Best Things To Do in Marmaris

Your Complete 2026 Guide to Activities, Tours & Experiences

12 Top Activities
From £20 per person
Expert Recommendations

Marmaris is one of Turkey's most popular holiday destinations, offering an incredible mix of water activities, adventure tours, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning in 2026, this comprehensive guide covers the best things to do in Marmaris with practical tips, prices, and booking advice.

From the famous Blue Voyage boat trips exploring hidden coves to adrenaline-pumping jeep safaris through mountain villages, UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pamukkale and Ephesus, to relaxing Turkish bath experiences – Marmaris has something for everyone. Most activities include hotel pickup, lunch, and professional guides, making it easy for UK tourists to explore.

This guide is updated for 2026 with current prices, seasonal recommendations, and insider tips to help you plan the perfect Marmaris holiday. All activities are suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers, with options ranging from budget-friendly group tours to luxury private experiences.

Top 12 Activities in Marmaris

Handpicked experiences with verified reviews and best prices

#1
From £25
Water ActivitiesFull Day

Blue Voyage Boat Trips

Explore hidden coves, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch aboard a gulet. The most popular activity in Marmaris with daily departures.

#2
From £30
Adventure7-8 Hours

Jeep Safari Adventure

Drive through pine forests, visit traditional villages, and swim in mountain waterfalls. An adrenaline-packed day trip perfect for families and adventure seekers.

#3
From £35
Nature & CultureFull Day

Dalyan River & Turtle Beach

Visit ancient Lycian rock tombs, cruise through reed-lined canals, and relax on the famous Iztuzu Beach where loggerhead turtles nest.

#4
From £40
Water Activities3-4 Hours

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Discover underwater caves, colorful marine life, and ancient shipwrecks. PADI-certified instructors available for beginners and experienced divers.

#5
From £45
Culture & HistoryFull Day

Pamukkale & Hierapolis

Walk on the famous white travertine terraces, swim in Cleopatra's Pool, and explore the ancient Roman city. UNESCO World Heritage Site.

#6
Free Entry
Culture & History2-3 Hours

Marmaris Castle & Old Town

Explore the 16th-century Ottoman castle, wander through narrow cobblestone streets, and shop for souvenirs in traditional bazaars.

#7
From £20
Water Activities1-2 Hours

Water Sports & Parasailing

Try jet skiing, banana boats, flyboarding, or soar 100 meters above the bay while parasailing. All equipment and safety gear provided.

#8
From £25
Wellness & Spa1.5 Hours

Turkish Bath (Hamam) Experience

Relax with a traditional Turkish bath, foam massage, and oil massage. A centuries-old wellness ritual perfect after a day of sightseeing.

#9
From £50
Culture & HistoryFull Day

Ephesus Ancient City Tour

Visit one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. See the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, and Temple of Artemis ruins.

#10
From £35
Romantic & Dining3-4 Hours

Sunset Cruise & Dinner

Sail along the coastline at golden hour, enjoy unlimited drinks, and watch the sun set over the Aegean Sea with live music entertainment.

#11
From £28
Adventure3-4 Hours

Quad Bike Safari

Race through dusty trails, splash through streams, and explore remote mountain villages on a powerful quad bike. No license required.

#12
From £30
Water Activities4-5 Hours

Fishing Trip Experience

Join local fishermen for a traditional fishing experience. Catch your own dinner and have it grilled onboard. All equipment included.

When to Visit: Seasonal Activity Guide

Best activities for each season in Marmaris

Spring (March-May)

18-25°C

Perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and cultural tours. Fewer crowds and lower prices.

Top Activities:
Dalyan Tours
Ephesus Visits
Hiking Trails
Village Tours

Summer (June-August)

28-35°C

Peak season with hot weather. Best for beach activities and water sports.

Top Activities:
Boat Trips
Diving
Water Sports
Beach Clubs

Autumn (September-November)

20-28°C

Ideal weather with warm sea temperatures. Great for all activities.

Top Activities:
Blue Voyage
Jeep Safari
Pamukkale
Sunset Cruises

Winter (December-February)

12-18°C

Quiet season with mild weather. Perfect for spa treatments and cultural exploration.

Top Activities:
Turkish Baths
Castle Tours
Shopping
Local Cuisine

Essential Tips for Booking Activities

Everything you need to know before booking

Budget Planning

Most activities cost £20-50 per person. Book online for 10-15% discounts. Lunch is usually included in full-day tours.

Best Time to Book

Book water activities 1-2 days in advance. Popular tours like Pamukkale and Ephesus should be booked 3-5 days ahead during peak season.

What to Bring

Sunscreen (SPF 50+), swimwear, towel, comfortable shoes, hat, and waterproof phone case. Most tours provide lunch and drinks.

Pickup Times

Hotel pickups usually start 8:00-9:00 AM for full-day tours. Evening activities begin around 5:00-6:00 PM. Exact times confirmed 24 hours before.

Group vs Private

Group tours are budget-friendly (£25-50). Private tours cost more (£150-300) but offer flexibility and personalized experiences.

Safety & Insurance

All reputable operators have insurance and safety equipment. Check reviews on TripAdvisor. Keep valuables in hotel safe during water activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-do activities in Marmaris?

The top 5 must-do activities are: Blue Voyage boat trips (exploring hidden bays), Jeep Safari (mountain adventure), Dalyan River Tour (ancient tombs and turtle beach), Pamukkale (white travertines), and Scuba Diving (underwater caves). These activities showcase the best of Marmaris's natural beauty, culture, and adventure.

How much do activities cost in Marmaris?

Most activities range from £20-50 per person. Budget options like water sports start at £20, while full-day tours to Pamukkale or Ephesus cost £45-50. Private tours are more expensive (£150-300) but offer personalized experiences. Booking online usually saves 10-15% compared to booking at your hotel.

Do I need to book activities in advance?

Yes, especially during peak season (June-September). Popular tours like Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Blue Voyage can sell out 3-5 days in advance. Water activities and local tours can usually be booked 1-2 days ahead. Booking online in advance also guarantees better prices and hotel pickup times.

Are activities suitable for families with children?

Yes, most activities are family-friendly. Boat trips, Dalyan tours, and castle visits are perfect for all ages. Jeep safaris accept children 4+, while scuba diving has age restrictions (usually 10+). Many operators offer child discounts (50% off for ages 4-11) and free entry for children under 4.

What's included in tour prices?

Most full-day tours include: hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, professional guide, entrance fees, and insurance. Drinks are usually extra (£1-3). Water activities include all equipment and safety gear. Always check what's included before booking to avoid surprises.

Can I do activities if I don't swim?

Absolutely! Many activities don't require swimming: Jeep Safari, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Castle tours, Turkish baths, and village visits. On boat trips, swimming stops are optional – you can stay on deck and enjoy the views. Life jackets are provided on all boats for safety.

Ready to Explore Marmaris?

Book your activities now and get 10% off with early booking discount