You may be surprised to learn that there are many more things to do in Marmaris than just lying on the beach. There’s nothing better than soaking up the summer sun, eating delicious Turkish food, and exploring a new place.
For me, havingI lived in Marmaris for several monthsthis place ticks all those boxes and more. Never mind where to stay in Marmarisyou are sure to have an unforgettable vacation.
Türkiye is a huge country with an almost endless list of places to visitcomprising many beach resorts to choose from, so why choose Marmaris? I lived there with my husband (himself a local)and I can say without hesitation that it is one of the most pleasant and beautiful places I have ever been.
Of course, AntalyaThe beaches are beautiful and Bodrum has glitz and glamour, but there is something about Marmaris that seems so welcoming.
It certainly helps that there are so many places to visit in Marmaris; you won’t be bored for a second. Sightseeing in Marmaris isn’t just about boats and beaches, it’s also about nature and history. Oh, and the food; don’t forget the food.
SEE ALSO: 15 Best Things to Do in Izmir, Türkiye
Best Things to Do in Marmaris
Marmaris is open for fun in the sun between late April and late October. You can visit in winter, but most things will be closed and the weather is extremely changeable.
However, during the summer months you can expect abundant sunshine, little to no rain, and plenty of Marmaris attractions to occupy your time.
Because it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you visit a new place and you may not know what to do, I’ve put together a list of my 15 favorite things to do in Marmaris.
You can of course forgo it and just relax on the beach; I really wouldn’t blame you. But this area is so beautiful that it’s worth dedicating a few days to a big exploration.
SEE ALSO: 15 Best Things to Do in Türkiye
1. Relax on the beach
Okay, let’s get the obvious one out of the way. There are plenty of things to do in Marmaris, but spending time at the beach is a must for at least half of your visit. Uzunyali is the main beach of Marmaris – it is long (known locally as Long Beach) and is lined with bars, restaurants and hotels.
If you eat and drink at a particular bar or restaurant, your lounge chair and umbrella will be free. Alternatively, you can use the public beach and simply lay your towel on the sand.
However, if you come with children, I have some advice for you. Jump on the dolmus (minibus) to the neighbors Icmelerwhich is only 10 minutes away.
The beach there is wider, away from the main road, and in my opinion, the sea is cleaner. Many water sports are available on both beaches and offer stunning views while you relax.
Address: Uzunyali Beach, Kemeraltı, Atatürk Cd. No. 28, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla
2. Visit Marmaris Castle and Museum
One of the main tourist attractions in Marmaris is Marmaris Castle and its adjoining museum. It’s a fantastic place to learn about the area, but the views sell it for me.
If you visit on a clear day (lots of it in summer), you can see all the way to Icmeler and beyond.
Of all the things to do in Marmaris, I recommend spending a few hours walking to the castle. You can also take a city walking tourwhich includes a visit to the castle and museum. Click here for more details and to book.
The castle sits above the old town, so be sure to head back down to explore the winding cobbled streets and enjoy a cup of coffee or a traditional Turkish çay.
Address: Tepe, 30. Sk No:54, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla
3. Shop at the Grand Bazaar
Like in Istanbulone of the top things to do in Marmaris is shopping at the markets and Grand Bazaar.
The center of Marmaris is home to a large indoor market and inside you will find stalls and shops selling everything from replica designer clothing to bags, handbags, sneakers, souvenirs, ceramics and spices.
When shopping at the bazaar, it is normal and accepted to haggle, so don’t be afraid. Just ask the price and then offer something a little lower. The owner will likely try to counter your suggestion, but you’ll naturally find yourself somewhere in between.
There are also many small vendors selling traditional street food, so be sure to stop and grab a doner kebab – Yilmaz Doner is one of my favorites. There are also excellent cafes, like Cafe Fredonia.
Address: Tepe, 38. Sk., 48700 Marmaris/Muğla
4. Take a boat trip
When the weather is hot, one of the best things to do in Marmaris is to take a boat ride along the coast and enjoy a new view of the city. This is definitely one of my favorite things to do, and there are many options in terms of which trip you choose.
If you are traveling with children, there are several pirate ships with activities on board. Click here to find out more and bookand if you want to see marine life, you can take a glass-bottom boat tour.
However, the most common type of boat trip is a lazy day optionwhich takes you to different islands and bays and stops several times for swimming breaks. Lunch and some drinks are usually included.
Most boat tours stop for an hour at Turunç, a pretty coastal village. THE all-inclusive day boat trip is my favorite and provides a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the views on board. Click here for more details.
Address: Regular meeting point for boat trips: Statue of Atatürk, No:, Tepe, Kordon Cd. No:52, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla, Türkiye
5. Walk to Icmeler
One of the best places to visit in and around Marmaris is Icmeler. This is another resort that runs directly from Marmaris. One of the most enjoyable things to do during the shoulder season when the weather isn’t great. Also hot, it’s a walk between the two stations.
I always do this in October, once the heat has subsided and the air is calm.
If you’re feeling energetic, you can even walk from the marina to İcmeler. It’s a 5 mile walk along the coast, but it’s flat the whole way and is so beautiful, with incredible views.
Grab a bottle of water, wear comfortable shoes, grab your camera and just walk. This is one of the best things to do around Marmaris that costs nothing at all and you will have a complete photo album at the end. You’ll also have burned a lot of calories, so you can treat yourself to a big meal later!
Address: Icmeler, Marmaris, Mugla, Türkiye
6. Take a jeep safari
One of the most unusual things to do in Marmaris, simply because it doesn’t involve the sea, is a jeep safari. I’ve done this trip several times because it’s a great way to break up your stay and see beyond the beach.
You can also have lunch in a traditional village and have fun with a water fight along the way.
Make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. You will be picked up from your hotel, before heading off the road into the countryside, stopping at several beaches and villages as you go.
If you’re traveling with a group or family, this is a great activity to bring everyone together. Click here for more details and to book.
Address: Tours are picked up from your hotel
7. Atlantis Water Park
One of the best things to do in Marmaris for families is a day out Atlantis Water Parkdirectly on the seafront of Marmaris.
The water park has a private section of beach if you prefer to spend time by the sea, but there are swimming pools, water slides, rides and restaurants inside.
The water park opens around May and does not close until the end of October. If you go during the peak summer months, between late June and late August, it will likely be quite crowded.
I recommend going there in the first two weeks of June or early October; It’s much nicer to splash around without the crowds.
There is another water park in Marmaris, called Aqua Dream, but I much prefer Atlantis, mainly because it is bigger. Click here for more details.
Address: Siteler, Uzunyalı Cad No:209, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla
8. Walk on the Marina
If you are looking for free activities in Marmaris, an evening stroll on the marina is a must. This is also one of the best things to do in Marmaris for couples as there is a lovely romantic and relaxing atmosphere over there.
You will pass numerous yachts and huge boats while admiring the stunning views. There are countless restaurants, cafes and bars in this part of Marmaris, so it’s a great place to enjoy a delicious meal and relax with a few drinks. Bono Marina is an excellent restaurant that serves delicious cocktails on the marina.
If you continue to the end you will also find a small shopping area with several cafes. It’s a great place to people watch.
Address: Sarıana Mah., Boulevard M.Münir Elgin 38/2, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla
9. Eat traditional Turkish food
One of my favorite things to do in Marmaris, in fact in all of Turkey, is enjoying traditional foods. food in abundance.
There are fantastic restaurants all over Marmaris, and I recommend getting out of your comfort zone and trying new things. A Turkish breakfast is a must, and my favorite place is Liberty Restaurant in Içmeler.
A true rite of passage, when it comes to local gastronomy, is a visit to Cihan Ocakbaşıwhich offers a traditional experience in a tourist way.
You will watch bread baking in front of you and see food grilled to perfection just a few meters from your table; This is all downright appetizing. Try the Adana kebab here; it’s one of the best I’ve ever tasted.
You will find so many international restaurants in Marmaris that it is definitely worth trying the local cuisine. You can also easily find street food, including gözleme and börek.
Address: Cihan Ocakbaşı, Siteler, Barbaros Cd. No:2, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla
10. Cocktails with a view
The castle is the highest point in Marmaris, so it’s no surprise that the views from the surrounding area Château Cuisine Café & Bar are epic.
Having dinner and a drink (or two) here is one of the best things to do in Marmaris at sunset and in the evening. The staff here are attentive and friendly and the prices are fair. Call ahead to reserve your spot!
Address: Tepe, 37. St. No:59, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla, Türkiye
11. Explore Marmaris National Park
If you want to immerse yourself in the lush greenery that surrounds the mountains and beaches, head to Marmaris National Park.
It is a huge open space, filled with trees, hills, views and providing the opportunity for complete rest and relaxation. This is one of the best places to visit in Marmaris and is somewhat of a hidden gem.
I always put on my comfy shoes and go for a walk in this park, and it’s so peaceful you’ll feel a million miles from the crowds on the waterfront.
Visiting the national park is one of the most unique things to do in Marmaris as not many people know about the area. Some know it’s a beautiful place, but don’t know there is a walking trail they can follow. Click here for hiking routes in the national park.
I highly recommend heading out to enjoy some peace and quiet in the countryside if you have the time. It’s wonderfully cool on a hot day, thanks to the shade of the trees. Don’t forget to take water with you as there are no cafes or shops here.
Address: Armutalan District, Atatürk Cd., 48706 Marmaris/Muğla
12. Learn about honey in Marmaris Bal Evi
Did you know that Marmaris is famous for its pine honey? Marmaris Honey House is one of the most unique attractions in Marmaris and one that many visitors miss because it’s not right in the center of the city (it’s just outside). Even I didn’t know he was there until after several months of live there.
If you’re looking for things to do near Marmaris that have nothing to do with the sea and offer you an insight into local traditions, this is the place to go.
Not only will you learn how pine honey is produced, but you’ll also get to try some, enjoy some delicious desserts on the side, and of course, buy some jars to take home if you wish.
Kids will love learning about honey bees, and it’s also a great way to raise conservation awareness.
Address: Osmaniye, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla
13. Take a trip to Dalyan mud baths
Strictly speaking, it is not really In Marmaris, but it is one of top rated trips you can take away from the city and therefore one of the best places to visit near Marmaris. It’s a great way to see something different for a few hours.
Dalian is a small village about an hour from Marmaris, where you will find mud baths said to be fantastic for your skin. Most tours also include a visit to Turtle Beach, where you can sometimes spot sea turtles, and a cruise on the Dalyan River, passing the King’s Tombs. Click here to find out more and book.
Mud bathing is one of the top things to do in the Marmaris area, and it’s a must-do day out for first-time visitors. However, a word of warning: the showers are freezing and a bit brutal. Enter slowly!
Address: Dalyan, strait, Ortaca/Muğla
14. Relax in a Turkish bath
An authentic Turkish experience wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a hammam or Turkish bath. I recommend doing this at the start of your vacation as the process of cleansing and exfoliating the skin removes dead cells and gives you an even base for a good tan.
When thinking about what to do in Marmaris, don’t miss this experience. Not only is it super relaxing, but it’s something traditional that you can say you’ve done. Many hotels and spas offer Turkish baths, but a visit to an authentic hammam is always the best.
You can also pay for additional services at the end, like a full body massage or pedicure. Either way, you’ll spend time in a sauna, sweating out impurities, before doing a full body cleanse in the hammam area.
At the end, you’ll feel like you’re floating as you sit back and relax with a cup of Turkish tea. Click here for more details and to book.
Address: Tours are picked up directly from your hotel.
15. Go scuba diving
There’s plenty to see in Marmaris on land, but there’s also plenty to discover under the sea. Take a scuba diving trip with an instructor allows you to visit the underwater world and explore what lies beneath.
Marmaris is home to several small shipwrecks and is full of colorful fish and even sea turtles.
Most scuba diving tours tend to go further into open water than regular boat tours, and as such you can see a lot more.
Although I haven’t gone scuba diving myself (I can’t swim, so it would be quite difficult), my husband did, and he raves about the whole experience even to this day. Click here to learn more.
Address: Meeting point of the trip: Tepe, No:, Kordon Cd. No:52, 48700 Marmaris/Muğla
Things to do in Marmaris: FAQ
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Marmaris, Turkey:
What is Marmaris known for?
There are so many things to do in Marmaris, but it is best known for its beaches, food and excellent evening entertainment.
When is the best time to visit Marmaris?
Between May and the end of October is the best time to visit Marmaris, but if you don’t like extremely high temperatures, July and August are best avoided. Marmaris can also be very busy during these two months.
Is Marmaris worth visiting?
Yes, Marmaris is definitely worth a visit. There are so many places to visit in Marmaris, making it much more than just a beach resort. It’s a fun place for families, couples, groups and single travelers.
How many days should I spend in Marmaris?
To really be able to relax and see the best of Marmaris, I would recommend at least a week. Anything less than that and you won’t get the full effect.
Is Marmaris safe?
Marmaris is a safe city to visit. There are the usual tourist traps, such as taxis taking the long route or extra drinks added to your bill, but if you rely on common sense, Marmaris is as safe as any other vacation spot. Use common sense, such as when traveling to a new destination; avoid carrying large amounts of cash and do not show valuables.
What is the most popular activity in Marmaris?
Spending time on the beach is the most popular thing to do in Marmaris, but there’s so much more to it than that. Marmaris is great for shopping, dining, nightlife and nature, and there are some fantastic excursions to take, like boat trips and jeep safaris.
What is the most beautiful beach in Marmaris?
Uzunyali Beach (locally known as Long Beach) is the easiest beach to visit in Marmaris and is the main beach. However, the proximity to Icmeler is a great choice for families, and Yalanci Bogaz is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
What foods should I try in Marmaris?
International cuisine is everywhere in Marmaris, but you should definitely try traditional Turkish cuisine. Doner kebabs are easy to find, but head to a local ocakbaşı restaurant to try grilled meats and different kebab variations. A full Turkish breakfast, or kahvalti, is also a must.
Is 3 days enough in Marmaris?
Three days is not enough in Marmaris if you want to see the area and relax on the beach. You’ll get a taste, but 5 days to a week will serve you best. If you’re considering Turkey as your next home port, take a look at this helpful guide: Digital Nomads Guide to Living in Türkiye.
Is Marmaris cheap or expensive?
In recent years, Marmaris has become a little more expensive than before, but compared to other European beach destinations, it is a much cheaper option. When you explore what to see in Marmaris, you will notice the price differences compared to places like Greece or Italy.
In conclusion
You could say I’m a little biased, but I think Marmaris is one of the most beautiful and fun places to visit on the south coast.
Yes, it’s touristy, but that’s what you expect from a vacation spot. You can choose to indulge in international cuisine and bright lights, or you can dig a little deeper and explore the more authentic side of the city.
There are so many places to visit in Marmaris that it’s impossible to get bored. Even if you’re sitting on the beach doing nothing, you can just take in the scenery and wonder why you’ve never visited it before.
Marmaris will always be my second home, and whether you follow my advice and explore, or just relax on your lounge chair, I guarantee you will have the best time possible.
