From city of Side: Guided Day Trip to Alanya City

Explore the Turkish Riviera’s Highlights from Side to Alanya

This guided day trip to Alanya offers an engaging way to experience one of Turkey’s most lively seaside towns. Priced at $40 per person and lasting around 9 hours, this tour from Side combines scenic views, cultural sights, and relaxing activities. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a rundown of Alanya’s attractions with the comfort of an air-conditioned bus and a knowledgeable guide.

From exploring the medieval Alanya Castle to enjoying a boat cruise around the harbor, this tour covers many of the city’s top sights. The inclusion of a lunch by the Dim River adds a peaceful break, while the visit to Damlatas Cave offers a chance to see one of Alanya’s natural wonders. The tour suits those interested in history, scenic views, and a relaxed, full-day experience — though it involves some walking and stairs, so be prepared.

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Key Points

• Full-day guided tour from Side to Alanya lasting about 9 hours
• Includes visits to Alanya Castle, the harbor, and Damlatas Cave
• Boat trip around the harbor with panoramic views of the castle
• Lunch served at Dim Fall overlooking the Dim River
• Optional cable car ride for stunning city views
• Price of $40 per person includes hotel pickup and drop-off

How the Tour Combines Cultural Sights and Relaxation

This tour begins with hotel pickup in Side, where an air-conditioned bus takes travelers on the approximately one-hour drive to Alanya. The journey is smooth, with a guide providing insights into the area’s history and landmarks. The first major stop is Alanya Castle, a fortress built in 1226 that offers sweeping panoramic views of the city and the sea. Visitors have the chance to photograph the medieval walls and towers, and the guide explains the historical significance.

Following the castle visit, the group heads to the harbor for a boat trip that offers a different perspective of Alanya. The boat cruises around the harbor, allowing participants to view the castle from the water and enjoy the sea breeze. The boat trip serves as a highlight, combining scenic beauty with a relaxing atmosphere.

Enjoying Lunch at Dim Fall by the River

After the boat adventure, the tour pauses for lunch at Dim Fall, located near the Dim River. The restaurant offers a delicious meal, and the setting provides a peaceful backdrop with views of the flowing water. This break allows time to unwind and recharge before exploring the city further.

Exploring Alanya’s City Center and Free Time Options

Post-lunch, the tour returns to Alanya’s city center, where around two hours of free time is allocated. Visitors can choose to explore notable spots such as the Red Tower or visit the public bazaar near the harbor. Alternatively, there’s an option to experience the cable car ride, which departs near Damlatas Cave, giving visitors an opportunity to see Alanya from above and enjoy the beautiful vistas of the surrounding area.

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Marvel at Damlatas Cave and Its Benefits

The visit to Damlatas Cave is a key highlight of this tour. Known for its apparent asthma-curing qualities, the cave is a natural attraction with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The guide shares insights about its formation and health benefits, making it a captivating stop. After exploring the cave, the group is transferred back to the hotels in Side.

Practical Details and What’s Included

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional multilingual guide speaking English and German, and travel insurance. The lunch and boat trip are part of the package, with the optional cable car ride available at an additional experience. The entrance fee for Damlatas Cave is not included, so visitors should bring cash for this visit. Be aware that drinks and personal expenses are not covered.

The tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as some sites involve walking and stairs.

Logistics and Booking Tips

Participants meet their guide 5 minutes before the scheduled pickup time at their hotel’s security gate. Pickup areas cover Side, including Kumköy, Evrenseki, Çolakl, Gündodu, Titreyengöl, Sorgun, Kzlaaç, and Kzlot. For hotels in old Side, the meeting point is in front of the “Side Anadolu Türkü Evi”; the exact location is confirmed one day before the tour.

The tour operates with live guides in English and German and offers free cancellation if booked up to 24 hours in advance. Payment can be made later, providing flexibility for travelers.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Excursions

Compared to other full-day Alanya tours, this experience emphasizes a balance of historical exploration and scenic relaxation. The inclusion of a boat trip and the lunch by the river adds pleasant breaks in the itinerary. On top of that, the optional cable car ride offers a unique chance to see Alanya from above, which is widely appreciated.

While the tour covers important sights like Alanya Castle and Damlatas Cave, it remains reasonably priced at $40, making it accessible. The positive reviews highlight the friendly, professional guides and the smooth, punctual service as key strengths, along with the lovely lunch location and the stunning views.

Final Thoughts on the Guided Day Trip to Alanya

This tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to get to know Alanya from Side. Its strengths lie in the comprehensive itinerary, friendly guides, and scenic stops. The boat cruise and cave visit particularly stand out, providing memorable moments of the day.

However, participants should be prepared for some walking and stairs, especially at Alanya Castle and Damlatas Cave. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a full-day experience that combines history, nature, and relaxation.

This $40 guided trip balances value and variety, offering a satisfying day exploring Alanya’s highlights. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a well-rounded tour with flexible options and friendly service.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from Side to Alanya?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and free time.

Is lunch included in the tour price?
Yes, a lunch at Dim Fall overlooking the river is included in the $40 fee.

Can I take the cable car during the tour?
Yes, the cable car is available as an optional activity, departing near Damlatas Cave.

What sites will I visit in Alanya?
You will see Alanya Castle, harbor, Red Tower, public bazaar, and Damlatas Cave.

Is the tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments and involves walking and stairs; children are welcome but should be prepared for the pace.

Do I need to pay extra for Damlatas Cave?
Yes, the entrance fee for Damlatas Cave is not included in the tour price.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and cash for entrance fees and personal expenses.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from designated areas in Side.

Are guides available in other languages?
Guides are available in English and German.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot online, with pay later options available, and cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance.

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