Turkey's largest port after Istanbul, this Mediterranean city has Blue Flag beaches, water sports, and a 13th-century castle. Its bazaar and nightlife add to its appeal.
Marmaris, a coastal town in southwestern Turkey, is known for its 16th-century castle, beaches, and vibrant nightlife. You can walk through the Old Town's winding streets, take a boat to Cleopatra Island, or visit one of the many clubs on Bar Street. Marmaris caters to history buffs, water sports enthusiasts, and those who simply want to relax by the sea.
Marmaris Old Town
The Old Town of Marmaris is a network of narrow cobblestone streets with whitewashed houses and purple bougainvillea. As you explore, you'll find small shops selling local crafts, spices, and Turkish delight. On a hill overlooking the harbor stands Marmaris Castle, built by Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century during his Rhodes campaign. The castle now houses a museum displaying artifacts from the region's past. From the castle, you can see the town and bay below.
Marmaris Beaches
Long Beach, also known as Uzunyali, stretches along the Marmaris waterfront. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas for a day of sunbathing and swimming. For more active pursuits, try jet-skiing, parasailing, or banana boat rides at one of the water sports centers. If you prefer a calmer beach experience, head to Icmeler Beach, about 8 kilometers from Marmaris center. Icmeler's crescent-shaped bay has clear water and soft sand, making it popular with families.
Day Trips from Marmaris
From Marmaris, you can easily explore nearby attractions. Many visitors take a day trip to Dalyan to see the ancient Lycian rock tombs carved into cliff faces, relax in a mud bath, and visit Iztuzu Beach, where loggerhead turtles nest. Another popular excursion is a boat trip to Cleopatra Island, also known as Sedir Island. The island is known for its golden sand, which legend says was brought from Egypt for Cleopatra. While there, you can explore the ruins of the ancient city of Cedrae, including a small theater and city walls.
Bar Street Nightlife
At night, Bar Street becomes the center of Marmaris nightlife. This street is full of bars, clubs, and restaurants for different tastes and budgets. You'll find relaxed pubs with live music and energetic nightclubs with DJ sets. Many venues have outdoor seating areas where you can drink and watch people pass by. Some popular spots include Greenhouse Bar for live music and Joy Club for late-night dancing.
The Grand Bazaar
In the center of Marmaris, you'll find the Grand Bazaar, a covered market with stalls selling various goods. You can look at leather jackets, carpets, spices, and souvenirs. Haggling is common here, so try negotiating prices - it's part of the shopping experience. Even if you don't plan to buy anything, visiting the bazaar gives you a sense of the local market culture. Vendors often call out to potential customers, creating a busy atmosphere.
Getting to and Around Marmaris
The nearest airport to Marmaris is Dalaman Airport, about 90 kilometers away. From there, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to Marmaris, which takes about 1.5 hours. In town, dolmus (shared minibuses) are a convenient and cheap way to get around. They run often along main roads and to nearby beaches and towns. To explore further, you can rent a car from one of the agencies in town or join organized tours. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive, especially for longer trips.
When to Visit
The weather in Marmaris is typically warm and sunny from late spring to early fall (May to October), making it good for beach activities and sightseeing. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures often above 30°C (86°F). These are also the busiest months, with higher prices and more crowded beaches. For milder temperatures and fewer tourists, consider visiting in May, June, September, or October. The sea is still warm enough for swimming during these months, usually around 23-25°C (73-77°F). You might also find better deals on accommodation and flights during these months.
