City of Side: Manavgat River Boat Lunch Cruise & Bazaar Tour

City of Side: Manavgat River Boat Lunch Cruise & Bazaar Tour

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to experience some of Turkey’s natural beauty and local culture, this Manavgat River Boat Lunch Cruise might just fit the bill. For around $25 per person, this full-day excursion offers a 3-hour boat cruise along the river, a delicious on-board lunch, a visit to the spectacular Manavgat Waterfalls, and plenty of time to explore a bustling Turkish bazaar. It’s a compact, value-packed trip that balances scenic views with lively market atmosphere.

What we particularly like about this tour are the scenic boat ride—which lets you unwind and enjoy the landscape—and the opportunity to stroll through a vibrant bazaar, where the smells, sights, and sounds give you a true taste of local life. Plus, the lunch on the boat, often praised for its quality, keeps the energy up during the day’s activities.

One thing to consider is that the itinerary can be somewhat flexible, especially if you choose to skip the waterfalls, which means your visit to the bazaar might stretch a bit longer. This could be a plus or a drawback depending on your preferences—some travelers love the extra shopping time, while others might prefer a more structured schedule.

This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic outdoor experiences combined with cultural exploration. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, you’ll find this outing offers a taste of diverse sights in a manageable day.

Key Points:
– Scenic boat cruise along the Manavgat River offers relaxing views.
– Lunch on the boat is tasty, with options like fish or chicken.
– Visit to Manavgat Waterfalls provides a quick but stunning nature stop.
– Vibrant bazaar offers lively shopping and local atmosphere.
– Flexible itinerary allows for optional waterfall visit or extended bazaar time.
– Affordable price delivers good value for a full-day experience.

This experience made our article of We Rank The 8 Best Shopping & Market Tours In Side.

An In-Depth Look at the Manavgat River Boat Lunch Cruise & Bazaar Tour

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A Scenic Start: The Boat Trip on the Manavgat River

We love the simplicity of the boat cruise, which lasts about 3 hours and gives you a gentle glide through the tranquil waters of the Manavgat River. The boats are well-sized, and the atmosphere is relaxed—perfect for unwinding and taking in the surrounding scenery. The views are a mix of lush greenery and a glimpse of local life along the riverbanks.

You can expect to see waterfowl, perhaps some fishermen, and if the weather’s warm, you might even take a quick dip in the clear waters at the beach area between the river and the sea. Several reviews mention the boat’s quality and the enjoyable experience of the cruise. One visitor noted that the boat was better than previous trips and appreciated the opportunity to swim directly from the boat, making it feel more active and engaging.

Lunch on Board: Simple, Tasty, and Convenient

The included lunch is a highlight for many. Typically, you’ll have a choice between fish or chicken, served with rice and a fresh salad. It’s not gourmet dining but offers good, hearty food that satisfies after some time in the sun. The reviews praise the quality of the lunch, with one reviewer calling it “amazing,” which is quite encouraging considering the price.

Having lunch on the boat means no fuss about finding a restaurant, plus it’s a great way to fuel up without breaking the flow of your day. Keep in mind, drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring some cash for beverages if you prefer something other than water.

The Waterfalls Stop: A Quick But Stunning Sight

One optional part of the tour is a visit to the Manavgat Waterfalls. If you decide to go, you’ll get around 20-30 minutes to explore this natural marvel. The waterfalls are a popular sight, with their rushing waters and lush surroundings providing excellent photo opportunities.

However, some travelers choose to skip this stop to maximize time at the bazaar or relax on the boat. The waterfalls are not a long stop, but they are worth seeing if you’re into scenic nature spots and want a brief break from cruising.

Shopping and Culture at the Bazaar

The real highlight for many is the bazaar visit. Located in the town of Manavgat, this public market is buzzing with energy. You’ll find brightly colored stalls filled with souvenirs, spices, textiles, and local crafts. If you enjoy haggling or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, this is your chance.

One reviewer said, “It was a full day trip good for adults and children as on a pirate ship,” emphasizing that the bazaar’s vibrant chaos appeals to all ages. The two-hour shopping window allows enough time to browse, sample local treats, and pick up some genuine souvenirs.

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Flexibility and Value

If you prefer, you can skip the waterfall and spend around 3 hours at the bazaar, giving you more time to explore or relax. The tour’s flexibility means it can cater to different interests—be it nature, shopping, or simply enjoying the boat ride.

The price of $25 is quite reasonable considering the hotel pickup and drop-off, the guide, and the lunch. It’s a straightforward way to spend a day, especially if you’re looking for a mix of scenery and culture without a hefty price tag.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Transport: Pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics simpler. Be sure to wait in front of your hotel’s security gate at the scheduled time.
• What to Bring: Pack comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses for sun protection, swimwear if you want to swim, rain gear just in case, and some cash for drinks and souvenirs.
• Suitability: Not ideal for travelers with mobility impairments as the tour involves walking and possibly uneven terrain at the waterfall and bazaar.

What the Reviews Say

The glowing reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the boat ride. One reviewer called the guide “nice,” while another appreciated the polite and helpful drivers and guides. The value for money seems clear, particularly given the full day of activities, with multiple travelers mentioning how much they enjoyed the trip—whether for the scenic views, authentic shopping experience, or delicious lunch.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for families seeking a fun and relaxed day, couples wanting a taste of local life and scenery, or solo travelers looking to meet others in a casual setting. It suits those who want a balanced itinerary—a little bit of everything—without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

If you’re on a budget but want to experience some of Turkey’s natural beauty and vibrant markets, this tour offers good value and memorable moments. However, those with mobility issues or who prefer a more structured, less flexible schedule might want to look for alternatives.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Manavgat River Boat Lunch Cruise & Bazaar Tour offers a relaxed, authentic slice of Turkish life and nature at an affordable price. The scenic boat ride, combined with a tasty lunch and lively market exploration, makes for a well-rounded day out that appeals to a broad range of travelers.

While the itinerary is flexible—allowing you to skip the waterfall if you prefer—the overall experience delivers a satisfying blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. The inclusion of hotel pickup, guidance, and lunch adds convenience and value, making it a practical choice for visitors wanting a straightforward day trip.

If you enjoy scenic water views, local markets, and authentic Turkish atmosphere, this tour should certainly be on your list. Just remember to come prepared with cash, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure. It’s a day designed to give you a genuine taste of the region, with enough flexibility to suit different interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including pickup, the boat cruise, the waterfall stop, and the bazaar visit. Check with your booking for specific starting times.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a lunch featuring fish or chicken, rice, and salad is included on the boat, providing a convenient and tasty meal.

Can I skip the waterfall?
Absolutely. The itinerary is flexible—if you prefer more time at the bazaar or relaxing on the boat, you can choose to skip the waterfall, which typically adds about 20-30 minutes to your trip.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses for sun protection, swimwear if you want to swim, rain gear just in case, and cash for drinks, snacks, or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention it’s good for children, especially since the boat trip can be quite fun and the bazaar lively and colorful.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so bring some cash if you want beverages other than water provided on the boat.

How do I know when to be ready for pickup?
Wait in front of your hotel’s security gate at the designated pickup time. It’s best to confirm the exact time when booking.

Is there any language support?
Yes, the tour is guided in German, English, and Turkish, ensuring a clear experience for most travelers.

To sum it up, this tour balances scenic beauty, culture, and good value in a straightforward package. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Turkish life and nature without a lot of fuss, making it a memorable addition to any trip to Antalya Province.

You can check availability for your dates here: