Ultimate Guide to a Day Trip from Kos to Bodrum, Turkey

Travelling from Kos to Bodrum

A day trip from Kos (Greece) to Bodrum (Turkey) is one of the most popular excursions in the Dodecanese. This short yet exciting ferry ride lets you cross from one country to another in under an hour, making it perfect for travellers who want to experience both Greek island life and Turkish culture in the same day. With a distance of just 10.9 nautical miles across the Aegean Sea, the journey is not only convenient but also beautifully scenic, offering sweeping views of the turquoise waters and both coastlines.

The ferry is the fastest and most practical way to reach Bodrum for a day trip, with average sailings taking around 29 minutes. Services begin in the morning with the earliest departure at 09:30 and continue until the evening, with the last departure around 18:45. This gives you plenty of flexibility to plan your day, whether you want a few hours for sightseeing and shopping or a full day to soak up Turkish history, cuisine, and beaches.

Why Choose a Day Trip from Kos to Bodrum?

Convenience

The short distance, frequent departures, and efficient crossing make this one of the easiest international day trips in Europe. It’s simple to wake up in Kos, spend your day in Bodrum exploring historic castles and bazaars, and be back on the Greek side by evening.

Two Countries in One Day

Few ferry routes offer the chance to explore two cultures, cuisines, and countries in a single day. A Kos to Bodrum trip allows you to wander through Greek island streets in the morning and Turkish bazaars in the afternoon. From gyros and souvlaki to Turkish kebabs and baklava, it’s a foodie’s dream in a single itinerary.

Planning Your Day Trip

Ferry Operators and Routes

The Kos–Bodrum route is operated by four different ferry companies, giving travellers a wide range of schedules and services to choose from:

• Dentur Avrasya – foot passengers only
• Exas Shipping Services – foot passengers only
• Makri Travel – foot passengers and vehicles allowed
• Turkish Sealines – foot passengers and vehicles allowed

Vehicle policy: If you want to bring a car, motorbike, or van across, book with Makri Travel or Turkish Sealines. Foot passengers can book with any of the four operators. Pets: Please note that pets are not allowed on this route. Cabins: Due to the short crossing time of just 29 minutes, cabins are not available with any operator.

Schedules & Duration

The ferry crossing takes an average of 29 minutes, making it one of the quickest international ferry journeys in Europe. Services usually start in the morning at 09:30 and the final sailing is around 18:45. With multiple operators, there are several departures throughout the day, so you can tailor your itinerary based on how long you’d like to spend in Bodrum.

Top Attractions in Bodrum

Bodrum is a lively coastal city that blends history, culture, shopping, and seaside leisure. On a day trip, you’ll have time to visit some of its most famous highlights:

• Bodrum Castle (Castle of St. Peter) – Built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century, this fortress now houses the fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
• The Bodrum Bazaar – Perfect for shopping souvenirs, Turkish delight, spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Bargaining is part of the fun!
• Beaches & Waterfront – Bodrum has a lively waterfront lined with cafés, restaurants, and bars where you can enjoy Turkish cuisine with a sea view.
• Ancient Ruins – History lovers shouldn’t miss the remains of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Booking Tips

Book in Advance

While there are several operators and multiple departures daily, ferries can fill up during peak season. Booking in advance with Direct Ferries ensures you secure your preferred time and operator, especially if you are travelling with a vehicle.

Arrive Early

Arrive at the port with time to spare, especially in summer when queues can be longer. Remember that you are crossing into a different country, so passport control and security checks will be part of the process.

Best Time to Visit

The best months for a day trip from Kos to Bodrum are late spring through early autumn (May to September). The weather is warm, ferry services are frequent, and Bodrum’s markets and attractions are lively. July and August are the busiest, so if you prefer a quieter experience, try May, June, or September.

Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers

• Bring your passport: This is an international route between Greece and Turkey, so valid travel documents are required.
• Pack light: With a short 29-minute crossing, it’s best to bring only essentials for a comfortable day trip.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Bodrum is a city best explored on foot, from castle walls to market stalls.
• Plan your return: Don’t forget to check the return ferry times so you can make the most of your day without stress.

Conclusion

A day trip from Kos to Bodrum is an unforgettable experience that lets you enjoy the best of both Greece and Turkey in one day. With four operators serving the route, an average 29-minute journey time, and departures from 09:30 to 18:45, planning your adventure is simple and convenient. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, beaches, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a vibrant Turkish town, Bodrum has something for everyone. Book your tickets with Direct Ferries to enjoy a smooth and reliable crossing, and get ready for a day of discovery across the Aegean Sea.