Exploring the City of Side through this day-long tour offers a mix of natural beauty, scenic views, and historic sights. For $40 per person, travelers enjoy a thoughtfully curated experience that includes hotel transportation, entry tickets for the Düden waterfalls and cable car, and a small group environment limited to 10 participants. The tour begins early in the morning, with pickup between 08:20 and 09:20, making it suitable for those who want to maximize their day in Antalya Province. While the tour promises breathtaking views from the cable car and visits to some of the city’s most popular waterfalls, potential travelers should be aware of some logistical challenges highlighted in reviews, such as a longer-than-expected bus ride and limited guided commentary during the city exploration.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, and history buffs interested in combining scenic landscapes with cultural sights. It’s a good choice for travelers who prefer organized transportation and structured stops. However, those expecting extensive on-site guidance or a tightly paced city experience might find some parts of the tour less satisfying, especially considering recent feedback about the crowded bus and a less guided city exploration.

Key Points

Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for ease of access within Side.
Cost is $40 per person, covering entry tickets for waterfalls and the cable car.
Tour duration is about 1 day, with flexible starting times based on availability.
Highlights include Düden waterfalls, a 13-minute cable car ride, and free time in Kaleici, the historic district.
Small group setting limits the experience to 10 participants, fostering a more intimate environment.
Reviews mention stunning views from the cable car but also note some logistical issues like a long bus ride and less guidance during the city portion.

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Departure, Transportation, and Group Size

The tour departs from Side hotels between 08:20 and 09:20. Travelers are transported by bus for roughly 1 hour to Antalya, with the journey including commentary from the guide about the region’s history and geography. Despite the small-group promise, some reviews report up to 27 participants on the bus, which can affect comfort and the overall experience.

The bus ride to Antalya can be over two hours depending on traffic, which might be a consideration for those with limited patience for long journeys. The group size is limited to 10 participants, but actual numbers may be higher, and the experience varies based on the mix of travelers.

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Visiting the Düden Waterfalls

The first stop is at the Heartuzkaldran Waterfall, known as Antalya’s biggest waterfall. It forms where a brook from the Taurus Mountains flows into the Mediterranean, dropping from 38 meters high. This site offers great photo opportunities amid natural beauty. Visitors have 30 minutes here to enjoy the scenery and take pictures.

The waterfall’s formation, with a sinkhole brook that sometimes flows underground, adds a unique natural element. The guide explains the area’s geography and history, making this stop both scenic and educational. This location is well-suited for nature photography and appreciating Turkey’s natural landscapes.

The Cable Car Experience to Tünektepe

The highlight of the tour is the cable car ride launched in 2010, stretching 1,706 meters to the summit at 605 meters altitude. The 13-minute ride offers panoramic views of Antalya City, its port, Konyaaltı Beach, and Rat Island.

At the top, visitors enjoy photos of the Taurus Mountains, beaches, and the Mediterranean Sea. A cafe provides a spot to relax and appreciate the spectacular vistas while sipping drinks. The 40-45 minute stay at the summit is enough to capture stunning landscape shots and enjoy the refreshing mountain air.

Exploring Kaleici, the Old Town

The final stop is Kaleici, Antalya’s charming historic district. The 30-minute drive from the cable car takes travelers to the heart of the Old Town, where they receive 2 hours of free time. This period allows visitors to stroll through cobbled streets, explore Roman artifacts, see the grooved minaret, and admire Ottoman-era houses.

Guidance is limited here, with the guide providing meeting instructions rather than a detailed tour. Visitors can choose to visit museums, shop, or sit in cafes overlooking the Mediterranean and the Taurus Mountains. For a more relaxed experience, some opt for a boat tour around Kaleici, which lasts about 45 minutes and is available from the marina.

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Practicalities and Additional Inclusions

The tour price includes all entry tickets, guide services in English, German, and Russian, and traffic insurance. However, it does not include lunch or drinks, so travelers should plan accordingly. The hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics straightforward, and reservation flexibility allows for full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The tour’s small group setting encourages a more personalized experience, though recent feedback indicates that actual group sizes can sometimes be larger, affecting comfort. The timing ensures a balance between sightseeing and free exploration, with the entire day wrapped up by around 18:15.

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Tour Experience: Balancing Highlights with Limitations

The scenic cable car ride and waterfalls stand out as must-see moments, providing stunning views and great photo opportunities. The waterfalls’ natural formations and the mountain vistas from Tünektepe are highlights that add a visual feast to the day.

However, some reviews point out disappointing aspects, such as a long bus ride with crowded conditions and a lack of guided commentary in the city portion. The limited time in Kaleici might feel rushed for those wanting a deeper exploration, and unanticipated maintenance work could reduce the cable car experience, replaced by a boat tour instead.

This tour offers best value for those eager to see Antalya’s natural beauty and enjoy panoramic views without extensive walking or planning. It suits travelers who appreciate organized excursions and are comfortable with some logistical compromises.

City of Side: City Tour including Waterfalls and Cable Car – Final Words

This tour combines nature, scenic views, and historic sights into an accessible and affordable package. The $40 price point includes key attractions and entry tickets, making it a cost-effective way to experience Antalya’s highlights in a day.

While the scenic cable car and waterfalls are definite draws, travelers should be aware that city exploration can be limited and somewhat unstructured, especially during busy seasons or if maintenance affects activities like the cable car. The small group setting generally fosters a more personal experience, but actual group sizes may vary.

This tour is best suited for those seeking spectacular views, nature photography, and a convenient day in Antalya. For a more guided city experience or less crowded journey, some may prefer alternative options, but for visual splendor and easy logistics, this tour checks many boxes.

Ready to Book?

City of Side: City Tour including Waterfalls and Cable Car

4.4

(28)

“The pick-up was very punctual and as agreed, we actually thought it would be a small group (max. 10 people, that's what it said in the description)…”

— Sven, July 25, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price of $40 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, entry tickets for waterfalls and the cable car, and a guide in English, German, or Russian.

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable car ride lasts approximately 13 minutes each way, taking passengers to the Tünektepe summit at 605 meters elevation.

Can I visit Kaleici for free?
Yes, Kaleici is a public historic district; the free time allows for walking, shopping, and sightseeing without additional costs.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
The key highlights include Düden waterfalls, the scenic cable car ride, and free time in Kaleici with views of the Mediterranean and Taurus Mountains.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the organized transportation and shorter stops make it suitable for families, though the bus ride may be long for some children.

What is the duration of the tour?
The total duration is about 1 day, with a flexible starting time depending on availability.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera for the scenic views and photo stops.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but there are cafes and restaurants at the summit and in Kaleici for refreshments.