Side: Electric Catamaran Cruise, Waterfall, Seleukia, Mosque

Side: Electric Catamaran Cruise, Waterfall, Seleukia, Mosque — An Authentic Day Out

Imagine spending your day exploring some of the most picturesque and culturally rich sights around Side, Turkey. For around $25 per person, this tour packs in a variety of experiences—from the vibrant Green Canyon to ancient ruins and a traditional mosque. Led by friendly guides, it’s designed to give you a well-rounded glimpse of the area’s natural beauty and history, all while relaxing on a comfortable day trip.

What we love most? First, the scenic cruise on Green Lake which offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to unwind. Second, the knowledgeable guides who make learning about the sites engaging and fun. The tour also offers a delicious Turkish lunch with fresh local ingredients—a real treat after exploring.

One thing to keep in mind is that admission to the waterfall isn’t included, so you’ll need a small cash fee. Also, if you’re expecting a deep dive into history, some descriptions of the sites might be brief, but overall, the mix of natural scenery and cultural sites makes this a well-balanced outing.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic taste of Side’s highlights without the hassle of navigating on their own. If you’re keen on scenic water views, history, and a relaxed pace, this experience is likely to suit your interests.

Key Points

• Scenic Green Canyon: Enjoy a one-hour catamaran cruise on Green Lake with stunning vistas and photo ops.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the Manavgat Mosque, waterfall, and Seleukia ruins for a well-rounded cultural experience.
• Delicious Lunch: Savor traditional Turkish fare, with fresh fish or chicken as options, overlooking Green Lake.
• Convenient Transfers: Round-trip hotel pickups in air-conditioned vehicles make it effortless to start and end your day.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights about the area’s history and nature.
• Flexible & Value-Driven: At just $25, it offers a lot of value for a full-day experience with optional activities like fishing and canoeing.

A Closer Look at What You’ll Experience

Starting Your Day: Comfort and Convenience

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 am, with pickup from your Side hotel. The air-conditioned transport helps you stay comfortable as you settle into the day’s itinerary. Most travelers report a small group size, with a maximum of 49 people, which strikes a good balance between social atmosphere and personal space.

The first stop is a quick visit to Kulliye Camii, a local mosque. Though brief—about 20 minutes—it offers a glimpse into the area’s religious architecture and community life. It’s a good warm-up for the day, setting a peaceful tone.

Visiting Manavgat Waterfall

Next, you’ll visit the Manavgat Waterfall, a favorite among many travelers. Expect around 30 minutes here, which gives enough time to snap photos and enjoy the natural spray. The entrance fee of 6 Turkish Liras isn’t included, so bring some cash. Several reviews mention that the waterfall is “ok” but not the main highlight, so don’t expect a dramatic cascade—more an inviting spot to relax and enjoy nature.

Exploring Seleukia: Ancient Roman Ruins

The ruins of Seleukia are a standout. This ancient Roman city, free of entrance fees, offers a tangible connection to history. Your guide will likely share stories about its past, making it more vivid. Reviewers describe Seleukia as “great with lovely views,” and it’s a rare chance to walk among ancient stones and imagine life centuries ago.

Manavgat Dam and Green Canyon Views

A quick 15-minute stop at Manavgat Dam affords some fantastic photo opportunities of Green Canyon and Green Lake. It’s a brief but valuable moment for panoramic shots, giving you a sense of the area’s natural grandeur. Many guests mention the “beautiful views” here, which are well worth the stop.

The Main Event: Green Canyon & Lake

The highlight for many is the 1-hour catamaran cruise on Green Lake. As we glide along, you’ll get a close-up view of lush greenery and shimmering water—ideal for photos and a peaceful break from sightseeing. The cruise is relaxed, with some guests enjoying fishing, canoeing, or simply soaking in the scenery.

Lunch with a View

After the cruise, you’ll have a two-hour stop at Gölba Restaurant, overlooking Green Lake. The freshly prepared Turkish lunch—options of fish or chicken with rice, salad, and fruit—hits the spot after a busy morning. Many travelers appreciated the quality and authenticity of the meal, with some calling it “fantastic.”

Additional Notes & Personal Experiences

Guide Achmed, noted for being “very knowledgeable” and humorous, enhances the experience. As one reviewer put it, “He was very funny,” making the journey both educational and entertaining.

The tour concludes with some free time to either relax, explore further, or take more photos before returning to Side. The entire experience lasts around 8 to 9 hours, providing a full day without feeling rushed.

What to Expect in Terms of Value

At $25, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Side’s natural and historical sights, with included lunch and transfers. While some sites, like the waterfall, require an extra fee, overall, the cost is reasonable given the variety and quality of experiences. The guided nature ensures you get insights into each stop without the stress of planning.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This outing is ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic water adventures, cultural sites, and relaxed sightseeing. If you enjoy learning about local history, taking photos of beautiful landscapes, and having a hassle-free day, this tour checks all boxes. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with limited mobility, since most stops are brief, and transfers are comfortable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Your Time?

This tour delivers a well-rounded, value-packed day that balances natural beauty with cultural insights. It’s perfect for those who want to see a lot without the stress of organizing multiple separate excursions. The guided format, combined with scenic cruising and tasty local food, makes it a compelling choice.

While it may not satisfy those seeking deep historical immersion or intense adventure, it offers a genuine taste of Side’s highlights, all wrapped in a friendly, relaxed package.

If you’re looking for a memorable, affordable way to see Green Lake, ancient ruins, and local life, this tour is a practical and enjoyable option.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transfers from most Side hotels, making it easy to start and end your day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving plenty of time for each stop without feeling rushed.

What is the price?
The tour costs around $25 per person, which includes lunch, the catamaran cruise, and transfers. Entrance fees for the waterfall are extra.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for the waterfall entrance fee, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and comfortable shoes suited for walking and sitting on the boat.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides are multi-lingual and knowledgeable about the areas visited.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
Most stops are brief, and the transportation is comfortable, making it suitable for most travelers, but check with the operator if you have special needs.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the activities are generally family-friendly, and the relaxed pace is suitable for children and adults alike.

This guided tour from Side offers a thoughtful blend of scenery, history, and local flavor. Whether you’re after stunning vistas, cultural insights, or simply a day on the water, it’s a solid choice to get a well-rounded experience for an accessible price.