Is Marmaris, Turkey worth visiting?
We recently had some holiday time from work, but couldn’t decide where to go. We ended up booking a very last minute trip to Marmaris, in Turkey. There wasn’t much that we knew about the place, but it looked cheap and sunny. We also got a great deal on flights and accommodation (from the UK).
Well, was it worth visiting?
Marmaris has a bit of a reputation as a British budget package-holiday resort, which made us a bit wary whilst booking. However, we were so glad we gave this place a chance. Undoubtedly yes is the answer!
We tend to do a lot of planning for our trips, but with Marmaris we just wanted a relaxing sunny break. As long as you go between April and October, you are all set for a great time. June, July, and August offer the hottest temperatures, with 12 hours of sunshine per day. The temperatures aren’t too cold in winter either. However, as a resort town, many places will close which for us would feel a bit depressing.
What are our favourite bits about Marmaris?
The weather! – It was beautiful throughout the week that we stayed there. Perfect for getting a great tan.
The nightlife! – Bar Street is where all of the most lively nightlife is situated. However, we enjoyed the bars in town too, and they are a lot cheaper!
The price of the food! – You could eat like a King in Marmaris for the price of a basic meal back home. Although you are not talking gourmet dishes in the main, it offers brilliant value for money. With the sizes of the portions, you won’t be left hungry!
The culture! – To be honest, we didn’t explore loads of the culture of the town itself. In fact, we treated it more as a base for travels around the extended region. Marmaris is an ideal base for trips to many wonders of the world. They include Pamukkale, Hierapolis, Ephesus, and Rhodes Old Town.
The excursions! – As with any such resort, you will never go short of things to do. Boat trips, Turkish baths, dinner cruises, jeep safaris, they have it all!
What are the downsides?
There is constant hassle from bar owners, desperate for your custom. Like in many places in the world, sometimes just walking down the street feels like you are running the gauntlet. The best way to deal with this, is just to chat with them but keep walking. You will soon feel more at ease than constantly trying to avoid their eye contact, or other tricks such as this. The people are very friendly once you get past the overbearing introduction.
Overall then?
So, in conclusion, Marmaris offers a lot of bang for your buck. It is far cheaper than similar resorts in Spain, Greece, or Cyprus. Definitely give it a go. Especially with the recent problems in the bigger cities of Turkey putting many off visiting, you may get yourself a great deal!
If you are travelling longer term, it offers a great place to get some relaxation time whilst remaining within easy travelling distance to some major world sites.
Have you been to Marmaris? Do you agree with us that it is worth visiting, or are you not a fan?
