Alanya & Side: Side, Aspendos & Manavgat Waterfall Tour

Explore the Rich Historical and Natural Highlights of Antalya Province

The Alanya & Side: Side, Aspendos & Manavgat Waterfall Tour offers a well-rounded day of discovery in Turkey’s Antalya Province. Spanning 6 hours and rated 4.6, this guided journey takes visitors through ancient ruins, impressive Roman architecture, and stunning natural scenery. The tour begins with convenient hotel transfers from Alanya and Side, making for a comfortable and effortless experience.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of historical sites and natural beauty, along with a dedicated shopping stop at the Novamall Shopping Center. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of antiquity, scenic landscapes, and some leisure time for shopping, all in a single day.

While the tour provides a balanced itinerary, it’s important to note that lunch is included but drinks are not, and the pace may vary depending on traffic conditions. The tour is approachable for most, but not suitable for children under 3 years or individuals with mobility issues.

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Key Points

• Duration: 6 hours, including transfers
• Highlights: Ancient city of Side, Aspendos Ancient Theatre, Manavgat Waterfall, and Novamall Shopping Center
• Transport: Hotel transfers from multiple locations in Alanya and Side
• Guides: Available in English and Russian
• Cost: Includes skip-the-line access and free time at key sites
• Rating: 4.6, reflecting reliable quality and positive experiences

Pickup and Transfer Logistics from Alanya and Side

The tour starts with hotel pickup from various regions, including Okurcalar, Avsallar, Konakli, Türkler, Kzılaaç, Kzlot, Alanya, Titreyengöl, Sorgun, and Side. Pickup times differ depending on the location, ensuring flexibility for travelers. After the tour, travelers are returned comfortably to their hotels.

This transfer service simplifies the day, removing the hassle of arranging transportation independently. It also ensures that group sizes are manageable, providing a more personal experience compared to exploring independently.

Visiting the Ancient City of Side and Its Ruins

Side is a major port city with roots stretching back to the 7th century BC. The tour dedicates 2.5 hours to exploring this open-air museum, where visitors can see highlights such as the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theatre, and the harbor. These ruins reveal the city’s importance during the Roman era.

The free time allows for wandering through the ruins at your own pace, with plenty of photo opportunities and the chance to appreciate the scale of the ancient structures. While the site is an open-air area, the tour guide provides insights into its history and significance.

Marvel at the Aspendos Ancient Theatre

Next, the tour takes visitors to the remarkably preserved Aspendos Ancient Theatre, regarded as one of the finest examples of Roman architecture worldwide. This site showcases the engineering skills of the ancient Romans, with its excellent acoustics and sturdy construction.

Visitors get to explore the theatre and learn about its historical use as a venue for performances. The time allocated allows for a thorough look at this architecturally impressive site, which remains a major highlight of the tour.

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Enjoy the Scenic Atmosphere of Manavgat Waterfall

Following Aspendos, the journey continues to the Manavgat Waterfall, where 45 minutes are set aside for free exploration. The waterfall’s peaceful surroundings make it a favorite spot for appreciating Turkey’s natural beauty.

Visitors can take photos, enjoy the fresh air, or simply relax while observing the cascade. The short stop offers a refreshing break after the historical visits, with natural scenery contrasting the ancient ruins.

Shop at Novamall for Local and International Brands

The final stop is at Novamall Shopping Center, a retail hub featuring local and international brands. This stop gives visitors the opportunity to browse and purchase souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and gifts before heading back to their hotels.

The shopping center’s variety ensures options for different tastes and budgets, making it a practical way to conclude the day. Since the tour provides free time here, shoppers can leisurely browse and decide without feeling rushed.

Dining and Refreshments During the Tour

A lunch is included in the tour, served at a local restaurant. While drinks are not included, travelers are encouraged to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces. The tour emphasizes practicality, so packing essentials is recommended for a comfortable experience.

Practical Details and Tour Flexibility

The average duration of sightseeing at each location is carefully planned, but actual times may vary due to traffic or weather conditions. The tour is primarily designed for those seeking a balance of history, nature, and shopping in a manageable timeframe.

The guided tour is led in English and Russian, with knowledgeable guides explaining the significance of each site. The skip-the-line feature at Aspendos saves time, maximizing sightseeing and free exploration.

Suitability and Accessibility Considerations

This tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration and history, but it may not be ideal for children under 3 years or individuals with mobility challenges. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and carry camera, water, and sunscreen to enhance their experience.

The tour does not permit smoking or food in the transport vehicle, maintaining a comfortable environment for all guests.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Experiences

Similar options include tours to Perge, the Old Town of Antalya, or Duden Waterfalls, with some offering additional activities like cable car rides or boat trips. However, this particular tour’s strength lies in its focus on ancient ruins, Roman architecture, and scenic waterfalls, combined with shopping at Novamall.

Final Thoughts on the Alanya & Side Tour

This 6-hour tour provides a solid introduction to Turkey’s historical and natural treasures, with hotel transfers and guided commentary making it straightforward for first-time visitors. The combination of Side’s ruins, Aspendos Theatre, and Manavgat Waterfall ensures a varied experience with plenty of photo opportunities and insights.

The inclusion of free time at key sites offers flexibility for personal exploration, while the shopping stop adds a practical element for souvenirs or gifts. The reliable rating of 4.6 reflects its consistent quality and positive reputation.

The tour suits travelers interested in history, scenic landscapes, and shopping, looking for an efficient way to see some of Turkey’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel transfers, guided visits, skip-the-line access at Aspendos, lunch, and free time at sites like Side and Manavgat Waterfall. Drinks are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is 6 hours, with sightseeing, transfers, and free exploration times included.

Are there any physical restrictions for participants?
The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years or people with mobility impairments. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, camera, sunscreen, and water for the day.

Is this tour suitable for shopping enthusiasts?
Yes, the Novamall Shopping Center stop offers a wide variety of local and international brands, with ample free time for browsing.

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

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in English and Russian.

Where does the tour start?
From specified pickup points in Alanya and Side, with transfer times varying by location.

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