Table of Contents
1. Visit Sedir (Cleopatra) Island
Sedir Island is not only a place to enjoy the sea and the beach but also offers opportunities for sightseeing and picnics. This island is a popular tourist destination in Marmaris, and it got its name from the legend that Cleopatra once swam in its sea. It’s also believed that the beautiful golden sands of the beach were brought from North Africa in ancient times. When you visit the island, which you can reach by boat from Çamlık Pier, you can explore historical sites like the city walls of the ancient city of Kedrai, the beach, and the ruins of an ancient theater.
2. Visit Günnücek (Marmaris) National Park
Marmaris National Park, designated as a National Park in 1996, is a beautiful forested area located just 2 km from the town center. It’s named after the native Sweetgum trees found in the region. This park covers about 300 acres and offers a delightful beach, walking paths, a pond, impressive trees, as well as camping and picnic spots. While in Marmaris, make sure to visit this park, which is home to various wildlife such as over 50 bird species, deer, and squirrels, to enjoy the natural beauty it offers.
https://nationalparksofturkey.com/marmaris-national-park/
3. Relax in Marmaris Burunucu Macera Parkı (Adventure Park for Children)
The park is conveniently located near the center, right at the entrance of Günnücek National Park. It even has its own beach. There are plenty of activities to enjoy here, including a climbing wall, adventure track, trampoline, zipline, free jumping, balance exercises, running trails, and mountain biking tracks. What we really liked is that kids can have fun and swim in the sea. Additionally, there are frequent yoga and meditation sessions held in the park. The park opens at 8:30 AM and closes at 9:00 PM.
4. See Marmaris Castle and Archaeological Museum
If you want to discover the most stunning view in Marmaris, we recommend visiting Marmaris Castle. This historic castle, dating back to 1044, offers a fascinating journey through time and provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Marmaris. It was extensively restored and opened to the public in 1990. Inside the castle, you can explore the Archaeology Museum and the Ethnography Gallery. The Archaeological Museum showcases artifacts from the Roman and Byzantine eras, while the ethnography section displays items such as jewelry, weaponry, rugs, woven goods, copper household items, and various furniture from the Ottoman period.
5. Visit Historical Tepe District (Kaleiçi)
Stroll through the charming narrow stone streets of Kaleiçi. These streets are adorned with colorful bougainvilleas and feature small one-story houses with shutters, and sometimes you’ll even find stairs. It’s a bit like the streets on Greek islands. Along the way, you’ll come across various venues, boutique hotels, and shops. The whole tour can be done in just 15 minutes.
6. Visit Marmaris Amphitheater
Marmaris Amphitheater is a remarkable venue that hosts numerous concerts and performances during the spring and summer seasons. It offers a spectacular vantage point to admire Marmaris from a bird’s-eye perspective. This ancient amphitheater, with a seating capacity of 6,000 people, is believed to have been used for gladiator battles and wild animal contests during the Roman era. Due to its proximity to the city center, you can easily reach this site on foot or by using the frequently available minibuses.
7. Marvel At Turgut Waterfall
If you’re seeking a respite from the lively and bustling atmosphere of Marmaris, which remains energetic and crowded throughout the summer season, consider setting aside a day to visit Turgut Waterfall in Turgut Village. This enchanting natural wonder is comprised of a series of five distinct waterfalls. You can choose to embark on trekking or jeep safari adventures to fully explore this area and immerse yourself in its serene ambiance.
8. Visit Bayır Village
Located 25 km from the center of Marmaris, Bayır Village is a delightful vacation spot in the southwestern part of the region. You can opt for day trips or longer stays in this small village, where you can also discover city walls, historical structures, and tombstones from the past. Access to Bayır Village is limited to private vehicles or jeep safari tours that depart from Marmaris, as there is no public transportation available. It’s a favorite destination for travelers looking to explore its historical and natural beauty.
9. Have a Dining Experience at Ahtopotçu Mehmet Usta
During your holiday in Marmaris, don’t miss the chance to visit Ahtapotçu Mehmet Usta. This charming restaurant offers a unique dining experience right over the sea, situated on a pier by the beach. Known for its seafood delicacies, the star of the menu is, as the name suggests, octopus. You can enjoy various octopus dishes, such as octopus cooked in a casserole with vinegar and wine, octopus casserole with kashar cheese, onions, peppers, and tomatoes, as well as grilled octopus. However, the most popular choice is the “Lokum” style octopus, which is cut into bite-sized cubes and fried to perfection.
10. Have Fun in Aqua Dream Water Park
In Aqua Dream Water Park you can have various fun and enjoyable experiences on its modern water rides spread across a 44,000 square-meter area. The park offers a variety of slides, including rafting, aqua tower, body slide, black hole, kamikaze, multi-slide, and a wave pool, making it feel like you’re diving into cool waters from Marmaris’ tallest hill.
https://aquadreammarmaris.com/en/
11. Have a boat tour on Daylan River
When you’re in Marmaris, you can hop on a boat tour down the Dalyan River. You can go for a swim at the spot where the river meets the sea, and enjoy some tasty local food at restaurants by the beautiful coast.
12. Take a Walk on Atatürk Street Kordon Boyu
This walking path, also known as Atatürk Street, is the road connecting Public Beach to Marmaris Castle. There is a bicycle path along the road. Suitable for a pleasant walk or cycling by the beach. On the coastal side of the road, there is Marmaris Public Beach.
