Side: Electric Catamaran Cruise, Waterfall, Seleukia, Mosque

Exploring Side and nearby attractions through a guided tour offers a balance of history, nature, and leisure. This particular excursion, priced at $25 per person, combines cultural sights with scenic water-based activities, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and round-trip transfers. It’s a well-rounded way to see some of the region’s most iconic spots while enjoying a comfy, hassle-free day.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it manages to blend history, nature, and relaxation seamlessly. The mix of ancient ruins, stunning waterfalls, and a scenic boat cruise on Green Lake makes for a genuinely engaging day out. Plus, the included Turkish lunch of fish or chicken with fresh sides adds real value, especially considering the overall affordability.

A consideration worth noting is that some attractions, like the waterfall, do require a small entrance fee (around 6 Turkish Liras), which isn’t included in the price. Also, the guide’s English at times can be a little uneven, but this didn’t detract significantly from the overall experience, according to reviews.

This tour suits travelers who want a taste of everything—history, nature, and leisure—without the hassle of self-driving or complex planning. It’s especially great for those who appreciate comfortable transport, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see multiple sites in just one day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary includes a mosque, waterfall, ancient ruins, and a scenic canyon cruise.
• Affordable price point offers good value, especially with lunch and transfers included.
• Relaxed pace allows plenty of time at each stop, balancing sightseeing with leisure.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local insights and humor.
• Scenic water activities like the catamaran cruise and canoeing add a fun, relaxing element.
• Authentic Turkish lunch at a lakeside restaurant provides a genuine local taste.

An Overview of the Tour: What to Expect

This tour runs for approximately 8 to 9 hours, making it an easy day trip from Side. It starts early, with pickups around 8:30 am, ensuring you maximize daylight for sightseeing. The small group size—up to 49 travelers—keeps things intimate enough for personalized attention, yet lively enough for social fun.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Kulliye Camii (Mosque)
The tour kicks off with a brief visit to this mosque, offering a quick look at local Islamic architecture and a chance to appreciate the spiritual side of the region. It’s a short 20-minute stop with free admission, so don’t expect a lengthy tour here, but it provides a meaningful cultural touchstone.

Stop 2: Manavgat Waterfall
Next up is the famous waterfall, where you’ll spend around 30 minutes. The sight of water cascading over rocks is a classic image of Turkey’s natural beauty. An entrance fee of 6 Turkish Liras applies if you wish to go closer, which isn’t included in the tour price. Reviewers mention the waterfall as “ok,” but it’s the surrounding greenery and the sounds of rushing water that make it worthwhile.

Stop 3: Seleukia (Lybre)
Then, the focus shifts to history with a visit to the ruins of the ancient Roman city. This site is free to explore and provides a glimpse into the past, with some lovely views over the surrounding landscape. Reviewers have described the Seleukia ruins as “great,” with particular praise for the scenery and the chance to imagine what life was like centuries ago.

Stop 4: Manavgat Dam
A quick 15-minute stop at the dam offers panoramic views of the Green Canyon and Lake, perfect for photos. Many travelers love this moment for its stunning vistas and the opportunity to snap some memorable pictures.

Stop 5: Green Canyon (Green Lake)
The highlight of the day is a 1-hour catamaran cruise on Green Lake. You’ll glide over calm waters, soaking in scenery that’s perfect for photos, relaxing on deck, or just enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The cruise is included in the tour, and you’ll love the way the lake’s lush edges stretch out around you.

Lunch at Gölba Restaurant
After the cruise, a lakeside restaurant serves up a hearty Turkish lunch—fish or chicken with rice, salad, and fresh fruit. It’s a laid-back setting, and reviewers consistently mention how delicious the food is, with some noting the views make it extra special.

Additional Activities

The tour also includes options for fishing, canoeing, and further cruising, giving you a more relaxed, hands-on experience on the water. The guide tends to be knowledgeable and engaging, sharing insights into the history and natural features of each stop. According to reviews, Achmed, the guide, was both “very knowledgeable” and “really funny,” which made the day even more enjoyable.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers generally rate this experience as 4.3 to 4.5 out of 5, noting the friendly guides and the scenic views as standout features. Some mention that the English spoken by guides can be a little off at times, but this didn’t prevent them from appreciating the trip’s highlights.

One traveler, Stefan, appreciated how “Levent and his crew were very friendly and supportive throughout the trip,” and mentioned the guidance and customer interaction made the day special. Another review by Sanne highlighted the “comfortable air-conditioned van,” and praised Achmed’s humor and knowledge.

The food receives high praise, with multiple reviews emphasizing the quality and authenticity of the Turkish lunch. The boat cruise on Green Lake is another favorite, offering a peaceful break amid beautiful scenery.

The Practical Aspects: Transportation, Cost, and Tips

The tour includes hotel transfers in air-conditioned vehicles, which makes hopping on and off easy and comfortable. Starting early at 8:30 am means you’ll cover a lot before late afternoon.

At $25 per person, the tour offers significant value, especially considering the included lunch, multiple sightseeing stops, and the boat cruise. The small extra costs—like the waterfall entrance fee—are minor and should be factored into your budget.

While most travelers find the schedule flexible, be prepared for some walking and a bit of standing during the ruins and waterfall stops. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a balanced mix of culture, nature, and leisure. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided tours with rich commentary, as well as those looking for picturesque water activities without spending a fortune. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find it accessible, especially since it caters to most age groups and physical abilities.

If you’re craving a day that cuts through history, gorgeous scenery, and a relaxing boat cruise, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, if you’re seeking an in-depth exploration of each site or prefer more free time, you might want to consider customizing your plans.

The Sum Up

This Side-based tour offers a compelling combo of historical sights, lush natural beauty, and relaxing water experiences—all at a reasonable price point. The inclusion of a scenic boat cruise on Green Lake is a definite highlight, providing a peaceful retreat amidst stunning views. The guide’s local insights and friendly attitude enhance the overall experience, making each stop richer and more engaging.

The Turkish lunch adds substantial value, especially for those who want to sample authentic cuisine in a beautiful setting. While a few minor issues—like guide English and extra entrance fees—exist, they don’t significantly diminish the overall enjoyment.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an accessible, well-rounded day out that combines history, nature, and leisure. It’s perfect for those who prioritize comfort, value, and memorable scenery without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup in air-conditioned vehicles, making the start of the day smooth and convenient.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending in the late afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers hotel transfers, a professional guide, a 1-hour catamaran cruise, and lunch with fish or chicken, rice, salad, and fresh fruit.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the waterfall entrance fee of 6 Turkish Liras is not included. Drinks and photos are also extra.

What attractions are visited?
You’ll see Kulliye Camii (mosque), Manavgat Waterfall, Seleukia ruins, Manavgat Dam, and enjoy a cruise on Green Lake.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers of various ages can participate, and the relaxed schedule makes it family-friendly.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is pre-arranged, but you can opt to skip certain stops or extend your time at particular sites if arranged in advance.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Bring some cash for entrance fees and extras.

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it runs roughly from morning to late afternoon, giving you a comprehensive experience without feeling rushed.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online, with most bookings made at least 16 days in advance for better availability.

This well-balanced tour offers an excellent introduction to the diverse attractions around Side, combining cultural insights, stunning views, and relaxing water activities—all at a friendly price. Whether you’re after the scenic landscapes, historical sites, or simply a peaceful boat ride, this experience is likely to leave you with plenty of memorable moments.