A Guide to Cheap Holidays in Marmaris

Getting to and around Marmaris cheaply

Holidaymakers arrive at Dalaman Airport, the gateway to this popular tourist region. It's about 75 miles from Dalaman to Marmaris – transfers take one or two hours.
Once in resort, dolmuses are a cheap way of getting around.

These shared minibuses cover specific routes and depart when full. Taxis are also in good supply. Car rental would be a good option if planning on investigating beyond Marmaris.
Ferries can also be caught to one of Turkey's other leading resorts, Bodrum.

Beaches in Marmaris

In Marmaris, the hotels have bagged the best beach stretches. But there are so many stunning beaches to choose from - including the gorgeous one at Fethiye and one of the most beautiful bays of the Turkish coast, Gokova.

The beaches are lined with cheap cafes, bars and restaurants perfect for escaping the midday heat to relax with a cool drink or a bite to eat.
Olu Deniz is charming and relaxing and its 'Blue Lagoon' is one of the most famous beaches in Turkey.
Hop on a cheap water taxi to Icmeler, a smaller seaside resort near Marmaris, perched at the base of beautiful pine-covered mountains.

Low-cost sightseeing in Marmaris

When on holiday in Marmaris be sure to go to one of their major sailing centers, where there are plenty of opportunities for cheap boat trips and novice sailors to find their sea legs. The Netsel Marina is a popular place to hang out and gets particularly busy around the Marmaris Yachting Festival in May and November's Yachting Week.

A cornerstone of Marmaris' attraction is its castle. First constructed by Ionians, it has since been preserved by Ottomans, damaged by cannonball fire during World War I and is now trampled on by tourists but is definitely worth a visit.

Eating cheaply on Holiday in Marmaris

There is plenty of luxury cuisine to be found in Marmaris, this delicious food isn’t found at luxury prices however so it is open for all visitors to enjoy.
Mezes – the equivalent of Spanish tapas - are a must. The ubiquitous kebabis a Turkish favourite and be sure to go local by at least trying some fiery raki on a night out. In the day, sip traditional Turkish apple tea.

Marmaris is famed for its boisterous nightlife - much of it concentrated on Barlar Sokagi, 'Bar Street'. If claustrophobia's not your bag, leave the streets and go on a boozy moonlight cruise instead.

Or try a Turkish cultural night involving local food and a bit of belly dancing.

Cheap Shopping and Family Attractions in Marmaris

Best buys generally include cheap leather goods, rugs, Turkish delight, Meerschaum pipes, Alabaster chess sets, embroidery and inlaid wooden or Mother of Pearl boxes.  The biggest bazaar of the region is set in the municipality bazaar in Marmaris (Thursdays), while the Netsel Marina has some distinctly upmarket shops. 

There are several cheap craft and souvenir shops in the Ottoman building of Hafza Sultan Caravanserai, which dates back to 1545.
For a day out why not head to the water parks this holiday destination has to offer, the Atlantic water park offers a wide range of slides, pools, restaurants and games that can be thoroughly enjoyed by the whole family. It is also easily affordable.

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