Antalya Waterfalls and Old City Tour

Antalya Waterfalls and Old City Tour Review

If you’re visiting Antalya and want to see a blend of nature, history, and breathtaking views, the Antalya Waterfalls and Old City Tour offers a solid experience for around $58. This full-day excursion promises a visit to one of Turkey’s most impressive waterfalls, a stroll through the historic old town, a boat trip, and a cable car ride with spectacular coastal vistas. While it’s not the most in-depth tour, it packs enough highlights to give you a taste of what makes Antalya special.

One thing we especially appreciate about this tour is its accessibility—hotel pickup and drop-off, combined with entrance fees, cable car, and boat trip included in the price, make it straightforward and budget-friendly. However, some reviewers mention that the tour can feel quite rushed and basic, especially in terms of food and the depth of exploration. Still, if you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Antalya’s top sights without spending a fortune, this tour might just suit your needs.

It’s perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed day that covers key scenic and cultural highlights, especially if you’re visiting Antalya for the first time or have limited time. Just be prepared for a few busy moments and keep your expectations aligned with a shorter, more introductory experience rather than an in-depth deep dive into each site.

Key Points

• Value for Money: The package includes multiple attractions, transport, and meals, making it quite cost-effective.
• Variety of Experiences: From waterfalls and old town exploration to boat rides and cable cars, it offers a well-balanced day.
• Guided Tour Benefits: A live guide (English and Russian speaking) helps bring the sites to life and keeps the group organized.
• Potential for Rushed Feelings: Some visitors felt the schedule was tight, and the tour might not allow for extensive exploration.
• Authentic Nature & History: Highlights like Duden Waterfalls and Kaleici are genuine and photogenic.
• Mixed Reviews: While most find it good value, others report inconsistency in guides and tour execution.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting with Duden Waterfalls

Your day kicks off with a visit to the Duden Waterfalls, a highlight for nature lovers. This spot is beloved by locals, and for good reason. The park surrounding the waterfalls is lush, shady, and offers a cool respite from the heat—think of it as a tropical oasis right in the city. As the water cascades down into the sea, the roar of the falls is loud and invigorating, creating a sense of natural power that’s hard to beat.

We loved the way the environment around the waterfalls felt almost untouched—birds chirping, the fresh scent of water, and the soothing sound of flowing streams. It’s a perfect place to relax for about 45 minutes, take photos, and breathe in some tranquility before moving on.

Discovering Kaleici Marina and Old Antalya

Next, the tour heads to Kaleici Marina, the historic heart of Antalya, also known as Old Antalya. This area is a charming collection of Ottoman-style houses, narrow cobbled streets, and lively cafes. As you wander, you’ll see landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate, a Roman triumphal arch, and the old harbor, which gives you a sense of the city’s layered history.

From the park overlooking the water, you get splendid views of the marina and the sea beyond—a nice chance for photos and soaking in the atmosphere. The guide usually points out interesting stories about the architecture and history of the buildings, adding a layer of context to your walk.

Boat Trip: A Glimpse of the Coast

One of the tour’s highlights is the short boat cruise around the harbor. This is a relaxed, one-hour ride with scenic views of the coastline and a chance to see the old town from a different perspective. It’s a simple addition but offers a lovely break from walking and provides excellent photo opportunities.

While the boat trip is brief, many visitors appreciate the chance to sit back, enjoy the sea breeze, and get a fresh look at Antalya’s historic shoreline.

Cable Car Adventure & Mountain Views

The journey continues with a cable car ride, which elevates you above the city and coastline, providing spectacular views of the Mediterranean coast and mountains. It’s a favorite part of the tour because it’s both fun and scenic. Travelers love the panoramic perspective, especially on clear days when you can see far into the distance.

This part of the tour offers a break from walking and the chance to appreciate Antalya’s diverse landscape—urban, coastal, and mountainous.

The Grand Finale: Duden Kiyi Selalesi

The day wraps up at Duden Kiyi Selalesi, the second waterfall and arguably the most dramatic. Located just 20 meters from the sea, this waterfall delivers a thunderous display as the water crashes directly into the ocean. It’s mesmerizing to watch, and the spray and roar create a sensory experience.

Some reviewers, like one who described the scene as “loud thunder,” mention that it’s a highlight visually and acoustically. It’s a fitting end to the tour, leaving you with a memorable image of natural power meeting the sea.

Practical Details & Tips

Transport: The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics. Expect a comfortable minibus that can accommodate the group size.

Timing & Duration: With a total duration of around 8 hours, starting times vary—be sure to check availability when booking. The itinerary is quite packed, so punctuality is key to fitting everything in.

Cost & Value: At $58 per person, including entrance fees, cable car, boat trip, and lunch, the tour presents good value. However, the quality of food and guide experience can vary, so manage your expectations accordingly.

What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen—especially for the outdoor waterfalls and mountain views. Drinks are not included, so consider bringing water or purchasing souvenirs or snacks along the way.

Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for those with mobility needs.

A Closer Look at the Reviews

While most guests find the tour a worthwhile introduction to Antalya, a couple of reviewers mention their frustrations. One person, Lizenia, felt the guides were disorganized, and the tour did not match what was originally booked—highlighting the importance of confirming details beforehand and managing expectations about the personalized experience.

Another reviewer, Nada, called the tour a “nice introductory experience” but noted that it was short and basic, with the waterfalls being the main highlight. Food wasn’t anything special, but the scenery and sites compensated for that.

These insights remind us that this tour is best suited for travelers looking for a quick, scenic overview rather than an in-depth exploration or gourmet experience.

The Sum Up

The Antalya Waterfalls and Old City Tour offers a practical, well-rounded introduction to the city’s natural beauty and historic charm. For just $58, you get a mix of outdoor marvels, cultural sights, and coastal views, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and included entrance fees. It’s a good option for those who want to see key highlights without a heavy time commitment and are happy with a more straightforward, guided experience.

While it may not satisfy those seeking in-depth historical insights or gourmet meals, it delivers on value and authentic scenery. The tour is especially suited for first-time visitors or travelers with limited time in Antalya, looking to tick off some top sights in one day.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and budget-friendly day out with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to keep your expectations realistic, and you’ll enjoy a memorable taste of Antalya’s natural and cultural treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel’s security gate in Antalya city, making logistics simple.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts around 8 hours, but starting times vary. Be sure to check availability when booking.

What’s included in the price?
Entrance fees to the waterfalls and old town, cable car ride, short boat trip, and lunch are all included.

Are drinks provided?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price. It’s a good idea to bring bottled water.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Is there a guide on the tour?
Yes, an English and Russian-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen are recommended for outdoor parts of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, but keep in mind the day involves walking and some outdoor activities.

How do I pay?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, which allows flexibility in your travel plans.

In summary, the Antalya Waterfalls and Old City Tour is a practical choice for those eager to see some of the best natural and historical sights without breaking the bank. It offers convenience, a variety of experiences, and genuine scenery—perfect for a memorable day in Turkey’s charming coastal city.