From City of Side: Alanya Day Tour with Boat Trip and Lunch
Imagine spending a full day exploring Turkey’s southern coast, hopping from ancient ruins to vibrant bazaars, with a refreshing boat ride around the peninsula, all for around $32. This Alanya day trip from Side packs in plenty—visiting a banana plantation, enjoying a riverside lunch, and cruising on a boat that offers some of the best views of the rugged coastline. The tour runs about 8 hours, making it a substantial but manageable glimpse into this lively seaside town.
We particularly like how the tour combines active exploration with moments of relaxation—like the scenic boat trip and the delicious lunch by Dimcay River. These elements give a well-rounded experience and allow you to see Alanya’s history, culture, and natural beauty in one day.
However, a potential drawback is the mixed quality of the experience, especially with the boat trip, which some travelers found underwhelming. If you’re someone who prefers meticulously curated tours or detailed culture, this might feel a bit rushed or superficial. Still, if you enjoy a bit of everything and value a good deal, this tour could suit your travel style.
This experience suits travelers who want a cost-effective overview of Alanya, especially if you’re curious about the highlights without spending too much time or money. If you’re comfortable with a group setting and don’t mind some variability in the activities, you’ll likely find value here.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Affordable Price: At $32, it offers a comprehensive taste of Alanya without breaking the bank.
- Variety of Stops: From a banana plantation and bazaar to caves and a boat trip, it covers many interests.
- Scenic Highlights: Expect stunning views, especially from the boat and panoramic lookout points.
- Mixed Experience: Some elements, like the boat trip, may not meet all travelers’ expectations.
- Guided Tour: Knowledgeable guides provide useful insights, making some stops more engaging.
- Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who like a mix of culture, scenery, and light adventure.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Alanya
Exploring the Alanya Day Tour: What You Can Expect
This full-day excursion is designed to give you a taste of Alanya’s diverse attractions. You’ll start with a comfortable transfer from Side in an air-conditioned bus, which is ideal for staying cool while covering the scenic drive along Turkey’s coast. The group size can vary, but the focus remains on providing a relaxed, guided experience.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Banana Plantation and Ancient Ruins
Your day begins with a visit to a banana plantation, offering a chance to see how these tropical fruits thrive in Turkey’s Mediterranean climate. It’s a simple, authentic stop—no touristy fluff—just real farming in action. Following this, you might pass by ancient ruins, giving a glimpse into the region’s long-standing history. While the specifics aren’t detailed, the mention of “ancient ruins” hints at some cultural flavor early in the day.
Panoramic Drive to Alanya Castle
Next, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along the coast, with a photo stop to take in sweeping views of Alanya’s coastline and the castle perched above the city. This is a highlight—an opportunity to snap some memorable photos of the fortress and the sparkling sea below.
Visit to a Stalactite Cave and Dimcay River
The tour mentions a visit to a stalactite cave, offering a chance to see striking mineral formations. It’s a brief but interesting glimpse into the region’s geological features. Later, lunch is served at Dimcay River—the most popular place in Alanya for a break. Here, you might enjoy local dishes, usually with an emphasis on fresh, simple fare. The setting by the river is charming, providing a relaxing atmosphere after the morning’s busy sightseeing.
Boat Trip around the Alanya Peninsula
The boat trip is arguably the tour’s main highlight, giving you a chance to see the coast from the water and experience the rugged shoreline, caves, and possibly even some marine life. Travelers have mixed opinions here: one reviewer called it “breathtaking,” while another rated it poorly, indicating that the quality and enjoyment of the boat ride can vary. Expect a one-hour cruise that offers good photo opportunities and a fresh breeze.
Free Time at Alanya Bazaar
In the afternoon, you’ll have free time at the Alanya public bazaar. This is an excellent chance to wander at your own pace, browse local stalls, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs or enjoy a quick snack.
The Lunch Experience
Lunch at Dimcay River is included, which many travelers find to be a pleasant, if somewhat basic, meal. We love that it’s set in an enchanting spot, offering a tranquil backdrop to refuel. But keep in mind, drinks and some extras like fried potatoes are not included, and entrance fees to certain caves are extra.
More Great Tours NearbyConsiderations from Reviews
One of the more candid reviews suggests that the bus ride and exploring on your own might be just as good or better—”You can also take the bus to Alanya and explore everything yourself. It’s cheaper and you can see more.” This indicates that if you’re comfortable organizing your own sightseeing, you might find this tour somewhat limited or overpriced for what you get.
While in Alanya, here are other experiences we've covered
- Alanya Jeep Safari Tour to Sapadere Canyon w/ Lunch
- Alanya Jeep Safari Full-Day Adventure with Lunch
- Alanya Jeep Safari with Dim River Lunch and Dim Cave
- Alanya Boat Trip w/Unlimited Drinks & Lunch (Free Hotel Transfer)
- Alanya Catamaran Boat Trip incl. Lunch and drinks
- Alanya Pirate Boat Trip With Unlimited Drinks & Lunch
Why This Tour Might Be Worth It
Despite some mixed reviews, this tour offers value for those seeking a structured day with minimal planning. The included boat trip, scenic drives, and lunch are good quality, and guides are generally knowledgeable. It’s a solid option if you want a cultural overview with a splash of adventure without the hassle of organizing multiple activities independently.
What Some Travelers Have Said
A traveler named Christian gave the tour a harsh review, saying, “The boat trip gets one point. Everything else can be saved,” and suggested exploring Alanya on your own might be better and cheaper. On the flip side, another reviewer found the day “enchanting,” praising the delicious food, breathtaking boat tour, and engaging guide. This split opinion underscores that the experience can be hit or miss, depending on expectations.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re someone who appreciates organized sightseeing and prefers to see the highlights without the stress of planning, this tour offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to explore Alanya. It’s particularly suited for visitors who want a mix of cultural, natural, and scenic experiences in one day—especially if they enjoy boat trips and markets.
However, if you’re a seasoned traveler looking for deep culture or personalized experiences, you might find this tour somewhat superficial or rushed. The mixed reviews about the boat trip and overall value suggest that some might prefer to explore independently or choose tours with higher reviews for quality assurance.
In short, this tour is a decent, cost-conscious option for curious travelers eager to tick off Alanya’s main sights with minimal fuss. Just keep in mind the variability in experience, and set your expectations accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, and lunch, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation, an air-conditioned bus, guided commentary, lunch at Dimcay River, and a boat trip around the peninsula.
Are drinks or extra expenses included?
No, drinks and personal expenses are not included. Entrance fees to caves are also extra if you choose to visit them.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility depending on your plans.
Is it suitable for families or groups?
Most likely yes, as it’s a guided tour with manageable stops, but check if the group size suits your preference.
What language are guides available in?
Guides are available in English, German, and Russian, ensuring clear communication for many travelers.
Will I have free time?
Yes, there’s free time at Alanya bazaar and during the boat trip, allowing you to explore or relax at your own pace.
Is the boat trip worth it?
Opinions vary; some find it breathtaking, while others feel it’s underwhelming. Your experience may depend on weather, crowd, and personal expectations.
This tour offers a lively, affordable way to get a taste of Alanya’s sights and scenery, perfect for those who like a structured day with some scenic breaks. Just weigh the reviews and consider your travel style before booking.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Alanya
- Alanya: Night Safari with Dinner and with Boat Party
- Alanya/Antalya The Maldives Boat Trip with Lunch & Transfer
- From Alanya: Boat Tour with Unlimited Soft Drinks and Lunch
- Alanya/Side: Starcraft Boat Trip w/ Unlimited Beer and Wine
- Alanya:Catamaran Tour with Lunch&Soft Drinks Animation Shows
- Alanya: Pirate Ship Cruise with Food and Swimming Stops
More Tours in Alanya
- Alanya & city of Side: Cappadocia 2-Day Guided Excursion
- Alanya: Forest Quad-Bike Excursion with Hotel Pickup
- Alanya: Full-Day City Tour with Sunset Views, Beach, & Caves
- From Alanya: Boat Tour with Unlimited Soft Drinks and Lunch
- Alanya: Jeep Tour with Dim Cave, Waterfall with Dimcay Lunch
- Alanya: 3 or 4 Seater Family Buggy Safari Tour
More Tour Reviews in Alanya
- Alanya & city of Side: Cappadocia 2-Day Guided Excursion
- Alanya: Night Safari with Dinner and with Boat Party
- Land of Legends Night Show with transfer from Alanya
- Exploring Cappadocia: A Two-Day Cultural Adventure
- Alanya Family Jeep Safari Full-Day Adventure with Lunch
- From Alanya: Pamukkale and Salda Lake Day Trip with Dinner
More Alanya experiences we've covered
- From City of Side: Alanya Day Tour with Boat Trip and Lunch
- Alanya & city of Side: Cappadocia 2-Day Guided Excursion
- Alanya: Night Safari with Dinner and with Boat Party
- Land of Legends Night Show with transfer from Alanya
- Exploring Cappadocia: A Two-Day Cultural Adventure
- Alanya Family Jeep Safari Full-Day Adventure with Lunch
- From Alanya: Pamukkale and Salda Lake Day Trip with Dinner
- Antalya: Rafting with Lunch and Zipline/ATV or Jeep Option
- Alanya Resorts to Antalya Airport Private Transfer
- Alanya: Forest Quad-Bike Excursion with Hotel Pickup
- Alanya/Antalya The Maldives Boat Trip with Lunch & Transfer
- Alanya: Rafting w/ Zipline, Quad, Buggy, Jeep Safari & Lunch