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Bodrum & Kos Birthday Getaway – Our Full Itinerary and Experience
- Jenn & Leon
- Oct 10
- 5 min read
Updated: Nov 9
There are few better ways to celebrate a special occasion than by combining two countries in one trip.
For Leon’s birthday, Jenn planned a getaway that blended the coastal elegance of Bodrum on Turkey’s Aegean shore with the relaxed island rhythm of Kos, just a short ferry ride across the water in Greece.
This trip gave us a taste of both worlds, from boutique hotels and seaside dining to ancient ruins and sunlit promenades.
If you are considering a Bodrum and Kos combination, you’ll find it is not only convenient but also a beautiful way to experience two distinct cultures that share centuries of intertwined history.
In this post, we cover our full itinerary, including our stay in Bodrum, the ferry to Kos, our accommodation in Kos, and Leon’s birthday dinner by the sea.
We also share background on both destinations, suggested places to visit, and useful resources to help you plan your own getaway.
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Our Stay in Bodrum
Our journey began in Bodrum, where we stayed at the charming Boti Butik Hotel.
This cozy boutique stay was perfectly located near the main walking street, giving us easy access to the harbor and shops, though we only had limited time to explore before our early ferry crossing to Kos the next morning.
We first discovered this part of Turkey back in 2021 when we stayed in Gündoğan, Bodrum, a peaceful coastal town about 30 minutes from Bodrum center.
It is one of the most beautiful and less crowded areas on the peninsula, with clear turquoise water, authentic dining, and a slower pace that feels worlds away from the busier marina.
We had wanted to revisit on this trip, but with only an overnight stay planned, convenience took priority.
Bodrum is one of Turkey’s most loved destinations, especially among domestic travelers. The city draws in artists, celebrities, and families alike with its mix of history, culture, and beachside luxury.
It was once the ancient city of Halicarnassus, home to the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Its ruins, along with Bodrum Castle, built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century, still stand as reminders of a time when the region was a maritime power.
Modern Bodrum has transformed into a glamorous yet authentic seaside escape. Whitewashed houses, bougainvillea-covered lanes, lively bazaars, and gulet cruises make it an all-season favorite.
Ferry to Kos
The next step of our journey was the Bodrum to Kos ferry. The crossing takes around 45 minutes, but the contrast feels far greater.
One moment you’re sipping Turkish tea by the harbor, and the next you’re stepping onto Greek soil surrounded by pastel buildings and island calm.
💡 Good to know: The ferry runs frequently between spring and autumn, but schedules can change with the season. Booking early on 12Go ensures a smoother journey, especially during summer weekends.
Staying in Kos – Michalis Apartments Studios
Our home for the next few nights was Michalis Apartments Studios, a relaxed and welcoming stay that became the base for our Kos experience and Leon’s birthday celebration.
Spacious, comfortable, and within easy walking distance of the beach, it offered exactly what we needed for a short island escape.
Kos itself carries a deep sense of history and character. The island was once a significant cultural and trading center during ancient Greece and is closely associated with Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine.
You can still visit the Asklepion, a healing sanctuary dedicated to him.
For Leon, there was also a personal connection. Being from Cyprus, returning to a Greek island always brings a familiar warmth and nostalgia.
For both of us, Greek culture has a special pull, especially the mythology that shaped so much of Western storytelling.
Amongst the ruins and old temples in Kos, it’s easy to imagine the gods and legends that once inspired these lands.
Birthday Dinner at Mavromatis Taverna
The highlight of Leon’s birthday was dinner at Mavromatis Taverna. Set right on the beach in Psalidi, the restaurant glows in the soft golden light of sunset, offering the perfect atmosphere for a special evening.
We were greeted with genuine warmth, and even though the restaurant was busy, the service remained attentive and personal.
The food was full of classic Greek flavor—generous portions, perfectly seasoned, and beautifully presented.
It does not feel like we eat Greek food all that often, so it was a real treat, kindly recommended by our accommodation host. It was so good, we went back again for seconds!
Suggested Things to See in Bodrum
Bodrum is a vibrant coastal city rich in culture and historical sites, alongside a lively social scene. Popular activities include:
Bodrum Castle
An iconic 15th-century landmark housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
Bodrum Bazaar
Discover traditional Turkish goods, handcrafted souvenirs, and local delicacies.
Marina & Waterfront
Enjoy seaside strolls, yacht-watching, and vibrant nightlife along the scenic waterfront.
Beach Clubs & Water Sports
Stunning beaches such as Gümbet or Bitez; partake in sailing, jet-skiing, and snorkeling.
💡 Tip: Bodrum can get very hot during the summer months, so plan your sightseeing for mornings or late afternoons.
Suggested Things to See in Kos
Kos is full of history, beaches, and scenic spots. Here are some top places to add to your list:
Kos Town & Ancient Agora
Explore ruins, historic sites, and the lively town center of Kos.
Watch Our Ferry Journey from Bodrum to Kos (Video)
We captured our entire ferry crossing from Türkiye to Greece and back—see our experience, the port setup, and more tips in our YouTube video:
If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like and subscribe!
Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world!
Final Thoughts
Our Bodrum and Kos birthday getaway was short but unforgettable. We felt the energy in both spots and would have liked more time to explore, in particular in Bodrum.
But honestly, this trip was not about sightseeing and running around, grabbing footage for a video. This was about celebrating another year on this big, beautiful planet, and Kos is certainly a chill place to do that!
We do love a good bout of quick traveling, and this trip reminded us of that and also why we love blending destinations. On that note, Turkey’s coastal flair and Greece’s island spirit complement each other perfectly.
Whether you come for the history, the beaches, or simply the joy of experiencing two cultures in one trip, we hope this itinerary proves just how effortless and rewarding it can be.
Useful Links & Travel Resources
● Hotels in Bodrum: Book your stay with our interactive map for Bodrum
● Hotels in Kos: Book your stay with our interactive map for Kos
● Ferries & Transport: Check ferry times & book tickets on 12Go
● Connectivity: Stay connected abroad with GigSky eSIM (10% off with code CLOSERLIVES10) or Saily eSIM (5% off with code SPECIAL5)
● VPN Protection: Browse safely with NordVPN
● Money Transfers: Send money internationally with Wise
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