Alanya & Side: Novamall Shopping, Ancient City & Sunset Tour

Planning a day out in Antalya Province? This Alanya & Side tour promises a blend of modern shopping, ancient history, and breathtaking sunset views—all in just a few hours. It’s designed for travelers keen to experience a snapshot of Turkey’s vibrant culture, history, and scenery without the fuss of full-day excursions.

What makes this tour stand out? We particularly appreciated the balance of shopping and sightseeing, the knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to take in Side’s sunset—a truly memorable moment. That said, with a scheduled duration of around 3 to 4 hours, it’s not a full-day deep dive but rather a quick, well-paced introduction. Travelers with limited time or those who prefer a relaxed, organized outing will find this a valuable addition to their trip. However, if you’re craving a more extensive exploration of the ancient city or a longer beach day, you might consider more full-day options.

This tour is perfect for visitors who want a diverse experience—combining retail therapy, historical exploration, and scenic views—without the hassle of planning multiple activities. It’s suitable for first-timers in the region, those with limited days, or anyone wanting a taste of the highlights around Antalya.

Key Points

• Convenient transfer from Alanya and Side to NovaMall for a quick shopping stop
• Free time to explore Side Ancient City’s ruins and soak in sunset views
• Optional boat tour and beach swimming enhance the experience but cost extra
• Knowledgeable guides provide useful insights, making history accessible
• The tour balances modern comforts and historic charm efficiently
• Flexible timing and booking options with full cancellation refund up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Breakdown of the Tour Experience

The Pickup and Transfer

Starting in the comfort of your hotel, the tour kicks off with a transfer to NovaMall. The pickup process is straightforward—just be ready at the hotel’s main entrance, and the guide wearing a Turb2B t-shirt will meet you there. The vehicle is prompt, and the transfer duration depends on your hotel’s location, but generally, it’s smooth and hassle-free. This form of transportation is key for saving time and avoiding the stress of navigating local transport—perfect for travelers who want a seamless start.

NovaMall Shopping Break

The first stop at NovaMall lasts about 45 minutes. This expansive shopping center is one of Turkey’s largest and most modern malls in the region, offering a chance to browse popular international brands as well as local Turkish boutiques. It’s a comfortable environment where you can stretch your legs, hunt for souvenirs, or indulge in a variety of Turkish cuisine options.

Travelers like Ruby, who enjoyed the mall as a “nice change of pace,” found it a relaxing way to begin their day. This segment isn’t just about shopping—it’s about easing into the Turkish vibe in a relaxed, air-conditioned space. Expect to find everything from clothing and accessories to potentially some local treats, perfect for souvenir shopping or just browsing.

Exploring Side Ancient City

After shopping, the tour moves on to Side Ancient City, where you enjoy approximately 2 hours of free time. This is where the magic of history and scenery collide. You can wander among ancient ruins—think Roman amphitheaters, temples, and columns—while soaking in the lively, authentic atmosphere.

One traveler, Ruby, pointed out that Side was “absolutely beautiful” and the highlight of her trip. The ancient streets and ruins are easy to explore at your own pace, and guides typically provide general information about the history, though there’s no deep dive promised here. If you’re into photography, this is a prime spot for capturing stunning images of ancient architecture against the sea.

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Sunset Over Side

As the tour approaches its end, you’ll find yourself with a front-row seat to watch the sunset over Side. The view of the sun melting into the horizon over the water is often described as breathtaking, creating a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. Many guests find this moment to be the real highlight—a peaceful, beautiful end to the sightseeing.

Optional Extras: Boat Tour & Beach Swimming

For those wanting to extend their experience, an optional boat tour is available at an additional cost. Think of it as a chance to enjoy a leisurely cruise, take a swim, and see the coastline from the water. Guests who tried this out reported it added a memorable touch to their day, though it’s not included in the base price.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a visit to NovaMall, guided service, transfers from your hotel, and the sunset viewing. It also provides travel insurance, which adds peace of mind.

However, you’ll need to cover personal expenses, souvenirs, and any meals or drinks outside the designated shopping center. If you opt for the boat trip, that will be an extra fee. Keep receipts if you purchase souvenirs at NovaMall for possible customs or warranty purposes.

Logistics and Practicalities

The meeting point is clearly set at Novamall’s Starbucks, making it easy to locate your guide. The guide speaks English and Russian, which caters well to international visitors. The activity runs for 3 to 4 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Drivers typically wait no more than 10 minutes, so punctuality is key—be ready outside the hotel on time.

Authentic Guest Insights

Guests like Ruby enjoyed the blend of shopping and sightseeing, noting that her tour guide, John, was “really friendly and helpful.” She also appreciated that the timing allowed enough time to explore Side and enjoy dinner afterward without feeling rushed.

Another reviewer emphasized how knowledgeable guides helped make the experience more engaging, adding context to the ruins and local sights. The sunset, in particular, garnered praise for its stunning views, often described as “breathtaking,” confirming that this part of the tour is truly memorable.

The Sum Up

This Alanya & Side tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the region in a short, manageable timeframe. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet engaging way to combine shopping, history, and scenic views without committing to a full-day trip. The inclusion of a guided tour and comfortable transportation provides convenience and value, especially considering the scenic quality of Side’s ancient ruins and sunset.

While it’s not a comprehensive historical tour, it hits the highlights and leaves room for personal exploration. The optional boat cruise adds a fun, relaxing element for those who want a little extra adventure. The shared experience with a friendly guide makes it accessible, informative, and enjoyable.

For anyone visiting Antalya or nearby Alanya and Side, this tour makes for a practical, beautiful, and memorable outing—perfect for a half-day adventure that balances modern comfort and timeless charm.

FAQs

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts in front of the Starbucks café at NovaMall Shopping Center. The guide wearing a Turb2B t-shirt will be waiting there.

How long does the tour last?
The activity takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the availability and pace.

Is there any shopping included?
Yes, there is a 45-minute shopping break at NovaMall, where you can browse international brands and Turkish boutiques.

Can I explore Side Ancient City freely?
Absolutely. You’ll have approximately 2 hours of free time to wander through the ruins, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere.

Is the sunset view included?
Yes, the sunset over Side town is part of the tour, offering stunning views of the coastline and a great photo opportunity.

Are there optional extras?
Yes, you can join an additional-cost boat tour for a cruise and beach swim, which many guests find enhances the experience.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
Just be ready at the hotel’s main entrance on time, and remember to keep receipts for any purchases made at NovaMall. Booking can be flexible with full cancellation refunds up to 24 hours before.

Overall, this tour is a fantastic way for travelers to enjoy a snapshot of Antalya’s shopping, history, and scenery without overcommitting. It’s flexible, scenic, and filled with helpful guides—making it a smart choice for a short but sweet Turkish escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: