From city of Side: City Tour including Waterfalls

Experience a Day of Natural Beauty and Historic Charm from Side
This guided tour from Side offers a well-rounded glimpse of Antalya’s most captivating sights, including the stunning Düden waterfalls and the charming old town, Kaleici. It’s a budget-friendly option (just $18) that promises an enjoyable mix of nature, history, and local flavor. What we love most is the chance to see Antalya’s incredible waterfalls close up and walk through the ancient streets of Kaleici with a knowledgeable guide.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite fast-paced, with limited time at each stop—so if you prefer a more relaxed or in-depth experience, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a snapshot of Antalya’s highlights without breaking the bank. If you’re after a straightforward, value-packed day trip that covers the basics and offers authentic views, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $18 per person, it offers good value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Highlights Include: Düden waterfalls, Antalya’s old town, and optional boat ride or shopping.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants, which means more personal attention.
• Guided Tour: Fluent guides share insights into Antalya’s history, culture, and geography.
• Flexible Add-ons: Options to explore Kaleici further, take a boat tour, or shop.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers note the tour can feel rushed or have unexpected tipping requests.

A Well-Structured Day with Scenic Waterfalls and Historic Streets

Starting early from your Side hotel, the tour begins with pickup between 08:20 and 09:20. The bus ride to Antalya takes around an hour, during which your guide—often knowledgeable and friendly—will introduce the plan and share some background on the area. This initial part sets the tone, giving you a sense of what’s ahead and some interesting tidbits about Antalya’s landscape and history.

The first major stop is the Manavgat River’s Düden Waterfalls—specifically, the Approach to the Heartuzkaldran Waterfall. This is perhaps the most picturesque part of the day. The waterfall, tumbling 38 meters from the Taurus Mountains, is created where a sinkhole brook flows from underground and above ground into the Mediterranean. Its natural beauty is undeniable. Expect around 30 minutes here to snap photos, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the lush surroundings. Several reviews mention this as a highlight—the waterfalls seem to captivate visitors with their raw power and scenic views.

One reviewer noted, “We took unique photos at the waterfall, and it’s truly a sight to see,” which echoes what many find appealing here. The guide explains the formation and significance of the waterfall, adding context to the stunning visuals. Keep in mind, some travelers mention that the waterfall’s charm is somewhat marred by additional charges for certain activities or tips, so be prepared for that.

Exploring Antalya’s Kaleici District

After the waterfalls, the group traverses through the city of Antalya toward Kaleici, the historic old town. This segment of the tour is usually around 2 hours of free time, giving you a chance to wander at your own pace. The guide points out key sights and recommended meeting points, which is handy, especially if you want to explore independently.

During this free period, many visitors opt to stroll along narrow, winding streets lined with Ottoman-era houses, Roman relics, and the iconic grooved minaret, a symbol of Antalya. You might also visit Roman artifacts from the 2nd century AD or Ottoman mosques and houses from the 15th to 19th centuries. Several reviews mention that the lack of a guided walking tour can be a drawback for those hoping for deeper historical insights—”There was no guided tour, so you’re mostly on your own to explore,” one traveler commented.

If you wish, you can also explore the marina area and take a 45-minute boat tour around Kaleici, which many find adds a relaxing touch to the day. Alternatively, the bustling streets are perfect for shopping, with local stores selling souvenirs, textiles, and crafts. For a leisurely break, settle into a cafe and enjoy the panoramic views of the Mediterranean and Taurus Mountains while sipping traditional Turkish tea or coffee.

You’ll find that the free time is quite flexible—some travelers spend longer shopping or relaxing, while others squeeze in a quick visit to the Roman ruins or a bite at one of the many seaside restaurants. The downside, as some reviews note, is that four hours can feel a bit long if you prefer a more guided or curated experience.

Optional Activities and Additional Stops

The tour offers optional extras, such as visiting the aquarium or taking a boat trip. While these aren’t included in the base price, many travelers appreciate the chance to extend their experience. Others choose to directly head to the local markets or cafes, soaking up the lively atmosphere.

The overall pace is fast, and some reviews mention the bus ride being quite swift—“the bus ride itself was challenging because of the fast driving,” one reviewer stated. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more relaxed experience, this is worth noting. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, but it also means that everything is quite time-sensitive.

Practical Details: Transportation, Cost, and Guides

Transport is by air-conditioned bus, with hotel pickup and drop-off included—adding convenience especially if you’re staying outside the city center. The guide speaks English, German, and Russian, catering to a diverse group, and aims to share insights into Antalya’s geography, culture, and history along the way.

The tour is priced at $18 per person, which, considering all entry tickets and insurance included, offers very good value. It’s a straightforward way to see some of Antalya’s top sights without paying extra for individual attractions or guided tours.

However, some travelers have expressed mixed feelings about the tipping culture, with a note that “they charged us 3 euros each for tips” after the waterfall visit. While tipping is common in Turkey, it’s worth being prepared for some additional expenses.

What the Tours Don’t Cover

This tour does not include lunch or drinks, so plan to bring some snacks or money for cafes. The focus is on sightseeing and cultural exploration rather than culinary experiences—although enjoying fresh fish or Turkish specialties at the marina is a popular option during free time.

Plus, if you’re seeking a comprehensive, in-depth tour of Antalya’s history or a more leisurely experience, this might feel a bit rushed. The 4-hour free period allows for some exploration but doesn’t provide guided commentary throughout Kaleici.

Who This Tour Will Suit Best

This experience is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a quick but scenic overview of Antalya’s highlights, especially if you’re staying in Side and want a full-day adventure without spending too much. It’s perfect for those who enjoy natural beauty, interesting city streets, and are comfortable with a relatively brisk pace.

It’s also suitable for families or small groups, given the limited size and flexible schedule. However, if you prefer a detailed guided walking tour or have specific interests—like Roman archaeology or Ottoman architecture—you might find this tour just covering the surface.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a practical way to experience some of Antalya’s most iconic sights without breaking the bank. The waterfalls are a definite highlight, offering stunning natural scenery coupled with some brief, informative commentary from guides who are generally knowledgeable. The free time in Kaleici lets you soak up the atmosphere at your own pace, whether you want to shop, snap photos, or relax at a cafe.

While some reviews mention the tour feeling rushed or encountering unexpected tipping requests, these are typical of many budget group activities in Turkey. The key is to go into it with flexible expectations and a sense of adventure—this is a snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration, but one that’s likely to leave you with memorable views and a bit more understanding of Antalya’s charm.

If you’re after a cost-effective, well-organized day trip with a friendly guide and scenic spots, this tour from Side hits the right notes. Just be prepared for a busy day with plenty of moving parts—and bring your camera.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is scheduled between 08:20 and 09:20 from your hotel. Check your booking confirmation for the exact time.

How long is the bus ride to Antalya?
It’s approximately a 1-hour journey from Side to Antalya, offering a chance to get familiar with the scenery and chat briefly with your guide.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, all entry tickets, a guide speaking English, German, or Russian, and traffic insurance.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or pay for meals during free time.

Can I explore Kaleici on my own?
Yes, you’ll have about 2 hours of free time to wander the streets, visit Roman and Ottoman sites, shop, or relax at cafes.

What about the waterfalls?
Expect about 30 minutes at the Heartuzkaldran Waterfall to take photos and enjoy the natural scenery. Some reviews note additional charges for extra activities.

Is this a small-group tour?
Yes, limited to 10 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate, but means the schedule is quite tight.

To sum it up, this tour from Side is a solid pick for those looking for a quick, scenic, and affordable introduction to Antalya’s natural and historic sites. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a fast-paced day with a mix of nature and city exploration, and who appreciate knowledgeable guides sharing stories along the way. While it may not satisfy those seeking in-depth cultural tours or leisurely sightseeing, it offers a practical and enjoyable window into Antalya’s most photogenic spots.