Full-Day Antalya Old City Tour: Kaleiçi, Waterfalls & Boat

Travelers looking to combine history, nature, and a touch of local culture will find this full-day Antalya tour offers a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s southern jewel. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand to give you a detailed picture of what to expect, highlighting both the highlights and some considerations.

What we love most about this experience is how seamlessly it combines cultural sightseeing in Kaleiçi, the breathtaking Düden Waterfalls, and a relaxing boat ride along Antalya’s coastline. The fact that it includes lunch and free time for wandering around makes it feel like a real value. However, a potential downside is the visit to a silver shop, which some might find less engaging if they’re not interested in jewelry shopping. This tour suits those wanting an authentic, varied day out, especially if they enjoy a mix of history, nature, and local flavor.

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Key Points

Balanced itinerary blending history, nature, and local culture
Comfortable transport with hotel pickup and drop-off
Knowledgeable guides providing detailed insights
Good value with included lunch, boat ride, and free time
Photographers’ paradise at Düden Waterfalls and Kaleiçi
Not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and stairs

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An Intro to the Antalya Old City Tour

If you’re in Antalya and eager to see the city’s highlights in one day, this tour offers a well-structured way to do so. The day kicks off with a hotel pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle—something that instantly sets a relaxed tone. Throughout the day, a licensed professional guide shares key stories and historical tidbits, making the experience both educational and engaging.

One of the best parts? The free time in Kaleiçi (Antalya’s Old Town), giving you space to explore at your own pace. That means wandering through narrow, cobbled streets, spotting major landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate, the Clock Tower, and Yivli Minaret Mosque. Whether you’re a history buff, a shopper, or just someone who loves a good coffee break in a traditional café, there’s something here for everyone.

Next, you’ll savor a local Turkish lunch—a great chance to relax and indulge in authentic flavors. Post-lunch, the tour heads out to the Düden Waterfalls, where you’ll take a scenic boat trip to see the waterfalls from the water, a highlight that many travelers praise for its stunning views and photo opportunities.

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Exploring Kaleiçi: The Historic Heart of Antalya

Starting the day in Kaleiçi means stepping into a postcard of Turkish history and charm. This neighborhood, with its narrow streets and old Ottoman houses, is a must-see. Your guide points out major landmarks like Hadrians Gate, built in honor of the Roman Emperor, and the Yivli Minaret Mosque, which dates back to the 13th century.

Travelers mention that the guide, often named Ercan, shared fascinating stories and provided ample information, making the history come alive. The shopping opportunities here are plentiful — from souvenirs to traditional crafts. If you’re looking to pick up a memento, be prepared to browse local markets, and if you’re into coffee, trying a traditional Turkish brew in a quaint café is highly recommended.

The free time in Kaleiçi is roughly 45 minutes, which is enough for a quick stroll or a caffeine break. Reviewers appreciated the well-organized schedule, noting that this allows visitors to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Waterfalls and the Boat Ride: Nature’s Spectacle

The highlight for many is the visit to the Düden Waterfalls, which are visible from both land and sea. The tour includes a boat trip in Kaleiçi Marina, lasting about 45-50 minutes, giving you panoramic views of the waterfalls plunging 40 meters into the Mediterranean.

One reviewer, Zahra, described how they loved getting around 45 minutes at each waterfall to explore and take photos. She also pointed out that the lower Düden was free to visit, while the upper Düden required an entry fee, which was included in the tour. The boat ride adds a refreshing element, letting you see Antalya’s coastline and water features from a different perspective, often praised for being relaxing and scenic.

The waterfalls themselves are a sight worth capturing — water cascading down rocky cliffs into the sea, with plenty of opportunities for snapshots. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, explaining how these natural formations fit into Antalya’s landscape.

The Silver Workshop and Shopping

The tour includes a stop at a local silversmith workshop, which some reviewers noted was more geared towards sales than sightseeing. While the craftsmanship is impressive, those not interested in jewelry might find this part less engaging. One traveler mentioned that the shop was “trying to sell us jewelry,” which felt somewhat obligatory.

If you’re into jewelry or traditional crafts, you’ll appreciate the chance to see artisans at work and explore their unique handmade products. Otherwise, it’s an optional stop, and you can decide whether to browse or skip it.

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Lunch and Relaxation

A well-recommended part of the tour is the included lunch at a popular local restaurant. Expect authentic Turkish cuisine in a friendly setting. Reviewers raved about the quality of the food, emphasizing that it’s good value and a perfect way to recharge before the afternoon activities.

Travelers should note that drinks are typically an additional expense, often quite costly at the restaurant. Bringing some cash for beverages or snacks might be a good idea if you prefer to avoid premium prices.

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Additional Practical Details

The duration of the tour is flexible, usually between 6 to 8 hours, making it suitable for most travelers with a full day to spare. Transfers from hotels in Antalya, Lara, Kundu, and surrounding areas are included, but punctuality is key, as the vehicle cannot wait more than five minutes past the scheduled pickup time.

The group size tends to be manageable, with guided commentary in English, and the transfer vehicles are air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the drive. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, primarily due to walking and stairs involved at some stops.

The experience is fully cancelable up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding peace of mind for travelers wary of changing plans.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts eager to see Antalya’s iconic landmarks and nature lovers seeking the waterfalls and coastal views. It offers great value for those who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of organizing multiple visits independently.

It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a well-organized schedule with enough free time to explore on their own. However, it’s less appropriate for guests with mobility issues or those looking for a more niche or specialized experience.

Overall, it’s an excellent introduction to Antalya’s highlights, providing a balanced mix of sights, stories, and scenic moments.

How long is the full-day tour?
The tour lasts between 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and the pace of the group.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with specific arrangements from Antalya, Lara, Kundu, Konyaalt, Side, and Belek.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, camera, beachwear, and some cash for drinks or souvenirs.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and stairs at certain stops.

Can I cancel it?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the boat trip included?
Yes, a scenic boat trip in Kaleiçi Marina is part of the experience, lasting around 45 minutes.

What is the lunch like?
A local restaurant serves authentic Turkish cuisine, praised for its quality and value.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are purchased separately and can be expensive at the restaurant.

Can I skip the silver shop?
Yes, the shop is an optional stop, and you can choose to browse or skip it.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but keep in mind the walking involved and the age of children, especially since it’s not wheelchair accessible.

This full-day Antalya tour offers a lively mix of scenic sights, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences that suit most travelers eager for a rundown of the city. The combination of guided insights, free exploration, and picturesque boat rides ensures a memorable day.

While the visit to a jewelry shop may not appeal to everyone, the overall value—including included lunch, scenic boat trip, and the chance to stroll through Kaleiçi—makes it a strong choice for those wanting a well-rounded introduction to Antalya.

Ideal for history buffs, photography lovers, and first-time visitors, it provides a comfortable, engaging, and affordable way to see some of the best the city has to offer. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and be ready to enjoy a day full of diverse sights and stories.