City of Side: Manavgat River Boat Lunch Cruise & Bazaar Tour

This tour promises a mix of scenic views, local flavor, and a glimpse into Turkish daily life. It combines a relaxing boat trip along the Manavgat River with a tasty on-board lunch, a visit to the iconic Manavgat Waterfalls, and a lively bazaar experience. For those looking for an affordable, well-rounded day out, it offers a bit of everything—nature, culture, and local markets—all wrapped into an eight-hour package.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how easy it is to combine different activities in one day, especially for travelers who want to see the highlights without stress. The boat cruise, in particular, stands out with its relaxed pace and the chance to enjoy a homemade Turkish meal while taking in the river views. On the flip side, some might find the overall experience a bit rushed or crowded, depending on the day and group size. Still, it’s a solid option for families, solo travelers, or anyone keen on a taste of authentic Side life without breaking the bank.

This tour suits those who enjoy scenic landscapes and local markets. If you prefer private, in-depth cultural experiences or are looking for a more exclusive adventure, you might want to explore other options. But for a value-packed, lively day out that hits the main sights, this trip is a smart pick.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $25 per person, it offers a good balance of activities without a hefty price tag.
• Diverse Activities: Combines river cruising, waterfalls, and bazaar shopping for a full-day experience.
• Good Value for Money: Guest reviews highlight the helpful guides and quality meals.
• Flexible Timing: Approximate 8-hour duration, with options to skip certain parts like the waterfall.
• Comfortable Transport: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics hassle-free.
• Authentic Experience: Visit a vibrant bazaar to soak up local sights, sounds, and smells.

A Detailed Look at the Manavgat River Boat Lunch Cruise & Bazaar Tour

The Journey Begins: Hotel Pickup and Introduction

Your day starts with a convenient hotel pickup in Side or nearby areas, included in the tour package. The pickup process is straightforward—just meet your guide in front of the hotel security gate, and you’re off. The tour is operated by Seven Tours, a reputable provider known for friendly guides and organized trips.

The Boat Cruise Along the Manavgat River

Once aboard, the boat cruise lasts about an hour, offering a laid-back way to admire the lush scenery along the river. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with enough space for everyone to relax. Many reviews praise the crew and guides—Julie, for example, mentions that the guide and driver were very polite and helpful, which adds to the overall comfort.

What makes this boat trip appealing is the chance to enjoy a delicious lunch on board—typically fish or chicken with rice and salad. Guests have shared that the food is surprisingly good, with Nimet commenting on how much she loved the lunch, especially the quality of the meal served during the cruise. The atmosphere is casual, making it suitable for families and groups wanting an easygoing experience.

Swimming and Water-based Fun

A highlight for many is the opportunity to swim from the boat in clear waters, with some reviews mentioning swimming directly in the ocean after the river cruise. This part of the trip adds a refreshing element, especially during warmer months. Keep in mind, the exact duration of swimming isn’t specified, but it’s usually incorporated into the cruise, allowing guests to cool off before or after the meal.

Visiting the Manavgat Waterfalls (Optional)

One of the optional stops is at the stunning Manavgat Waterfalls, which guests can explore for around 20-30 minutes. The waterfalls are not only a beautiful sight but also a popular photo spot. Reviews indicate that this stop is well worth the visit, with Mia noting how swimming in the ocean after the trip was an “amazing” experience. If you prefer not to visit the waterfalls, the tour offers a longer period at the bazaar instead, giving you more time to explore local stalls and pick up souvenirs.

The Bustling Bazaar Experience

The second major highlight is the local bazaar, where the lively market stalls burst with colors, smells, and sounds. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and spices to textiles and souvenirs. The bazaar provides an authentic taste of Turkish daily life, and guests love the opportunity to haggle and discover unique items.

Guests like Julie highlight how the bazaar was a full-day activity, with plenty of time to wander and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The bazaar visit can last from 2 to 3 hours, depending on whether you choose to skip the waterfall or not. As the reviews suggest, it’s a busy but exciting environment that’s perfect for souvenir hunting and people-watching.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The day is well-paced, but be prepared for a fair amount of walking and some crowded moments, especially at the bazaar. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics and saves you the hassle of finding meeting points. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes, bring cash for shopping and tips, and pack essentials like sunglasses, swimwear, and rain gear in case of weather changes.

While the tour is conducted in multiple languages—German, English, Turkish—the guides are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge. However, this experience isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, as some stops involve walking or standing for extended periods.

The Value and Overall Experience

For just $25, the tour offers a well-rounded day with a mix of relaxing and lively activities. Reviewers like Mia and Julie agree that it provides excellent value, especially considering the quality of the guide, the meals, and the variety of sights. It’s particularly praised for its family-friendly atmosphere and the chance to enjoy a genuine Turkish market.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for an affordable, engaging day out that combines nature, culture, and local life. Families, first-time visitors to Side, or those wanting a relaxed but diverse itinerary will find it a good fit. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, markets, and casual sightseeing without the need for long, strenuous excursions.

If you’re not keen on crowded places or long walking distances, or if you prefer more personalized or in-depth cultural immersions, you might want to consider other options. But for a straightforward, fun-filled day that hits the main highlights at a reasonable price, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Manavgat River Boat Lunch Cruise & Bazaar Tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, local flavor, and relaxed sightseeing. Its affordability, combined with the convenience of hotel pickup and the variety of activities, makes it a wise choice for many travelers. The highlights—cruising along the river, enjoying a tasty meal, exploring the waterfalls, and wandering the lively bazaar—together create a memorable day.

The tour shines brightest with its friendly guides and authentic local environment, giving you a genuine taste of Turkish life beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s perfect for those who want a well-organized, value-for-money experience that covers several key sights without feeling rushed.

If your goal is to see the natural beauty and vibrant markets of Side in one manageable day, this trip gets you pretty close to that ideal. Just come prepared for some crowds, wear comfortable shoes, and bring enough cash to haggle for souvenirs. For a fun, flexible, and budget-friendly adventure, it’s a tour worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics simple. Just wait in front of your hotel’s security gate at the scheduled time.

How long does the boat cruise last?
The boat cruise lasts about 1 hour, providing a relaxed way to enjoy river scenery and, for some, the chance to swim from the boat.

Can I skip the waterfall visit?
Yes, if you prefer more time at the bazaar, you can opt to skip the Manavgat Waterfalls. The bazaar allows for around 2-3 hours of exploring.

What meals are included?
A tasty lunch is served on the boat, typically including fish or chicken, rice, and salad. The reviews indicate the food quality is surprisingly good for a tour at this price point.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so bring cash if you want beverages during the trip or at the bazaar.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s suitable for children and families, but not recommended for those with mobility impairments, as some walking and standing are involved.

This tour combines the best of scenic nature, lively markets, and Turkish hospitality at a price that won’t break the bank. It’s a reliable choice for anyone wanting a full, authentic Side experience packed into one day.