City of Side: Boat Tour on the Manavgat River w/ Bazaar Trip

City of Side: Boat Tour on the Manavgat River with Bazaar Trip

If you’re visiting Antalya Province and looking for a way to explore beyond the beaches, this boat tour on the Manavgat River offers a scenic, culturally rich experience at an affordable price. For just $15, you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, shopping, and local flavor, all with comfortable transportation included. The tour combines natural beauty, lively markets, and a traditional Turkish meal — making it a well-rounded day trip.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the diversity it offers — from the tranquil river cruise to the bustling bazaar, plus the chance to cool off at the Manavgat waterfall. One thing to consider, though, is that the itinerary involves a lot of moving parts and different stops, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy active, varied days. If you love discovering local markets, scenic waterways, and structured yet flexible tours, this might be just your cup of tea.

This tour suits travelers who want an economical yet enriching day out, especially families, solo explorers, or couples eager to combine sightseeing with some leisure time. Keep in mind, it’s ideal for those who enjoy a bit of hustle and bustle but also appreciate moments of relaxation by the water.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: For $15, you receive a full-day experience including transportation, guided commentary, and a delicious onboard lunch.
• Diverse Activities: Highlights include a river cruise, waterfall visit, bazaar shopping, and swimming at Cennet Beach.
• Comfortable Transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off make it convenient, with a scenic drive along the forested riverbanks.
• Guided Local Insight: Guides speak multiple languages including English, German, and Russian, offering informative and friendly narration.
• Flexibility in the Schedule: You can choose to visit the waterfall or the bazaar, with ample time allocated for shopping or sightseeing.
• Authentic Local Experience: Stops like the Manavgat waterfall and bazaar showcase regional culture and crafts, plus the opportunity for memorable photos.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickups and Arrival at the Pier

The day begins early, with hotel pickups between 08:30 and 09:30. We loved the smooth, punctual transportation arranged by the tour providers, who use comfortable buses to ferry guests from their accommodations in Side and nearby areas. The scenic drive to the Manavgat River offers a chance to enjoy the lush, forested landscape that surrounds this part of Turkey — a calming prelude to the day ahead.

Once at the pier, you’re greeted by friendly staff and guided onto the boat, which features three floors. Expect a spacious, multi-level vessel with bars on the first and second floors, seating groups, showers, restrooms, and a sun terrace. The layout encourages socializing, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the panoramic views.

The Boat: A Floating Lounge with Plenty of Space

The boat itself is well-equipped for a relaxing day. The first-floor bar is perfect for grabbing drinks and snacks, while the second floor offers more seating, a dance floor, and entertainment options. The third-floor sun terrace is ideal for soaking up the sun and snapping photos of the surrounding scenery.

The crew and guides are praised for their friendliness and professionalism. They provide clear commentary in multiple languages, sharing insights about the river, the local environment, and the stops planned for the day. One reviewer mentioned how the guides, like Kadir, brought charm and humor, making the trip lively and engaging.

The Scenic Journey: Manavgat Strait and River Views

As we cruise along the Manavgat River, you’ll love how the landscape transitions from forested banks to views of shipyards, trout farms, and the Taurus Mountains. Keep an eye out for turtles sunning themselves on the riverbanks — a charming detail that adds to the trip’s authenticity. The guide offers commentary on the area’s features, making the journey both relaxing and informative.

The Waterfall Stop: Nature and Refreshment

The first major stop is the Manavgat Waterfall, a favorite among travelers for its beauty and cooling spray. The guide takes reservations for those interested in visiting the waterfall — a lovely spot for photos and a bit of nature. Some guests—like those in reviews—found the waterfall “lovely” and enjoyed the chance to stretch their legs amid lush surroundings.

The Swimming Break at Cennet Beach

One of the tour’s standout moments is the stop at Cennet Beach, where river meets sea. Here, you’ll experience the rare thrill of swimming in both freshwater and saltwater in close succession — a feature highlighted by several reviewers as one of the trip’s unique highlights.

During the hour-long break, you can swim, sunbathe, or try water sports like jet skiing (extra cost). There are also local vendors offering delicious regional pancakes (gözleme), which guests say add a tasty, authentic touch to the experience.

Lunch Onboard: Tasty Turkish Fare

After swimming and relaxing, the crew grills chicken or fish alongside salads for a buffet lunch. Reviewers consistently note the quality of the food — simple, tasty, and plentiful — representing excellent value for the modest price. It’s a great way to refuel before the afternoon’s shopping and sightseeing.

The Market: Bustling Bazaar and Cultural Exposure

Post-lunch, the boat docks at Manavgat pier, giving guests the option to visit the Grand Bazaar. You’ll have about 2.5 hours here to browse stalls selling everything from textiles to souvenirs, and to soak up the lively atmosphere. Some reviewers mention that the bazaar is a bit hectic, but that’s part of the charm and an authentic taste of regional Turkish markets.

For those who prefer a natural setting, the waterfall visit can be booked instead, with a guide to help coordinate logistics. The guide provides a meeting point and map, which many travelers find reassuring.

Return Journey and Hotel Drop-off

After completing the bazaar or waterfall visit, the tour concludes with a scenic 30-minute river cruise back to the pier, then transportation back to your hotel. The overall timing allows travelers to enjoy a full, balanced day without feeling rushed — a frequent compliment in reviews.

Analyzing the Value and Experience

At just $15 per person, this tour offers remarkably good value. The inclusive elements—hotel transfers, a guided river cruise, lunch, and flexible options at the stops—make it a convenient choice for budget-conscious travelers. The reviews echo this sentiment, with many mentioning the “great value for money” and well-organized schedule.

While the tour includes plenty of highlights, some travelers noted that extra costs—like entrance fees for the waterfall or jet skis—are not included. If those are on your must-do list, budget accordingly. Also, some reviews pointed out that the overall experience is somewhat busy and involves a lot of moving around, so it’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and leisure.

The guides’ multilingual skills and attention to detail received praise, making the experience more engaging and informative. Many reviewers appreciated the flexibility, such as being able to choose between visiting the waterfall or the bazaar, which adds a level of personalization.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat tour is ideal for those who want to combine scenic views with cultural insight, especially visitors with limited time but a desire for a comprehensive day out. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation and activity will find plenty to love. The inclusion of local markets and natural spots offers an authentic Turkish experience that goes beyond the usual tourist traps.

It’s also a great choice for budget travelers, given the price point and the variety of experiences packed into one day. However, keep in mind the busy schedule and potential extra costs if you decide to indulge in water sports or waterfall entry.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off from Side and nearby areas, making the start and end of your day hassle-free.

What should I bring for swimming?
Bring swimwear, towels, and a change of clothes if you want to enjoy swimming at Cennet Beach. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended for sun protection.

Are drinks included in the tour?
Local drinks such as beer, wine, and soft drinks are available for purchase onboard. The tour includes a buffet lunch with water included.

Can I visit the Manavgat Waterfall instead of the bazaar?
Yes, you can reserve the waterfall visit, and your guide will help coordinate this. The itinerary is flexible enough to allow either activity.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, starting with hotel pickup between 08:30 and 09:30 and returning afterward.

Is there any entertainment onboard?
While primarily guided, the boat features a dance floor and music on the second floor, creating a lively atmosphere especially during the return cruise.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour on the Manavgat River offers a well-rounded, affordable slice of Turkish life. You’ll enjoy scenic waterway views, a refreshing waterfall stop, the buzz of a local bazaar, and delicious Turkish food — all in one day. The flexible options, friendly guides, and positive reviews suggest you’ll get good value and a memorable experience.

It’s perfect for travelers craving a balance of nature, culture, and leisure without breaking the bank. If you’re happy to be on the move and want a taste of authentic regional sights, this trip is likely to tick all your boxes.

For those who prefer a slower pace or more exclusive experiences, it might be worth exploring other options. But for a lively, multifaceted day out that mixes sightseeing with fun, this tour hits the sweet spot.