Kos is a fantastic starting point for exploring both Greece and Turkey without leaving the island. Its proximity to Bodrum, Turkey, makes day trips easy and rewarding, offering a mix of history, shopping, and local flavor. We particularly enjoy exploring Turkish markets and ancient ruins, which give a real sense of the region’s diverse influences. The tours listed below highlight two very different ways to experience Bodrum: one by bus with cultural stops and another by sailing cruise with swimming and dancing. Both options provide a unique perspective on the Turkish coast, and we’ll help you decide which suits your style best.
In this guide, we review two top tours from Kos to Bodrum. The first is a bus tour lasting about 8 hours, focusing on sightseeing, shopping, and Turkish cuisine. The second is a 7-hour sailing cruise that combines visits to ancient sites with relaxing time on the water. Whether you’re after a culture or a lively day at sea, these tours offer memorable experiences at different price points and comfort levels.
1. From Kos: Oriental Bus Tour Bodrum w/Roundtrip Ferry&Pickup
For travelers who prefer a guided, structured day exploring Turkish sights, the Oriental Bus Tour Bodrum is a solid choice. Priced at around $58 per person, it lasts approximately 8 hours and includes a ferry ride across the Mediterranean. The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, making logistics hassle-free, especially if you don’t want to worry about transport arrangements. Once in Bodrum, you’ll tour the city by bus, where your guide shares insights into the area’s history and culture.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to visit the Turkish market, where you can haggle for local crafts and souvenirs, and to sample authentic eastern food—a great way to experience Turkish cuisine beyond just tasting kebabs. The itinerary emphasizes seeing the sights of Bodrum, including its vibrant streets and landmarks, and also offers free time to explore on your own. This flexibility is perfect if you love wandering and discovering tucked-away cafes or shops.
The reviews are modest, with a rating of 2.9 out of 5 based on 25 reviews, so it’s best suited for budget-conscious travelers who appreciate guided tours with some free exploring. The trip’s value is good, but keep in mind that some travelers felt it could be more organized or informative.
Bottom line: This tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, culture, and shopping with the convenience of hotel pickup. It’s ideal for those who want an affordable, guided experience with a taste of Turkey’s eastern side.
2. From Kos: A day ride to Bodrum with comfortable transfer
For those seeking a more relaxed, immersive experience, the A day ride to Bodrum with comfortable transfer earns a higher rating of 4.4 out of 5 from happy travelers. It’s a 7-hour adventure that includes a luxurious hotel pickup, making the day as smooth as possible. This tour combines a boat cruise with a self-guided tour of Bodrum, giving you time to explore the city at your own pace.
The itinerary features a 25-minute boat cruise to Bodrum, where you’ll visit sites like the Bodrum Museum, the mausoleum, and the ancient theater—all highlights of antiquity. After the cruise, you’ll have around 5 hours of free time to wander through Bodrum’s charming old town alleys, shop at the Yilmaz Oevuenc Bazaar (where bargaining is part of the fun), or simply relax at a seaside café. The tour concludes with a second boat cruise back to your pickup point.
What makes this tour special is the combination of comfortable transport, a sailing experience, and ample free time. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore independently without rushing, and the reviews highlight its value and smooth logistics. One traveler noted, “The hotel pickup made everything so easy, and the boat rides were a lovely way to see the coast.”
Bottom line: If you prefer a flexible, comfortable day with a mix of sightseeing and leisure, this tour strikes a great balance. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a scenic boat ride and wandering at their own pace.
How to Choose
Picking between these tours depends on your interests and travel style. If you love guided excursions with cultural stops, the From Kos: Oriental Bus Tour Bodrum offers a budget-friendly way to see Bodrum’s sights and experience Turkish markets and cuisine. It’s a good choice if you want structured sightseeing without much hassle.
On the other hand, if you value comfort and a bit more independence, the A day ride to Bodrum with comfortable transfer provides a relaxing sailing cruise alongside free time to explore. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, historical sites, and shopping at leisure.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer guided or self-guided experiences. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred times and seats.
Final Thoughts
Both tours offer a distinctive way to explore Bodrum from Kos. The guided bus tour provides a structured, cultural experience at a lower price, while the sailing cruise combines scenic beauty and flexibility for a memorable day on the water. For history lovers, the boat cruise’s stops at ancient sites like the mausoleum are unforgettable. For those who want an authentic taste of Turkish markets and cuisine, the bus tour delivers a lively, guided approach.
If you’re short on time or traveling on a budget, the bus trip is a solid option. But if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with opportunities to explore at your own pace, the sailing cruise is hard to beat.
No matter which you choose, booking early will help you get the most out of your trip. Both tours promise a rewarding experience that captures the diverse charms of the Turkish coast just a ferry ride away from Kos.
