The most important decision for a holiday in Marmaris is which bay to stay in: the centre for a lively holiday, İçmeler or Turunç for a quiet hotel stay, and Selimiye and Bozburun for a calm, natural escape. One of Muğla's 13 districts, Marmaris, with its sheltered bay and Rhodes just 45 minutes away, is one of the best-known resorts where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean.
What Is There to See in Marmaris?
The main sights in central Marmaris are:
- Marmaris Castle and the old town: the castle associated with Suleiman the Magnificent's Rhodes campaign of 1520–1522, and the narrow streets around it.
- The Hafza Sultan Caravanserai: a historic caravanserai completed in 1545.
- The marina and seafront: an evening walk, restaurants and boats.
- Boat trips: day trips to the bays around the gulf.
What Are İçmeler and Turunç Like?
İçmeler, just south-west of central Marmaris, is a calm resort area with large hotels and a long beach; the centre is easy to reach by the coastal road or water taxi. It suits families and those who want a hotel holiday.
Turunç is a smaller, quieter bay; with its beach surrounded by pine forest and its small hotels, it appeals to those looking for peace. The ancient city of Amos is also near Turunç.
What Is There to Do in Selimiye and Bozburun?
Selimiye and Bozburun are two small seaside villages on the Bozburun Peninsula, south of Marmaris, far from the crowds. Selimiye lies in Kamışlı Bay, where the ancient city of Hydas was founded, and is known for its calm sea and fish restaurants at the water's edge.
Bozburun is known for its wooden boat culture, small marina and quiet bays. The remains of the ancient city of Loryma lie in Bozuk Bay at the tip of the peninsula. These two villages are ideal for a week away from traffic or a long day trip from Marmaris.
What Boat and Day Trips Can You Take from Marmaris?
Marmaris is a good base for nearby bays and destinations:
- Gulf boat trips: swimming stops in the surrounding bays.
- Rhodes: the island about 45 minutes from Marmaris; check visa requirements and sailings in advance.
- Datça and Knidos: for the ancient city at the tip of the peninsula, see our Knidos and Datça guides.
- Akyaka: for kitesurfing and a calm day on the Gulf of Gökova, see our Akyaka guide.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Marmaris?
The best time for the sea in Marmaris is June to September; in July and August the centre is very crowded and hot. May and October are pleasant for sightseeing and boat trips, even if the sea is cool. In winter the centre stays lived-in, but most hotels in the bays close. When planning, keep in mind:
- Choose morning departures for boat trips; the wind can pick up in the afternoon.
- The road to Selimiye and Bozburun is winding; plan breaks for passengers prone to car sickness.
- Book marina restaurants on summer evenings.
How Do You Get from the Airport to Marmaris?
The road from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to Marmaris is about 290 km and takes 3.5–4 hours on average. The nearest airport is Dalaman, about an hour from Marmaris; Izmir is often preferred because it offers more flight options.
For a break on the long drive, the stone houses and bazaar of Muğla old town make a good stop; details in our Muğla old town guide. You can get a quote for a car and driver on our Izmir Airport to Marmaris transfer page.
Who Is Marmaris Suitable For?
Central Marmaris suits young people and groups of friends looking for nightlife and action, İçmeler suits families, and Turunç, Selimiye and Bozburun suit couples and nature lovers looking for quiet. For sailing and boat holidays, Marmaris is one of the best-equipped starting points on the Aegean.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours is Marmaris from Izmir Airport?
The road from Izmir Airport to Marmaris is about 290 km and takes 3.5–4 hours on average.
Which is the closest airport to Marmaris?
The closest airport is Dalaman, about an hour from Marmaris.
Can you go from Marmaris to Rhodes?
Yes. Rhodes is about 45 minutes from Marmaris; check visa requirements and current sailings in advance.
Which is a quiet bay in Marmaris?
Turunç, Selimiye and Bozburun are much quieter than the centre.
When was the Marmaris Caravanserai built?
The Hafza Sultan Caravanserai was completed in 1545.