Marmaris is a great option for a Mediterranean holiday as there are plenty of amazing things that you to do. You have uninhabited islands, a multitude of stunning beaches as well as cultural and historical archaeological sites.
The resort also boasts a large selection of restaurants, bars and nightclubs located in the town centre, marina and along the beach. Go swimming at Sedir Island, explore Marmaris Castle or simply hang out along Bar Street. Marmaris will appeal to both families and groups as a great tourist destination in Turkey.
Summer holidays in Marmaris
Marmaris is located along the spectacular Turkish Riviera on the country’s Mediterranean coast with the closest airport being Dalaman. During the high season when the weather is very hot in Marmaris, several flights serve this route a day from the United Kingdom.
I understand why it is becoming more popular with the British, for package holidays, like Oludeniz Dalaman Turkey
⇒ Do you require a visa or covid test for Marmaris Dalaman before you go? You can check to see if you do and if there are any other requirements.
Best Things to Do in Marmaris Turkey
With beautiful beaches, activities and trendy cocktail bars and restaurants to indulge in, it is easy to understand why Marmaris is a popular destination for boats, cruise liners, and also for tourists flying into the nearby Dalaman International Airport.
Here is a list of things that you can do in Marmaris Turkey to help you;
1. Marmaris Castle and Archaeology Museum
Spend an hour exploring Marmaris Castle and Archaeology Museum while taking in the panoramic views across the Marina. It is one of the main 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 that includes pottery, coins, glassware, kitchen tools, guns, and much more. The museum also displays local crafts and ways of life during the Ottoman era.
It is best to head to Marmaris Castle and Archaeology Museum in the morning or late in the afternoon. As the weather in Marmaris can get extremely hot during the middle of the day.
2. Turgut Falls
Turgut Falls or also known as Selale (‘waterfall’ in Turkish), are two small narrow waterfalls located southwest of the Marmaris 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 of things to do if wanting to see some pretty waters, have a swim and discover nature. If you are not keen on making your own way to Turgut Falls, you can 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 standing in the water next to the falls. If you want pictures of the waterfalls without people in them, then I recommend going here late in the afternoon or early morning, as it gets really busy.
3. Dalyan River
Located roughly an hour away from Marmaris is the Dalyan Delta. A nature conservation area set up to protect the sea turtles (loggerhead) that lay their eggs here. You can do this trip as a solo traveller, group, or even with a family.
You can spend the day exploring the Dalyan Delta by boat, having lunch, and going for a swim. 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 which have made the nature conservation area their home.
This trip along the Dalyan River was one of the highlights during my time in Turkey. It had everything that I am looking for in a trip, history, outdoors, and nature. Make sure to bring your own beach towel and sunscreen.
Plan in advance by booking your cruise along the Dalyan that 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 to preserve these amazing 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 the Dalaman resorts like Marmaris and Ölüdeniz. 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.
5. Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar Marmaris is something you can do at night in the Turkish resort. It is also a great 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 even rugs. There are plenty of awesome stalls at the Grand Bazaar Marmaris and you can certainly pick up a bargain.
⇒ How about this food guide on where to eat in Malta and Gozo
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, history, and of course bees. Turkey ranks in the top 5 honey producing countries in the world.
Marmaris Honey House was created to not only raise awareness of bees but also 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 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).
Top Tip
- Try the natural honey that they have on tap, it is delicious even for people that don’t like sweets.
7. Sedir Island (Cleopatra Island)
Take a short boat ride from Marmaris to Gokova Bay and Cleopatra Island, a gorgeous uninhabited island. Where you can go swimming in turquoise waters, lay on a white sandy beach or explore the ancient ruins of Cedrae.
Sedir Island is only small and easy to get around by 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 Sedir island is also home to the ancient settlement of Cedrae, which is today a historic landmark site. While there is not a settlement there anymore, there are ruins spread out across the island that includes a Roman amphitheatre. Book a boat tour to Cleopatra island that includes a bbq lunch on board.
Top Tip
- You can also take a boat from the village of Camli to Sedir Island.
Don’t forget your GoPro for taking pictures while swimming in the turquoise water.
8. Try a Traditional Turkish Bath Marmaris
A Turkish bath in Marmaris is a must when on holiday in Dalaman Turkey. You can try a traditional massage, a Turkish bath experience or Hamam and massage. You have a variety of Turkish baths available but all massage experiences should take around 2hrs including getting changed and waiting. It is something you can do 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 and 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.
Plan in advance by booking one of these Turkish baths in Marmaris through GetYourGuide; Grand Hamam Turkish Bath and Massage or Marmaris Grand Hamam 2-Hour Turkish Bath and Massage.
Additional Treatments Marmaris Turkish Bath offer
- 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.
9. İçmeler Beach
Spend the day at Icmeler Beach, swimming, and having a drink or a meal while taking in the stunning views. This fabulous beach has shallow clear water and soft sand and is tucked away in a cove.
Around the beach, there is also a selection of restaurants, bars and gift shops, all with views of the sea and of Keçi Island. If you’re looking for a little romance, this is the perfect spot for a meal while watching the sunset.
Icmeler Beach has sun lounges but you will have to pay a small fee for each one.
Take a sea taxi
The best bit is that Icmeler Beach is only a few km’s from Marmaris, making it super easy to get to. You can get there by sea taxi or by dolmuş (a kind of taxi/minibus). Both options are reasonably priced.
⇒ Do you know that Cyprus also has stunning beaches? Read this Guide on top places you can visit in Larnaca
10. Marmaris Atlantis Waterpark
I love waterparks and I think they are a great way to spend the day for everyone, especially if you have kids. Atlantis Water Park is a family-friendly waterpark near the south end of the main beach in Marmaris.
The waterpark has eight slides, varying in length, a wave pool, as well as a kids’ pool with fountains. Other facilities include a mini-golf course, restaurants, bars and of course 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 Azmak River in Akyaka
One of the top things to do in Marmaris is to take a cruise along the Azmak River and have a meal at one of the riverside restaurants. Located just outside the town of Akyaka is the Azmak River, a stunning natural paradise that is considered to be a hidden gem amongst the local people.
Azmak River’s aquarium like crystal clear water is home to a variety of sea life which you can see clearly from the boat. Above the water, you can admire the many types of birds flying about and nesting. Whether you have a meal, take a boat ride or even a swim, you will love the chilled atmosphere of Azmak River Akyaka.
Book an afternoon tour from Marmaris to Akyaka that includes a boat ride and a visit to ancient tombs.
It was so nice having a meal and watching the water and ducks at lunch.
Things to do at night in Marmaris
There are so many amazing things that you do at night in Marmaris Turkey while on 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. Marmaris Bar Street
If you want nightlife, bars and clubs then head to Marmaris Bar Street, located a street away from the marina. For party lovers, this is the best place to spend a night in the Mediterranean resort.
The street is filled with various music venues, cocktail bars and clubs that cater for everyone. You have everything from Karaoke, laser shows, live music to foam parties with most open to the early hours of the morning.
Marmaris Bar Street is also a popular destination with people in their late teens and twenties due to its club scene. The atmosphere can get very loud so if you’re looking for something quieter, head to the Marmaris marina or beach bars.
13. Dancing Fountain
The dancing fountain is spectacular water, light and music show located at Youth Square in the centre of Marmaris. During the high season, the show is held daily twice a night at 09:00 pm and 10:30 pm with a duration of 15 minutes.
The Dancing Fountain looks especially pretty at night which creates a great atmosphere. Not only is the dancing fountain family friendly but it is also free to watch. This is a great option if you are travelling on a budget and looking for things to do at night.
I recommend seeing the show with an ice-cream after you have enjoyed your dinner to finish off the night.
Other top things you can do near Marmaris
If you looking for other ideas for places to visit while in Marmaris. Here are just a few top things to do in and around Marmaris that involve either history or outdoor activities.
- Marmaris Amphitheatre – Historical amphitheatre
- Marmaris Marina – A marina with boats, cafes and restaurants.
- Keci Island – Visit the island, where water activities are available.
- Marmaris National Park – 30,000 hectares of protected nature all around
Here are some amazing activities that you can book while in Marmaris, Dalaman Turkey before you go.
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 in anything from hostels and apartments to 5 Star hotels situated along Marmaris Beach. There are also all-inclusive hotels in Marmaris that range from 2 stars to 5-star.
Most of the accommodations and hotels are within walking distance from the Marmaris marina and town centre. However, if you don’t feel like walking, there are lots of options for getting around like catching a golf buggy. Check the current availability and prices for hotels within the Marmaris Dalaman Turkey area.
Accommodation in Turkey uses European adapters for electrical equipment, which have two round pins.
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 best hotels in Marmaris and features a stunning freshwater pool and a private beach. If food and drinking are your thing then you will be glad to know the resort has 5 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. Even though it was all-inclusive the room also had coffee and tea facilities.
Grand Azur Marmaris was the perfect all inclusive hotel for a summer holiday. Not only did it look like I was in paradise, but it was also in a great location right on the Mediterranean Sea. You can read reviews on Trip Advisor.
Top Tip
- Go down to the beach bar and have a glass of wine and watch the sunset before dinner.
⇒ Staying in Oludeniz another popular beach town? I recommend checking out the Liberty Hotel Oludeniz, located in a fantastic position.
16. Getting to Marmaris
Marmaris is part of the Dalaman Region on the southwestern coast of Turkey and it is super easy to get to. It is also a port city so a lot of cruise liners also dock in Marmaris during their trip.
Best Airport for Marmaris
The best airport for getting to Marmaris is Dalaman Airport which is roughly 95 km away. It should take you 1 and a half hours to get from Dalaman airport to Marmaris via car.
I flew with Jet2 airlines as a part of Dalaman with Jet2 Holidays, which currently services 9 airport routes from the UK and various other areas in Europe. From Dalaman airport, it is easily accessible to reach the 7 Resort areas that are currently serviced by Jet2 in the Dalaman area.
⇒ Take your holiday to the next level and obtain a Priority Pass Membership, where you can gain access to over 1500 lounges that offer complimentary refreshments, FREE Wi-Fi and so much more.
Transfer to Marmaris
The best way to get to Marmaris Dalaman is via transfer, whether shared or private. If you are taking a Jet2 package, they will give you a choice of options that are available.
Hire a car for doing 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.
⇒ Check out Travel Supermarket for FREE, easy fast comparison on car hire in Dalaman.
17. Tips for doing things in Marmaris
- Wifi; Have non-stop WiFi access in Turkey to keep everyone updated with your activities.
- Have dinner or drinks at the High Side Restaurant, which has great views over the marina especially at night.
- Sunscreen: Marmaris gets really hot during the summer period, please make sure to wear the appropriate lotion.
- I felt safe travelling in Marmaris turkey for me and I had no trouble.
- Keep hydrated; Best to have a 1 Litre bladder bag (Also known as Hydration bladder) or a sports water bottle to keep you hydrated. Especially during the hot summer months in Marmaris.
18. Discover more places around the Mediterranean Sea
Millions of people flock to seaside cities along the Mediterranean coast every year 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
- Top Things to do in Oludeniz
- Free Self-guided walking tour in Nicosia Cyprus
⇒ Make sure that you do not require a visa for Marmaris Dalaman before you go. You can check and see if there are any requirements.
Thank you for reading this article on what to do in Marmaris, Turkey. The Dalaman area is a great place to take a summer holiday in Turkey. You can take an adventure to Turgut Falls, explore Grand Bazaar or simply lay on the beach at Sedir Island (Cleopatra Island).
Have you been to Marmaris Turkey?
Please feel free to share your experience in the comments below or if you know of any other places to see while in Dalaman or the surrounding area.
Disclaimer: Even though I was invited by the Jet2 and Jet2Holidays. 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!