their holiday and enjoying the sand and sea you will be no less enthused than any history buff. As Bodrum lies on the southern coast of the Bodrum Peninsula in the south western Aegean region of Turkey, one of the main attractions of the area is the choice of beautiful beaches. The main beaches are commonly very busy and you can soak up the atmosphere with like-minded holidaymakers and enjoy a wide range of services. Restaurants often back on to busy beaches whilst equipment hire is available for a number of water and beach sports.

If, however, you want to enjoy the beach without the crowds, head off in your hired car and explore the many coves, inlets and secluded, unnamed beaches that dot the coastline. For real seclusion and a slice of unspoiled Turkey, head to Gundogan, a cove around eighteen kilometres from Bodrum itself. This is one of the most pristine coves left in the area and is surrounded by beautiful and fragrant tangerine orchards.