Day trips from Marmaris to the Greek Islands
Plan your sun-drenched adventure across the Aegean 🌊
So you’ve made it to Marmaris and enjoying the sun, sea and stunning Turkish Riviera. But guess what? The adventure doesn’t have to stop there. Some of the best day trips from Marmaris actually take you out of Turkey and straight into the dreamy world of the Greek islands.
Thanks to short ferry rides, you can set sail in the morning, wander through ancient ruins or stretch out under the sun by the sea for lunch and be back in Marmaris in the evening. Have we got your wanderlust senses tingling?
Here's how you can explore both sides of the Aegean in a day!
Next stop, the Greek Islands!
Marmaris to Rhodes, the classic Greek day trip
Step off the ferry and boom, you’re in another world! Start off in the Old Town of Rhodes, where medieval castles, cobbled streets, and sun-drenched squares all fight for your attention. The Palace of the Grand Master is a must, with its massive stone towers and sweeping views. Then get a little lost along the Street of the Knights or duck into a shady café for a Greek ice coffee and homemade gelato.
After exploring the old town, head south to Lindos, an ancient cliff-side village perched with sugar-cube houses and stunning sea views. Don’t forget to bring your hiking shoes and climb to the top of the hill for a closer look at the Acropolis of Lindos.
If you want to skip the ruins and head straight for the beach, Tsambika and Anthony Quinn Bay are both solid picks for a swim and a sun-soak. You can even squeeze in a long lunch by the sea. Grilled octopus, anyone?
One of the best things about this day trip is that there are regular ferries traveling from Marmaris to Rhodes throughout the year. During the summer high season, there are usually 2 crossings in the morning and 2 in the afternoon, allowing you to be flexible. The ferry ride typically takes about 1 hour each way.
There is no shortage of dreamy beaches on Rhodes
Marmaris to Symi, the colorful escape via Rhodes
Why settle for one Greek island escape when you can squeeze two into one epic day? First stop: Rhodes. Then, hop on a second ferry and cruise your way to Symi, one of those places that doesn’t look real until you’ve actually been.
As the boat glides into the port of Gialos, prepare for a full-on visual feast. The houses are stacked like a pastel layer cake, every balcony a photo op. No huge crowds, no blaring music, just low-key vibes and salty air.
Take a slow walk along the promenade, pop into some cute little shops, and don’t leave without trying Symi’s famous tiny shrimp. They're crispy, salty, and oh-so moreish. Up for a little climb? Take the Kali Strata steps up to Ano Symi. It’s quiet up there. Peaceful. And the view? Let’s just say your phone won’t stay in your pocket for long.
Getting to Symi from Marmaris via Rhodes is fairly straightforward. First, you need to catch the first Marmaris ferry to Rhodes Town. Once there, you can hop on the Rhodes-Symi at 10:30 and be in Symi just before noon. The entire trip can take as little as 3 hours, which includes 45 minutes waiting time.
For your return trip, you take the Symi-Rhodes ferry around 17:15 and then continue with the Rhodes-Marmaris crossing at 19:15. Follow this plan, and you’ll be back in Turkey at around 20:15, just in time for dinner!
Marmaris - Symi (via Rhodes) from €52
Welcome to Symi!
Whether you're looking for a quick dose of Greek culture or an island-hopping adventure in the Aegean, Marmaris is the perfect springboard. With Ferryhopper, booking your ferry tickets to Rhodes, Symi and beyond is hassle-free.
