Marmaris, one of Muğla’s most popular tourist destinations, attracts millions of visitors every year. Whilst this region is best known for its maritime tourism, it also boasts waterfalls, ancient ruins and excellent dining spots.
The region was given the name Marmaris during the reign of the Menşete Beyliği, which held sway between the 13th and 14th centuries. Derived from the Greek word ‘marmaron’, meaning ‘marble’, the name is thought to refer both to the rich marble deposits surrounding the town and to the marble trade conducted from the harbour. Today, this region, known for its lush green landscape,
The season in the region runs from mid-April to October. We always prefer times when there are fewer tourists, namely the weeks before schools close or the dates after they have closed. Consequently, May, June, the last weeks of September and October are ideal times.
The nearest airport to Marmaris is Muğla Dalaman Airport (DLM), located 95 km away. The journey from Dalaman Airport to the centre of Marmaris takes between approximately 1 hour 15 minutes and 1.5 hours by private car, taxi, HAVAŞ or MUTTAŞ buses. Some hotels also offer a transfer service, either free of charge or for a fee.
Beach vacation duration always depends on how long time you set aside. A beach vacation should, in our opinion, last at least one week. However 4–5 days is enough to explore the region or even the coves surrounding Selimiye, Bozburun and Söğüt. Even a boat tour can even be taken during this period.
Marmaris Castle and Archaeological Museum: The castle, a symbol of Marmaris, bears witness to history with its walls dating back to 3000 BC, whilst the structure—rebuilt by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent during his 1522 campaign against Rhodes—offers a magnificent view of the harbour; whilst the Archaeology Museum within it showcases the region’s rich history spanning thousands of years.
The Streets of Kaleiçi: Unfortunately, as only the castle and the old buildings surrounding it survived the 1957 Fethiye earthquake in Marmaris, the town centre has been built up with concrete structures. However, with its narrow, cobbled streets and restored old houses, the Old Town remains Marmaris’s most authentic corner, retaining at least some of its old-world charm. Many of the buildings here have been purchased by British tourists and are used as holiday homes.
Amos Ancient City: Located on the Bozburun Peninsula, Amos captivates visitors with its Hellenistic-period theatre, which seats around 1,000 people, and its stunning views overlooking the sea; dating from the 3rd–2nd centuries BC, the theatre is the only ancient theatre in the region. It is worth noting that reaching the ancient city, which is accessible by car, involves climbing quite a few steps. It is not particularly strenuous, but it may still prove challenging for those who are not in good physical condition.
Kastabos (Temple of Hemithea): Located in Hisarönü, Kastabos is a peaceful archaeological site housing the ruins of a 12×6-columned temple in the Ionic order, dedicated to Hemithea, the goddess of healing in ancient Caria. However, getting there is quite a challenge. You’ll need to travel by 4×4, and if you’re on foot, you’ll have to be prepared for an hour’s climb.
The Ancient City of Loryma: Located in the south of the Bozburun Peninsula, Loryma—known for its history dating back to the 7th century BC—is an unspoilt spot awaiting discovery, featuring the tranquil Bozuk Bay, accessible only by boat, and its ancient ruins. Apart from by boat, it can also be reached via a roughly 1.5–2-hour footpath hike from the village of Taşlıca.
Turunç, Kumlubük, Çiftlik and Amos Bays: These bays, which boast Marmaris’s clearest and turquoise waters, in particular the immediately above ancient city ruins of Amos Bay, combine history and nature in a harmonious blend.
Delikyol: Here is is one of the most beautiful views natural vantage points from which the sunset can be seen. It creates unforgettable scenery with a colourful display.
Bencik Cove and Cennet Cove: Lush green nature, serene sea and its unspoilt beauty make them Marmaris’s most special bays, which are ideal for peace seekers.
Söğüt, one of the best places to watch the sunset over Simi Island, is a charming coastal village famous for its fresh seafood and fish restaurants, and takes on a unique atmosphere, especially at sunset.
Turgut Village Waterfall: Located in Turgut Village, this waterfall, with its ice-cold waters and surrounding lush greenery, offers a refreshing respite from the summer heat; it is also home to a local legend, thanks to the wishing trees nearby.
Manzara is our favourite seafood dishes restaurant, reservation for dinner is a must, lunch is a bit quieter here, definitely worth a visit.
Denizkızı is one of our favorite spots on the beach in Söğüt. The octopus and shrimp were delicious, and reservations are essential to sit on the pier.
Dalya is another place we chose for dinner in Söğüt. It stands out with its unique mezes (appetizers).
Toro Izakaya is a small Asian restaurant located on the top floor of a hotel in Selimiye. Its prices are more affordable than other places in the area. We didn’t like their sushi, but we enjoyed their gyoza and cocktails. It’s ideal for those looking for a different kind of dinner.
Club Mistral in Orhaniye is a pleasant beach bar open all day, and in the evenings it’s a prominent restaurant in the area with its extensive menu. Our favorites from the menu are: scallops with purslane and shrimp carpaccio. It also occasionally hosts pop-up events and concerts.
We prefer simpler options instead of a lavish breakfast platter, so most mornings we had a quick breakfast at the hotel and continued with our day.
We tried Selimiye Köşe for home-style cooking in Selimiye and we liked it.
In Amos, we spent the morning visiting the ancient city, swimming in Kumlubük and Amos Bay, and had dinner at Amos Beach Restaurant.
In Çiftlik Bay, we had lunch at Mehmet’s Place and then used the beach.
In the city center, we tried three different döner kebab places: Yılmaz Döner, Rota Barış Usta, and Edo Et Döner.
Here are a few places we didn’t get a chance to try but were highly recommended to us:
We have to admit, finding a truly “good” restaurant in Marmaris was difficult. But Manzara in Söğüt completely changed that perception.
The restaurant owes its name and reputation, of course, to its unparalleled sunset views. However, what truly impressed us wasn’t just the panoramic view overlooking the bay and islands, but the strength of its cuisine. We’d had friends raving about it for years, but we certainly didn’t expect such memorable dishes.
Due to the restaurant’s popularity, getting a table in the evening is almost impossible; reservations need to be made 3-4 weeks in advance. We went during lunchtime and easily found a table, and even returned the day after our first experience.
The menu is not fixed; it changes according to the season and daily supply. Each member of the service team is familiar with the menu, provides detailed information about the products, and interacts individually with guests. Attention to detail is evident at every stage, from arrival to departure.
The view has become a favorite of prominent food critic Vedat Milor as well; he ate here three times during his two-day stay in Söğüt. Not surprising at all.
The dining experience begins with complimentary olive oil, cheese, and bread from the chef. Everything is excellent. Portions aren’t as small as in typical meze restaurants; therefore, we opted to order half portions of many dishes to try as many different flavors as possible. There are no unnecessary garnishes or additions on the plates; everything is simple, clear, and flavor-focused.
Here are the dishes we tried and our favorites:
In short, Manzara stands out in Marmaris not only for its sunsets but also for its cuisine and service, offering a truly special experience. In our opinion, it’s well worth the money.
One of the most enjoyable ways to spend the evening in Marmaris is to take a short boat trip from Söğüt and cool off in the azure waters as the sun sets.
Söğüt is a small village about an hour away from the center of Marmaris. Its unspoiled coastal area features guesthouses and a few restaurants with doors opening onto the sea.
We booked this boat tour from Denizkızı Restaurant and paid 5,000 TL in the summer of 2025 (price fixed, not per person — capacity for 4 people). It takes 2.5 hours and allows you to swim in three or four different coves. Longer boat tours are available, departing in the morning and returning around 5 pm, but we preferred these magical hours when the sun slowly begins to touch the water.
Our favorite bays from those we visited were Üç Taş (Three Stones) with its three large rocks and Değirmen Island. In another bay we visited (behind Söğüt Island), there was a small monastery; unfortunately, it’s a bit neglected as it’s being used as a goat pen. You can swim to the shore to see it. I wish it were protected.
Our last stop for swimming is just before Darboğaz.
After the tour, we returned to Denizkızı Restaurant to watch the sunset and had dinner there. It’s a rather casual but pleasant establishment. We had small meze plates with black-eyed peas, samphire, marinated sea bass, and eggplant with yogurt – the mezes were quite good. But the shrimp and octopus were truly expertly cooked. We finished with pumpkin dessert; it’s not a must, but dessert lovers can try it, the restaurant also offers rice pudding. Including beers, salad, mezes, and main courses, the total bill in the summer of 2025 was 5,300 TL.
We paid for it ourselves, of course, as always. We have no affiliation with the business.
Reservations are required for seating on the pier, as they have fewer tables than in other restaurants, as they aren’t crammed together. You can also call the restaurant for information about boat tours.
