Side: Sapadere Canyon and Alanya City Tour with Lunch

Getting a taste of Turkey’s captivating nature and vibrant coast in one day sounds ideal, and this tour from Side promises just that. It’s a carefully curated combination of breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks, all wrapped in a day’s adventure that won’t break the bank.

What immediately draws us in are the stunning waterfalls of Sapadere Canyon, the chance to ride the Alanya cable car to Alanya Castle, and the opportunity to relax at Cleopatra Beach. Plus, the convenience of hotel transfers makes this a hassle-free way to explore without the worry of logistics.

One thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees like the canyon fee (150 TL) and the cable car ticket are not included, so a little extra budget is needed. This tour seems best suited for travelers eager to combine nature, history, and beach time in a single, affordable package.

Key Points

• Beautiful natural scenery at Sapadere Canyon with waterfalls and forest walks.
• Breathtaking views from the Alanya cable car to Alanya Castle.
• Relaxing stop at Cleopatra Beach for photos and free time.
• Hassle-free experience with hotel transfers from Side.
• Affordable price point for a full-day guided tour.
• Limited accessibility for wheelchair users and certain cave/ cable car fees are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour

This guided day trip from Side is designed to give you a well-rounded experience of the region’s natural beauty and historical charm. Starting with hotel pickup, you’ll head towards the Taurus Mountains, a scenic drive that sets the tone for the day.

The highlight is undoubtedly Sapadere Canyon. Here, you’ll walk along wooden pathways, crossing over small waterfalls, feeling the cool mist on your face, and soaking in lush forest surroundings. The canyon’s entrance fee (150 TL) isn’t included, but the guided tour ensures you learn about the area’s flora and fauna, making it more than just a walk. One reviewer mentioned how the waterfalls are incredibly refreshing and one of the best parts of the trip, emphasizing the chance to connect with nature away from crowds.

After this, you’ll head to Alanya, where the scenery continues to impress. The Alanya cable car ride is the star here—it’s the only way to reach the historic Alanya Castle. The cable car ticket is paid directly to the guide, so prepare for a small extra expense. The castle offers sweeping views of the coastline, perfect for photos, and a glimpse into the region’s strategic past. The two to two-and-a-half hours of free time around the Damlataş area gives you a chance to stroll, grab a coffee, or visit the famous Damlataş Cave (entrance fee payable by credit card).

The tour includes a delicious lunch, served during the day, which is a welcome break to fuel your explorations. It’s worth noting that drinks are not included, so consider bringing some water or purchasing beverages at the stops.

Finally, your journey wraps up at Cleopatra Beach, one of the most picturesque spots on the coast. Here, you’ll get a photo opportunity and some leisure time. The beach’s fame comes from its crystal-clear waters and soft sand, perfect for relaxing after a busy morning.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Sapadere Canyon

We loved the way the guided tour makes it easy to access this natural wonder. The wooden walkways are well-maintained, allowing all visitors to comfortably stroll through the canyon without concern. The waterfalls are a real highlight, with some delightfully refreshing mist that makes the warm weather more bearable. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers wanting a peaceful break from busy towns.

Several reviews mention that the canyon is a getaway from tourist crowds, offering tranquility surrounded by lush greenery. The 150 TL entrance fee is not included, but the guided tour ensures you’re well-informed about the area’s features, flora, and fauna. Travelers recommend bringing a camera for stunning shots and comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces.

Alanya and the Cable Car

The ride up the cable car is a highlight, offering panoramic views of Alanya’s coastline. It’s an experience that adds a fun and scenic element to the trip, especially for those who enjoy vistas from above. Once at Alanya Castle, you’ll appreciate the historic structure and its commanding views. The free time around Damlataş allows for some casual sightseeing or simply relaxing on the beach.

A reviewer noted that the views from the castle are breathtaking and that the cable car ticket is worth paying for, even if it’s an extra expense. It’s a great way to see the coastline from a different perspective and learn about the area’s history.

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Cleopatra Beach

A true highlight for many is visiting Cleopatra Beach. Its soft sands and clear waters make it a lovely spot for a quick swim or a photo. The free time here is perfect for soaking up the sun, taking pictures, or just people-watching. It’s a popular photo stop thanks to the beach’s fame, so expect a few fellow travelers capturing the scenery.

Lunch and Logistics

The included lunch offers a chance to relax and refuel. While drinks are paid separately, the meal itself provides good value for a day packed with activities. The hotel transfers from Side make the entire experience smooth, saving you the hassle of organizing transportation.

What to Expect From the Tour

You’ll start with a comfortable bus or minibus transfer to the Taurus Mountains, which takes roughly 2.5 hours from Side. The transportation is generally efficient and includes pickup from your hotel, which is a huge plus for travelers wanting to avoid the hassle of self-arranged transport.

Once at Sapadere Canyon, you’ll be guided through the canyon’s wooden walkways, with plenty of time to enjoy the waterfalls and lush scenery. The guided aspect adds value, as you’ll learn about the area’s natural features and hidden stories.

At Alanya, the cable car ride is the main attraction, offering spectacular views of the coastline and an opportunity to visit Alanya Castle. The free time around Damlataş beach provides flexibility for personal exploration or just relaxing by the sea.

The lunch break is well-placed during the day, offering a break from sightseeing and a chance to sample local cuisine. The day concludes with a visit to Cleopatra Beach, where you can unwind before the drive back to Side.

Practical Details & Tips

• Transportation: Comfortable bus or minibus, with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Duration: Full day, approximately 8 hours including travel.
• Price: $24 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the inclusions.
• Fees not included: Canyon entrance fee (150 TL), cave ticket, cable car ticket, and drinks.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, sunscreen, water, and sunglasses.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users; paths involve uneven surfaces.
• Language: Guided services available in multiple languages, including English, Russian, German, Polish, Turkish, and Turkmen.
• Booking: Flexible with pay later options; cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, historical sights, and beach leisure, all at an accessible price point. The stunning waterfalls of Sapadere Canyon leave a lasting impression, especially for nature lovers seeking serenity. The Alanya cable car and castle provide a scenic highlight with incredible coastlines views, perfect for those who love photo ops. Ending at Cleopatra Beach wraps up the day with a relaxing touch.

It’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip that covers both the outdoors and cultural sights without the hassle of planning every detail. The inclusion of hotel transfers and guided commentary adds convenience and depth to the experience.

While a few extra fees apply for attractions like the canyon and cable car, the overall value remains high, given the variety of activities packed into one day. If you’re after a well-organized, affordable tour that offers authentic moments and scenic highlights, this trip suits most active travelers eager to make the most of their time in Turkey.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel transfers from Side, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.

How long is the transfer from Side?
It takes approximately 2.5 hours each way to reach Sapadere Canyon, depending on your hotel location.

What are the main sights I will visit?
You will explore Sapadere Canyon, ride the Alanya cable car to Alanya Castle, and visit Cleopatra Beach.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the canyon entrance fee (150 TL), cave ticket, and cable car ticket are paid separately or on-site.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, camera, sunscreen, water, and sunglasses are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for most children, but note that children under 5 may not have a dedicated seat and must sit on a parent’s lap.

Can I buy drinks during the tour?
Drinks are not included in the lunch and are charged separately if purchased during stops.

How much free time do I get?
You’ll have around 2 to 2.5 hours of free time in Alanya, enough for sightseeing, relaxing, or visiting additional sites like Damlataş Cave.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Russian, English, Polish, German, Turkish, and Turkmen. Note that German-speaking guides may require a group of five or more.

In sum, this tour offers an excellent combination of natural scenery, historical exploration, and beach relaxation—all for an affordable price. It’s perfect for those who want a well-rounded, hassle-free day out and are eager to experience some of Turkey’s most iconic spots without the extra planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: