Recently, Turkey fans have begun to discover resorts on the shores of the Aegean Sea. Marmaris, a small port town on the southwestern tip of the country, is becoming increasingly popular. The tourist infrastructure here is at a decent level, the beaches are pleasing with their diversity, and the city itself and its surroundings are full of attractions. You can learn all about Marmaris and its features in our article.
General information
Marmaris is a city and an important port located in the south-west of Turkey in the province of Mugla. Its population is just over 91 thousand people. The city is located in a valley surrounded by mountain ranges, the slopes of which are covered with lush pine trees. It is here that the Mediterranean Sea meets the Aegean Sea, whose clear waters create ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving. The resort is also considered a sailing center.
A holiday in Marmaris in Turkey promises to be active and fun, because in addition to excellent opportunities for water sports, it offers a lot of modern entertainment. In the town you will find all kinds of bars, concert venues and clubs. And those travelers for whom sightseeing trips are a priority will meet interesting sights, both natural and cultural.
Of particular interest is the Old district of Marmaris, filled with ancient narrow streets and miniature houses. And on the main city embankment, real resort life always boils: tourists and locals gather here in the evenings to relax in a cozy restaurant or take a leisurely walk along the picturesque sea coast.
Attractions
Any holiday trip is not complete without sightseeing activities, so if you are planning to visit the famous Turkish resort, you should get acquainted with its main attractions and choose the most interesting places for yourself. To make it easier to navigate the places we describe, we recommend using the map of Marmaris with attractions in Russian, presented at the bottom of the page.
Main Square and Dancing fountains
In the heart of Marmaris lies a beautiful square, which is surprisingly large for such a small city. And in the center of the square are the famous dancing fountains. Hundreds of tourists come here every day to watch the water show, which is performed to the music of various nationalities and accompanied by laser projections. Especially beautiful are the sky-high colored jets against the background of the town Hall: you can catch a unique shot and take unusual photos of Marmaris. The fountains are decorated with sculptures of fishermen and mermaids, which looks very romantic in the evening.
- The dancing fountain show starts daily at 21: 00 and lasts about half an hour. In high season, it is repeated at 22: 00.
- You can watch the water show completely free of charge.
- Near the attraction there are several cafes offering a comfortable stay.
- Address: Ulusal Egemenlik Cad., Marmaris, Turkey.
Marmaris Embankment
Throughout the city center, a neat embankment stretches along the coast, full of flower beds and lush greenery. Here you can admire a variety of sculptures, among which there is a monument to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, a statue of a bronze astronaut and a mermaid. A special atmosphere of the area is given by the numerous sea vessels moored at the pier. During the high season, the city hosts music festivals that provide unforgettable fun and relaxation. Along the embankment there is a chain of shops and restaurants, where travelers prefer to relax in between walks.
- You can come to the embankment for free at any time.
- Address: Ataturk Cd., Marmaris, Turkey.
Marmaris Castle and Museum
It is generally believed that the history of the castle began around 1044 BC, the building was conceived as a residential structure. Since then, it has fallen into the hands of great emperors for centuries.
The Ionians invaded the land of Caria around 1044 BC. e. Their rule stretched from Miletus to Ephesus. It was during their reign that the castle was built.
After the Ionians, Caria fell into the hands of several other empires, including the Dorians and Alexander the Great, whose army laid siege to the castle in 334 BC.Later, the Romans seized power in 138 BC, until the powerful Ottomans rebelled in 1425 AD, capturing the city and making it a large part of their territory. During Ottoman rule, Suleiman the Magnificent changed the name of the city from Fiskos to Mimaras, and in his attempts to capture the island of Rhodes, renovated the castle for use in his military operations.
After Ottoman rule, Marmaris served as an important port harbor. In 1913, the Germans used it to shelter their destroyers. During the First World War, the castle was shelled by the French Navy. He received significant damage.
The castle was turned into a residence until the 1980s. Inside the castle there are 18 houses, a cistern and an arch; communities settled here until the landmark was restored and turned into an archaeological monument.
Why visit the castle?
- To get a stunning view of the harbor. The attraction boasts a magnificent landscape and gardens. This is a great place to immerse yourself in history, enjoy the breezes from the coast and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the watchtowers.
- Discover the art of past eras. In the hall of archeology, antiquities are displayed – there are about 5000 years of history. The presented coins, amphorae, glass products, jewelry and pottery belong to the Hellenistic, Byzantine and Roman eras. In the ethnography, you will see weapons, furniture and utensils typical of the Ottoman Empire. The artifacts are well displayed and are accompanied by information boards.
Practical information:
- The attraction is open daily from 8: 30 to 19: 00 (in winter until 17: 00). Monday is a day off in winter.
- The entrance fee is about $1 in local currency.
- Address: Tepe Mah. Kale Ici Marmaris Merkez, Marmaris, Marmaris, Turkey.
Bar Street
This long street, calm and quiet during the day, turns into a center of fun in the evenings, where a real holiday reigns. There are many clubs and noisy bars, where you can hear European and Turkish music. Prices in the establishments are relatively high, but the rest here is at the highest level. Everyone can find a bar to their liking, so if you are wondering where it is best to relax in Marmaris in the evenings, then feel free to go to the street of bars.
- Location on map: Bar Street, Marmaris, Turkey.
Atlantis Water Park
A small but rather interesting water park “Atlantis” is located directly on the embankment in the center of Marmaris. On the territory of the water complex there is everything you need for recreation. In the park you will find several water slides, swimming pools, as well as a private beach with sun beds and a cleared entrance to the sea. Atlantis also has a children’s playground and a cafe serving snacks and Turkish coffee. There is a swimming pool with artificial waves. The staff of the complex is very friendly and tries to entertain tourists. In general, you will need no more than 2-3 hours to visit the water park.
- From mid-May to mid-October, the water park is open daily from 10: 00 to 17: 00.
- The entrance fee for an adult is $18.40, for children from 5 to 12 years – $13, for children under 5 years of age admission is free. On the official website of the park, tickets are 20% cheaper.
- Address: Siteler Mah. 212 Sok No: 3, Marmaris 48700, Turkey.
- Website: www.marmarissuparki.com.
Dolphinarium (Dolphin Park)
Dolphin Park, located about 5 km southwest of the city center, is not an ordinary dolphinarium. They don’t put on a stunt show, but offer to meet the animals and go swimming with them. This dolphin therapy is an alternative to psychotherapy, which the Russian-speaking girl at the checkout will tell you about in detail. Despite the high cost of the event, many tourists who have visited here recommend trying such therapy, which, according to them, brings a lot of unforgettable emotions. If you want to see the animals but don’t want to go swimming with them, you can also go inside and watch the session of other visitors.
- The cost of a 40-minute dolphin therapy is 80 euros for a group of 8 people and 120 euros for a pair swim.
- There is a photographer on site who takes professional photos during your communication with dolphins (the cost of a photo session is 50 euros).
- This attraction is open daily from 9: 00 to 17: 00.
- Address: Ataturk Cad. No: 64 / Mares Hotel, Icmeler 48700, Turkey.
- Website: www.dolphin-therapy.org.
Marmaris Market
Grand Bazar in Marmaris in Turkey – a market and a tourist attraction rolled into one. Here you can find absolutely any goods: spices, souvenirs, home textiles, clothing, shoes, bags, etc. This ancient place will perfectly immerse you in the atmosphere of oriental flavor and teach you the art of bargaining. And you will have to bargain, because the prices in this bazaar are inflated by 2-3 times. In general, the same goods are sold here as everywhere else in Turkey, but in some shops you can find really original products.
Address: Tepe, 38. Sok., 48700 Marmaris, Turkey.
Datcha Peninsula
Among the sights of Marmaris and its surroundings, the Datca Peninsula, located 71 km southwest of the resort, is of particular interest. It is a peaceful and pleasant place with a beautiful long beach surrounded by pristine nature. There are many ancient monuments preserved here, which can be explored in just one day. Since Datcha is located far from Marmaris, it is not very popular with vacationers, but this place is definitely worth a visit, if only for the sake of its many picturesque coves. There is a museum at the tip of the peninsula, and a lighthouse nearby that offers a breathtaking panorama of the sea and the Greek islands.
Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island)
Located 23 km northwest of the resort, Cleopatra Island is another attraction of Marmaris, which attracts with its unusually beautiful bay with crystal clear turquoise sea. Legend has it that the island was once given to Cleopatra by Mark Antony, but she did not like it because of the rocky terrain. Then the politician, in order to please the queen, ordered to bring snow-white sand there. Today, only a few grains of it remain on a small plot, which is fenced and strictly guarded. When you go to Cleopatra Island, get ready for an active holiday and be sure to take a snorkel to admire the numerous marine life.
- The pier, where motorboats go to the island, is reached by rented transport. A boat trip costs about $4.
- You can also visit Cleopatra Island as part of an excursion tour ($20 + $ 9 entrance ticket).
Beaches
The resort’s beaches are primarily pleasing for their cleanliness and clear sea water. Many of them have received a Blue Flag certificate for their high level of environmental friendliness and safety, so they often come to Marmaris for holidays with children. Today, the most popular are the central beach of Marmaris, as well as places called Icmeler, Siteler, Turunch and Amos. We have dedicated a separate article to the description of these beaches, which you can read here.
Hotels and rates
Marmaris has earned the status of one of the most popular resorts on the Aegean coast for a reason: after all, the city has a highly developed tourist infrastructure and offers a lot of accommodation options to choose from. Here you can find both luxury 5 * hotels and more budget 3* and 4 *hotels.
So, the cost of checking into a double room in a three-star hotel in Marmaris starts from $20 per night in the summer. In a hotel on a star higher, you can stay for at least $40, and on average for $45-60 per night for two. Well, if you are looking for a five-star all-inclusive vacation option, then get ready to pay from $115 per night in a double room.
In addition, there is a very rich selection of apart-hotels in Marmaris, where the price of accommodation in high season starts from $20 per day and on average varies between $30-40. When choosing housing, be sure to pay attention to the location of the object, because some options are far from the coast and the city center.
Cafes, restaurants and bars
Marmaris will delight you with an abundance of public catering outlets. Here you can find both cheap eateries and elite restaurants. Along the embankment, there are numerous restaurants where you can enjoy seafood dishes: trout, sea bass, mussels and shrimp. Some restaurants specialize in Turkish cuisine, others – in European cuisine, so every vacationer can find a cafe to taste here. However, it should be borne in mind that in establishments on the embankment prices are high. So, lunch for two with a bottle of Turkish wine will cost you an average of $20-30.
But in the alleys located near the embankment, there is peace and quiet, and the cost of food in establishments is much lower, although the service is almost no different from more expensive establishments. Especially for our readers, we have studied the cafes and restaurants of Marmaris and identified the most worthy ones among them:
- Karen Brasserie (Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine + seafood)
- Ricky’s Chippy (fast food)
- White Lion (Turkish and European dishes)
- Black Bull Steakhouse
- Viking Beach (Mediterranean, Turkish and European cuisine)
Weather and climate
Unlike most Mediterranean cities, the real season in Marmaris opens only in June. And although the air warms up to 25-26 °C in May, it is quite cool at night (15 °C), and the water in the sea is not quite comfortable for swimming (20 °C). The hottest and sunniest months in the resort are June, July and August. At this time, the thermometer does not fall below 30 °C and on average stays at around 34 °C. The water in the sea warms up to 24 °C in June, and in July and August it ranges from 26-27 °C.
September is the perfect month to spend with children in Marmaris in Turkey. At this time, the climate becomes milder: the air temperature during the day reaches 29-30 °C, and the sea still pleases with its warm water at 26 °C. You can also relax here in October, when the average temperature of both air and water is 24 °C. For more detailed information about the weather in Marmaris, see the table below.
| Month | Average daily temperature | Average night temperature | Sea water temperature | Number of sunny days | Number of rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 12,6 °C | 7,4 °C | 17,8 °C | 16 | 8 |
| february | 14,5 °C | 8,4 °C | 16,9 °C | 13 | 7 |
| March | 16,8 °C | 9,5 °C | 16,7 °C | 19 | 5 |
| april | 20,9 °C | 12,4 °C | 17,8 °C | 23 | 3 |
| May | 24,9 °C | 15,6 °C | 20,3 °C | 28 | 3 |
| June | 30,4 °C | 19,7 °C | 23,3 °C | 30 | 1 |
| July | 34,1 °C | 22,8 °C | 25,8 °C | 31 | 0 |
| august | 34,1 °C | 23,2 °C | 27,2 °C | 31 | 0 |
| september | 30,3 °C | 20,4 °C | 26,3 °C | 29 | 1 |
| october | 24,8 °C | 16,4 °C | 23,9 °C | 27 | 3 |
| November | 19,4 °C | 12,4 °C | 21,6 °C | 21 | 3 |
| december | 14,8 °C | 8,9 °C | 19,3 °C | 19 | 6 |
How to get
There is no air harbor in Marmaris itself, and the nearest airport is located 95 km to the southeast in the city of Dalaman. During the summer season, independent tourists arrive in Dalaman on a charter flight, and directly from the airport to the resort itself they take the Havaş intercity bus. The journey takes about an hour and a half, and the ticket price is $4. The bus arrives at the main bus station of Marmaris (Otogar), from where the hotel can be reached by taxi.
During the absence of charter flights to Dalaman, the road to the resort takes longer. So, to get to Marmaris, you will first need to fly to Istanbul airport, and then transfer to a domestic flight to Dalaman. You can view your tickets from Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines.
As a starting point to Marmaris in Turkey, many people consider Antalya, from where the daily bus to the resort city follows. The journey time is 4 hours and 30 minutes, and the cost of the trip is $15. The current schedule can be found on the website flixbus.com. There is no point in flying from Antalya to Dalaman, since there are no direct flights, and the transfer is carried out in Istanbul. These are probably the most convenient and efficient ways to get to Marmaris.
Conclusion
A holiday in Marmaris is very different from a holiday in the Mediterranean region, so if you have never visited the west coast of Turkey before, then feel free to go to the resort. Crystal clear waters, convenient beaches, an abundance of hotels, cafes and restaurants, a variety of attractions-all this awaits you in the city by the Aegean Sea.
