City of Side: Green Lake Boat and Cabrio Bus Tour

Imagine spending a full day discovering some of the most beautiful and historic sights around Side, Turkey, all while riding in a bright, open-top cabrio bus. For just $25 per person, you get a full 8-hour adventure taking in everything from ancient ruins to lush waterfalls, topped off with a scenic boat ride on Green Lake. This tour offers a balanced mix of culture, nature, and fun, with enough flexibility and insider access to keep most travelers satisfied.

What we love about this experience is how it combines convenience with authenticity — you’re guided through significant historical sites like the Seleukia Roman City and enjoy natural wonders like Green Lake and Manavgat Waterfall. Plus, the boat trip on Green Lake is a real highlight, giving you a chance to swim and relax in a peaceful setting. We also appreciate the small-group feel and the local insights provided by guides, making it more than just a sightseeing bus ride.

A simple consideration is that the tour lasts a full day — so if you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed pace, it might be a bit packed. Also, the price of drinks or additional snacks isn’t included, so be prepared for some extra expenses if you want refreshments throughout the day.

This tour suits active travelers, history buffs, or families looking for a well-rounded day out. If you’re eager to get a snapshot of Side’s natural beauty and its ancient past without too much fuss, this trip hits the spot.

Key Points

• Includes a scenic boat trip on Green Lake, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Visits multiple highlights in one day, from ancient ruins to waterfalls.
• Small-group tour with personal insights from guides enhances the experience.
• Affordable price point for a full day of sightseeing and culture.
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi included makes the journey enjoyable.
• Accessible pickup from hotels throughout Side and nearby areas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Green Lake and Cabrio Bus Tour

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for a day packed with varied experiences, all set against the backdrop of Turkey’s stunning Antalya Province. The tour is designed to give you a taste of history, nature, and local life, all within a manageable and enjoyable itinerary.

Convenient Hotel Pickup and Comfortable Transport

Your day begins with pickup from your hotel, a hassle-free start that sets the tone for a relaxed day. The transport is by bus with Wi-Fi—so you can check your messages or plan your next move while en route. The bus’s open-top design of the cabrio bus adds a fun, breezy element, especially as you cruise through Side’s streets and countryside. The group size remains manageable, fostering a friendly atmosphere and easier interaction with guides.

First Stop: Kulliye Mosque and Turkish Gozleme

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Kulliye Mosque, where your guide will share some brief insights into the local Islamic heritage, offering context without overwhelming. This spot offers a glimpse into the town’s spiritual and cultural fabric. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a short break to taste Turkish gozleme, a popular flatbread filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. This snack is a delicious, authentic taste of local cuisine, making the start of your day both cultural and tasty.

Exploring Ancient Side: Seleukia Roman City

Next, the bus takes you to the Seleukia Ancient Roman City, where history fans can appreciate impressive ruins that echo the grandeur of Roman civilization. Your guide will provide interesting snippets about the site’s history, helping you picture its past life as a bustling port and trading hub. The ruins are quite photogenic and give a solid sense of the area’s historical significance.

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Scenic Drive to Oymapnar Dam and Green Canyon

After soaking up the ancient atmosphere, the journey continues to Oymapnar Dam, which offers sensational views over both Green Canyon and Green Lake. This vantage point is a highlight, providing photo opportunities and that satisfying feeling of being immersed in untouched nature. The drive itself is scenic, with the opportunity to appreciate the Turkish countryside’s verdant beauty.

The Green Lake Boat Trip: A Refreshing Break

Perhaps the most memorable part of the day is the one-hour boat trip on Green Lake. As your boat glides along, you’ll see the peaceful, emerald waters surrounded by lush scenery. The trip includes a chance to swim, making it ideal if you’re visiting during warmer months. Travelers often mention the tranquility and beauty of Green Lake, and reviews highlight how “fabulous” the experience is, with some noting that the guides make the boat trip enjoyable and safe.

Lunch at Green Lake: Relax and Refuel

Following the boat ride, you’ll have 1-2 hours to enjoy a delicious lunch at Green Lake. The meal offers a perfect opportunity to relax, recharge, and soak in the views. The local setting makes for an authentic experience, and it’s a good time to reflect on the morning’s adventures.

Manavgat Waterfall: Nature’s Power

Next, the tour takes you to the Manavgat Waterfall, where you can spend about 30 minutes. The waterfall’s roar and mist create a lively contrast to the calm of Green Lake. You can choose to enter the waterfall area, which some travelers find invigorating, especially on a warm day. The reviews suggest that it’s a “great stop,” though some note that the entrance fee isn’t included, so be prepared for that.

Ending the Day: Orange Garden and Return

The last stop is at an orange garden, where you can taste fresh orange and pomegranate juice—refreshing, nutritious, and a sweet finish to your day. After that, it’s back to your hotel by around 5:00 PM, ending a full, engaging day of sightseeing.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

This tour isn’t just about ticking off sights; it’s about feeling like a local for a day. Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, offering snippets about each location that deepen your understanding. As one reviewer raved, “Thomas made the whole day easy and fun,” highlighting the importance of a good guide.

The value for money is notable—everything from transportation, the boat trip, lunch, and insurance is included for $25. This makes it an accessible way to see a diverse range of sites without paying for each separately. However, keep in mind that drinks and snacks are extra, and some stops may have overpriced options, as some reviews mention.

What to Bring and Considerations

To maximize your experience, pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel. The tour is suitable for most people, but those with mobility issues might want to think twice, as some sites involve walking and uneven terrain. The tour operates in both English and German, so if language is a concern, check with the provider beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to combine history, nature, and local flavor into one day, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a balanced itinerary that doesn’t feel rushed, with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy scenic views. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a small-group atmosphere and insightful guides will find this tour rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This Green Lake and Cabrio Bus Tour offers a comprehensive, accessible way to experience the highlights of Side and its surrounding natural beauty. It balances the charm of ancient ruins with the serenity of lakes and waterfalls, all within a well-organized, affordable package. For those looking for a day packed with variety and authenticity, it’s a smart choice.

What makes this experience stand out is how it offers a genuine glimpse into Turkish life and history — from local snacks to ancient Roman ruins, natural scenery, and friendly guides. It’s a good fit for travelers who want to see a lot without feeling overwhelmed or rushed, and who value value for money and a personalized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by bus, a professional guide, visits to Green Canyon and Green Lake, a 1-hour boat trip, lunch at Green Lake, Wi-Fi on the bus, and travel insurance.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability.

Is the tour accessible for everyone?
It is wheelchair accessible, but it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking and site conditions.

Are drinks and snacks included?
No, all drinks and Turkish snacks are extra and not included in the price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel are recommended for comfort and safety during swimming.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a language preference for guides?
Guides are available in English and German, but check with the provider if you have specific language needs.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While not specified, the boat trip and swimming are best during warmer months, likely from late spring to early fall.

This tour is a fine way to get a well-rounded view of Side’s natural and historic treasures—without the hassle of organizing multiple trips or worrying about transportation. It’s lively, authentic, and offers a taste of local life, making it a worthwhile addition to your Turkish adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: