Manavgat Waterfall & Side Old Town with Apollo Temple

Discovering the Best of Antalya: Manavgat Waterfall & Side Old Town with Apollo Temple

Imagine a day spent wandering through ancient ruins, soaking in scenic waterfalls, shopping at modern malls, and ending with a breathtaking sunset over the sea. That’s exactly what this tour offers — a well-balanced mix of history, nature, and modern comfort. Starting at just $65 per person, it’s a great value for an experience that combines several highlights in one day.

Our guide, friendly and helpful, makes sure the journey is smooth and informative. We appreciated how the stops are thoughtfully spaced out: a quick but rewarding shopping break at Novamall, a peaceful visit to the Manavgat Waterfall, and ample free time to soak up Side’s ancient atmosphere. Plus, the sunset at Apollo Temple is a truly magical way to cap the day.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s arrival times can be slightly late depending on your hotel’s location, and some entrance fees, like for the Waterfall or Ancient Theatre, are extra. Still, this trip is ideal for those interested in authentic sites, scenic beauty, and a relaxed pace. If you enjoy a bit of flexibility and a focus on memorable sights, you’ll find this tour a valuable addition to your Antalya itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation and a well-paced itinerary make for an enjoyable day.
• Great value for the price, combining multiple highlights in one trip.
• Ample free time allows for independent exploration of Side’s ruins.
• Stunning sunset views at Apollo Temple are a highlight.
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the experience.
• Optional boat tour available for an extra splash of fun and relaxation.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off with a comfortable transfer from your hotel, whether you’re in Alanya or Side. The meeting point is a simple, easy-to-find spot — in front of Starbucks at Novamall. The guides are identified by their Turb2B T-shirts, which helps keep things straightforward. After gathering everyone, the group heads out in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle, moving smoothly through the Antalya Province traffic.

The transfer time varies depending on your hotel location, but the comfort of the ride makes the journey enjoyable. The driver’s punctuality and the vehicle’s cleanliness set a positive tone for the day.

Novamall Shopping Break

The first stop is Novamall, one of Antalya’s largest shopping centers, where you get about 45 minutes to browse and shop. This is a great opportunity to pick up souvenirs, Turkish delights, or enjoy a quick snack from a variety of cafes. We loved the chance to see a modern side of Turkey, and the diversity of stores means everyone leaves with something. The guide provides a brief overview of the mall but leaves the exploring mostly in your hands.

From reviews, travelers appreciated this break: “The mall was a nice change of pace for us,” said Ruby. It’s a practical way to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or do some quick shopping without feeling rushed later in the day.

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Manavgat Waterfall

Next comes Manavgat Waterfall, which offers a peaceful, scenic stop for about 45 minutes. The waterfall itself isn’t huge but has a gentle, soothing quality that makes it a great photo opportunity. We found ourselves drawn to the calming sound of rushing water, and the surrounding greenery provided a perfect backdrop for nature photos.

The reviews highlight the waterfall’s charm: “Relax by the cascading waters, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings,” is a good way to describe it. Be prepared for some crowds, especially in high season, but the overall atmosphere remains tranquil. Entrance fees might be extra, so check if you want to access certain viewpoints or facilities.

Free Time in Side Old Town

After the waterfall, the tour offers about 2 hours of free time in Side Ancient City. This is the heart of the trip, where you can wander among ancient ruins, explore the amphitheater, and sample local eateries. The free exploration time is a real highlight, giving you a chance to tailor your experience.

We loved the way this segment allows for personal discovery. Some visitors mentioned they could visit the Ancient Theater or walk along the harbor, soaking in the lively atmosphere. As one traveler said, “We had enough time there to explore at our own pace,” which is ideal if you prefer strolling without a strict schedule.

Sunset at Apollo Temple

As the day winds down, the group gathers at the famous Apollo Temple — arguably the most iconic site in Side. Located on a promontory overlooking the sea, it offers breathtaking sunset views. The temple’s ruins, combined with the vivid colors of the setting sun, create a mesmerizing scene.

This moment is often praised as a magical highlight of the trip. It’s a perfect spot for photos and simply soaking in the beauty of the Mediterranean coast. The sunset adds a layer of serenity and wonder, making it a memorable conclusion.

Optional Boat Tour

For those looking to add a bit more fun, there’s an optional boat tour at extra cost. It offers a chance to enjoy a relaxing swim, see the coast from the water, and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Travelers who took advantage of this said it was a refreshing break and a nice way to cool off after a day of sightseeing.

Practical Details and Considerations

The guided tour service adds an educational element, but the guide provides only general information, leaving plenty of space for personal exploration. The cost of entrance fees for some sites isn’t included, so budget accordingly if you want full access.

The tour runs in English and Russian, making it accessible to many travelers. Cancellation is flexible, with a full refund available up to 24 hours before the trip, which adds peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who want to see a mix of natural beauty, ancient history, and modern shopping without the hassle of planning individual visits. If you enjoy guided trips that allow free exploration, you’ll appreciate the balance this tour offers. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfortable transportation and a relaxed pace — especially if you want to avoid the stress of navigating alone.

However, if you’re eager to explore every nook and cranny of sites like the amphitheater or prefer a more structured schedule, you might find the free time a bit limited. Also, keep in mind that some site entrances are extra, so prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a well-rounded snapshot of Antalya’s highlights. The combination of shopping, waterfalls, ancient ruins, and sunset vistas makes for a diverse and engaging day. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport mean you can relax and enjoy rather than worry about logistics.

It’s particularly appealing for those who want to maximize their sightseeing in a single day, with enough flexibility to explore at your own pace. The scenic stops and cultural insights will resonate with history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Overall, if you’re after a value-packed, memorable day that covers Turkey’s rich tapestry of sights, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s a smart pick for travelers seeking an authentic experience with a touch of modern comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $65 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the variety of sights and the inclusion of transfers and guided service.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, starting in the morning and ending in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on your hotel location and traffic.

Where do I meet the guide?
Meet in front of Starbucks at Novamall Shopping Center. The guide will be wearing a Turb2B T-shirt, making spotting them straightforward.

Are entrance fees included?
No, some entrance fees like those for Manavgat Waterfall and Side Ancient Theatre are extra. Be sure to bring some cash if you want to access certain sites.

Is there free time at the ancient city?
Yes, travelers get approximately 2 hours to explore Side at their own pace, allowing for personal discovery and photos.

Can I join the optional boat tour?
Yes, there is an optional boat tour available at an additional cost, offering swimming and scenic views from the water.

What languages are spoken on the tour?
The tour is conducted in English and Russian, making it accessible to a broad range of travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and any personal purchases from Novamall. Also, consider bringing some cash for extra entrance fees or snacks.

This tour offers a genuine taste of what Antalya has to offer — a harmonious blend of history, nature, shopping, and seaside beauty. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting to see the highlights without feeling rushed, and for those keen on experiencing Turkey’s vibrant culture and scenic spots in just one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: