A Romantic Evening on the Turquoise Coast: The Side Sunset Night Tour from Alanya
Imagine a tranquil boat ride at sunset, the gentle waves lapping against the hull, and the sky turning shades of orange and pink over the Mediterranean. For about 4 hours, this tour takes you from the lively port of Alanya to the historic town of Side, blending scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and a delicious Turkish dinner into one memorable evening. The price sits at $41, which, considering the included dinner, boat ride, and free time, offers good value for a romantic outing or a special occasion.
We particularly like how this experience balances relaxation and exploration—you get to enjoy a scenic cruise, snap photos at the iconic Apollo Temple, and stroll through Side’s charming streets at your own pace. The round-trip transportation from your hotel makes the logistics easy, especially for those unfamiliar with local transportation options.
However, a potential consideration is that alcoholic beverages are not included, so if you’re hoping to toast the sunset with a glass of wine, you’ll need to arrange that separately. Also, the tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of structured activity and free time, making it ideal for couples, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to combine scenic beauty with cultural charm.
If you’re looking for a laid-back yet engaging way to experience the coast and history of Side, this tour fits the bill well. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate authentic local settings, scenic vistas, and a touch of romance.
Key Points
- Beautiful Sunset Views: Witness the Mediterranean sunset from the deck of a boat, offering ideal photo opportunities and a romantic atmosphere.
- Flexible Free Time: After the boat ride and sightseeing of the Apollo Temple, you have around 30 minutes to explore Side, shop, or simply soak in the atmosphere.
- Inclusive Dinner and Transport: The tour offers a Turkish dinner and round-trip transfers, providing convenience and good value.
- Balanced Schedule: With approximately 45 minutes at Side, 15 minutes at the temple, 30 minutes for shopping, and 2.5 hours for dinner, the itinerary is well-paced.
- Authentic Experience: The tour’s focus on local scenery and historical sites makes it more than just a boat cruise—it’s an opportunity to engage with the region’s culture.
- Limited Alcohol Options: Drinks are not included, so bring your own or plan to purchase beverages separately.
Planning evening activities? Here are other after-dark options we've examined in Alanya
A Detailed Look at the Romantic Side Sunset Night Tour
The Itinerary and Its Highlights
The tour begins with pickup from your accommodation, a detail that simplifies planning. Once aboard the boat, the journey to Side unfolds over about 45 minutes. As you cruise along the coast, you’ll get to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, which are especially stunning at sunset. The calm sea and the warm glow of the setting sun create a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.
Arriving at Side, the highlight is the photo stop at the Apollo Temple, a magnificent relic of ancient Greece. The 15-minute window gives plenty of time to snap pictures and absorb the historic atmosphere. Many travelers find this moment particularly enchanting, as the temple’s columns silhouetted against the sunset create a picture-perfect scene.
Following this, you’re given 30 minutes of free time to wander around Side. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the local shops, pick up souvenirs, or just enjoy the relaxed ambiance of this seaside town. It’s worth noting that this free time can be very satisfying, especially since the town has a friendly, laid-back vibe that makes wandering around a pleasure.
The grand finale is a 2.5-hour Turkish dinner at a local restaurant. We love how this part of the tour emphasizes authentic cuisine—think fresh mezes, kebabs, and flavorful local dishes. The leisurely pace allows you to savor your meal and chat with fellow travelers, rounding out the experience with a true taste of regional hospitality.
Transportation and Group Size
The tour offers round-trip transfers from your accommodation, removing the hassle of navigating public transportation or arranging taxis. This service makes the experience accessible, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the area or those prioritizing comfort.
With a maximum of 150 travelers, the group size is moderate, ensuring that everyone can participate without feeling lost in a crowd. The majority of travelers can participate, making it a versatile choice for couples, families, or solo adventurers seeking a peaceful yet engaging evening.
What the Reviews Say
Although only one review is available, it’s glowing: “Sehr schöne Tour im antiken Hafen von Side. Hervorragend geeignet für Paare,” which translates to “Very beautiful tour in the ancient port of Side. Perfect for couples.” The reviewer appreciated the quick, efficient communication from the organizer and felt well taken care of—an important detail if you’re nervous about language barriers or logistical concerns.
This suggests that the tour delivers on its promise, leaving travelers feeling satisfied and appreciated. We believe that the personalized touch, combined with the scenic and cultural elements, makes this experience stand out.
- Alanya: 4X4 Quad Safari Tour in the Mountain
- Tandem Paragliding in Alanya, Antalya Turkey with a Licensed Guide
- Alanya All Inclusive Pirate Boat Trip With Hotel Transfer
- Sapadere Canyon Tour from Alanya
- Alanya Catamaran Boat Tour with Lunch, Soft Drinks & Transfer
- Alanya 3 in 1 Combo Full Day Tour Rafting Zipline Quad Bike
Price and Value
At $41, the tour offers solid value considering the included boat ride, dinner, and free exploration time. The costs of individual components—boat, dinner, transportation—would likely surpass this amount if booked separately, especially during peak season.
The tour’s emphasis on authentic experiences and scenic beauty makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting to combine relaxation with cultural sights, all within a manageable timeframe.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for couples seeking a romantic evening with scenic views and good food. It also appeals to history buffs, thanks to the stop at the Apollo Temple, and to travelers who appreciate a well-organized, hassle-free outing. If you’re someone who enjoys free time to explore at your own pace, this tour offers a balanced mix of guided activity and independent enjoyment.
While the lack of included alcoholic beverages might be a downside for some, it also means you can customize your drinks and avoid extra costs. It’s a flexible experience that can cater to different tastes, especially if you’re looking for a memorable yet relaxed evening on Turkey’s coast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a boat ride to Side, a scenic stop at the Apollo Temple, free time for shopping and exploring, a Turkish dinner at a local restaurant, and round-trip transfers from your hotel.
Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, all drinks, including water, soft drinks, and alcohol, are excluded. You may want to bring your own or purchase drinks during your free time.
How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Alanya to Side lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing a relaxing start to your evening.
How much time do I have at Side?
You’ll have about 30 minutes to explore Side, take pictures, or shop before heading to dinner.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers or families?
Yes, with a maximum group size of 150 travelers, it’s suitable for most travelers, including singles, couples, and small families, especially those who enjoy a mix of guided and free activities.
What are the cancellation policies?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour start time are not refundable, and the experience is weather-dependent.
How do I book this tour?
You can book through Viator or similar platforms, with confirmation received immediately upon booking.
Is this tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the experience is near public transit, making it convenient, but most travelers opt for the included pickup service for added ease.
Final Thoughts
This Romantic Side Sunset Night Tour from Alanya offers a thoughtful blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and leisurely dining. Its focus on authentic surroundings and comfortable logistics makes it an ideal choice for travelers wanting a memorable evening without the hassle of complex planning.
The combination of a peaceful boat ride, a historic site, free time in Side, and a delicious Turkish dinner creates a well-rounded experience perfect for romantic outings or travelers eager to capture stunning sunset views. While it’s not designed for those seeking wild nightlife or heavy drinking, it suits anyone who appreciates authentic locales, scenic vistas, and relaxed pacing.
Overall, if you’re after an affordable, authentic, and scenic way to enjoy the coast’s beauty after sunset, this tour could be just what you need for a special evening on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.
More Evening Experiences in Alanya
- Alanya: Night Safari with Dinner and with Boat Party
- Land of Legends Night Show with transfer from Alanya
- Alanya: Full-Day City Tour with Sunset Views, Beach, & Caves
- From Alanya, Side, Antalya: Cappadocia 2 Day 1 Night
- Alanya: Sunset Night Safari with Boat Trip incl. Dinner
- Alanya: Sunset Party Boat, Jeep, Cleopatra Beach & Dinner
More Tours in Alanya
- From Alanya: Quad/ATV Safari Tour
- Alanya Adventure Combo Tour With Rafting And Zipline
- From City of Side: Alanya Day Tour with Boat Trip and Lunch
- Alanya & city of Side: Cappadocia 2-Day Guided Excursion
- Alanya: Forest Quad-Bike Excursion with Hotel Pickup
- Alanya: Full-Day City Tour with Sunset Views, Beach, & Caves
More Tour Reviews in Alanya
- Alanya: Party Pirate Boat Trip w/Meal, Drinks, Pickup Option
- Alanya: Thrilling Ringo Ride
- Istanbul Bosphorus: Dinner Cruise & Folklore & Belly Dance
- Alanya: Wakeboarding Adventure with Equipment
- Antalya: Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch & Soft Drinks
- Full Day Salda + Pamukkale and Hierapolis from Alanya
More Alanya experiences we've covered
- Alanya: Party Pirate Boat Trip w/Meal, Drinks, Pickup Option
- Alanya: Thrilling Ringo Ride
- Istanbul Bosphorus: Dinner Cruise & Folklore & Belly Dance
- Alanya: Wakeboarding Adventure with Equipment
- Antalya: Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch & Soft Drinks
- Full Day Salda + Pamukkale and Hierapolis from Alanya
- From Alanya: Quad/ATV Safari Tour
- Alanya: Buggy Safari Adventure with Hotel Transfers
- Alanya: Dimcay River Picnic & Swimming Escape With Lunch
- Alanya: Dolphin and Seal Show Ticket with Hotel Transfers
- Alanya Adventure Combo Tour With Rafting And Zipline
- From City of Side: Alanya Day Tour with Boat Trip and Lunch