From Side: Antalya City Tour w/Boat Trip, Old Town&Waterfall

Exploring Antalya from Side offers an engaging blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and relaxing activities. This 8-hour guided tour provides a comprehensive look at the city’s most captivating sights, with options for a boat trip, lunch, and visits to scenic viewpoints. The tour begins with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to enjoy a full day without logistical worries.

While the cable car ride isn’t available due to a temporary closure, the tour compensates with impressive views, a delicious traditional lunch, and the opportunity to stroll through Kaleiçi—the historic old town. This experience is ideal for visitors seeking a balanced mix of culture, nature, and local flavors, though it’s worth noting that the waterfalls and shopping parts are relatively brief, and the cable car isn’t currently in service.

Key Points

• Full-day experience lasting approximately 8 hours, with flexible start times based on availability.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying transportation.
• Highlights: scenic Kursunlu Waterfall, historic Kaleiçi, a boat trip (if selected), and panoramic views of Antalya.
• A delicious Turkish lunch in Kaleiçi helps round out the day.
• The cable car ride is currently unavailable, so prepare for alternative scenic viewpoints.
• Guided in English and German, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories and insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Antalya’s Scenic Waterfalls

The tour kicks off with a visit to Kursunlu Waterfall, one of the most picture-perfect spots in Antalya. Located within a lush nature park, Kursunlu Waterfall offers a tranquil setting with the soothing sound of cascading water. Visitors can take plenty of photos amidst the greenery and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Although the waterfall is a brief stop, the natural beauty makes it a worthwhile part of the day. The tour provides around 40 minutes of free time here, enough to soak in the scenery and take some photos before moving on to the next part of the adventure.

Exploring Kaleiçi: The Historic Heart of Antalya

A major highlight of this tour is Kaleiçi, the city’s old town, renowned for its cobblestone streets, charming architecture, and historic landmarks. Visitors stroll through this lively area, passing sights like Hadrians Gate and the Clock Tower.

Guides share stories about the area’s past, helping visitors appreciate its significance. After a guided walk, there’s free time to explore shops and markets, where souvenirs and local crafts await. The included lunch takes place in Kaleiçi, offering authentic Turkish cuisine in a laid-back setting, giving visitors a taste of local flavors.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the tour, scenic viewpoints offer views of Antalya city from higher elevations. While the cable car ride is currently out of service, guides find other vantage points to showcase the city’s landscape. These spots provide excellent opportunities for photos and capturing the city’s blend of modern development and historic charm.

The guides are praised for their storytelling, often translating information into multiple languages, which helps non-native speakers enjoy every scenic moment fully.

The Boat Trip: A Relaxing Waterway Experience

A boat trip is part of the tour if selected, offering a relaxing cruise along Antalya’s coastline. This addition adds a leisure element, allowing travelers to enjoy sea views and fresh air. The boat trip is well-liked, especially for those who enjoy being on the water and taking in the city from a different perspective.

The boat trip is one of the tour’s highlights, praised for its calming atmosphere and the chance to see Antalya from a different angle. It’s a relaxing way to break up the day and enjoy some scenic views.

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Lunch in Kaleiçi: Authentic Turkish Cuisine

A highlight for many participants is the lunch at a local restaurant in Kaleiçi. The meal features authentic Turkish dishes, served in a relaxed setting. While portions are described as small in some reviews, the quality of the food is appreciated, making it a good value and a chance to sample local flavors.

This meal provides a welcome break in the day, giving visitors a chance to discuss the sights they’ve seen and prepare for the remaining stops.

Shopping and Free Time at the Bazaar

After lunch, the tour includes a visit to the famous bazaar, offering a lively shopping experience. Guides provide discount cards for the first shop, but the best deals might be found outside the main stores. Visitors have about 3 hours of free time to explore, shop, or simply enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

Some reviews note that the bazaar can be busy, but it’s an excellent place to pick up souvenirs, local crafts, or simply soak in the vibrant environment. This part of the tour is especially appreciated for the opportunity to browse at leisure.

The Unavailable Cable Car: What to Expect

The cable car ride is currently out of service, so it’s not included in this tour. When operational, it would have provided stunning panoramic views of Antalya from above. For now, guides find other scenic spots to give similar visual rewards, but travelers should be aware that this feature is temporarily unavailable.

While disappointing for some, the tour compensates with scenic viewpoints and the water and historical attractions.

Practical Details: Pacing, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour operates in a group setting with hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and hassle-free. The duration of 8 hours allows for a reasonably paced day, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the sights and activities. However, some stops, like the waterfalls and bazaar, may have limited free time.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring essentials like water and a camera. Weather can vary, so packing appropriate clothing is advised. The tour is available in English and German, with guides providing clear explanations.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for visitors who want a balanced day of natural beauty and cultural exploration. It suits those interested in historic sites, scenic views, and local cuisine, with enough free time for shopping and personal exploration.

However, travelers expecting a long cable car ride should note that it’s currently unavailable, which slightly reduces the scenic elevation experience. The short waterfall stop means nature lovers should set expectations accordingly.

Final Thoughts on the Antalya City Tour from Side

The Antalya City Tour offers a solid mix of natural scenery, historic charm, and local flavor. With kind guides providing insightful commentary, the tour makes it easy to enjoy Antalya’s highlights without logistical stress. The boat trip and lunch are well-received features, adding value and relaxation.

While the cable car is temporarily out of service, the tour still delivers scenic viewpoints that satisfy most visitors. The free time at the bazaar provides a lively shopping experience, though it can get busy. This tour suits adventurers who enjoy outdoor scenery, history, and authentic local food, making it a worthwhile half-day activity from Side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind that children under 3 must pay extra, and they may need to be carried if they do not have their own seat. The waterfalls and bazaar are family-friendly, but the pace might be a bit quick for very young kids.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes, water, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The tour is outdoors most of the time, so dress accordingly.

How long is the boat trip?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it is included if selected, and praised for its relaxing and scenic qualities.

Are meals included?
Yes, if the lunch option is chosen, you get an authentic Turkish meal at a local restaurant in Kaleiçi.

Is the cable car ride available?
No, the cable car is currently out of service, so it’s not part of this tour.

Can I cancel this tour easily?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.

What languages are available for the guides?
Guides speak English and German, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

How do I know the tour times?
Starting times vary; check the availability when booking. The tour duration is around 8 hours.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of natural waterfalls, historic Kaleiçi, and scenic viewpoints makes it a well-rounded experience, complemented by professional guides and convenient hotel pickup.

Would I recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those interested in a diverse taste of Antalya’s nature and culture in a full-day setting.

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