8 Awesome Experiences in Marmaris, Turkey

Explore the exotic region where the Mediterranean meets the Aegean Sea and jump into Turkish culture, nightlife and cuisine.

The beautiful port city of Marmaris, on the Turquoise Coast of Turkey, offers all of life’s pleasures that any heart could possibly desire on a summer seaside holiday. An enlightening experience will be had by all your fellow travelers while on a blue cruise Turkey Marmaris most specifically.

Marmaris is a jewel of the Mediterranean that many people have been blessed to discover and Alaturka Cruises will be sure your stay is unforgettable. Here a just a few highlights of what you can witness in this popular city:

The cobblestoned old quarter

Walk through markets surrounded by the atmosphere of walking through history. The Thursday pazar– market- offers the freshest local produce, which will fill anyone’s belly with tasty delights.

Marmaris Castle

The castle was reconstructed by Suleyman the Magnificent in 1522, and is now a museum hosting seven galleries. The surrounding courtyard is in full bloom with regional flora especially in the spring and summer.

The beach at Icmeler

While this area can be crowded, it is more peaceful than the beaches around the city center of Marmaris and is the meeting place where the warm waters of the Mediterranean mix with the cooler waters of the Aegean sea. Restaurants, clubs and outdoor cafes are abundant in this ‘suburb’.

Nimara Cave

Located on Cennet Adasi– Paradise Island- Nimara Cave had been used by humans for 12,000 years. It is most commonly known for being the worship place used by the cult of the Greek goddess Leto, who is the mother of god Apollo and goddess Artemis (whose father was Zeus). Protected since 1999, the cave is home to trogloxene butterflies who live near the entrance of the cave.

Ekincik

A small pine encrusted inlet near Marmaris that has attracted Pamela Anderson, Sting and Prince Charles, thanks to its pristine beauty, offers a serene look into the surrounding area of Marmaris. Explore the many caves and caverns, hike through the forests or relax on the sandy beach for an afternoon of pleasure.

Locals in Ekincik run a motorboat tour up the reed-lined Dalyan river, making frequent stops along the way. If you enjoy hiking, then head up to the ancient rock tombs of Kaunos carved perfectly into the mountain side. A stop before Ituzu beach allows for a lunch of freshly caught blue crabs before heading to the beach famous as a nesting place for loggerhead sea turtles.

Food and more food!

For a traditional Turkish meal prepared with fresh local ingredients, head over to Dede Restaurant. Views from the restaurant overlook Icmeler beach and the marina full of gulets. Be sure to save room for dessert as this culinary decadence is a staple here.

Sofra Restaurant has outdoor seating to enjoy the warm summer breeze. Go for the Turkish breakfast full of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, homemade olives and a wide array of cheese.

Uno Momento overlooks the harbor and serves delicious Italian cuisine. Have the steak and prawns in a creamy vodka sauce or stop by in the afternoon for a freshly baked baguette filled with your choice of tasty delights.

Comfy accommodation

If you make the trek to the Bozburun Peninsula then stay in Selimiye. Haydas Pension is a welcome retreat for couples of all ages and offers a delicious traditional Turkish breakfast.

Club Aida in Marmaris is an excellent place for families and anyone who enjoys lounging around a beautifully landscaped swimming pool. The entertainment team is one of the best in this region so boredom will never be an issue.

The Cle Seaside Hotel is near the beach and the endless amount of pubs in Marmaris. After stumbling home from an intoxicating night out, your modestly designed room awaits you.

Warm summer nights

Marmaris is well-known for the nightlife thanks to the numerous options catering to various desires.

The main bar street is full of back to back bars, pubs and clubs filled with locals and tourists. It is loud, colorful and full of laughter. Most of the bars don’t start until 10 or 11pm, so be ready for an all night extravaganza!

If you want to experience Turkish culture, then make a reservation for the Kervansaray Turkish night. Multiple courses of traditional cuisine are served as you watch regional dances, such as whirling dervishes, Zeybek dances from western Anatolia, and the ever famous belly dancing.

For a relaxing night, go to the Chill Out Café and Bistro, which offers some of the best shisha in the area. Sip a specialty cocktail while relaxing to chill out music.

Marmaris is one the most frequented stops on a specialized Alaturka Cruise. Enjoy the history, culinary delights and exciting nightlife in this beautiful city.