From city of Side: City Tour including Waterfalls

Experience Antalya’s Waterfalls and Old Town on a Budget-Friendly Day Tour

If you’re staying in Side and craving a day that mixes natural beauty with a touch of history, this city tour including waterfalls offers a compelling option. For just $18 per person, you’ll spend around six to nine hours exploring Antalya’s most iconic sights — from the stunning Düden Waterfalls to the charming streets of Kaleici, the historic heart of the city. The tour departs in the morning, with hotel pickup, and takes you along a route filled with scenic views and intriguing stories.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances nature and culture. The highlight for many is the Manavgat Düden Waterfalls, where the water plunges from 38 meters, creating a feast for the eyes and perfect photo opportunities. Plus, the two-hour free time in Kaleici offers plenty of chances to wander old streets, peek into Roman and Ottoman landmarks, or just relax by the marina. The guide’s explanations are also helpful, making the history and geography of Antalya feel alive.

One possible consideration is that the trip is quite rushed — with only about 30 minutes at the waterfalls and four hours in the old town, you’ll need to prioritize what interests you most. Also, some reviews mention that the bus ride can be “challenging” due to fast driving, and there are reports of extra tipping demands, which might feel a bit uncomfortable for some travelers. This tour works best for those who want a cost-effective, quick intro to Antalya’s highlights without a guided tour through every corner. It’s ideal for travelers who value scenic stops and free time to explore independently rather than a deeply guided experience.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $18, this tour offers a budget-friendly way to see Antalya’s key sights.
• Natural Beauty: Düden Waterfalls are the star attraction, with impressive 38-meter falls and photo opportunities.
• Flexible Free Time: Two hours in Kaleici allows for personalized exploration, shopping, or relaxing at cafes.
• Informative Guide: The guide provides interesting insights about Antalya’s history, geography, and culture.
• Group Size: Small group tours (limited to 10 participants) mean more personalized attention.
• Mixed Experience: A combination of natural wonder and historic charm makes for a well-rounded day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting early in the morning, the tour picks you up from your hotel in Side, typically between 08:20 and 09:20. As you board the bus, the journey begins with a friendly introduction from your guide. We appreciated the way the guide set the tone, sharing some background about what to expect and a bit about Antalya’s past and present.

The first major stop is Manavgat Düden Waterfalls. It’s roughly a 1-hour drive from Side into the city of Antalya, giving you a scenic ride through the Turkish countryside. Once there, you’ll have about 30 minutes to marvel at the 38-meter cascade. The waterfalls are formed where a brook originating from the Taurus Mountains flows underground sometimes and creates this dramatic spectacle as it emerges to pour into the Mediterranean. It’s an ideal spot for photos, especially with the lush greenery and the rushing water as a backdrop.

Our guide explained the geology and history behind the waterfalls, making the experience more meaningful. As one reviewer noted, the guide “explained the past, present, geography, culture, and history,” adding context that elevates the visit beyond just snapping pictures.

Next, the tour heads into Antalya’s old town, Kaleici. It’s about an hour away, and once there, you’re given a solid two hours to explore at your own pace. Here, the charm is in the narrow streets lined with Ottoman architecture, Roman ruins like the Seljuk artifacts and the grooved minaret, and the lively marina with waterfront cafes. Many travelers enjoy wandering the streets, browsing shops, or simply sitting in a café to soak in the view of the Mediterranean and the Taurus Mountains.

Some visitors take the opportunity to visit historical sites, while others opt for a relaxed meal at a local restaurant. For those interested, there’s a 45-minute boat tour around Kaleici, which could be a delightful way to see the harbor from a different perspective, though it’s optional.

The guide emphasizes the meeting point and time, so you won’t risk losing track of the group. After the free exploration period, the bus departs for the return journey, arriving back in Side around 17:15-18:15.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

Transportation is by comfortable bus, and the small group size means there’s a more intimate atmosphere. The group is limited to about 10 participants, which helps with personalized interaction and easier logistics. However, some reviews point out that the bus ride can be quite fast and bumpy, so be prepared for a bit of a thrill if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more relaxed drive.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which adds convenience. All entry tickets are covered, making it straightforward for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of planning individual visits.

Cost and Value

At $18, this tour offers a good value for travelers looking to tick off Antalya’s highlights without breaking the bank. The price includes transportation, water insurance, entry tickets, and an English-speaking guide. While lunch isn’t included, the free time in Kaleici provides a perfect opportunity to sample local cuisine or grab a quick snack. Considering the cost of individual entry tickets and transportation, it’s a reasonably priced option for those on a tight schedule or budget.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Authenticity is found in the small group atmosphere and the chance to stroll independently through Kaleici’s streets. It’s a good pick for travelers who want some flexibility and free time, rather than a rigid, guided tour.

From reviews, we learn some potential frustrations. One traveler mentioned “too many tips wherever u go,” and that extra charges for the waterfall trip were unexpected. It’s worth being aware that tipping is customary and optional, but some guides or bus staff might ask for extra gratuities.

Another review highlighted the challenge of the fast driving style of the bus, which might be uncomfortable for some. It’s a reminder that this isn’t a leisurely, scenic drive but a quick-paced trip designed to maximize sightseeing within a short period.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits budget-conscious travelers who want a taste of Antalya’s natural beauty and historic old town without a long or guided tour. It’s ideal for those who enjoy free exploration time and aren’t bothered by a busy schedule. It’s also perfect if you value small group settings and appreciate guided insights, even if it’s a mostly self-guided walk in Kaleici.

However, if you’re seeking a more comprehensive or guided historical tour, or prefer more relaxed pacing, you might find this less satisfying. For travelers who want just a snapshot of Antalya’s highlights and don’t mind the quick pace, this can be a very practical choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 8 to 9 hours, including hotel pickup, sightseeing, and return.

What is the price?
$18 per person, which covers transport, entry tickets, and a guide.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included. You’ll have free time in Kaleici to eat at your leisure.

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide speaks English, German, and Russian.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to about 10 participants, making it more personalized.

Can I visit specific sites in Kaleici?
Yes, you can walk through the streets, visit Roman and Ottoman landmarks, or relax at cafes.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, a 45-minute boat tour around Kaleici is available if you choose to join.

What about transportation?
Comfortable bus with hotel pickup and drop-off; some reviews mention fast driving.

Is there a need to tip?
Tips are optional but are customary; some travelers noted extra tipping requests.

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

To sum it up, this Side to Antalya city tour offers a straightforward way to see some of the most beautiful waterfalls and historic streets at an affordable price. It’s best for travelers who enjoy a blend of natural sights and free time to explore on their own, along with small group intimacy. While it’s not an in-depth guided experience, the scenic stops and the knowledgeable guide help make it a practical, enjoyable day trip. Be prepared for a fast-paced schedule, and consider your comfort with quick drives and optional tipping. For those who want a cost-effective introduction to Antalya, this tour hits the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here: