MarmarisTurkey

Marmaris was once a sleeping fishing village, but you wouldn’t know it today. Set in a sheltered bay surrounded by thick pine forests, Marmaris’ natural beauty has drawn hotel developers and holidaymakers here for decades. The picturesque, mountainous backdrop spills down to a lively palm-lined promenade that is packed with cafés, bars and sea-view restaurants.

Sunbathe on one of Marmaris’ sand and pebble beaches, or jet-ski and parasail around the bay with one of the water sports centres along the seafront. You will find boats the full length of the promenade offering day-trips out on the beautiful clear water for leisurely afternoons of swimming and diving. Or, if you’re feeling flash, charter a luxury yacht for the day and explore the bay in style.

From al fresco cocktail bars to neon-lit nightclubs, the buzz of nightlife in Marmaris is one of its biggest draws. You’ll find restaurants serving international fare all along the strip. Head to the bazaar for traditional dishes, or enjoy a romantic meal in the lovely waterfront restaurants overlooking the marina. After dark there is a cluster of lively nightspots on Bar Street, where the party lasts until the early hours.

Away from the beach and bar scenes, discover Marmaris’ history at the 16th-century hilltop castle and in the surrounding lanes of the atmospheric old quarter. Seek out the restored stone houses, which offer a glimpse into the past, and stop to people-watch in one of the shaded courtyards above the marina.

Explore Marmaris’ bustling bazaar, where you will find stalls piled high with tourist souvenirs, bags, jewellery, herbs and spices. Before you leave Marmaris, embrace the local tradition of Turkish massage at a hammam and enjoy a vigorous steam, scrub and rub down. The enormous Armutalan Hamam, around a mile from the town centre, offers one of the best.

With its reliable hot summer weather, beaches, nightlife and history, Marmaris caters well to most types of traveller looking for a sunny getaway in a pretty setting.