Marmaris Turkey

Marmaris is one of Turkey’s most popular resorts, which attracts lots of holidaymakers.Due to its popularity, it has grown enormously over the years, hotels rapidly filling the space between the green hills and the azure seas.

It is in a stunning setting, its geography remarkably similar to that of the fjords, with pine-clad hills dropping steeply to the sea, jagged inlets and tiny rocky islets off the coast. There is a wide choice of accommodation, from five star luxury to self-catering apartments, but the vast majority is of three star standard.

The beach can get busy in high season, but many people prefer to stay by the hotel pool. Lined with palms, the seafront has a typical Mediterranean feel and is a great place for an evening promenade. Shops, bars and restaurants line the streets, vying with each other to secure your custom for dinner – each offering something more attractive than the last. There is no hassle though – the local authorities are strict about touts operating in the street, which makes for a more relaxed atmosphere.

The area around the harbour offers a taste of the character of the old town, overlooked by the ancient castle, which is now a museum. The Netsel marina is reached by a small footbridge, and is one of the largest and most modern in Turkey, the hangout of the jetset, who moor their luxury yachts here. The small shopping centre houses upmarket boutiques and intimate restaurants.

The real bargains are to be found in the bazaar area, with hundreds of small shops offering the usual Turkish wares – clothing, leather, jewellery and handicrafts. There is a wide variety of goods on offer, and it definitely pays to look around and hone your bartering skills to get the best prices.