Surrounded by the seas of Mediterranean towards the south, Aegean towards the west and Black to the north, Turkey is famous for being home to the infamous Ottoman Emperors and has a rich heritage and history. However, the country is now more popular for its seaside resorts of Marmaris and Bodrum and their urban beauty juxtaposed by the heritage they represent. Marmaris is one of the most beautiful port cities of the country and one of the most visited vacation spots. Each year, millions of tourists visit this beautiful beach side resort town in Turkish riviera for the beaches, cafes, restaurants and surrounding natural beauty. While Marmaris is essentially urban and much more dazzling, Bodrum has its own charm with palm trees lining the streets, fairy tale houses and a great view of the Aegean Sea. In the following article, we will digress the differences between the two towns and try to reach a conclusion so as to which is a better tourist destination.
Bodrum or Marmaris ( Transportation )
While Marmaris can be reached by the Dalaman Airport located about 100 kilometers from the city, Bodrum is accessible via the Bodrum-Milas Airport which is just 35 kilometers away. However, moving around is easier and cheaper in Marmaris with its network of buses and minibuses, Bodrum has minibus services only in certain areas and public buses making transportation harder and more expensive.
Bodrum or Marmaris ( Historical Sites )
Secondly, the only striking features of Bodrum are the Castle of St. Peter, Myndos Gate and the Karakaya Village while Marmaris has plenty of activities and fabulous beaches along its coast making it an ideal summer vacation resort. Marmaris also has a bustling nightlife with bars and clubs on the beachfront where as Bodrum has no redemptive beach and one has to go to the nearest town of Gumbet for some beach action. Swimming is the only water sport which can be satisfied in Bodrum waters while Marmaris has provisions for river rafting, kayaking and scuba diving as well.
Bodrum is more suited for the culturally inclined with its ruins, amphitheatre, museums and castles. The Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology has won several awards for the magnificent collection of wrecks it houses including the ancient Uluburun Shipwreck. It is housed in the Bodrum Castle which is yet another remarkable landmark and architectural marvel here. The Bodrum Amphitheatre and the Mausoluem of Halicarnassus are two other gorgeous sights of this resort town. Marmaris, on the other hand, is for all kinds of tourists, from the lazy beach lover to the adventurer to the compulsive party goer. Bustling beaches, exciting water parks, happening bars, cruises to Icmeler and Turunc, excursions to Dalyan and Ephesus are some of the many activities on offer here. The Marmaris Castle, although not as mighty as the Bodrum one, has its own unique charm.
Bodrum or Marmaris ( Nature )
The Marmaris Mountains and Marina are highly popular amongst nature lovers and trekkers. The mountains are also ideal for hiking and mountain biking as well as jeep safaris. Nearby waterfalls and local villages along with local markets selling artefacts by local artisans also make for a very interesting trip and excursion. Both towns have glorious Turkish baths and spas perfect for the ideal vacationers who want to soak up the local culture. However, Marmaris is cheaper and more popular with the tourists.
Bodrum or Marmaris ( Night Life )
While Bodrum does have a many bars and clubs which are quite trendy and popular, they are also highly expensive. In fact, in several of the bars, the entry fee itself is higher than the cost of drinking inside. The Bodrum Marine Club is a floating club which host specialized theme parties on the ocean. However, there have been reports of scams regarding these parties one must be careful about.
The nightlife of Marmaris is one of its topmost perks with beachfront bars, clubs and pubs selling local the local brewery, Efes as well as brands like Budweiser and Forters. Favorites include the Turtle Bar and Villa Doluca. Local drinks like Apple Tea and Ayran are also highly popular with the tourists.
In conclusion, both the resort towns of Bordum and Marmaris are extremely suitable for tourists but with wider variety of activities and a livlier lifestyle, it is Marmaris which emerges as the people’s favorite.
