Marmaris holidays whip together a bunch of great getaway ingredients. The result's a belting blend of beaches, ancient architecture and boat trips.

Up-tempo vibe

Marmaris doesn’t know the meaning of half-pace, and the atmosphere here’s got a constant buzz. Restaurants and bars are ladled on thick by the waterfront, and the palm-poked sands switch from sun-kissed to neon-lit when evening rolls around. Dedicated partygoers know all about Bar Street, which has clubs that are as bold and to-the-point as its name.

Throwback town

Tune out the local nightspots, and there’s a wealth of historic sites to work your way through. Marmaris Castle is the name on most people’s lists. This turret-topped heavyweight dates back nearly 500 years, and the lofty ramparts deliver tip-top sea views. The city’s elder statesmen also include the Hafsan Sultan Caravanserai – an Ottoman inn that’s only a smidge younger than the aforementioned castle. Take a break from sightseeing by getting a scrub down at one of the city’s highly rated Turkish baths.

Big on boat trips

Yachts and tour boats bob side-by-side in Netsel Marina. The harbour’s more than just a pretty face, too, and there are tonnes of trips which set off to explore beyond the bay. Drift into secret caves, leap into the glass-clear waters when the anchor drops, or kick back on deck with a cocktail. If you fancy ticking off another country while you’re at it, there are daytrips that take a Greek turn by heading to the nearby island of Rhodes.

At a Glance

  • Visit sea-facing Marmaris Castle
  • Hop on a boat trip to nearby Rhodes
  • Wind down in a Turkish bath