Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Marmaris, Turkey

Summary of Attractions in Marmaris:

At the head of a bay encircled by high wooded hills lies the resort of Marmaris.

To illustrate the growth of this location over the past 50 years, the population was merely 3,000 in the 1960s, whereas it now exceeds 250,000 during the summer months.

This increase is well-justified, as Marmaris offers virtually everything one might desire from a Mediterranean holiday.

Visitors can immerse themselves in pristine nature among uninhabited islands, coves, and densely wooded hills, while also enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of a contemporary resort filled with bars, nightclubs, and numerous dining options.

Cultural offerings abound, with archaeological sites and an exquisite museum located in the town, alongside boats leaving from the resort’s elegant marina to coastal nature reserves and secluded islands.

1. Marmaris Castle and Archaeology Museum

This town was fortified as early as 3000 BCE, but the origins of the castle on the small peninsula between the main beach and marina date back to the 16th century.

Marmaris Castle was renovated during this period by Suleiman the Magnificent (1494-1566) amidst his campaign against Rhodes.

The structure sustained significant damage from French warships during World War I and underwent a decade-long restoration in the 1980s.

Visitors should not miss the exceptional archaeology museum, which serves as a repository for artefacts excavated from sites throughout Marmaris and Muğla.

The displays include pottery, glassware, architectural fragments, coins, amphorae and more, all spanning the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods.

Additionally, the museum boasts an ethnographic section showcasing local crafts and lifestyles from the Ottoman period.

2. İçmeler Plajı

Although Marmaris has a satisfactory beach, those willing to venture a bit farther will be rewarded by beaches that are even more breathtaking.

A great starting point is İçmeler, located just 15 minutes around the Bay of Marmaris and surrounded by picturesque hills covered in pine trees.

This smaller resort features a remarkable 500-meter beach nestled in a cove, with its waters protected by Keçi Island located offshore.

İçmeler Plajı consistently earns the Blue Flag designation for its cleanliness and facilities, predominantly showcasing soft, light brown sand.

The water is incredibly clear, reminiscent of a swimming pool, providing a safe environment for children to enjoy.

3. Sedir Island (Cleopatra Island)

The juxtaposition between the vibrant, modern Marmaris and this stunning uninhabited island to the north of the peninsula is striking.

To access Sedir Island, one must make a relatively simple journey to the village of Çamlı, followed by a short boat ride.

The island often receives its name from Cleopatra, as legend holds that Cleopatra and Mark Antony bathed here over 2000 years ago.

The island can be traversed within minutes on foot, and on its northern side, Cleopatra Beach awaits, featuring a sweeping expanse of sparkling turquoise water that remains shallow for nearly 100 meters.

Sedir is also home to the ancient settlement of Cedrae, with remnants including an agora and theatre scattered throughout the island.

4. Marmaris National Park

If the ambiance in Marmaris ever becomes overwhelming, one can escape to nearly 30,000 hectares of protected natural space nearby.

This national park envelops Marmaris on land and includes the islands within the bay.

The scenery comprises towering rocky hills draped with pine, sweet gum, and eucalyptus trees.

Wild boar and goats are frequently encountered, while Eurasian lynxes have also been spotted within the park, which is home to a variety of raptors such as kestrels, falcons, eagles, and hawks.

The views from the hills are breathtaking, and the terrain is ideal for walkers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. For those with a car, Turunç, located along the west side of the bay, is in close proximity to the ancient city of Amos, where remarkable ruins such as a temple, theatre, and sculptural plinths can be explored in a stunning coastal context.

5. Marmaris Marina

No modern resort of the 21st century would be complete without a sophisticated marina, and the harbor in Marmaris is particularly enchanting against the backdrop of the castle and the hills of Marmaris National Park.

The quays and jetties are well-paved, providing a pleasant area for a leisurely stroll amidst a forest of masts, luxurious yachts, and the rugged landscapes surrounding the bay.

The main quay features a variety of cafes, boutiques, and restaurants, which extend along the west bank of the river and continue along the lively Bar Street, which will be addressed later.

This marina also serves as a launch point for boat tours of Marmaris Bay and voyages to the Dalyan River Delta.

6. Dancing Fountain

An indicator of Marmaris’ rapid development is Youth Square, a plaza that replaced a dilapidated building from the 20th century.

At the lower end of Ulusal Egemenlik Cd., a circular fountain captures the attention of passersby.

This fountain features two basins and draws crowds at 21:00 and 22:00 during the high season, showcasing an automated light and music display.

The Dancing Fountain appears particularly spectacular at night against the backdrop of the clock tower on the northern side.

7. Turunç Plajı

Approximately half an hour south of the resort lies the village of Turunç, situated facing east along the Bay of Marmaris, nestled among rocky hills draped in forest.

The beach, tucked away in a cove, features water with a deeper aquamarine hue and remains pleasantly calm.

Turunç Beach has received the Blue Flag certification and boasts a unique mix of coarse sand and pebbles, equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas for a leisurely afternoon in the sun.

A charming promenade borders the cove, allowing visitors to enjoy the sunrise from the railings early in the morning.

8. Incekum Plajı

Numerous secluded beaches await exploration along the Marmaris Peninsula’s intricately indented coastline.

A pristine example on the northern side, across from Sedir Island, presents a cove with remarkably clear and shallow turquoise waters.

Incekum Plajı features fine sand interspersed with large rocks, bordered by pine trees providing additional shade for sunbathers.

The beach faces the Gulf of Gokova, with the dramatic backdrop of Sedir Island and the coastal mountains of Muğla.

The entire beach is associated with a restaurant, and entering the beach requires a small fee.

To ensure tranquility, road access is restricted, requiring a brief tractor ride from the parking area located a couple of kilometers along the coast.

9. Marmaris Safari

A fantastic way to explore the rugged landscapes of Marmaris National Park is on horseback.

This excursion offers an opportunity to mount your horse within half an hour after departing your hotel.

No prior riding experience is required, as you will embark on a leisurely journey through fragrant pine forests, alongside orange groves, and through charming traditional villages.

Your horse will be calm, allowing you to simply enjoy the scenery as you ride.

Children can also partake in this experience, provided a parent is present in the group, and helmets will be made available.

10. All-Inclusive Boat Tour with Lunch

Given the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding the Bay of Marmaris, a leisurely cruise offers a delightful way to absorb the scenery.

This experience provides a seven-hour trip aboard a comfortable and well-equipped vessel, showcasing the best that the bay and its islands have to offer.

Passengers can disembark at Paradise Island, relax on secluded beaches, and swim in the unique phosphorescent waters of the Phosphorus Cave.

The cruise will also make stops at Turunç and another picturesque bay at Kumlubük situated a bit further south.

Lunch will be served on board, with cold beverages available as needed, and ample space provided for sunbathing on deck.

11. Marmaris Beach

While adventurers may be tempted to seek out the perfect beach, the main beach in the bustling center of the resort is well-maintained, conveniently located, and gently slopes into crystal-clear waters.

A lively promenade is situated directly behind the beach, lined with countless cafes and restaurants.

Many of these establishments, as well as the waterfront hotels, manage the beach clubs that dot the shoreline, ensuring orderly arrangements of sun loungers throughout.

Facing the sea, the view of the Bay of Marmaris, with its pool-like waters, islands, and rugged scenery, will help alleviate any stress.

The public part of the beach can be found towards the northern end.

12. Dalyan River

Further afield, the Dalyan Delta, situated approximately 30 kilometers east of central Marmaris, serves as a nature conservation area designed to protect the loggerhead sea turtles that nest along the sandy beaches and are often spotted swimming in the waters.

The journey through the delta’s winding channels presents an exciting experience.

Passengers will visit sulfur springs and mud baths for a unique spa-like experience, and will be awed by the magnificent tombs carved into the cliffs surrounding the ancient Lycian city of Kaunos.

The excursion concludes with a stop at Turtle Beach, located at the river’s mouth, where visitors can spend time sunbathing and swimming.

13. Marmaris Bar Street

The primary nightlife hub in Marmaris is located a street in from the waterfront adjacent to the marina.

As its name suggests, Bar Street is densely populated with numerous bars and clubs catering primarily to the youthful crowd in their late-teens and twenties.

During the peak season, the area is bustling, with venues typically becoming lively around 23:00 and continuing the festivities until dawn.

Notable establishments include Greenhouse Dance Club, Backstreet Disco, Crazy Daisy Bar & Nightclub, Club Areena, and Rock Bar.

The diverse music offerings range from EDM and rock to pop, Turkish pop, reggae, and live performances, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Some establishments cater to specific nationalities, including Turkish, Russian, or British clientele.

14. Marmaris Atlantis Waterpark

A convenient option for families traveling with children and teenagers, there exists a waterpark near the southern end of Marmaris’ main beach.

Despite space in the central resort being limited, Atlantis Waterpark features eight slides varying in speed and length, plus a wave pool perfect for relaxing in an inflatable ring.

A dedicated kids’ pool is equipped with play equipment and fountains, alongside soft play areas, a mini-golf course, restaurants, and plenty of sun loungers shaded by parasols and awnings.

15. Grand Bazaar

Consider this a quintessential tourist experience that is unavoidable in a Turkish resort: The Grand Bazaar in Marmaris has expanded significantly, comprised of an intricate network of alleys beneath a vaulted roof, populated by enthusiastic traders.

The offerings include rugs, pottery, colorful lamps, pashminas, Turkish delight, tea and coffee sets, along with a plethora of replicas and souvenirs.

Haggling is encouraged here, and with a bit of patience, visitors may secure discounts of up to half the initially quoted price.