Marmaris 19 May Youth Square serves as a central hub for community gatherings, celebrations, and a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax. It's a significant improvement over its previous incarnation as a supermarket site, now offering a beautiful and engaging public space.
Visitors consistently praise the square's dancing fountains, particularly the evening shows with music and lights. Many describe it as a "visual feast" and a "spectacular display," with some noting the unique feature of a video projected onto a water screen. The atmosphere is frequently highlighted as charming and relaxing, making it an ideal place to "sit and watch the world go by." Families with children particularly enjoy the fountains, with kids often delighting in getting sprayed by the water. The statues and the mini waterfall are also frequently mentioned as attractive features, especially when lit up at night.
To make the most of your visit, aim for the evening hours, as the fountain shows typically start around 9:00 PM or 9:30 PM during the summer season. Some visitors in October noted an earlier start time, so it's advisable to check locally if visiting in the shoulder season. Allow at least an hour to enjoy the fountain show and soak in the atmosphere. Bring a cold drink or grab one from the surrounding cafes. While there are fast-food options like Burger King and McDonald's nearby, many prefer to enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants before or after the show. Be aware that it can get crowded, especially right before the fountain show, so arrive a bit early for a good spot. If you have children who enjoy playing in water, consider bringing a small towel or a change of clothes, as they might get wet.
The square is centrally located and easily accessible. Many visitors mention walking to it from their hotels or the marina. It's also noted as a main stop for buses, and a dolmuş station is conveniently located right next to it, making public transport a viable option. For those driving, the area is surrounded by shops and cafes, and while specific parking information isn't detailed in reviews, its central location suggests various parking possibilities in the vicinity.
A common complaint, though not widespread, is the presence of fast-food chains like Burger King within the square, which some feel detracts from the aesthetic. However, this is a minor point for most, who are generally impressed by the transformation of the space. Some reviewers also mention the persistent banter from local shopkeepers trying to sell goods; while this is common in tourist areas, visitors can mitigate it by politely declining or simply enjoying the fountain show from a distance.
