From Side/Alanya: Alanya City Tour w/Lunch, Boat & Cable Car

Key Points

• Full-day excursion from Side to Alanya covering major landmarks and scenic views
• Visit Alanya Castle, accessible by cable car, with panoramic Mediterranean vistas
• Explore Damlata Cave and Cleopatra Beach, famed for their natural beauty and unique formations
• Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise along the coastline, passing iconic landmarks like Red Tower
• Includes hotel transfers, local lunch, and live guiding in English and Russian
• Optional extras such as the boat trip, cable car, and Damlata Cave entry fee are available at additional costs

You can check availability for your dates here:

Convenient Hotel Transfers in Side

This tour departs from all hotels in Side, with hassle-free pickup and drop-off arranged by the provider, Payless Turizm. The journey lasts around 10 hours, making it a comprehensive day trip that balances sightseeing, leisure, and cultural exploration. Travelers are advised to wait at the main hotel entrance about 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, with drivers waiting no longer than 5 minutes after.

The tour’s duration and flexible booking options, including pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours, make it accessible for different travel plans. This setup ensures a smooth start and finish, helping travelers maximize their time in Alanya without logistical worries.

Exploring Alanya Castle and Its Strategic Significance

The highlight of the trip is Alanya Castle, perched high above the city on a rocky promontory. Visitors get to explore its ancient walls and soak in breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea and the rock formations of the valleys. Accessing the castle requires a cable car ride, which is included in the tour, offering a spectacular aerial perspective of the surroundings.

Once at the top, visitors learn about the castle’s historical importance and cultural value, making it a must-see for history buffs. The uphill walk to the castle might be a bit strenuous for some, but the panoramic vistas and photo opportunities justify the effort. The cable car is a key element, providing easy access and unbeatable views.

Discovering the Red Tower and Maritime Museum

After touring the castle, the trip continues to Red Tower (Kizil Kule), a prominent maritime landmark with a naval museum inside. The tower offers insight into Alanya’s maritime history and is a notable photo stop during the boat cruise passing nearby. Visitors appreciate the historical significance and opportunity to learn about regional naval activities.

The Red Tower is centrally located and easily incorporated into the tour’s route, giving travelers a chance to see a key symbol of Alanya’s past. Its location near the water makes it a perfect prominent feature visible from the boat cruise and the surrounding area.

Scenic Cable Car Ride for Unmatched Views

A scenic cable car ride is a standout feature, offering aerial views of Alanya and its landscape. The cable car takes visitors to the castle, providing an exciting and photo-worthy experience. The view from above reveals the rugged coastline, valleys, and rock formations, adding a thrilling element to the day.

The cable car costs an additional 12 EUR if purchased separately, but the tour includes it if booked as part of the package. The uphill walk from the cable car station to the castle is manageable with the ride’s assistance, making the experience accessible for most.

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Boat Cruise Along Alanya’s Stunning Coastline

The relaxing boat tour is a favorite part of the excursion, allowing guests to admire cliffs, caves, and bays from the water. The cruise passes by landmarks like the Red Tower and features beautiful sea views. The cruise duration is approximately 2 hours, with an option to extend at an extra cost of 5 EUR.

Travelers enjoy feeling the sea breeze and taking photos of the coastline’s dramatic scenery. The boat trip offers a peaceful break from walking and sightseeing, making it suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed activity.

Swimming at Cleopatra Beach and Visiting Damlata Cave

At Cleopatra Beach, visitors can relax on soft golden sands and cool off in clear waters. It is renowned for its beauty and calm atmosphere. Nearby, the Damlata Cave reveals impressive stalactite formations and is believed to have therapeutic air qualities.

The entry fee to Damlata Cave is 3 EUR, which is not included in the base price. The cave’s famous reputation and the natural surroundings make it a worthwhile stop. Travelers appreciate the opportunity for some leisure after a morning of sightseeing.

Delicious Turkish Lunch by the Water

A local restaurant hosts the group for a delicious traditional Turkish lunch. While the menu specifics are not detailed, the meal provides a taste of regional cuisine and a chance to rest and recharge. The inclusion of lunch adds value and convenience to the tour, especially for those wanting authentic flavors.

This meal is part of the package, ensuring travelers don’t need to seek out dining options independently. It offers a nice break in the busy sightseeing schedule.

Free Time and Shopping in Alanya

After the main attractions, the tour offers free time in Alanya. Visitors can stroll through local shops, relax by the sea, or simply enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere. The tour includes one shopping break, giving a chance to browse souvenirs or local products.

This flexibility allows travelers to customize their experience and perhaps pick up some unique gifts or memories from the trip.

Overall Experience and Suitability

With a rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 51 reviews, this tour demonstrates consistent satisfaction. Review comments highlight knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and good value for money. The host’s professionalism and the variety of activities keep the day engaging.

While the uphill walk to the castle and the additional costs for extras like the boat trip or cave entry** are considerations, the tour’s comprehensive itinerary appeals to those interested in history, nature, and coastal scenery.

Final Thoughts on the Alanya City Tour from Side

This full-day excursion offers a well-balanced mix of historical sites, scenic rides, and leisure moments. Its convenient hotel transfers and live guides in English and Russian enhance the experience, making it accessible and informative.

The inclusion of lunch, combined with free time to explore, makes for a satisfying day that suits history buffs, photo enthusiasts, and coastal lovers alike. The optional extras at additional costs are clearly outlined, giving flexibility for those wanting to customize their day.

This tour provides a solid introduction to Alanya’s highlights with quality guides and memorable views, making it a worthwhile choice for visitors staying in Side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers hotel transfers, local lunch, live guiding in English and Russian, and full insurance.

Are there optional extras I can pay for?
Yes, the boat trip (2 hours for +5 EUR), Damlata Cave entry (+3 EUR), and cable car (+12 EUR) are available at additional costs if not included in the base package.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with departure and return from Side.

Is the cable car ride included?
Yes, the cable car ride to Alanya Castle is part of the tour, but it costs an extra 12 EUR if purchased separately outside the package.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include Alanya Castle, Red Tower, Damlata Cave, Cleopatra Beach, and a coastal boat cruise.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves some uphill walking to the castle and use of the cable car, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

What should I bring on this tour?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and comfortable clothes are recommended.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Who provides this tour?
The experience is operated by Payless Turizm.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch at a local restaurant is included in the tour price.

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