Marmaris is a great holiday destination because it offers something for everyone - which is why I decided to buy a house in the town back in 2000. You can party away the night if that's your thing or enjoy a romantic meal in the beautiful setting of Marmaris Marina. Surrounding the town are the pine-clad mountains of Marmaris National Park and let's not forget the boat trips, safaris, and hospitality of the Turkish people which all make a memorable holiday destination.
1. Marmaris Marina
Marmaris Marina is lined with cafes, bars and fish restaurants and makes for a beautiful evening walk as you admire the super yachts which pay a lot of money to berth in the Marina. As the sun goes down you will no doubt want to enjoy some good food and chilled wine against the backdrop of the mountains and Marmaris castle.
The good news is that enjoying a meal in a good restaurant won't break the bank and many places have rooftop terraces for an even better view of the promenade and jetties.
2. Marmaris Beach
Perhaps a relaxing day or two on the beach being served drinks by your beach waiter will help you unwind and get in the holiday spirit. The main beach runs for several kilometres and behind it is a wide promenade backed by bars, hotels and restaurants.
Sunbeds and umbrellas a free provided you buy a drink or two from the establishment that services that section. Several places have constructed jetties in the sea and you can choose to eat and drink in the restaurant, on the beach or out on the jetty. It's a good place to try in the evening and although some stretches of the beach promenade can be lively other areas are very relaxing and make a great destination for your evening meal.
3. Marmaris Bar Street
Bar Street is the first street back from the Marina. In the daytime and early evening, many of the nightclubs and bars are closed but a few places remain open. After eleven the place starts to get lively and in the high season, the street is packed with party-goers looking for a good time. Plenty of places sell street food to soak up the alcohol and keep you going into the small hours.
4. The Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar is a required stop on any visit to Marmaris. It may not be able to match Istanbul for size and spectacle but there is enough to keep the serious shopper entertained.
The vaulted ceilings and walkways are lined with shops selling shoes, handbags, rugs, watches, jewellery and all manner of trinkets and souvenirs. A lot of it falls under the category of "Genuine fake" and you will be encouraged to view the merchandise by the traders who sit outside and do their best to get your attention.
5. All-Inclusive Boat Trip
As you are on holiday why not sit back and relax and let someone else do the driving whilst you enjoy a cold beer or two? Marmaris is not short on natural beauty and there will be several swim stops to cool you down before a stop at Turunc. Most boat trips include free drinks and a nice lunch prepared and served on the boat.
Make sure you go with a company that provides a trip that suits your requirements. Are you looking for loud music, dancing and fun and games or a tranquil sightseeing trip?
6. Take a Jeep Safari
One of my favourite days out is to take a jeep safari and explore the mountains, villages and beaches surrounding Marmaris. On a hot day, it is good to get in the cool shade of the pine forest with the wind in your face.
The best safari is with Erol Yaman (Andy's Bar & Restaurant). Erol will take you on a great tour which ends up at his family home up in the mountains where he prepares a BBQ lunch.
7. Turunc Beach
Turunc is a small town a few miles from Marmaris. many boat trip tours will stop at Turunc and you will have an hour or so to wander around the shops, check out the beach or grab a beer or coffee. Turunc can also be reached by Water Taxi or Dolmus.
8. The Dancing Fountain
Once the location of a rather decrepit supermarket and car park the Plaza near Marmaris Centre has been rejuvenated. At 2100 each evening a music and light show starts with some spectacular effects from the large circular fountain. The show draws in the crowds - but take care not to get drowned!
9. Take a walk To Icmeler
Icmeler is the nearest resort to Marmaris and one of my favourite walks is to follow the promenade from Marmaris in to Icmeler. It's also possible to take a Dolmus or Water Taxi if you prefer.
Icmeler is a much smaller resort but if you like a nice beach then the one at Icmeler is much wider and has a better feel - Although you will have to pay for the privilege. I skip the beach and time my walk so I arrive ready for some lunch and a drink. After a little shopping, I head for the Dolmus back into Marmaris.
10.The Cinema
I know the Cinema might not be the first thing that springs to mind on a holiday in Turkey. However, there is usually a choice of a couple of English movies and if you need some respite from the heat in July and August a couple of hours in a dark air-conditioned room can be very tempting.
The 10 Best Things to Do in Marmaris Turkey
1. Marmaris Marina
2. Marmaris Beach
3. Bar Street
4. The Grand Bazaar
5. All Inclusive Boat Trip
6. Take a Jeep safari
7. Turunc Beach
8 The Dancing Fountain
9. Walk to Icmeler
10.The Cinema
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