Marmaris - very big resort. There are many villages, walking areas and other interesting places around it. The local coast has its own ancient history and is full of beautiful bays, promenades and beaches. Please note that visiting Marmaris excursions - The best way enjoy the city and its surroundings. Beaches, water parks, Marmaris Castle, Dalyan, Turunc resort, Cleopatra Island, museums, “Marmaris village” - these are the most interesting places that you need to see here.
What to see in Marmaris
Tours to Marmaris
Prices for tours for 2 people for 7 nights with departure from Moscow are given.
Marmaris Castle
The ancient Castle on the hill (thoroughly rebuilt in 1522) was the military base of Suleiman the Magnificent and his 200,000-strong army, recapturing Rhodes from the Hospitallers. Today the castle houses a small Marmaris museum, displaying amphorae, sarcophagi, figurines, kerosene lamps and other finds from nearby archaeological sites, including Datca and ancient Knidos. Stroll along the Castle's battlements and take in stunning views of the bustling harbor and bay.
Dalyan
Dalyan is a natural wonder where the Aegean Sea meets the lake. The river connecting them has a huge number of canals and straits, for which this place is nicknamed the “Turkish Venice”. Dalyan is famous for its world famous Iztuzu Beach, 6 km long sand spit, caretta caretta turtles and blue crabs that live here, mud baths, Lycian Tombs and the ancient city of Kaunos. You can visit Dalyan on an exciting boat trip, exploring the natural beauty and historical treasures of the area.
Cleopatra Island
Hiding one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Sedir Island, also known as Cleopatra's Island, lies in Gökova Bay, about 30 minutes' drive north of Marmaris and then a short boat ride. Its sand seems to consist of tiny white pearls sparkling in the sun. Such sand can only be found in Egypt and Turkey, and local guides will certainly tell you that it was brought here by Mark Antony especially for Cleopatra. In addition, you can also see the ruins of ancient walls on the island ancient city Cedars and the Roman amphitheater on the mountainside.
Day cruises
You can explore the picturesque rugged coastline on traditional Turkish wooden double-decker motor or sailing boats. Take a Day Trip to Snorkel in Crystal clean waters or to sunbathe and relax on secluded beaches. If you want a longer sea trip, plan a four- or even seven-day sail to the Datca Peninsula from Marmaris.
Village tours
Village tours in Marmaris are excursions to nearby villages. Here you can explore typical village life and Turkish culture. You will visit the houses of local residents, a school and a mosque, and also have lunch with home-cooked dishes.
A woman prepares traditional Turkish flatbread, Türkiye.
Water parks
Visiting Atlantis and Aqua Dream water parks is one of the best things to do while on holiday in Marmaris. Here, both adults and children will be able to fully enjoy the fantastic slides, attractions and other entertainment. The cheerful animation team will not let you get bored for a minute. In addition, the Atlantis water park has its own access to the sea and a beach in case you get tired of riding and just want to sunbathe and swim.
Famous for its beautiful beaches, sailing, extreme species sports, first-class restaurants, vibrant nightlife, delicious Mediterranean wines, not to mention culture and history.
Below are 10 of the most famous attractions that can be included in your list of must-see places in Marmaris.
1. A day at Icmeler beach
Icmeler - beautiful resort beach, located just 8 km from bustling Marmaris. The beach offers magnificent views of the Taurus Mountains. A measured rest under the shade of palm trees and eucalyptus trees - what could be more beautiful?
You can practice from time to time aquatic species sports, or sign up for an excursion, or take part in a cultural event.
Sigla is the best oxygen production "plant" in the world, only here and in California. This is an untouched forest and a beach with Blue Flag status. A great place for recreation and recuperation.
2. Boat trip to Dalyan, Kaunos
Dalyan – most popular resort, located 80 km southeast of Marmaris. This is a miracle of nature, uniting lake and sea. Dalyan is famous for the golden Iztuzu beach, sea turtles, mud baths and the ancient city of Kaunos.
There are many beautiful lakes here. The labyrinths of water channels and beaches simply enchant tourists. Sand beach Iztuzu is a conservation area home to sea turtles and blue crabs. Nile turtles live on the shores of lakes.
Dalyan's hot springs and mud baths have a healing effect on people with diseases such as rheumatism, sciatica and calcinosis.
In a bend of the river lies a rock in which ancient tombs are carved.
Kaunos was called in the 4th century BC. the city of Kariya. It was Big city with a temple, seaport, square, theaters, rock tombs. Don't miss the chance to touch a living echo ancient history!
3. Sedir Island - Cleopatra Beach
18 km north of Marmaris is the island of Sedir, also known as Cleopatra's island. The beautiful beach with golden sand is named after the great queen. Not far from it you can see the remains of the walls of the city of Cedrae and the ruins of the theater.
In the north-west of the island there is a bay in which, according to legend, Cleopatra once swam. It is said that the sand on this beach was brought from Egypt, as this type of sand is found only in this country.
There are ruins in the eastern part of the island. The ancient theater is quite well preserved. According to historical documents, athletics competitions were held in this area in honor of the god Apollo.
4. Marmaris water parks
If you come on vacation with the whole family, you will probably want to visit the water park. There are a lot of them in Marmaris, and they are all full of a huge number of water attractions that both adults and children enjoy. The largest water parks are Aqua Dream Water Park and Atlantis Water Park.
Most hotels and resorts have their own water parks.
5. Jeep safari
This is one of the most popular excursions in Marmaris. Dirt, dust, stone roads, hot sun - nothing matters if you are racing in a jeep! The safari is organized for groups of 4 to 8 people. If you want a vibrant journey and get to know Turkish culture and nature, then be sure to try a jeep safari!
Tours usually start in the morning. Breakfasts are provided in local villages.
Breathtaking routes await you, up and down narrow roads, through pine forests and mountain rivers.
Geography of tours: Bozburun Peninsula Gokova Gulf, Orhaniye-Kizkumu, Hisaronu, Bozburun, Ciftlik, Turunc, Akyaka and Akbuk.
6. Marmaris Castle and Museum
It is believed that Marmaris Castle was built by the Ionians in 1044 BC, rebuilt during the reign of Alexander the Great. During the campaign of Suleiman the Magnificent it was expanded. The castle was used as military base.
During the First World War, the castle was hit by a cannon shell from the French fleet, causing enormous damage. In 1980-90 it was restored. Now there is a museum there. It has an ethnography living room and an archeology room, the remaining rooms are used as art galleries and storerooms.
7. Visit to Turunc
This village is located next to a picturesque bay on south coast Marmaris, 20 km from tourist center and 120 km from Dalaman airport. The charming atmosphere of an old fishing village reigns here. The beach has Blue Flag status, which means it is environmentally friendly. Hills, mountains, calm azure sea - a pleasant, measured holiday is guaranteed to you!
This region is rich in fruits, berries, figs, plums and the famous sour oranges.
There are many yachts and boats in Turunc that will take you on a breeze through the blue waves.
8. Diving
– one of the most important diving tourism centers in Turkey. About 52 places around Marmaris are suitable for scuba diving. The resort organizes daily excursions for both beginners and professionals. All instructors are licensed.
The most popular places for diving in Marmaris:
Baca Cave
Mainly popular among underwater photographers. The depth reaches from 5 to 50 meters. At the bottom you can see a lot of red and white striped fish and small shrimp.
Cape Sari Mehmet
Located between Turunc and Icmeler. Suitable for both professionals and beginners. Depth - from 5 to 21 meters. You can see moray eels, octopuses and other marine life. There is a cave nearby.
Lighthouse KeciAdasi
Depth - from 8 to 38 meters. A huge variety of big fish awaits you. In connection with the beginning of lunar periods, a gentle change in flows occurs.
Mostly beginner diving enthusiasts swim here. Depth - from 5 to 38 meters, the water is surrounded by rocks. You can find pieces of amphorae at the bottom.
Located on Yildiz Island. Visibility underwater is not ideal. Depth - from 3 to 40 meters. Underwater photographers love to dive here.
Abdi Reis Cave
Convenient for beginners, interesting for professionals too. Depth from 0 to 33 meters. The current is high.
Aksu Cave
When diving in this area, you can see changes in the color of the water. Beginners and professionals swim here, and ride on yachts and boats. On the cape there is a large wall 40 meters high.
Depth - from 0 to 52 meters. Very exciting awaits you undersea world. Sometimes the flows change.
Cave Kadirga
Located at the farthest point of Marmaris, opposite the Kadirga lighthouse. Depth – from 0 to 40 meters. In the area in front of the lighthouse you can find amphorae and the remains of a sunken ship.
9. Grand Bazaar
In between sunbathing and banana boat rides, take some time to go shopping.
You can bargain in the markets of Marmaris. As souvenirs you can buy onyx vases, bowls, ashtrays, Turkish clothing, shoes, metal and leather goods, carpets and various jewelry.
Biggest shopping mall Marmaris - Grand Bazaar, which is located in the central square. They sell jewelry, carpets, clothing, local food and drinks, fishing equipment and souvenirs.
Also famous for local jam and honey.
There are special shopping tours to the markets of Marmaris.
10. Blue Voyage
This is the most popular cruise trip to Karacasögüt, Gökova, Bodrum, Göcek and Finike. Various sailing routes have been developed. Is waiting for you an amusing trip along the long coastline, beaches, natural wonders, historical places. When you get tired of sunbathing and relaxing at the hotel, sign up for Blue Voyage!
Turkish coasts Mediterranean and Aegean seas contain lovely bays, bays and beaches. Not only will you be able to moor at each of them, but you will also be able to swim in the crystal clear waters, fish, water ski, windsurf and dive.
You will be able to visit cities such as Knidos, Kavnos, Telmessos, Antiphellos, Olympos, Phaselis. An exciting voyage awaits you!
Marmaris is considered one of the best Turkish resorts, in terms of the quality of recreation it can even be compared with European ones. The city is located within a closed bay, thanks to which it has an almost ideal climate with mild winters and summers without sweltering heat. The sea in Marmaris is calm, clean, with a smooth sunset and a soft sandy bottom. Local beaches– well-maintained and equipped with everything necessary.
The city harbor is very popular among yachtsmen - thousands of ships pass through it every year, most of which come from other countries. They often come here cruise ships, making a voyage in the Mediterranean Sea. The entertainment industry is represented by dozens of clubs, bars and restaurants. In boutiques and shops you can buy almost everything: from branded clothing to national souvenirs.
The best hotels and inns at affordable prices.
from 500 rubles/day
What to see and where to go in Marmaris?
The most interesting and Beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.
The castle is mentioned in the works of the Greek historian Herodotus, who claims that it was built 3 thousand years BC (according to alternative versions in the 11th and 6th centuries BC). The appearance of the structure remained unchanged until the 8th century. During the time of Suleiman the Magnificent it was rebuilt - it is this version that has survived to this day. Today, on the territory of the castle there is a museum with exhibits from ancient and medieval eras.
Marmaris sea harbor, located in the central part of the city on the territory of a natural bay. Netsel Marina – real paradise for yachts, it is designed for simultaneous mooring of up to 750 vessels. From here you can go on a sea voyage throughout the Mediterranean, which is what yachting enthusiasts and tourists enjoy. International sailing schools operate in the marina.
The city embankment stretches for 4 km. This is one of the most picturesque places in Marmaris - it offers magnificent views of the sea, mountains, city and huge cruise ships docked in the port. Here are the best restaurants, bars and clubs, always full of tourists. In the evening, accompanied by music and bright lighting, the embankment turns into a lively place where hundreds of people stroll.
Light and music fountain, built in 2012 in the center of Marmaris. It is a round bowl with streams of water gushing in the middle, merging into a transparent wall, onto which views of the city’s landmarks, as well as portraits of Ataturk and the national flag are projected. Usually the light and sound show begins in the evenings, gathering curious tourists around the fountain.
Not a single popular resort town can do without a special place in which all entertainment establishments - restaurants, bars and clubs with entertainment programs. In Marmaris this is Bar Street. There are traditional Turkish establishments with appropriate decoration and menu, as well as European discos, clubs with laser shows, rock cafes and bars with live music.
The monument in honor of the Father of the Nation Ataturk is a must-see attraction for almost everyone Turkish city. The Marmari monument is installed on the embankment, surrounded by Turkish flags and a green lawn, on which there is also a national banner laid out from flowers. Ataturk is depicted in full growth in motion. The leader makes either a greeting wave with his hand or shields his eyes from the bright sun.
Water amusement parks are located close to each other. Atlantis has its own beach, 8 slides and 2 pools. AquaDream has big sizes and a variety of entertainment. Both parks are equipped with food courts and recreation areas, have developed infrastructure and professional instructors. Which place to choose is a personal choice for each visitor, especially since the prices in both are approximately the same.
An indoor market in the city center where you can buy clothes, souvenirs, shoes, leather goods, home decoration, Turkish ceramics and sweets. In total, there are about 4 thousand shops and shops on the territory of the bazaar, there are also cafes, workshops and studios providing various services. Unfortunately, traditional oriental flavor can’t be found here – the space looks quite modern.
An ancient amphitheater, presumably built in the 5th–6th centuries BC, which has survived to this day in fairly good condition due to the fact that it was reconstructed several times (the last restoration took place in the 1970s). The amphitheater is operational - symphony concerts are held on its territory. Since 2005, the building has been included in the list World Heritage UNESCO.
Extensive natural area, attracting those who prefer leisure tourists. Here you can admire the magnificent landscapes, walk along ecological routes, go mountain biking or horseback riding, climb rocks, go on jeep safaris or relax on secluded beaches. The park is located in several regions of Turkey, one of its parts is located near Marmaris.
The cave is located on Paradise Island(or rather, a peninsula) not far from Marmaris, a 400-meter mountain path leads into it. Its history is connected with the name of the Greek goddess Leto, who, according to legend, lived in this grotto. It is believed that the cave used to be large, but as a result of the collapse its area was reduced. From a geological point of view, Nimara is a fairly young formation that continues to actively form.
Exists beautiful legend that the island of Sedir was presented to Cleopatra by the Roman commander Mark Antony as a sign of his love. At the same time, a whole flotilla delivered sand to the island beaches from Egypt, since the queen did not like the local sand. The most famous place in Sedir is Cleopatra Beach, which is truly covered with unique sand, which is carefully guarded by the Turkish authorities (you can be fined for trying to take a handful or two with you).
Kyz-Kumu translated from Turkish means “maiden sand”. The natural attraction is located in the village of Orhaniye near Marmaris. The spit was formed due to a current that gradually washed up the sand - over time, a piece of land was formed from it. The sea around is very calm and quite shallow, so it is convenient to swim here with children. Moreover, the water temperature is quite high.
Icmeler has long been considered part of the Marmaris zone, but recently it has been considered independent resort. The beaches of Icmeler are located in a bay among wooded slopes, surrounded by picturesque gardens, through which roads lead to hotels. The sea here is much cleaner than in Marmaris itself. At a depth of several meters, the bottom is clearly visible, so the place is very popular with divers.
The tombs are located in the small town of Dalyan. They are ancient burials, perfectly preserved due to their favorable location. The crypts are carved directly into the rock, whose steep slope is located above the river. Unfortunately, all the graves have long been plundered and all that remains for tourists is to admire the majestic stone vaults of the entrances, which have survived more than one thousand years.
