Bodrum Offers Riviera Glamour at a Fraction of the Price of St. Tropez

Holidaymakers seeking the allure of St. Tropez can find a comparable experience in Bodrum, Turkey, at a considerably lower cost. Travel experts indicate that a trip to Bodrum can be approximately 43 percent less expensive than a visit to the renowned French resort.

Bodrum, situated on Turkey's Aegean coast, is characterized by its whitewashed streets, clear waters, and vibrant marinas filled with yachts, mirroring the aesthetic of St. Tropez. The destination has attracted notable figures, including celebrities like Kate Moss and members of royalty, with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visiting in 2017.

Cost Savings and Value

According to travel specialists at First Choice, a seven-night stay in Bodrum can be as affordable as £309 per person. A four-star all-inclusive package is available starting at £509 per person. In contrast, a similar trip to St. Tropez could cost around £440 more per person, resulting in a 43 percent saving by choosing Bodrum.

Dining and beverage expenses are also substantially lower. The average three-course meal in Bodrum costs approximately €46 (£39.30), whereas the same meal in St. Tropez averages €68 (£58.10). Local beer in Bodrum is also priced about 50 percent less than in its French counterpart.

Historical and Recreational Attractions

Beyond its coastal appeal, Bodrum boasts significant historical sites. It is home to the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which served as the tomb for Mausolus, ruler of Caria, between 353 and 351 BCE. Bodrum Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking the marina, is another prominent attraction, with parts of its structure built using stones from the ancient mausoleum.

Day Trip Opportunities

Bodrum also offers the unique opportunity to visit two countries in a single day. Visitors can take a ferry to the Greek island of Kos for a round trip of €35 (£29.90), with the journey taking less than an hour.

Kevin Nelson, managing director at First Choice, highlighted Bodrum's appeal for travelers seeking exceptional experiences without compromising on value. Sarah Jooste, a product executive at First Choice, described Bodrum as effortlessly luxurious and accessible, recommending the fishing village of Gümüşlük for seafood and sunset views as an example of an atmosphere akin to St. Tropez but at a significantly lower cost.