Manavgat is a fantastic base for exploring the water-based attractions of Turkey’s Antalya Province. Unlike many seaside destinations, Manavgat offers a diverse mix of boat trips that highlight natural beauty, local culture, and even some off-road adventure. Whether you’re after a relaxing river cruise, a splash in waterfalls, or a lively day with lunch and shopping, the options are plentiful. One of our favorites is the Side: Manavgat Boat, Bazaar, & Waterfall Day Trip with Lunch, which combines scenic cruises, a bustling market, and a visit to the picturesque waterfall — all with hotel transfers included. This trip perfectly blends natural scenery with local flavor, making it a top pick for those wanting a well-rounded day.
Another highlight is the Manavgat Waterfall, Boat & Bazaar Tour from Alanya & Side, which has higher ratings for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent value. For the adventurers seeking a bit of thrill, the From Side Jeep Safari Off-Road and Boat Tour with Lunch offers a fun mix of off-road fun and lake swimming. And if you’re after a longer, more comprehensive experience, the Side, Alanya: Green Canyon Boat, Waterfall & Orchards Mix Tour provides a full day exploring waterfalls, lakes, and even a mini zoo. Each of these tours offers something unique, making Manavgat a versatile spot for water lovers and culture seekers alike.
At number 1 on our list, this full-day trip offers a rich mix of natural beauty, shopping, and local culture. The tour includes pick-up from your hotel in Side, Okurcalar, or Konaklı, and begins with a scenic boat cruise along the Manavgat River. The highlight is the visit to the Manavgat Waterfall, where you can snap photos and enjoy the cool spray. Afterward, there’s time to explore the largest bazaar in Manavgat, a lively market filled with spices, textiles, and souvenirs. The day also includes swimming at the river-sea confluence, which is perfect for cooling off.
The tour’s itinerary is well-paced: after the initial cruise, you’ll enjoy a tasty lunch aboard the boat, then spend some relaxing time swimming or just soaking up the sun. The boat cruise itself is about 3 hours, with additional time for the waterfall and bazaar. The trip is rated 4/5 based on 277 reviews, reflecting good value at just $29 per person for a full day. Perfect for travelers who want a mix of scenic views and local shopping, with hotel transfers making logistics simple.
Bottom line: This tour balances natural sights with cultural experiences, ideal for those who want a comprehensive day without breaking the bank.
Coming in with an impressive 4.7/5 rating from 38 reviews, this full-day tour emphasizes a relaxed pace and a focus on natural beauty. Starting from Alanya or Side, you’ll enjoy a cruise on the Manavgat River, which is known for its peaceful flow and scenic surroundings. The Manavgat Waterfall is a major highlight here; it’s not only picturesque but also a great spot for photos and cooling down in the refreshing mist.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the opportunity to explore the local bazaar, where vendors sell fresh spices, textiles, and handcrafted souvenirs. The boat ride is guided, making it easy to learn about the area’s flora and fauna while floating amidst stunning scenery. The tour lasts roughly 5 to 6.5 hours and costs just $25 per person, offering excellent value. If you enjoy combining natural scenery with shopping and a laid-back boat trip, this tour is an excellent choice.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a tranquil boat trip with plenty of time for shopping and sightseeing, plus top ratings for its peaceful setting.
3. From Side Jeep Safari Off-Road and Boat Tour with Lunch
For those craving a little adrenaline, the Jeep Safari & Lake Boat Tour stands out. This tour combines the thrill of an off-road 4×4 adventure with a lake cruise and scenic stops. Starting from Side, the journey takes you through rugged terrain, where you’ll visit the Manavgat Waterfalls for a quick photo op before heading to the Oymapınar Dam, a marvel of engineering set against stunning scenery.
What sets this tour apart is the two-hour boat cruise on Green Lake, offering a peaceful setting after the off-road excitement. The boat ride includes a lunch overlooking the lake, and there’s time for swimming in the lake’s calm waters. It’s rated 4.8/5 from 20 reviews, emphasizing high satisfaction. The tour lasts about 6 hours and costs $35—a bit more than some other options, but the combination of adventure and relaxation makes it worth it.
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers who want a mix of off-road fun, lake swimming, and a scenic waterfall visit.
4. Side, Alanya: Green Canyon Boat, Waterfall & Orchards Mix Tour
This comprehensive day blends natural beauty, cultural sites, and leisure, making it perfect for those who want a full experience. The tour covers the Green Canyon, where you’ll enjoy a boat cruise through stunning turquoise waters. It also includes a visit to the Serene Manavgat Mosque, providing a glimpse into local architecture and religious life. Kids and adults alike will enjoy seeing the mini zoo with animals and the chance to explore a local orange garden.
The use of open-top cabrio buses means you get a breezy ride with excellent views, and the delicious local lunch adds to the value. At 7-9 hours long and costing $21, this tour is a bargain considering its variety. The mix of natural scenery, cultural sites, and fun stops makes it stand out. Reviewers appreciate its well-rounded approach and the ability to see different facets of the region in one day.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a flexible, full-day tour that combines nature, culture, and family-friendly activities.
For a straightforward boat cruise that includes hotel transfers, this tour is an excellent budget option. Starting from Side, it offers a 7-hour day on the water with scenic views along the Manavgat River. The highlight is the cruise itself, which provides a relaxing way to enjoy the river’s gentle flow and observe local life along the banks.
Included is a lunch on the boat, adding to the relaxed vibe. The tour is rated 4.2/5 from 27 reviews and costs just $15 per person, making it one of the most affordable options. It’s perfect for travelers who want a simple, no-fuss day on the water without extra stops or activities.
Bottom line: Best for budget-conscious travelers seeking a relaxing cruise with convenient hotel transfers and a good value.
6. Side Dolphin Island Boat Cruise with Lunch & Drinks
This tour combines relaxation, snorkeling, and some dolphin-spotting. The dolphin island is the star attraction, where you can swim and maybe even see dolphins in their natural habitat. The boat is a double-deck with plenty of space to sunbathe or seek shade. The itinerary includes multiple swim stops in crystal-clear bays, perfect for cooling off.
At around 7 hours, you’ll enjoy a lunch with unlimited soft drinks, making it a good value at $23. The tour has a friendly vibe with reviews mentioning the “nice, friendly staff” and a fun, relaxed atmosphere. It’s suited for travelers wanting a mix of snorkeling, dolphin watching, and beach time.
Bottom line: A flexible, family-friendly option to enjoy the Mediterranean’s waters and possibly see some dolphins while enjoying a hearty lunch.
7. Full-Day Antalya Old City Tour: Kaleiçi, Waterfalls & Boat
For history and culture enthusiasts, this tour covers Antalya’s Kaleiçi, its ancient streets, and landmarks. The boat trip to Düden Waterfalls is included, providing a scenic break from city sights. The tour provides free time in the city to explore markets, cafes, and historic sites, making it ideal for those who want a balance of history and relaxation.
Rated 4.2/5 from 6 reviews and costing $41, it’s a bit pricier but offers depth and cultural insight. The boat trip to waterfalls is a highlight, providing a refreshing water view after walking ancient streets. If you love combining urban exploration with scenic boat rides, this tour is a good pick.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers interested in city culture, history, and a boat trip to waterfalls.
8. Hidden Paradise Combo Green Lake With Lunch & Boat
This tour is the most exclusive and offers a long, full-day experience exploring waterfalls, canyons, and lush scenery. It includes a visit to the Ancient City of Seleukia, a tranquil waterfall, and a local orange garden. The highlight is the Green Lake, where a boat cruise offers peaceful views of the surrounding nature.
The tour emphasizes professional guides and comfortable transportation, making it suitable for travelers wanting a premium experience. Priced at $47 for 7.5 hours, it provides excellent value for those interested in both nature and history.
Bottom line: Perfect for nature lovers and history buffs seeking a comprehensive, well-organized day tour.
This 7-hour boat cruise focuses on relaxation and scenic beauty along the Manavgat River. It includes a lunch on board and swimming stops in the river and the open sea. Visitors can also explore the Manavgat Waterfall—a classic stop for photos—plus time for shopping at the bazaar.
Rated without reviews, it’s a straightforward option for a leisurely river cruise with the benefit of hotel pickup and drop-off. If you prefer a relaxed day with plenty of natural sights and a chance to shop, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a relaxing river cruise combined with waterfall visits and shopping.
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, the type of experience you want (relaxing cruise vs. adventurous off-road), and the areas you’re most interested in. For example, if you love history and city sights, the Full-Day Antalya Old City Tour might suit you. If water-based fun and swimming are your priorities, the Dolphin Island Cruise or Green Lake and Waterfalls trips are excellent.
Booking early is wise during peak season, especially for popular tours like the Manavgat Waterfall, Boat & Bazaar Tour or the comprehensive Green Canyon trip. Check the included options—some tours offer hotel transfers and lunch, adding convenience and value.
Final Thoughts
Manavgat offers a wide range of water-based activities, from tranquil river cruises to lively boat trips with snorkeling and dolphin watching. For those wanting a balanced day of natural beauty, shopping, and culture, the Side: Manavgat Boat, Bazaar, & Waterfall Day Trip with Lunch is a strong choice. If you prefer a more active day, the Jeep Safari Off-Road & Lake Boat Tour provides adventure and scenic lakeside relaxation.
Travelers interested in full immersion should consider the Green Canyon and Orchards Tour or the Hidden Paradise Combo, which combine natural sights with cultural stops. No matter your style, these tours showcase the best of Manavgat’s waterways and landscapes — just remember to book early and dress for the weather.
Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to bring your camera and a sense of adventure!