Attractions Nearby Marmaris, Day Trips and Excursions

(Marmaris, Mugla Province, Turkey)

There are bags of side attractions around Marmaris which are more of an allure, in fact, than the resort itself, if you can bear to tear yourself away from sightseeing and sunbathing on the beach. Ancient cities, charming towns and little fishing villages are all around, along with lofty mountains and secluded coves.

Being such a sizable coastal holiday resort, many swimming pools within hotel complexes provide the outside space that tourists holidaying in Marmaris crave. However, those in the mood for an excursion may like to take one of the regular dolmuses to the neighbouring beach attractions of Icmeler and Turunc, via the mountains, departing from the Tansas Shopping Centre. Water taxis also link these beaches, as well as Dalyan.

The nearby Datca Peninsula is a major draw card for those with wheels or on a boat trip. Also close to Marmaris are the towns of Bozburun and Selimiye, while the attractions of the Ciftlik region may be of interest as well.

Datca Peninsula

Accessible by road or by ferry boat is this rugged peninsula, to the west of the city, which stretches for around 100 km / 62 miles in length and is known for its fine coast and fresh air. The Datca Peninsula (also referred to as the Resadiye Peninsula) is quite spectacular and unspoiled, and heads into the Aegean Sea, being sited between the two Greek islands of Rhodes and Kos. Home to a bunch of secluded and scenic coves, the waters here are particularly clean and great for a dip, and this really is a world away from wild Marmaris. The southerly branch is named the Daracya Peninsula (or Hisaronu Peninsula) and features the ancient ruins of the city of Loryma.

Dalyan / Kaunos

Dalyan is just east of Marmaris and is a popular alternative for quieter beaches, as well as good for a day trip. The town's main highlight is Turtle Beach and its mud bath, while nearby is Kaunos, an ancient city. There is also good walking here and many secluded, out of the way, beaches and quaint lakes. High about the river cliffs are the remains of the Lycian tombs, which are said to date back over 1,600 years.

Ciftlik

This stunning region of southern Turkey can be accessed by a two-hour boat ride from nearby Icmeler (longer from Marmaris). With its tourist village and hotels, Ciftlik is known for its laid-back atmosphere and comes with a fine beach. Those who have rented a boat should definitely head out here, as it is favoured by yacht enthusiasts and features a small island and bay. Jeep safaris are especially popular and worthy of consideration. Notable attractions in the Ciftlik area include a series of ancient burial mounds and the hot springs at the village of Narkoy.

Icmeler

Icmeler is a much quieter resort, lying just around the bay to the south. It sits in a sheltered cove and boasts a long, main beach backed by mountains.

At just 8 km / 5 miles to the west, this resort town is only a short drive from Marmaris and therefore more of a beach suburb than a separate village. Icmeler immediately feels rather sophisticated, being well-planned with a sweeping beachfront.

Turunc

Turunc is a cute coastal village located just a short distance to the south of Icmeler and has more charm than both Marmaris and Icmeler combined. This small fishing village-cum-upmarket resort is a popular stop for yachties, as well as for those heading out on a loop of the Datca Peninsula. The beach here is beautiful and backed by high cliffs, enjoying much seclusion and isolation, while impressive shopping includes traditional handicrafts. Boats regularly sail between Marmaris and Turunc between the summer months of June and September.

Bodrum

Bodrum is the main resort town in this part of south-west Turkey and can be accessed from Marmaris either by car or by boat. It features a stunning medieval castle on a peninsula over a deep blue bay, crammed with millionaires' yachts. A palm-lined waterfront, beautiful beaches and great shopping and eating add further appeal. Additional Bodrum attractions include boat tours, traditional Turkish baths, an ancient amphitheatre and the Dedeman Aquapark. Many people come to Bodrum solely to pay a visit to the famed Mausoleum of Halicarnassus (Tomb of King Mausolus).