Marmaris Holidays

Marmaris holidays are all about hanging out on sunbeds during the day and swinging by the bars for some live music at night. Set on Turkey's turquoise coast, Marmaris' large and lively resort has plenty to offer in terms of entertainment, from its charming waterfront restaurants and harbour to its golden beaches and brilliant bars. Marmaris is great for clubbing, with the popular Bar Street buzzing with nightclubs, besides dance clubs right on the beach.

It's also a great base which is close to other picturesque resorts, making it perfect for day trips. To reach Marmaris, drive down from Dalaman International airport, the nearest to the resort. Enjoy a day in pretty Fethiye, shop in the local markets for shawls, pashminas and handbags and visit quiet harbours and hilltop towns. There’s lots of things to see and do in Marmaris and activity hunters can head into the mountains, go rafting along the rivers or hit the beach for watersports and diving lessons.

Holidays in Marmaris have been popular for decades thanks to its sunny climate, long summers, sweeping beaches and family-friendly activities, making it a great resort for visitors of all ages. Take a walk along the picturesque marina until you reach Icmeler beach, enjoy a day out on the water on a traditional gulet cruise, snorkel in turquoise bays, treat yourself to a traditional Turkish bath or enjoy a day trip to one of the neighbouring Greek Islands. This is a big resort packed with character and sun-soaked holiday vibes.

Places to Go and Things to Do

Cruise in a Gulet

Dine under the stars on a traditional gulet cruise from Marmaris to Fethiye, passing picturesque coves, quiet beaches and clifftop villages. Pause for a swim at Samanlik Bay, enjoy a picnic lunch at pine-covered Kizil Island or simply laze on a beach with not a soul around. If you want to explore a nearby island or bay, you can catch a short ride over on a gulet from the main dock - there will be plenty of drinks on board and it's a great day trip for families and friends.

Party on Bar Street

The nightlife in Marmaris exceeds all expectations, whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening or set on staying out until the early hours. Warm up on Bar Street where you'll find a variety of venues before hitting Club Areena or the Rock Bar (if you’re hoping for guitar riffs rather than pumping tunes!).

Shop at the Grand Bazaar

Spend a day in the winding alleys and squares of Grand Bazaar, a covered arcade with nearly 1,000 shops selling handbags, sunglasses, clothes and traditional souvenirs. If you want a bargain be prepared to haggle over hand-woven carpets, handmade jewellery and copy-cat designer pieces. The Thursday market at G. Mustafa Mugali Caddesi is also great for picking up bargains.

Traditional Turkish Pampering

Get squeaky clean with a trip to a traditional hammam or Turkish bath. Step into a wrap-around sarong or “pestemal” and enjoy being steamed and massaged before slipping into a soapy bath – if you wish to extend your pamper session, face packs and aromatherapy oil treatments are also widely available. If you don’t want to lose your well-earned tan, be sure to have one of these exfoliating massages at beginning of your trip, not the end!

Essential Information

Getting Around

Walking is the best way to get around if you’re staying local, but if you’re planning on going further afield, dolmus buses are the most popular mode of transport - taking you to neighbouring Icmeler and beyond. These minibuses are very frequent and cheap, but be prepared to squash in! Other buses and metered (yellow) taxis are also available. A ferry runs between the resort harbour and Rhodes – ideal for a daytrip!

Travelling by bus or car

Dolmuses (shared minibuses) are popular, and can be hailed by sticking your hand out as one approaches. They are very cheap, and run along fixed routes, with destinations shown on the front of the dolmus.

If you want flexibility and independence, car hire is easy to organise – both in resort and at the airport. Always be attentive on the roads, which can be hectic, and remember to stick to the right-hand side.

Passports and Visas

You can apply for the required visa ahead of time, via the Turkish e-Visa website ($20 fee applicable). Your passport will also need to be valid for at least 6 months from entry. For more information and advice, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/turkey/entry-requirements or the Foreign Office at www.fco.gov.uk/en/

Health and Safety

It’s advised that you invest in comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you go on holiday, so that you are protected while away. The EHIC is not valid in Turkey. For more info, see www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/turkey/health

Vaccinations

You shouldn’t need any specific jabs for a holiday to Turkey, but routine vaccinations should be up to date. Double check the latest medical advice with your GP ahead of travel.