Gümüşlük Travel Guide 2027: Rabbit Island, Myndos, Fish Restaurants and Getting There

What to see in Gümüşlük and how to get there from the airport? Gümüşlük, at the western tip of the Bodrum Peninsula, is a small fishing village built on the remains of the ancient city of Myndos. As a protected area, no tall buildings are allowed on the shore, so the village has remained one of the calmest and most authentic corners of the peninsula. Seaside fish restaurants, Rabbit Island reached on foot through shallow water, and the sunset are Gümüşlük's timeless trio.

In this guide we cover things to do in Gümüşlük, practical tips and how to get from Milas-Bodrum Airport to Gümüşlük.

Where Is Gümüşlük?

Gümüşlük is at the western end of the peninsula, about 20 km from Bodrum town and about 59 km from Milas-Bodrum Airport. Yalıkavak lies to the east and Turgutreis to the south. Bear in mind that it is one of the resorts furthest from the airport when planning your journey.

Things to Do in Gümüşlük

Rabbit Island

Rabbit Island (Tavşan Adası), right in the middle of the bay, is Gümüşlük's symbol. When the sea is calm, you can cross on foot in knee-deep water along a partly submerged ancient road running from the shore to the island. The path can be slippery, so we recommend water shoes; crossing is harder on windy days. As the ruins on the island are protected, access to some areas may not be allowed.

Ancient Myndos

Gümüşlük is built on Myndos, a settlement dating back to the Leleges that later became an important Carian port city. Some of the city walls and harbour remains can still be seen under the shallow water along the shore and on the path to Rabbit Island. Swimming over these ruins in clear water on a calm morning is an unforgettable experience.

Fish Restaurants and Sunset

The Gümüşlük seafront is lined with fish restaurants whose tables almost touch the water. The sun sets behind Rabbit Island; watching it over meze and fresh fish is the classic Gümüşlük evening. In summer, be sure to book for sunset time.

Karakaya Village

Karakaya, in the hills just above Gümüşlük, is a peaceful stop with stone houses and views over the bay. It is good for breakfast or a short walk before sunset.

Music Festival

In summer, Gümüşlük hosts an international classical music festival with concerts in the village's historic venues. Dates change every year, so check the festival programme before you go.

Boat Trips

Boats leaving the Gümüşlük pier offer day trips to the small islands and swimming bays nearby. This is the easiest way to see coves that are hard to reach by land.

Practical Information

• Traffic: Traffic is restricted within the village; cars go as far as the car park at the village entrance. You walk the last few hundred metres to the seafront.

• Nightlife: Gümüşlük is known for its tranquillity. For a livelier night, head to Turgutreis or Yalıkavak.

• Sea: The bay is shallow and calm, suitable for families with children.

Nearby Places

• Yalıkavak: A short drive for the marina and Thursday market: Yalıkavak travel guide.

• Turgutreis: For the Saturday market and the Kos ferry: Turgutreis travel guide.

When to Go

June and September are the months when the sea is warm but there are fewer crowds. In July and August the restaurants are very busy. In spring and autumn Gümüşlük quietens down, but it is still a lovely stop for sunsets and fish.

How to Get from Bodrum Airport to Gümüşlük

There is no direct bus from the airport to Gümüşlük. You take Havaş or Muttaş to Bodrum Bus Station and change there to the Gümüşlük dolmuş; with the wait for the connection, the journey can take a long time. We compare all the options in our guide how to get from Bodrum Airport to the Bodrum peninsula.

With a private transfer, your driver waits at the terminal exit with a name sign and drops you at the closest point to your accommodation. The price is per vehicle, and baby and child seats are free. As traffic within the village is restricted, giving your full address when you book makes things easier. You can book on our Bodrum Airport – Gümüşlük transfer page.

For the airport's two terminals and arrival steps, have a look at our Milas-Bodrum Airport guide.

Conclusion

With the walk to Rabbit Island, the ruins of ancient Myndos, its fish restaurants and sunsets, Gümüşlük is the calmest and most characterful corner of Bodrum. To get there from the airport without changes, see the per-vehicle price and book on our Gümüşlük transfer page.