Discover Marmaris, A Fascinating Port City on The Turkish Coast
Come to Marmaris, A Hidden Gem in the Mediterranean
The unusual name, mesmerizing views, warm weather, variety of hotels and restaurants – all this is Marmaris. The Turkish port city on the Aegean coast is known as the largest resort in the country. It does not leave anyone disappointed. There is something for everyone who comes here which is why it’s a hidden gem of the Mediterranean.
Historical Background
Just like many European cities, this town is called a fortress. In the 16th century, it was built on the territory of the Ottoman Empire and it was the strategic base for the conquest of Rhodes. The fortress stands on the site of the old town of Physkos. At that time it could not boast a large size or height, but its walls can tell many interesting stories:
- In 650 B.C., Physkos was conquered by the Persians.
- The burning of the inhabitants in the fortress in 334 B.C. This was due to a reluctance to surrender the city to Alexander the Great.
- From 138 B.C. the city passed from one Roman governor to another, until it was attributed to the Kingdom of Rhodes.
- In 800 AD the Arabs invaded and went to war against Rhodes.
- Fiskos became part of the Ottoman Empire in 1425.
- In 1521 the Turks set out for Rhodes, from which the Knights Hospitallers were driven out.
- Admiral Nelson’s famous fleet stood here in 1789.
Top Marmaris Sights
During guided tours in Marmaris, the resort city is able to surprise you not only with its beauty and fabulous location in the valley but also with unusual sights:
- Netsel Marina
One of the largest natural bays has become a berth for more than seven hundred yachts. Lovers of such vessels will be able to appreciate the variety of watercraft and even take a ride for a fee. You can arrange it with the owner.
If you plan to come here in May, you can see the yachting competition. If you have a yacht, you can take part in the competition and fully experience the atmosphere of this annual event.
- Burunucu Macela Parki
A family water park in the countryside where both adults and children can have a great time. You’ll have to pay to get in, but you won’t regret your choice: a wide variety of attractions, beach, a number of cafes, a track for team competitions and ropeway will leave a lot of pleasant memories of the vacation.
- Icmerela Beach
For lovers of a more traditional holiday suit this beach, where you can not only sunbathe, but also go fishing or engage in extreme sports.
- Central Bazaar Bedesten
Visiting this place, you can not only learn about the variety of local cuisine, but also look at the beautiful building, which is the location of the bazaar. This market has existed since the 15th century, so everyone can appreciate the efforts of craftsmen of past centuries.
Bedesten is also called the Covered Market.
- Street of bars
This street can be called one of the noisiest streets of the city. There are about a hundred restaurants and as many nightclubs. It is easy to get here – almost every bus will take you to the city center, where it is located.
- Turgut waterfall
There is an attraction in the village of Turgut that is worth visiting while on vacation. The waterfall itself is not large, but consists of several parts. There are fish frolicking under it. Nearby there are several coffees where you can try the same fish in its finished form.
How to get to Marmaris
If you plan to get to Marmaris by plane, the flight one way and the other way for one person will cost 10-30 thousand. Then you will arrive at Dalaman Airport and you need to drive another 95 kilometers to Marmaris.
There is another way to get to the resort town: by flying to Antalya and then driving to Marmaris by rented car. In addition, you will need to drive 320 kilometers.
If you want to travel by private vehicle, you will have to cross 4 countries – Ukraine, Moldova, Romania and Bulgaria – before you get to Turkey. Consumption will depend directly on the speed of travel and the point of departure.
Lodging prices
There are many different hotels in Marmaris, from those with official stars to small hostels for the night.
If you want to rest as comfortably as possible and leave a lot of memories even of the hotel where you stayed, then these places will suit you:
- Grand Pasa Hotel
- Green Nature Diamond Hotel
Have free parking and a pool.
- Golden Rock Beach Hotel
Includes pool and beach
- Fortezza Beach Resort
Has free internet and free parking
If you’re an average tourist looking for a cozy room, you might want to check out these hotels:
- Pasa Garden Beach.
Swimming Pool and Beach
- Hotel Cettia Beach Resort
Offers free internet and free parking.
- Club Karakas Apart Hotel
Has its own swimming pool and restaurant
In case. If accommodation is the least of your worries, the following hostels are worth considering:
- ktem Pansiyon
There is free internet, free parking and children are allowed to stay.
- Gul Pansiyon
Staying with children and pets in this hostel is forbidden
Accommodation Prices
There are many different hotels in Marmaris, from those with official stars to small hostels for the night.
If you want to rest as comfortably as possible and leave a lot of memories even of the hotel where you stayed, then these places will suit you:
- Grand Pasa Hotel
- Green Nature Diamond Hotel
Have free parking and a pool.
- Golden Rock Beach Hotel
Includes pool and beach
- Fortezza Beach Resort
Has free internet and free parking
If you’re an average tourist looking for a cozy room, you might want to check out these hotels:
- Pasa Garden Beach.
Swimming Pool and Beach
- Hotel Cettia Beach Resort
Offers free internet and free parking.
- Club Karakas Apart Hotel
Has its own swimming pool and restaurant
In case. If accommodation is the least of your worries, the following hostels are worth considering:
- ktem Pansiyon.
There is free internet, free parking and children are allowed to stay.
- Gul Pansiyon
Pets and children are not allowed at this hostel.
- Ozcan Pansiyon
Free internet is available
Food Prices in Marmaris
The port city is rich with restaurants, so you are sure to find one that suits you. All you have to do is go to the Bar Street. The average price is $5-7 per person.
If you want to cook your own food and please your loved ones with it, then feel free to go to the bazaar Bedesten. But it’s only open on Thursdays and Sundays, so visit the grocery stores. The most common ones are:
- Kipa
- Migros
- Carrefour
Prices for basic products are lower than in Russia. You will pay 1.5 times less than in Russia.
*************************
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons by: Mr. M. Canbalaban