From Side: Full Day Alanya Tour With Lunch at Dimçay River

Exploring the Full Day Alanya Tour From Side: An Honest Review

This full-day Alanya tour from Side packs in some of the most popular sights of this lively Turkish city. From historic forts to scenic boat rides and relaxing river lunches, it offers a diverse taste of what Alanya has to offer. While the price point of around $41 per person makes it accessible, it’s worth knowing exactly what you’re signing up for.

What really caught our eye was the chance to enjoy stunning panoramic views from Alanya Castle and to relax by the Dimçay River, which seems perfect for travelers looking for a mix of history, scenery, and leisurely fun. However, some past guests have mentioned logistical hiccups, especially around optional activities like the cable car ride.

This tour is best suited for those who want a well-organized day of sightseeing with guided insights but still crave some freedom to explore on their own. Ideal for first-timers or travelers with limited time in the area, it’s a practical choice that balances guided highlights with free moments.

Key Points

• Balance of Guided and Free Time: Offers a comprehensive look at Alanya with a good mix of structured visits and personal exploration.
• Scenic Highlights: Includes breathtaking views from Alanya Castle and the boat tour along the coast.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Lunch at Dimçay River provides a relaxed atmosphere with regional cuisine.
• Variety of Attractions: From natural caves to historic fortresses, the tour covers diverse interests.
• Potential for Optional Extras: Cable car and cave fees are not included, so budget accordingly if you wish to partake.
• Some Criticism on Organization: Past reviews mention issues like guide behavior and optional activity handling, so manage expectations.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This 9-hour journey kicks off with pickup from several convenient locations around Side, ensuring a comfortable start to your day. Once onboard a spacious, air-conditioned bus, you’re set for about an hour’s drive to Alanya—an easy way to relax and get your bearings.

Alanya Castle: A Fortress with Panoramic Views

Arriving at Alanya Castle, you’ll get a photo stop and at least 30 minutes to explore. The castle, built by the Seljuks, clings dramatically to the hilltop and offers sweeping vistas over the city, the Taurus Mountains, and the shimmering sea below. Past guests have noted that the Red Tower and the city views are particular highlights. One reviewer mentioned, “The best part was the view from the castle — it’s worth the climb.” Keep in mind, the tour does not specify a guided tour inside, so if you’re keen on detailed history, consider a guide or audio guide for more context.

Damlatas Cave: Nature’s Limestone Masterpiece

Next is a visit to the Damlatas Cave, renowned for its stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years. This natural attraction is often praised for its atmosphere and is especially popular among visitors with respiratory issues, as some reviewers say it’s beneficial for asthma sufferers. Expect about 30 minutes here for photos and brief exploration.

Dimçay River: The Lunch and Relaxation Spot

Then comes the highlight for many – lunch at Dimçay River. This picnic area offers sofas over water and a peaceful environment to unwind. The included meal is simple but satisfying, with a chance to swim if weather permits, and perhaps lie back and soak in the tranquil surroundings. One reviewer pointed out that “the meal was okay, but drinks were pricey,” so consider bringing your own if you’re thirsty. The river’s ambiance makes it more than just a meal — it’s a chance to relax in nature, away from the busy city streets.

Optional Activities and Views

After lunch, there’s a scenic drive with a quick photo stop in Alanya, showcasing the city’s coastline and the iconic Red Tower from afar. Then, you’re free to spend about 1.5 hours exploring the city center on your own. Some might opt for a quick walk around the vibrant bazaar, especially on Fridays, when it’s particularly lively.

The Boat Tour and Coastal Views

The 1-hour boat trip around Alanya’s coast is highly appreciated. From the seaside, you’ll see the Pirate Caves, Lovers Cave, and the Shipyard, making it an engaging way to see the city from a different angle. Past guests, including one reviewer, have described this as a “lovely trip”, adding that the guide was knowledgeable and friendly.

Returning and Drop-offs

After a relaxed afternoon, the bus departs for the return journey, with drop-offs at the original pickup points. The entire day is paced to give you a balanced mix of guided visits and free time, making it suitable for different interests.

What We Love About This Tour

The views from Alanya Castle are genuinely stunning, offering a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the vast coastline. The Dimçay River provides a laid-back environment where you can unwind and enjoy local cuisine in a scenic setting, a rare find in a busy tour. The boat trip is also a highlight — seeing the caves and the coast from the water adds a memorable dimension to the day.

Guides are noted to be knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more enjoyable. The transportation is comfortable, and the day is well-structured enough to cover all key attractions without feeling rushed.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

Some reviews highlight issues with optional activities, especially the cable car ride. One guest recounted that the guide refused to allow payment for the cable car at the time, claiming they’d be reimbursed later, only to demand a tip or further payment later — which felt a bit unprofessional. If this is a priority, be prepared for possible extra costs or manage expectations accordingly.

The lunch at Dimçay River, while scenic, is basic, and drinks are expensive. Travelers looking for a gourmet meal might find it lacking value but should see it more as a relaxing break than a culinary highlight.

The organization of some parts, especially around optional activities and the market drop-off point, has been questioned. If you’re someone who prefers a perfectly smooth experience, you might want to clarify details beforehand or consider the transfer-only option.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers seeking an affordable, comprehensive day trip from Side to Alanya, this tour offers quite a lot for the price. It covers major historical sites, scenic viewpoints, and includes a relaxing river lunch and boat trip — all with a guide to enhance the experience.

However, if extra costs like cable cars or cave entrance fees are a concern, or if you prefer a more flexible or personalized itinerary, you might want to explore other options or booking just the transfer.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting an organized overview of Alanya. It suits those who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and leisure, and don’t mind a busy day of sightseeing. Budget travelers will appreciate the value, especially with the included lunch and boat trip.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy scenic views, cultural sites, and a relaxed river picnic, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s also a good pick for those who like guided insights but still want some free time to explore on their own.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Alanya tour from Side offers a well-rounded snapshot of one of Turkey’s most beloved coastal cities. It balances historical sights like Alanya Castle and Damlatas Cave with natural beauty at Dimçay River and on the boat trip. Though there are some minor organizational hiccups and optional costs, the overall experience provides good value for money.

Travelers seeking a convenient, guided day trip that hits key highlights and leaves room for personal discovery will find it worthwhile. Just be prepared for some extra expenses if you want to do everything, and keep your expectations realistic regarding the meals and optional activities.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Side and surrounding areas is included, with comfortable, air-conditioned buses.

Can I explore Alanya on my own?
Absolutely. The tour provides about 1.5 hours of free time in Alanya’s city center for personal exploration, shopping, or relaxing at a cafe.

Are the boat trip and lunch included?
These are included only if you choose the full guided tour option. The boat ticket is part of the package, and lunch at Dimçay River is provided with the guided tour.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring essentials like sunscreen, comfortable shoes, a hat, water, and swimwear if you want to enjoy the river or swim at Dimçay River.

Is the cable car ride included?
No, the cable car is an optional activity and incurs an extra cost. It’s not included in the tour price or the guided package.

Are there any entrance fees I should know about?
The Damlatas Cave has an entrance fee, which is not included. The cable car also has an optional fee. Consider these if you want full access.

This tour offers a practical way to see Alanya’s highlights without breaking the bank. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and leisure, with guides to help navigate the day. Just stay flexible and prepared for some optional extras, and you’ll likely come away with some wonderful memories of this vibrant Turkish city.