The Best Things to See and Do in İçmeler, Turkey

You’ll be happy to know that everything in İçmeler is easily accessible by foot and you can start exploring the town by taking a stroll down the lovely promenade overlooking the beautiful coast. Make sure to check out İçmeler’s old town with its narrow cobblestoned streets and historic grey stone houses and to get some great souvenir shopping done at one of the many shops selling specialties like homemade Turkish Delight or jewellery. If you’re a more active explorer, get some hiking done in the pine forests and mountains surrounding the bay and enjoy some of the best views imaginable.

Of course, no vacation in İçmeler would be complete without spending lots of time at the beautiful beach, which is located on Marmaris Bay’s southernmost area. You’ll love the crystal clear water and the fine sand and the fact that it’s not as crowded as the beaches in Marmaris. If you’ve had enough of napping in the sun and perfecting your tan, then take the opportunity to go scuba diving or water skiing.

One of the best places to get some serious shopping done is at the colourful İçmeler local market, which is held every Wednesday. You’ll find all kinds of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as clothing and jewellery at bargain prices. Get lost among the many vendors who sell everything from fabrics and shoes to spices and even fine quality gold and silver jewellery. When you get hungry from all the haggling and shopping, make sure to try some of the street food on offer.

Marmaris is the most popular day trip from İçmeler and the popular summer resort town can be reached via a water taxi or dolmuş (small bus), as well as by simply walking for about two hours. You can also take a boat trip to explore the beautiful coast, most notably, the loggerhead turtles at Turtle Beach or the Dalyan Delta River where the historic Lycian Rock Tombs are quite the memorable sight. Another great day trip is nearby Hierapolis, known for its waterfalls, mineral springs and ancient ruins.

For families travelling with kids, a day trip to the Atlantis Waterpark is a great option. About a 20-minute drive from Marmaris, the park has lots of great slides for the kids to enjoy as well as a wave pool and an aqua play area for smaller children. The park’s private beach is also a great place for parents to relax while the kids frolic about.