Antalya: City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car, Boat & Lunch

Antalya: City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car, Boat & Lunch offers an engaging way to explore Turkey’s vibrant southern coast in about 7 to 8 hours. Priced at only $15 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive look at Antalya’s most iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural highlights, all led by a fluent English-speaking local guide. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees to key sites, and a delicious Turkish lunch, making it an excellent value for travelers seeking an accessible day trip.

While the Olympos cable car and boat trip can be optional, the itinerary features spectacular waterfalls, historical landmarks, and scenic coastal views. The tour is well-suited for all ages and offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and leisure. However, travelers should be aware that the cable car is sometimes closed, and the boat cruise may have limited explanation depending on the guide, as reviews suggest.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day tour with hotel pickup and lunch included
• Visits Duden Waterfalls, Old Town (Kaleici), and Kundu souvenir shop
• Includes scenic boat cruise along Antalya’s coastline with views of Karpuzkaldiran Waterfall
• Optional Olympos cable car ascent offers panoramic views from 2,365 meters
• Tour covers multiple attractions in one day, suitable for families and solo travelers
• Be aware that the cable car might be closed, and some stops involve extra costs

Exploring Antalya’s Waterfalls: Lower and Upper Duden

The tour starts at Lower Duden Waterfalls, where powerful streams cascade into pools amid lush greenery, creating perfect photo opportunities. The scenic cable car ride then lifts visitors to view Antalya’s cliffs and the Mediterranean Sea, offering sweeping panoramic scenes. The Upper Duden Waterfalls are just a short drive away, featuring high cliffs, small caves, and walking paths that provide a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for photography and relaxation.

The waterfalls are among the most popular natural sights in Antalya. The Upper falls are more accessible and less crowded, with tricky steps that might challenge visitors with mobility issues, so caution is advised. Both spots are free to visit, but the adventure of the cable car adds a special touch if it’s operational.

Shopping at the Kundu Souvenir Shop

Midway through the day, the tour makes a stop at a local souvenir shop in Kundu. Here, visitors find a variety of gifts and mementos, perfect for taking home a piece of Turkey. The shop offers a wider selection of handmade items, though some reviews note pushy sales tactics. This stop provides a break from sightseeing and an opportunity to browse or pick up unique gifts.

Authentic Turkish Lunch by the Coast

A relaxing lunch break takes place near the water at a charming restaurant in Konyaalti. Here, the tour includes regional dishes in a tranquil setting with beautiful views. While the lunch quality receives positive remarks, some reviews mention that extra charges for drinks like juice or fries can add up, so travelers should budget accordingly. The lunch break offers a chance to recharge before continuing with sightseeing.

Scenic Boat Cruise Along Antalya’s Coastline

The highlight for many is the boat trip from Kaleici harbor, which lasts about one hour. The cruise offers stunning views of Antalya’s coastline and landmarks such as the Karpuzkaldiran Waterfall. This natural spectacle sees water tumbling 40 meters into the sea, making for a dramatic photo opportunity. The boat cruise provides a relaxing way to enjoy the sea breeze and coastal scenery, although some reviews suggest the guide’s commentary may be limited.

Olympos Teleferik: Cable Car to Mount Olympos

The tour concludes with a cable car ascent to Mount Olympos (Tahtal) at 2,365 meters above sea level. From the summit, visitors enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, mountains, and forests. There is a café at the top where travelers can relax with coffee or tea. However, it’s important to note that the cable car ticket is not included in the package and that the cable car may be closed, as confirmed by reviews.

The Old Town (Kaleici): Walking and Historical Sights

The Old Town of Antalya, called Kaleici, offers a glimpse into the city’s history. The tour includes about an hour exploring the streets, where visitors can see Hadrian’s Gate, the Clock Tower, and the Fluted Minaret. The guide leads you through the narrow streets, sharing stories about Antalya’s past. Some reviews mention limited time at this stop, so those interested in detailed exploration may want to plan additional visits.

Guide Expertise and Tour Pacing

The tour is led by experienced guides who are praised for their friendly demeanor and knowledgeable explanations. Many reviews highlight Gozde’s or Ado’s helpful insights and warnings about potential scams, such as shoe shiners or rose sellers. The pacing is generally well-balanced, with enough free time at each stop. However, some reviewers note that time at certain attractions, like the waterfalls or jewelry shop, could be more generous.

Logistics and Group Size

Starting at McDonald’s on Barbaros, the tour departs at 8:30 am with hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for travelers staying in Antalya. The group size is limited to 40 people, ensuring a comfortable experience. The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle to move between sites, easing the challenge of long travel times.

Value and Potential Limitations

Priced at $15, this tour offers excellent value considering the multiple attractions, lunch, and entrance fees included. The boat trip is a highlight for many, and the waterfalls are a must-see. However, travelers should prepare for some extra costs—such as drinks at lunch—and be aware that cable car availability can be unpredictable. Some reviews mention short exploration times and a lack of detailed commentary, which might suit those seeking a quick overview rather than an in-depth experience.

Antalya Full Day City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car, Boat & Lunch: Who Will Enjoy It?

This tour offers a practical way to see Antalya’s top sights without the hassle of planning individual visits. It suits families, solo travelers, and groups who want a cost-effective, organized day with natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and scenic views. Those interested in waterfalls, coastlines, and panoramic vistas will find plenty to enjoy.

Nevertheless, travelers expecting extensive guided commentary or uninterrupted sightseeing should be aware of short stops and optional activities like the cable car, which might be closed during some visits. This tour provides good value with multiple highlights packed into one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cable car ride included in the tour?
The cable car is not included in the package. It is an optional activity and may be closed depending on the day, as confirmed by reviews.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat trip lasts approximately one hour, offering views of Antalya’s coastline and the Karpuzkaldiran Waterfall.

What attractions are part of this tour?
Stops include Lower and Upper Duden Waterfalls, Kundu souvenir shop, lunch in Konyaalti, Old Town (Kaleici), and scenic boat cruise. The Olympos Cable Car is an optional ascent at the end.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour suits families and solo travelers of all ages, though mobility issues may affect access to some natural sites like the waterfalls and steps involved.

How much walking is involved?
Walking occurs mainly at the waterfalls and Old Town, with some steep or uneven steps, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, the Kundu shop offers a variety of gifts, but some reviews note pushy sales tactics.

What about lunch and drinks?
Lunch is included and generally praised, but additional drinks like juice or fries cost extra.

What if the cable car is closed?
The cable car may be closed for maintenance or weather; in that case, the ascent is skipped, and the viewpoints are accessed from the ground.

How do I reserve this tour?
Booking is recommended 14 days in advance, with pickups from hotels in Antalya. The tour operates most days starting at 8:30 am.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Who is the tour operator?
The tour is provided by Payless, contactable at +905380970663 or via email at [email protected].

This Antalya city tour combines natural beauty, historical sights, and coastal scenery into a full-day experience that balances value with diverse attractions. With friendly guides and well-organized logistics, it remains a compelling choice for those wanting a broad overview of this stunning Turkish city.