City of Side: Boat Tour on the Manavgat River w/ Bazaar Trip

The City of Side: Boat Tour on the Manavgat River with Bazaar Trip offers a lively and well-organized day out in Antalya Province, Turkey. Priced at $15 per person and lasting approximately 7 hours, this tour combines scenic river cruising, cultural stops, and leisure time at the beach. It departs with hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics smooth and hassle-free. The tour is especially appealing for those seeking a diverse day filled with nature, markets, and local flavors, all with friendly guides and good value for money.

While the tour covers many highlights, including a visit to the Manavgat waterfall and the Grand Bazaar, it’s important to note that the entrance to Manavgat Falls and transfer costs for some activities are not included in the price. This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, cultural browsing, and a mix of relaxing beach time. It is an excellent choice for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a comprehensive day exploring the Side region.

Key Points

• Inexpensive price point of just $15 for a full day of activities
• Seven-hour tour with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Stops at Manavgat waterfall, Bazaar, and Cennet Beach
• Lunch served on the boat, with grilled chicken or fish plus salads
• Multiple deck levels, including sun terrace, dance floor, and bars
• Guides in English, German, and Russian provide commentary and assistance

You can check availability for your dates here:

Pickup and Arrival at the Manavgat River Pier

The tour begins with hotel pickup between 08:30 and 09:30 AM from Side hotels, using comfortable buses. After collecting all guests, the bus drives through scenic forested landscapes for about 30 minutes until reaching the dock at the Manavgat River. Guests are greeted by friendly staff upon arrival and get a chance to explore the boat before the journey starts.

The boat has three floors: the first with a bar, comfortable seating, and showers; the second with another bar, more seating, and a dance floor; and the third sun terrace, perfect for sunbathing. The guided tour begins promptly after all guests are onboard, with guides speaking English, German, and Russian to explain the itinerary and highlight key sights along the way.

Scenic Cruise to the Manavgat Strait

The boat departs from the dock to cruise along the Manavgat Strait, where river meets sea. This leg takes about 35-40 minutes and offers views of shipyards, trout farms, Taurus mountains, and the Manavgat football stadium. It’s a chance to enjoy beautiful scenery and spot turtles on the riverbank.

The guide points out notable features as the boat glides through the water. During this cruise, passengers are encouraged to relax on the sun terrace or socialize on the deck. The atmosphere on the boat is lively, with guides providing commentary in multiple languages to keep everyone engaged.

Swimming Break at Cennet Beach

One of the tour’s highlights is the swimming break at Cennet Beach, where the Manavgat River’s emerald waters meet the Mediterranean Sea. This spot is renowned for being one of the few beaches worldwide where you can swim in both freshwater and saltwater.

Guests enjoy about an hour here, with options to swim, sunbathe, or ride a jet ski (additional cost). The beach features pancake stalls made by local women, adding to the authentic experience. During this time, the kitchen team grills chicken for the on-board buffet, which guests can enjoy after their swim.

Lunch on the Boat: Fresh Grilled Chicken or Fish

After the swim, everyone can dine on a buffet served directly on the boat. The lunch includes grilled chicken or fish, accompanied by salad. The food receives praise for being tasty and generous, adding value to the overall experience. Guests can eat comfortably while enjoying the river views or relaxing on the decks.

The lunch service allows for a smooth transition back into the afternoon activities, with plenty of time to refresh and socialize. The meals are included in the tour price, making this a convenient and budget-friendly option.

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Visiting the Manavgat Waterfall

Post-lunch, the boat docks at the Manavgat pier for those who have reserved to visit the Manavgat waterfall. This natural attraction is not included in the entrance fee, but reservations can be made separately. The waterfall offers a scenic spot for photos and a chance to experience nature’s power up close.

Guests who do not visit the waterfall are taken to the Manavgat Grand Bazaar instead. The bazaar visit lasts about 2.5 hours, giving ample time for shopping, browsing local goods, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. The guide provides instructions on meeting points and times to ensure everyone stays together.

The Grand Bazaar: Shopping and Local Flavors

The Bazaar is the largest in the region, featuring wide selections of souvenirs, clothes, and local products. While many visitors find the market hectic, the variety of items and bargaining opportunities make it worthwhile. Some reviews note that prices are higher than expected, especially for children’s clothes and souvenirs, but the overall experience remains positive.

Children and adults alike enjoy the parrot on the boat, where photo opportunities are available for a small fee. The market visit allows for flexible shopping and a taste of local culture, with guides available to assist and recommend the best stalls.

Return Journey and End of the Tour

Once the market or waterfall visit concludes, the bus takes guests back to their hotel in Side. The return trip lasts about 30 minutes, during which guests can relax or reflect on the day’s highlights. The entire experience wraps up with hotel drop-off, typically in the late afternoon or early evening.

This tour’s value for money and comprehensive itinerary make it a popular choice among travelers looking for a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and culture in the Side region.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This boat cruise on the Manavgat River appeals most to families, first-time visitors, and those seeking affordability. The diverse stops—waterfalls, bazaars, and beaches—ensure a varied day suited to different interests. The friendly guides and smooth logistics make it accessible and stress-free.

However, travelers should be prepared for optional costs such as entrance fees and jet ski rentals if desired. The crowd levels at the bazaar can be busy, and some reviews mention price fluctuations at the market, so budgeting accordingly is wise.

The Sum Up: A Practical and Enjoyable Day in Side

The City of Side: Boat Tour on the Manavgat River with Bazaar Trip offers a well-organized, affordable, and fun-filled day exploring some of the region’s most scenic and lively spots. With hotel transfers, lunch, and multiple stops, it provides a balanced mix of relaxation and activity.

While some costs are optional, the core experience delivers great value, especially considering the friendly guides and beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for families, group travelers, or solo visitors looking for an accessible way to see the Manavgat region without the hassle of planning individual activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Side.

How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours, including all stops and transfers.

What activities are available at Cennet Beach?
Guests can swim, sunbathe, or ride a jet ski (additional cost).

Are meals included?
Yes, the lunch on board features grilled chicken or fish with salad and is included in the price.

Do I need to pay for the entrance to the waterfall or bazaar?
Entrance to Manavgat waterfall is not included and requires a separate reservation. The bazaar visit is included, but shopping costs are at guests’ discretion.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides speak English, German, and Russian.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with flexible options to visit the bazaar or waterfall.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimsuit, towels, sunscreen, cash for optional extras, and comfortable clothing.

How much does the optional jet ski cost?
Jet skis are available for an extra fee of about 20 pounds for a 10-minute ride.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The City of Side: Boat Tour on the Manavgat River with Bazaar Trip proves to be a cost-effective, diverse, and enjoyable way to spend a day exploring the natural beauty and local markets of the Side region.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby