Side is a fantastic place for exploring—not just because of its rich history, but because of its lively landscapes and variety of ways to see them. Whether you want a wild off-road adventure, a tranquil boat cruise, or a deep dive into ancient ruins, Side offers options that fit all interests and energy levels. We particularly like the City of Side: Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Trip with Lunch, which combines a scenic off-road adventure with a refreshing lake swim and a tasty meal. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a full day of adventure and stunning views, all with top-rated guides and excellent reviews.
Overall, Side’s tours cover everything from exhilarating 4×4 rides and river rafting to cultural explorations and relaxing thermal springs. For those seeking fun, history, or just some downtime in nature, there’s a tour designed for you. Below, we walk through each of the top city tours, highlighting what makes each special and helping you decide which fits your trip best.
1. City of Side: Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Trip with Lunch
At number 1, this Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Trip offers a lively mix of off-road adventure and scenic water relaxation. The tour kicks off with a full-day guided off-road excursion through Green Canyon and the surrounding Green Lake area, led by professional drivers who love to make the journey exciting. Highlights include a boat cruise on Green Lake, a swim in its cool waters, and a hearty lunch at Green Lake Restaurant, making it a well-rounded day. Guests rave about the fun and the excellent value, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 from over 1,300 reviews. The itinerary features stops for photos, swimming, and plenty of off-road thrills, and the guides are notably engaging—often providing a playlist for the ride, which isn’t something you see every day.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a full day of adventure with a splash of relaxation and great reviews, this tour delivers a memorable experience at a very reasonable price.
2. City of Side: Green Canyon Jeep Tour, Boat Trip & Waterfall
Number 2 on our list is another Green Canyon Jeep Tour, with a slightly different focus. For around $20, this tour offers a 7-hour journey exploring the Oymapınar Dam, Green Canyon, and includes a boat cruise on Green Lake where you can swim and relax. What makes this trip stand out are the panoramic views over Green Canyon and the chance to learn about Turkish food and tea along the way—adding a cultural touch. Guests mention the water fights during the jeep safari as a highlight, with a lively, fun atmosphere. The itinerary includes multiple stops for photos, swimming, and a delicious lunch, plus easy hotel pickup and drop-off. With a 4.8/5 rating from over 1,180 reviews, it’s clear this tour hits the mark for fun and value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a balanced mix of adventure, scenic views, and cultural bites, all with great logistics.
3. City of Side: Rafting, Zipline, Jeep, Buggy and Quad Combo
Number 3 is the adrenaline-pumping Rafting, Zipline, Jeep, Buggy and Quad Combo. Spanning 5 to 10 hours, this tour packs in river rafting, a zipline crossing, and off-road vehicle rides—quad bikes, buggies, or jeeps—to suit your preferred thrill level. The adventure takes place in Köprülü Canyon National Park, a rugged landscape perfect for those who want their sightseeing with a dose of adrenaline. The reviews are glowing, emphasizing the fun and safety, with lots of praise for the guides. The lunch on-site and the variety of activities make this a good fit for active travelers who crave diversity. Expect muddy trails, splashes, and plenty of laughs, especially during the rafting and buggy sections.
Bottom Line: For adventure lovers who don’t mind getting dirty, this tour offers a packed day of excitement with excellent value.
4. City of Side: Buggy Safari Tour
Number 4 is the Buggy Safari Tour, a four-hour ride along the Koprucay River. It’s a more compact option that still packs plenty of fun, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a guided ride through scenic natural areas. The buggies are described as great fun, and the tour is praised for safety and friendly staff. The rugged terrain of Koprulu Canyon National Park offers a good mix of challenge and beauty. Many reviewers highlight how muddy and dusty the ride can get—bring goggles or face coverings if you want to stay clean—yet everyone agrees it’s worth it. The tour is ideal for families or groups seeking a quick, energetic outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: If a shorter, fun-filled off-road experience appeals, this tour hits the sweet spot for excitement and manageable duration.
5. City of Side: Turkish Bath, Massage and Sauna with Transfer
Number 5 offers a different kind of relaxation—the Turkish Bath, Massage and Sauna. This 2-hour experience invites you to unwind in a traditional Hammam, complete with a foam massage, peeling, and soothing sauna. Many visitors comment on how thorough and relaxing the treatments are, with some saying they felt like “a million dollars” afterward. It’s perfect for travelers looking to recover from more active days or just enjoy a cultural treatment. The reviews highlight friendly staff and a welcoming environment, often with repeat customers. At $20, it’s an affordable way to indulge in authentic Turkish wellness practices.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a break from adventure and a taste of local tradition in a tranquil setting.
6. City of Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour w/ Lunch & Drinks
Number 6 is the Dolphin Island Boat Tour, a 9-hour water-based day out. Climb aboard a sailboat, enjoy a foam party, and swim in turquoise waters. While it’s a longer trip, the reviews mention the fun of dancing on the boat, the delicious lunch, and the chance to relax in the warm sea. This tour is especially suited for families or groups looking for a lively, social day at sea, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.
Bottom Line: For those who want a mix of fun, water, and socializing, this day on the boat delivers a memorable experience at a reasonable price.
7. City of Side: Adler Canyon & Selge Guided Tour with Transfer
Number 7 takes you into the storybook landscape of Adler Canyon. This guided 5-hour tour features river swimming, rock formations, and a visit to the ancient city of Selge. The reviews praise the friendly guides and the beautiful scenery, making it perfect for travelers wanting a combination of nature and history. The tour also includes a local lunch and scenic stops along the way, with plenty of photo opportunities. It’s suited for those who like moderate activity and love exploring rural Turkey’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded trip for lovers of nature, archaeology, and a relaxed pace, especially if you want a taste of the countryside.
8. From City of Side: Pamukkale & Hierapolis Day Trip w/ Lunch
Number 8 is the famous Pamukkale & Hierapolis Day Trip. For about 15 hours, you’ll explore the thermal pools, ancient city ruins, and enjoy a buffet lunch. This trip takes you through stops at Korkuteli and Hierapolis, including a dip in the thermal waters and a walk through ancient ruins. The reviews note that the pools can be less stunning than in photos, especially if the weather is cold, but the vast ruins and the thermal experience still make it worth it. It’s best suited for history buffs and those willing to spend a full day on the road.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive day for lovers of antiquity and relaxing thermal springs, perfect for a longer, immersive experience.
9. City of Side: Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour w/ Boat & Lunch
Number 9 features the Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour, a nine-hour journey into Turkey’s largest underground cave. Visitors enjoy a boat ride on a subterranean lake, explore traditional mountain villages, and see the Golden Cradle Cavern. The reviews highlight the interest in authentic village scenery and the impressive cave formations. It’s ideal for those curious about geology and rural life, with a relaxed pace and a scenic lunch included.
Bottom Line: Great for those who love caves, rural Turkey, or unique underground sights, combined with cultural exploration.
10. From City of Side: Perge, Aspendos & Kurşunlu Waterfall Trip
Number 10 is a popular full-day sightseeing tour visiting Aspendos Amphitheater, Perge Ancient City, and Kurşunlu Waterfall. It’s highly rated for its well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides. The tour features a guided walk through ancient ruins, a scenic waterfall stop, and a delicious local lunch. Many reviews mention the impressive acoustics at Aspendos and the beauty of the waterfall. It’s perfect for history and nature lovers who want a rundown of the region’s highlights.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a balanced mix of archaeology, scenery, and culture, suitable for most travelers.
11. City of Side: Green Canyon Boat Trip & Bus Safari with Lunch
Number 11 offers a Green Canyon Boat Trip combined with a Bus Safari. This 8-hour adventure takes you through the Taurus Mountains by cabrio bus and on a boat cruise across Green Lake. Guests appreciate the easy logistics, the scenic villages, and the included lunch. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a diverse day with land and water experiences, especially since it’s praised for the helpful staff and good value.
Bottom Line: For a multi-faceted day exploring both mountains and lakes, this trip offers scenic views and a relaxed pace.
12. City of Side: Boat Tour on the Manavgat River w/ Bazaar Trip
Number 12 is a classic River Boat Tour. It includes a river cruise, a stop at the waterfalls, and time at the bustling bazaar. The boat ride is about seven hours, with lunch on board, making it a relaxing way to see local life from the water. Reviewers emphasize the lively atmosphere and the variety of sites, including the impressive waterfalls. It’s excellent for families or anyone wanting a laid-back day with scenic views and shopping.
Bottom Line: A dependable, enjoyable river cruise that combines nature, shopping, and a taste of local culture.
13. Alanya City, Cable Car & Sapadere Canyon Tour w/Lunch
Number 13 is a full-day trip to Alanya featuring a cable car ride and canyon walk. It includes a visit to Sapadere Canyon, known for its waterfalls and hiking trails. It’s ideal for outdoor lovers and those wanting a scenic escape from Side. The tour also includes a stop in Alanya for sightseeing and some free time. Many reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the well-organized itinerary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers seeking a mix of adventure, scenery, and a bit of city exploration.
14. City of Side: Sapadere Canyon & Alanya with Cable Car Option
Number 14 offers a comprehensive day combining Sapadere Canyon, Goblin’s Cave, and Alanya city with the optional cable car ride. It’s a longer 9-hour tour that emphasizes walking, canyon hiking, and scenic views. The reviews note the excellent organization and the enjoyment of hiking through stunning landscapes. This tour suits those who enjoy physical activity with scenic rewards, making it ideal for nature hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A good pick for active travelers wanting a full day of hiking, caves, and scenic city sights.
15. City of Side: Forest Quad-Bike Tour with Hotel Transfers
Number 15 is the Forest Quad-Bike Tour, a 3-hour ride through the Taurus Mountains’ pine forests. It’s perfect for those who like to feel the rush on muddy, rugged trails while exploring Turkey’s natural side. The reviews commend the professional guides and the scenic route, which includes crossing rivers and muddy fields. It’s suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, with safety equipment and instruction provided.
Bottom Line: For a short, action-packed outdoor activity with scenic mountain views, this tour offers great value.
16. City of Side: Underwater Museum Scuba Diving Visit
Number 16 is the Underwater Museum Scuba Diving, a 7.5-hour dive into the sea to explore sculptures and marine life. It’s designed for swimmers and divers of all levels, with two 20-minute dives led by experienced guides. Reviewers highlight the patience of the instructors and the chance to see the underwater sculptures up close. It’s ideal if you’re interested in a unique underwater experience and want to combine it with a scenic boat trip.
Bottom Line: A top choice for snorkelers and divers looking to explore the new underwater museum with expert supervision.
How to Choose the Right Tour for Your Side Visit
When selecting your ideal trip, consider your budget, as options range from budget-friendly boat trips to more comprehensive full-day adventures. Think about your fitness level—rafting, canyon hikes, and quad biking require some physical effort, while relaxing Turkish baths or cultural tours are easier. Match your interests: history buffs will love the ancient ruins and thermal baths, adventure seekers may prefer the jeep safaris or rafting, and families often enjoy boat trips and canyon excursions.
Booking early can secure spots, especially in peak months. Also, pay attention to duration—a full-day tour like the Pamukkale trip is perfect for those with plenty of time, while a 3-hour buggy safari suits travelers with limited schedules. Use the provided links to explore each experience further and find the best fit for your style.
To sum it up, Side offers a fantastic variety of city tours that showcase its natural beauty, history, and lively spirit. If you’re after an adrenaline rush, the rafting and quad tours are perfect. For a relaxing day exploring ancient ruins, the Perge and Aspendos trip hits the spot. And for those who just want to unwind, the Turkish bath provides a perfect cultural touch. No matter your interest, booking early and choosing the right tour will make your trip to Side unforgettable.