SMarmaris is a top choice for a Mediterranean holiday, offering a rich blend of adventure, natural beauty, history, and culture. From exploring uninhabited islands on a Gulet and swimming to visiting historical landmarks like the ancient Marmaris Amphitheatre and castle, there is no shortage of things to do in Marmaris.
The resort also boasts numerous restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and market stalls. Enjoy fresh seafood, savour Turkish cuisine, shop at the Grand Bazaar, stroll along the marina, or have drinks on Bar Street. Marmaris will appeal to families and groups as a fantastic tourist destination in Turkey.
Tour boats for the Carian rock tombs
Summer holidays in Marmaris, Turkey
Marmaris is located in southwestern Turkey, in Muğla Province, along the spectacular Turkish Riviera on the Mediterranean coast. Dalaman is the nearest international airport. During the summer high season, from June to August, when the weather is hot in Marmaris, several flights from the United Kingdom operate daily on this route.
Explore these popular British summer package holidays in stunning Dalaman, Turkey, offered by Jet2Holidays.
Best Things to Do in Marmaris, Turkey
With its striking turquoise waters, pristine beaches, breathtaking natural landscapes, rich historical sites, and vibrant nightlife, it is easy to understand why Marmaris is a popular summer destination for tourists and a harbour stop for boats and cruise liners.
Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a week, here is a list of top things that you can do in Marmaris, Turkey, to help you;
Overlooking the marina in Marmaris, Turkey
1. Marmaris Castle and Archaeology Museum
Spend an hour exploring Marmaris Castle and Archaeology Museum while enjoying the panoramic views across the Marina. It is one of the prominent landmarks in the Dalaman region and one of the few castles in Turkey that also possesses a museum. The first city walls were built in 3,000 BC, but the origins of the castle today date back to the 16th century. During World War I, it was used as a military base before being fully restored during the 1980s to what it is today.
The Archaeology museum
The Archaeology Museum houses artifacts dug up in the Mugla area, including pottery, coins, glassware, kitchen tools, guns, and much more. The museum also displays local crafts and ways of life during the Ottoman era. The weather can get extremely hot in this part of Turkey in the middle of the day. Best to head to Marmaris Castle and Archaeology Museum in the morning or late afternoon.
2. Turgut Falls
Turgut Falls, also known as Selale (‘waterfall’ in Turkish), are two small, narrow waterfalls located southwest of the Dalaman region. The area around the waterfall is a wide valley with forests and lush greenery. The whole area has been carved out as a conservation area and has been under the Turkish government’s control since 2011.
Take a nature walk through the forest before cooling off and taking pictures with your gopro in the lake below the waterfalls. This is a great option for things to do if you want to see waterfalls, have a swim and discover nature. Book a guided tour that combines going to Turgut Falls, Bayir and Orhaniye village.
Tip for taking Pictures of Turgut Falls.
Turgut Falls is popular with photographers and Instagrammers, especially when standing in the water beside the falls. If you want pictures of the waterfalls without people, I recommend going here late in the afternoon or early morning, as it gets really busy.
In front of one of the waterfalls at Turgut Falls, Dalaman
3. Dalyan River
Located roughly an hour from Marmaris is the Dalyan Delta, one of the top attractions in the Dalaman region. A nature conservation area set up to protect the sea turtles (loggerhead) that lay their eggs here. You can do this trip solo, in groups, or with a family. You can spend the day exploring the Dalyan Delta by boat, having lunch, and swimming.
Stopping off to admire the Lycian tombs and swimming at Iztuzu Beach. At the same time, keep a lookout for sea turtles and other wildlife that have made the nature conservation area their home. This trip along the Dalyan River was one of the highlights during my time in Turkey. Make sure to bring your own beach towel and sunscreen.
Book one of these Dalyan River boat cruises in advance, which includes lunch.
4. Carian Rock Tombs
Take a boat tour of the Carian rock tombs to visit the historic site in Marmaris. Carian Rock Tombs are carved into the rocks high up on the cliff face near Dalyan. The ancient tombs were used for the former kings of Caunos. Carian Rock Tombs are a truly amazing sight to see, and fascinating that they were built over 2,000 years ago.
To help preserve these impressive rock tombs, tourists can only see them from afar by boat. A boat ride to see them is one of the most popular things to do from Marmaris. It is often included in a Dalyan boat excursion, which also goes to Turtle Beach and can be booked here.
Keep your eye out for the ancient city of Kaunos, further down the channel. Don’t forget your GoPro for taking pictures while swimming in the turquoise water. This water activity can also be done from Oludeniz and Fethiye.
Carian rock tombs from the boat
5. Shop at the Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar in Marmaris is something you can do at night in the Turkish resort. It is also an excellent spot for trying local foods and fresh seafood. Make sure to try some fresh seafood or the famous Turkish kebabs. Stroll through the Grand Bazaar, taking in all the smells of the herbs and spices, while doing some haggling.
You will also find colourful lamps, pashminas, Turkish delight, coffee sets, and rugs. There are plenty of fantastic stalls at the Grand Bazaar in Marmaris, and you can pick up a bargain. If you are looking for somewhere to eat afterwards, I suggest Memed Ocakbasi or Jimmy’s Martini’s Steak House & Cocktail Bar.
6. Marmaris Honey House
A honey centre may not be at the top of your summer holiday to-do list in Marmaris, but it is one you should consider, especially if you love sweet things, nature, and bees. Turkey ranks among the top 5 honey-producing countries in the world. Marmaris Honey House was created not only to raise awareness of bees but also to produce honey.
The building is built like a honeycomb and houses an exhibition inside. There is also a children’s playground area, a small cafe, and a shop, where you can buy and try honey products. It was interesting seeing a queen bee with her workers making honey and living everyday life (don’t worry, they are behind glass).
- Try the natural honey they have on tap, it is delicious even for people who don’t like sweets.
Tasting the lovely honey products
7. Sedir Island (Cleopatra Island)
Take a short boat ride from Marmaris to Gokova Bay and Cleopatra Island, a gorgeous, uninhabited island. You can go swimming in turquoise waters, lie on a white sandy beach, or explore the ancient ruins of Cedrae. Sedir Island is small and easy to get around on foot from the boat drop-off point.
The island is often referred to as Cleopatra Island because legend has it that Cleopatra and Mark Antony bathed here 2000 years ago. The island of Seder is also home to the ancient settlement of Cedrae, a historic landmark site today. While there is no settlement there anymore, ruins spread across the island, including a Roman amphitheatre. Book a boat tour to Cleopatra Island that includes a BBQ lunch on board. You can also take a boat from the village of Camli to Sedir Island.
It is best to have a 1 Litre bladder bag (Also known as a Hydration bladder) or a sports water bottle to keep you hydrated, especially during the hot summer months in Marmaris.
8. Try a Traditional Turkish Bath in Marmaris
A Turkish bath in Marmaris is a must when on holiday in Dalaman, Turkey. I suggest trying a traditional massage, a Turkish bath experience or a Hamam. You have a variety of Turkish baths available, but all massage experiences typically last around 2 hours, including time for changing and waiting. You can do it during the day or at night in Marmaris.
My Turkish Bath Experience
Upon arriving, you will be taken to the hamam (sauna) before enjoying a soothing steam bath. Followed by a relaxing full-body wash, foam, and aromatherapy oil massages. Then you will retire to a cooling room for a period of relaxation. Afterwards, your skin will be feeling smooth, soft and cleansed.
Book one of these Turkish baths in Marmaris through GYG in advance: Traditional Turkish Bath Experience.
Additional Treatments and info for Marmaris Turkish Bath
- Facial masks
- Different types of massages, like using Stones
- Pedicures and manicures
- Make sure you take your bathers along
- If you can, leave any jewellery at your accommodation, as you can’t wear it.
Inside a traditional Turkish Bath
9. İçmeler Beach
Spend the day at Icmeler Beach, swimming, having a drink or a meal while enjoying the stunning views. This fabulous beach has shallow, clear water and soft sand tucked away in a cove. Around the beach is also a selection of restaurants, bars and gift shops, all with views of the sea and Keçi Island.
If you’re looking for romance, this is the perfect spot for a meal while watching the sunset. Icmeler Beach has sun lounges, but you must pay a small fee for each. Marmaris gets hot during the summer period; please make sure to wear the appropriate lotion.
Take a sea taxi
The best bit is that Icmeler Beach is only a few km from Marmaris, making it easy to get to. You can get there by sea taxi or dolmuş (a kind of taxi/minibus). Or book an all-day boat trip to Icmeler with lunch and unlimited soft drinks.
⇒ Do you know that Cyprus also has stunning beaches? Read this Guide on the top places you can visit in Larnaca
10. Atlantis Waterpark Marmaris
I love waterparks, and I think they are a great way for everyone to spend the day, especially if you have kids. Atlantis Water Park is a family-friendly water park near the south end of the main beach. The waterpark has eight slides, varying in length, a wave pool, and a kids’ pool with fountains.
Other facilities include a mini-golf course, restaurants, bars, and sun loungers with umbrellas. Marmaris Atlantis Water Park is a popular attraction for visitors on a holiday in Dalaman, Turkey. Book your all-day ticket in advance here and skip the line when you arrive at the Aqua Waterpark. Make sure that you don’t forget your beach towel and sunscreen.
11. Take a cruise on the Azmak River in Akyaka
One of the top things to do in Marmaris is to cruise along the Azmak River and have a meal at one of the riverside restaurants, such as Orfoz Restaurant or Kordon Restaurant. Azmak River is located just outside the town of Akyaka and is a stunning natural paradise considered a hidden gem amongst the locals.
Azmak River’s aquarium-like, crystal clear water is home to various sea life, which you can see clearly from the boat. Above the water, you can admire the many birds flying about and nesting. Whether you have a meal, take a boat ride or even a swim, you will love the chilled atmosphere here. Book an afternoon tour from Marmaris to Akyaka that includes a boat ride and a visit to ancient tombs.
Sitting along the Azmak River – water activities
Things to do in Marmaris at night
There are so many amazing things that you can do at night in Marmaris, Turkey, during your summer holiday. Groups wanting to party have places like Marmaris bar street. If you’re looking for family-friendly attractions, you can see the Dancing Fountain or take in a traditional Turkish show.
Here are just a few suggestions of what you can do at night in Marmaris Centre;
12. Drinks along Marmaris Bar Street
If you want nightlife, bars and clubs, head to Marmaris Bar Street, a street away from the marina. This is the best place for party lovers to spend a night in a Mediterranean resort. The street is filled with various music venues, cocktail bars, and clubs that cater to everyone. You have everything from karaoke, laser shows, live music, and foam parties, most open to the early morning hours.
Due to its club scene, Marmaris Bar Street is also a popular destination with people in their late teens and twenties. The atmosphere can get very loud, so if you want something quieter, head to the marina or beach bars. Two bars with recommendations are Anfield Bar and Karma Cocktails & Dance Bar.
13. Dancing Fountain
The dancing fountain is a spectacular water, light and music show at Youth Square in the centre of the resort. During the high season, the show is held twice a night at 09:00 pm and 10:30 pm for 15 minutes. The Dancing Fountain looks especially pretty at night, which creates a great atmosphere.
This family-friendly option is great if you are travelling on a budget and looking for free things to do at night. I recommend seeing the show with an ice-cream after you have enjoyed your dinner to finish the night.
Other top things you can do near Marmaris
If you’re looking for other ideas for places to visit in Marmaris. Here are just a few top things to do in and around Marmaris that involve either history or outdoor activities.
- Book a full-day tour to the historical Ephesus site with a buffet lunch.
- Take an adventurous jeep safari trip, which includes lunch
- Do a family-friendly pirate boat trip with swimming, snorkelling, entertainment, and transfers.
- Take a day trip to Rhodes from Marmaris by speedboat.
Before you go, book some amazing activities in Marmaris, Turkey.
14. Hotels in Marmaris
Being a popular summer destination in Turkey, there is no shortage of hotels and places to stay in Marmaris. You can stay anywhere from hostels and apartments to 5-star hotels along Marmaris Beach. There are also all-inclusive hotels in Marmaris that range from 2 stars to 5 stars.
Most accommodations and hotels are within walking distance of the Marmaris marina and town centre. However, if you don’t feel like walking, there are many options for getting around, like catching a golf buggy. Check the current availability and prices for hotels within the Marmaris Dalaman Turkey area.
15. All-inclusive hotel Grand Azur Marmaris
I stayed at the luxury all-inclusive beachfront hotel Grand Azur located only 15-20mins walk from the centre and marina. It is one of the top hotels in Marmaris, offering a stunning freshwater pool and a private beach. If food and drinks are your thing, you’ll be glad to know the resort has five bars!
Room with ocean views
I had a spacious room with a private balcony and some of the best ocean views in Marmaris. The luxury room had everything you want in a summer holiday, a huge, comfy bed and powerful air conditioning. As well as lots of power points and strong WiFi. Although it was all-inclusive, the room also featured coffee and tea facilities.
Grand Azur Marmaris was the perfect all-inclusive hotel for a summer holiday in a great location right on the Mediterranean Sea. Discover popular British summer package holidays in Marmaris, Turkey, offered by Jet2Holidays.
Drinks on the beach at Grand Azur
16. Getting to Marmaris
Marmaris is part of the Dalaman Region on the southwestern coast of Turkey. Most tourists fly and then take a transfer or hire a car to get to the coastal town. As it is a harbour city, many cruise liners and chartered boats also dock in the Marmaris marina during their summer holiday.
Best Airport for Marmaris
The best airport for reaching Marmaris is Dalaman Airport, located approximately 95 km away. It should take approximately one and a half hours to travel from Dalaman airport to Marmaris by car. I flew with Jet2 airlines as part of a package with Jet2holidays, which currently services nine airport routes from the UK and other European areas.
Transfer to Marmaris
The best way to get to Marmaris is via shared or private transfer. If you are taking a Jet2 package, you will be given a choice of available options.
Hire a car to do things in and around Marmaris.
Alternatively, you can hire a car to get around Marmaris, to do things and to get to the airport. There are numerous companies at Dalaman Airport where you can hire a car. Hire a Sav Nav with the car if you are worried about getting lost.
Cruising the beautiful Azmak River, Dalaman, Turkey
17. Discover more places around the Mediterranean Sea
Millions of people flock to seaside cities along the Mediterranean coast yearly for a summer holiday. Discover some of these places around the Mediterranean, which are just pure paradise. Feel free to read the following articles.
- What to do in Larnaca Cyprus
- Best things to do in Malta and Gozo
- Free Self-guided walking tour in Nicosia Cyprus
⇒ You can check and see if there are any requirements for entering Turkey.
Have you been to Marmaris, Turkey? Please feel free to share your experience in the comments below, or if you know of other places to see while in Dalaman or the surrounding area.
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Disclaimer: Even though Jet2Holidays invited me. All views are my own and based on my own experience.
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WOW! that View from the plane! I cannot wait to get to turkey! We are coming this July! I am still hotel hunting so will check the D Resort Grand Azur for sure! I have two kids, any things for kids there?
The D Resort would be perfect as it has kids activities and also a waterslide in the pool. Can you pack me in your bag for when you go? Definitely go see the dancing fountain at night too, as the kids will love it and its FREE.
I have been to Marmaris before with my family but l never knew that you could do half these activities. I would definitely do that boat ride next time, so pretty.
Well it gives you a good excuse to go back and explore more with your family. You will have to let me know when you do, I would love to hear about it.
Oooh…. so jealous hihihi I’ve been wanting to visit Turkey for the longest time. Oh well…one day, hopefully sooner🤩 Thanks for sharing! Xoxo
I hope that you get to visit here one day too my friend.
You just have me hooked on Marmaris! I didn’t know Turkey was in the top 5 honey-producing countries in the world and honey on tap? Yum!! Turgut Falls is a beautiful, but your tip to visit early or later is helpful because I hate when places are so overcrowded. And those paragliding views are phenomenal!
I am definitely not a fan of big crowds either this is a great place to visit, if you get a chance.
Turgut Falls looks so refreshing! I’m tempted to take a dip in the clear waters. Are there any hiking trails around?
Yeap there are few hiking trails around the falls but they are not very long. It is nice it is about 2kms.
It has been so long since I’ve been to Marmaris but this post has brought so many memories back! We have been to Oludeniz quite a few times as we have family there and will be going again in October! We are definitely doing the paragliding again too!
Ah that is really good that you get to go to Oludeniz all the time. I wish that I also did. Both Marmaris and Oludeniz are just lovely
Great photos! I would love to go to Turkey and sadly haven’t been yet. Marmaris looks great. I would definitely visit the honey house. I love honey and I love bees so that would be number one on my list! I would also like to try a Turkish bath, but I think I would struggle to figure out if I should do it at the beginning or end of the trip. Thanks for sharing!
I really enjoyed the honey house but it was good to go in the morning before it goes too hot. hmm, that would be a hard one abut the Turkish bath, I would go with it at the end.
I wish I’d known about some of these activities while I was in Marmaris! I’ve been a few times on family holidays but family are very much “relax by the pool and don’t move” kind of people, unfortunately. I’ll make sure to go back and see it properly one day!
It is definitely a good excuse to go back for a visit. A lot of these you can do in the morning before it gets to hot and to the pool in the afternoons.
I’ve been to Istanbul but that’s about it. Marmaris looks and sounds less cosmopolitan except for that Turkish bath. So inviting!
Ah Istanbul is just the tip of the iceberg in Turkey, you must get yourself down the bottom and do some exploring.
I never knew you could do half this stuff in Marmaris. I usually just relax and stay by the pool. Thanks for the tips, I’m definitely keen to head to the waterfall next time I’m there.
Definitely, a great excuse to go back and let me know when you do, as I would love to hear all about it.
Now that is a resort to indulge in! The location seems perfect. Marmaris was not on my list till now, but some rethinking is in order now :).
This was such an unexpected surprise resort and one that I would definitely go bac k to in a heartbeat.
This is a whole different perspective of what I envision Turkey is. I love it!! Looks stunning and so much fun! I would definitely add it to my list!
Turkey is one of my favourite countries to explore and it is completely different in various parts.
I’ve actually just got back from Turkey – though my friends and I stayed in Izmir, not Marmaris! I had no idea there was so much to do in Marmaris though 🙂 We did try a Turkish bath while we were in Izmir, it was so relaxing x
I really liked Marmaris and I agree with you I didn’t know how much you could do until I was there but loved every minute of it. Hmm, I could have a turkish bath right now 🙂
Very well written post about our city 🙂 Thank you very much. If you can come to here again, glad to see you here and we can be your sponsor for daily excursions 🙂
OMG! I’m glad I got a problem with mix then I got to read all the excellent articles! I love everything you wrote here and made me want to go there. I add it in our bucket lists!