Antalya: Duden waterfalls, oldtown and boat tour with lunch

Antalya: Duden Waterfalls, Old Town, and Boat Tour with Lunch — A Balanced Look at the Turkish Coastal Experience

If you’re planning a visit to Antalya and want a mix of natural scenery, historic sights, and relaxing sea views, this full-day tour offers plenty. While it’s not a deep historical exploration, it provides a practical, well-rounded glimpse into the area’s highlights, all packed into roughly 8.5 hours.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the chance to see two iconic waterfalls — the Upper and Lower Düden — with their dramatic drops and scenic surroundings. Second, a charming stroll through Kaleiçi, Antalya’s atmospheric Old Town, offers plenty of photo-worthy moments and local flavor. Third, a boat trip from the historic harbor gives a fresh perspective of the coastline and waterfalls from the sea.

A possible consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of time in a vehicle, which some travelers might find less ideal if you’re eager for more in-depth guided storytelling. Also, reviews mention some surprise stops, like shopping at local shops, which could be a perk or a distraction depending on your interests. Still, the overall value and variety make this a solid pick for visitors wanting a taste of both nature and culture.

This tour suits travelers who like a balanced day out — those who appreciate natural wonders, enjoy a leisurely walk through old streets, and want easy access to scenic views without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. It’s ideal for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see the best of Antalya.

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Key Points

Natural beauty with visits to iconic waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
Cultural exploration in Antalya’s historic Old Town, Kaleiçi.
Relaxing boat cruise offers a different angle on coastal sights.
Flexible itinerary with optional stops and free time.
Includes lunch and all transportation, making it a convenient package.
Guided experience in multiple languages, with some minor limitations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Look at the Antalya Waterfalls and Old Town Tour

This tour blends natural scenery with historical and cultural highlights, offering a comprehensive day out in Antalya. Whether you’re after stunning landscapes, charming streets, or a relaxing boat ride, it covers all bases.

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The Waterfalls: Duden’s Natural Wonder

The journey begins with the Düden Waterfalls, named after the Düden River. These waterfalls are among Antalya’s most famous natural attractions. The tour stops at both the Upper Düden Waterfall, located around 10 km north of the city center, and the Lower Düden Waterfall, which is about 20 km away.

The Upper Düden is a gentle cascade, about 22 meters high, with scenic caves behind the flow and picnic areas perfect for a quick rest or photo shoot. The tranquility here contrasts with the Lower Düden, which dramatically plunges 40 meters off sheer cliffs directly into the Mediterranean Sea. This spectacle is often described as postcard-perfect, with the water’s splash sending mist into the air — a photo opportunity not to be missed.

One reviewer noted the beautiful attraction of the waterfalls, adding that the views “are worth the short stops.” However, some pointed out that the waterfalls are among the main highlights, but the tour doesn’t include an in-depth explanation of their geology or history, which might disappoint those seeking more educational content.

Scenic Drive and Shopping Stops

On the way between stops, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive that allows you to take in the Turkish countryside and coastline. The itinerary also includes a brief visit to a local shop, often a diamond or clothing store. While this might seem like a commercial ploy, many travelers find these stops to be an opportunity for a quick browse or a chance to buy souvenirs at reasonable prices, as one reviewer mentioned the “very cheap” shopping experience.

Kaleiçi: Old Town Charm

Next, the tour takes you to Kaleiçi, the historic heart of Antalya. Here, you’ll wander through narrow streets lined with Ottoman-era houses, boutique shops, cafes, and small museums. Visitors frequently comment on the charm of this area, with some highlighting landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate, the Yivli Minaret, and the ornate Clock Tower.

You’ll have around 1.5 hours of free time, which is enough to explore, shop, or grab a coffee. One reviewer mentioned that the walk through Kaleiçi was pleasant, although not guided with detailed storytelling — it’s more about soaking in the atmosphere at your own pace.

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The Boat Trip: Coastal Views from the Sea

From the historic harbor, you’ll hop onto a scenic boat cruise that lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The boat departs from the harbor, offering a different perspective of Antalya’s coastline and the Lower Düden Waterfall, which appears stunning from the water.

Travelers have praised the boat ride as a relaxing way to see the area, with some noting the spectacular views of the waterfalls as they drop into the sea. It’s a peaceful break in the day, perfect for photos and just soaking in the scenery.

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Lunch and Overall Value

Lunch is included in the package and is generally described as tasty. While reviews don’t specify the menu details, the fact that it’s part of a full-day experience offers good value. The combination of sightseeing, walking, and boat cruise makes the overall experience feel well-rounded — you’re not just paying for transportation but an authentic slice of Antalya.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a practical introduction to Antalya’s natural and cultural highlights. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want an efficient, guided experience that covers multiple sights without the stress of organizing logistics themselves. The combination of waterfalls, Old Town, and boat cruise provides variety, making it suitable for families, couples, or first-time visitors.

While it’s not a deeply educational tour focused on history or geology, it compensates with beautiful scenery, relaxed pacing, and good value for money. The inclusion of lunch, transportation, and guided commentary in several languages make it a convenient option for most travelers.

If your goal is to experience the essence of Antalya’s outdoor beauty and historic charm in a single day, this tour strikes a fine balance. Just keep in mind some reviews mention the time spent in transit and the shopping stops — so come prepared for a full, bustling day.

Who It’s Best For

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Antalya without complex planning. Families, couples, or groups looking for a mix of nature, culture, and sea views will find it rewarding. It’s also perfect for travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive taste of the region’s highlights.

Those seeking in-depth historical narrative or exclusive access might find the guided storytelling a bit light, but overall, it’s a solid value-packed day out.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, depending on traffic and group pace.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is included in the package, described as tasty, though specific menus aren’t detailed.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English, Russian, German, and Turkish, offering options for diverse travelers.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is included from 14 different locations; be ready outside your hotel near the security entrance.

Can I expect a guided commentary during the stops?
There is a guided tour component, but some reviews mention it’s brief and not overly detailed, especially in Kaleiçi.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, you get around 35 minutes at the waterfalls, 75 minutes at Kaleiçi, and about 105 minutes including the boat cruise and lunch.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for your day out.

Are there any shopping stops?
Yes, a brief visit to a local shop (like a diamond or clothing store) is part of the itinerary, which some find useful and others see as a distraction.

Is it suitable for families?
Absolutely, the stops are scenic and not physically demanding, making it suitable for families with children.

What’s the best time to book?
Check availability early, as the tour departs daily with flexible starting times; mornings are generally preferred to avoid midday heat.

This tour offers a well-balanced day of natural beauty, historic charm, and coastal relaxation — a good value for those wanting a taste of Antalya’s highlights without overloading their schedule.