Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
The City of Side: Cabrio Bus & Green Lake Boat Tour with Lunch offers a full day of exploration through some of Turkey’s most scenic and culturally rich spots. This 7-hour guided experience departs from Side and takes you on a journey that includes a boat cruise on Green Lake, visits to Manavgat Waterfall, the Ancient Site of Seleukia, and the impressive Central Mosque in Manavgat. The tour also features a scenic drive through the Taurus Mountains, with stops for a Turkish lunch and walks through orange and banana gardens.
What makes this tour appealing is its combination of natural beauty, historical sights, and local flavors. The inclusion of round-trip transfers, multiple stops, and a live guide speaking English, Russian, or German makes it suitable for travelers wanting an all-in-one day trip. However, some reviews point out that the bus may be older, and the scenery around some restaurant buildings might not meet everyone’s aesthetic expectations. Still, for those seeking a well-rounded day with diverse highlights, this tour offers good value.
Key Points
- Includes a scenic boat ride on Green Lake, with opportunities to take photos of its crystal-clear waters.
- Visits to Manavgat Waterfall and the Central Mosque in Manavgat showcase natural beauty and local architecture.
- Ancient ruins of Seleukia provide a glimpse into Roman history near the Oymapinar Dam.
- Lunch is included, with a choice of fish or chicken, served with rice, salad, and fresh fruit.
- Stops at orange and banana gardens offer a chance to try fresh local fruits.
- The tour lasts approximately 7 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
From Side to the Green Lake and Green Canyon
This tour begins with hotel pickups in Side, ensuring convenience and ease of access. The route takes travelers toward Manavgat, where the Central Mosque impresses with its minarets, dome, and large chandeliers. The visit to this mosque offers a chance to observe Turkey’s religious architecture and learn about the local culture.
Following this, the group visits the Manavgat Waterfall, one of Turkey’s most beautiful waterfalls along the Mediterranean coast. The waterfall creates a peaceful setting, perfect for photographs and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Next, the journey continues toward the ancient site of Seleukia, located near the Oymapinar Dam. Here, visitors can gain insights into Roman history and archaeology. The ruins provide a fascinating glimpse into the past amidst the landscape of the Taurus Mountains.
While in Manavgat, here are other experiences we've covered
Exploring Green Lake from the Top of Taurus Mountain
The highlight of the tour is the boat trip on Green Lake, where travelers see crystal-clear waters and lush greenery from the deck. The boat allows for plenty of photo opportunities and relaxing views in a tranquil setting. Before the boat ride, travelers enjoy scenic views from the top of Taurus Mountain, where the Green Lake unfolds below.
Midway through the day, the group stops at a scenic location for lunch with lake views. Guests can choose fish or chicken, both served with rice, salad, and fresh fruit. The meal is a good chance to rest and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Visiting Manavgat River and Waterfall
The Manavgat River is another notable stop, providing a peaceful setting for a brief walk or photo stop. The Manavgat Waterfall is recognized for its stunning flow and natural charm, offering another picturesque site to enjoy during the tour.
The Scenic Drive Through the Taurus Mountains
The drive to Green Lake involves traversing Taurus Mountain roads, offering panoramic views of the landscape. Passengers can appreciate the mountain scenery and observe the lush orange and banana gardens at the final stop, where they might try some local fruits fresh from the trees.
More Great Tours NearbyPracticalities and Tour Logistics
This tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, though wheelchair users are not suited for this activity. The pickup from hotel entrance makes participation straightforward, with the guide providing commentary in English, Russian, or German.
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.
While you're exploring Manavgat, here are other experiences we've looked into
Review Summaries and Realities
The overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 reflects mixed feedback. Many appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the variety of stops, especially the boat ride on Green Lake. The lunch, with its local cuisine options, receives positive remarks for taste and value.
On the downside, some reviews mention the old condition of the bus and disappointing surroundings of some restaurants. One review criticizes a zoo stop for poor animal conditions, but this is not part of the main experience. The tour provides a balanced mix of natural sights, history, and cultural experiences, suitable for those looking for a full-day outing.
Final Thoughts on the Green Lake & Green Canyon Tour
This tour delivers a diverse itinerary in just 7 hours, combining scenic beauty, cultural sights, and a delicious Turkish lunch. The boat trip on Green Lake is the standout feature, offering memorable views and photo opportunities. The historical visits to Seleukia and the Manavgat Waterfall add cultural depth.
While the bus age and some surroundings may not meet everyone’s aesthetic expectations, the professional guides and variety of stops compensate well. This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that covers nature, history, and local food.
The City of Side: Cabrio Bus & Green Lake Boat Tour with Lunch offers a solid value for those seeking an active, scenic exploration of Turkey’s Mediterranean region, especially for visitors eager to see Green Lake’s tranquil waters and enjoy Turkish hospitality.
✨ Book This Experience
City of Side: Cabrio Bus & Green Lake Boat Tour with Lunch
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is generally appropriate for most travelers, but the bus may be older, and accessibility for wheelchair users is limited.
What should I bring for the tour?
Travelers should pack comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water for the day.
Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is available.
Is the lunch included in the tour?
Yes, the Turkish lunch is included, with options for fish or chicken, served with rice, salad, and fresh fruit.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Russian, and German, providing commentary during the stops and boat cruise.
How long is the tour and what are the pickup details?
The 7-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Side, with pickup times provided the day before the activity.
