Antalya/Kemer: Old City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car & Boat Ride - Authenticity and Value

Antalya/Kemer: Old City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car & Boat Ride

Discover Antalya on a Private Tour — History, Waterfalls, and a Cable Car Experience

If you’re visiting Turkey’s stunning southern coast, this Antalya/Kemer Old City Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the city’s charm, history, and natural beauty. For just $20 per person, you’ll enjoy a 10-hour day filled with visits to iconic landmarks like Kaleici, Duden Waterfalls, and the Lower Düden Waterfalls, complemented by a boat ride and optional cable car experience. Led by a private guide and with your own transfer, this tour is flexible, personal, and packed with authentic sights.

What we especially liked is the balance of structured sightseeing and free time — perfect for those who want to see the highlights but also have a moment to breathe, shop, or relax. Plus, the knowledgeable guides truly elevate the experience, sharing insights and tips that make these sites come alive. The inclusion of a boat trip and the option to ascend the Olympos Cable Car adds a touch of adventure that appeals to all ages.

That said, a consideration is that the itinerary can be quite full, meaning you’ll want to bring comfortable shoes and be ready for a busy day. Also, since the tour is designed for flexibility, some stops might be shorter or longer depending on crowd levels — so if you’re eager to explore at a leisurely pace, it’s worth noting that part of the charm here is the structured but adaptable schedule.

This tour suits travelers who value getting an authentic taste of Antalya’s top sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Whether you’re interested in history, natural waterfalls, or scenic rides, this experience offers a rewarding overview with plenty of opportunities to customize your day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Antalya/Kemer: Old City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car & Boat Ride - Key Points

  • Personalized Experience: Private guide and transfer for a flexible, intimate visit.
  • Highlights: Visits to Antalya’s Kaleici, waterfalls, and optional cable car.
  • Natural Beauty and History: Combines scenic waterfalls with historic sites.
  • Time for Yourself: Ample free time for shopping, relaxing, or exploring independently.
  • Value: At $20, it offers a comprehensive day out with included lunch and boat ride.
  • Practical Tips: Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and camera.

A Detailed Look at the Antalya/Kemer Old City Tour

Antalya/Kemer: Old City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car & Boat Ride - A Detailed Look at the Antalya/Kemer Old City Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup from three key locations: Antalya, Kemer, or Belek. This door-to-door service is a big plus, saving you from navigating public transport or arranging your own transfers. The journey to the main sites involves a 1.5-hour coach ride, giving you time to relax and anticipate your day ahead. The coach is comfortable enough for the long haul, and the scenery en route offers a first glimpse of the Turkish coast.

Exploring Kaleici — Antalya’s Historic Heart

After arriving in Antalya, you’ll spend about two hours in Kaleici, the old town. Here, cobblestone streets wind past Ottoman-era houses, quaint cafes, and boutique shops. The relaxed atmosphere invites you to wander at your own pace, take photos of the historic architecture, or simply soak in the vibrant street life. The guide often points out key landmarks, but the free time allows you to explore independently.

Many reviews highlight that guides like Apo are highly knowledgeable and eager to share stories. As one reviewer mentioned, Apo’s patience and extensive knowledge made the tour stand out, transforming a sightseeing trip into a learning experience. You might find shops here selling traditional souvenirs or handcrafted goods, perfect for a quick purchase.

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Waterfalls and Scenic Views

A major highlight is the visit to Duden Waterfalls, where you’ll have around 45 minutes to admire the stunning cascade and take photos. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to see the falls from different angles, with some options to walk closer or enjoy a scenic viewpoint. The Lower Düden Waterfalls, also on your itinerary, offers a different perspective, with a chance for a quick break, photos, and perhaps a moment of quiet reflection.

We loved the way these sites blend natural beauty with accessibility, making them ideal for families or casual travelers. The reviews confirm their appeal: the waterfalls are “absolutely delightful,” and the photo stops are well worth the time.

Muratpaşa Shopping Break

Next, the tour includes a short 30-minute shopping stop in Muratpaşa. This is a chance to browse local handicrafts, leather goods, and perhaps snag a few souvenirs at a discount, as one reviewer described a private shop visit with a catwalk and luxury discounts. It’s a curated shopping experience, not a full-blown market, so don’t expect hours of bargaining — but it’s a nice touch for those wanting to take home a token.

Lunch in Konyaaltı

A delicious 1-hour lunch break takes place in Konyaaltı, with options to enjoy Turkish cuisine in a relaxed setting. The meal is included in the tour price, making it a good value, especially when considering the overall experience. The food quality and atmosphere tend to satisfy most travelers, offering a taste of local flavors.

The Heart of Antalya — Kaleici

After lunch, you’ll return to Kaleici for a deeper exploration. With about two hours for sightseeing, there’s time to visit landmarks, explore shops, or just sit at a cafe with a Turkish tea or coffee. A highlight here is the stunning architecture and narrow streets, perfect for photos or browsing artisan shops. The guide’s insights make the history of the area come alive, making this a memorable part of the day.

Optional Cable Car and Boat Ride

The optional Olympos Cable Car experience is available on specific days — Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. It’s a scenic ride that offers panoramic views over the mountains and coast, a definite highlight for those seeking a little adventure. The boat trip included in the tour also adds a relaxing element, providing a different perspective of Antalya’s coastline.

Wrap-up and Return

The day concludes with a coach ride back to your hotel, with drop-offs in Belek, Antalya, or Kemer. The total distance and timing ensure you get a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

Authenticity and Value

Antalya/Kemer: Old City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car & Boat Ride - Authenticity and Value

At just $20, this tour packs in a lot — from natural wonders to historic sites — and the inclusion of lunch, boat ride, and optional cable car makes it excellent value. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the scenic stops, confirming that this tour is more than just ticking boxes; it offers genuine insights and memorable moments.

While the schedule is packed, the flexibility and small group size mean you can tailor your experience slightly, especially during free periods. If you’re seeking a guided day with diverse highlights and want to avoid hefty tour prices, this one hits the right notes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Antalya/Kemer: Old City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car & Boat Ride - Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a rundown of Antalya’s highlights without the stress of planning each stop. Families or small groups will enjoy the personalized attention and flexibility, especially if they like natural scenery and historical sites. History buffs will appreciate the guided insights, while casual visitors will enjoy the relaxed pace and free time.

It’s also ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with some leisure, as there’s ample opportunity to shop, relax with tea, or simply enjoy the views. However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a very leisurely pace, be aware that the schedule can be busy, and some walks involve cobblestones or hilly areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at three main locations: Antalya, Kemer, or Belek.

How long is the coach ride?
The coach ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours each way, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What sites are included?
The tour visits Kaleici (the old town), Duden Waterfalls, Lower Düden Waterfalls, and Muratpaşa shopping. The optional cable car ride is available on specific days.

Can I explore independently?
Yes, the tour offers free time at several stops, allowing you to wander, shop, or relax on your own.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Turkish-style lunch is included during the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and smoking is not allowed during the trip.

What language is the guide?
Guides speak both English and Turkish, with live narration.

Can I cancel?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the cable car experience mandatory?
No, it’s an optional add-on available only on select days.

Final Thoughts

This Antalya/Kemer Old City Tour offers a well-balanced day of sightseeing, natural beauty, and cultural insights at an incredible price. With personalized guides, scenic stops, and flexible free time, it’s perfect for travelers eager to get a genuine taste of Antalya without breaking the bank. Whether you’re interested in historic streets, waterfalls, or panoramic views, this tour provides a comprehensive, authentic experience that’s hard to beat.

If you love learning about a city through its sights, enjoy scenic nature, and appreciate local flavors, this trip will leave you with wonderful memories — all for a very reasonable cost. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your sense of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: