Why is Bodrum suddenly all over your TikTok? Turkey's A-list transformation unpacked

Blue waters, plenty of cocktails, and good vibes; that's the hallmark of the perfect getaway.

And while places such as Mykonos, Saint Tropez, and Ibiza have garnered quite the reputation for being go-to spots that perfectly fuse relaxation with party culture, there's a newcomer that seems to be popping up everywhere on our FYPs: Bodrum.

The Turkish coastal town, which was once associated with cheap package holidays and fake designer goods, has for some reason had a rather unexpected come up, and is now a hotspot for Michelin-starred restaurants, luxurious five-star hotels, and A-listers aplenty.

Scorpios, Mandarin Oriental, and Six Senses have all set up shop there, all with incredible views over the crystal-clear Aegean Sea, and familiar high-end restaurants including Hakkasan, and Nusr-Et on every street corner.

It makes perfect sense, given that it has elements of all of the aforementioned popular luxury hotspots - beach clubs, bougainvillea-framed buildings, and white sand beaches.

TikTok

So, why is everyone going to Bodrum now?

Let's be honest, all of the above is a rather tempting offer for a getaway, however, its popularity seems to have boomed overnight - and there could be a few reasons behind that.

Firstly, people are now seeking alternative, more low-key destinations to the higher footfall locations, the same way that Croatia has boomed, welcoming an additional 8 million tourists between 2012 and 2019.

Destinations like Mykonos were once reserved for the rich and famous who value privacy, and now it's welcoming over two million visitors annually, it doesn't feel so exclusive anymore. What's more, prices have skyrocketed, and even to those who can afford it, €30 for a drink isn't so attractive.

Secondly, social media. As with restaurants, clubs, activities, and everything in between, we get all of our recommendations these days online, and influencers are going big on showcasing what Bodrum has to offer in all its Instagrammable glory. It's not known if there's a PR push by the tourism board happening, but it's clear to see more and more major creators just so happen to be jetting off for a weekend in the sun.

"Is Bodrum the new Mykonos?", the caption of one viral video read. "This is like the South of France...but better", another echoed.

"Bodrum's PR is working hard at the moment", one user joked in the comments of one viral video. "The devil works hard but Bodrum tourist board works harder", another chimed in.

If you're considering a trip there, now's the time to get planning too, as flights cost as little as £70 return.

The best things to do on a trip to Bodrum

If social media is anything to go by, here's where you should consider booking...

Restaurants

• Malva
• Hakkasan Bodrum
• Zuma Bodrum
• Kitchen by Osman Sezener
• Beynel

Hotels

• Maxx Royal Bodrum
• Scorpios Bodrum
• The Bodrum EDITION
• Mandarin Oriental Bodrum
• Six Senses

You'll know where to find us next summer.

Why not read...

Not leaving your hotel is 2025’s hottest travel trend - and Ibiza’s luxurious new opening has us convinced

The Instagram vs reality of this 'hidden' Mallorca beach proves social media ruins everything

Sign up to our free indy100 weekly newsletter

Have your say in our news democracy. Click the upvote icon