Manavgat Waterfall & Side Old Town with Apollo Temple

Exploring the highlights of Antalya Province often involves a mix of stunning landscapes and ancient ruins, and this tour offers just that. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews, descriptions, and personal insights from travelers make it clear that it’s an experience packed with scenic beauty, cultural charm, and leisure.

What truly stands out are the combination of nature and history in one day, the chance to shop at Novamall, and that captivating sunset at the Apollo Temple. The tour’s value for money is apparent, especially considering the included transportation, guides, and free time to explore. Still, a couple of reviewers note that starting a little earlier would give more time to see every site, which is worth considering if you’re a history buff eager to maximize your visit.

This trip suits those who love a balanced mix of relaxed sightseeing, culture, and some shopping. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a family, or on your own, it promises a day of diverse experiences—perfect for those who want to get a broad taste of this beautiful region without the hassle of organizing multiple days.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines natural beauty, historical sites, and modern shopping.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample opportunity to explore Side Old Town at your own pace.
• Expert-guided: Knowledgeable guides enhance the storytelling and local insights.
• Stunning Sunset: The view from Apollo Temple is unforgettable.
• Optional Extras: Boat tour and beach swim available for an extra charge.
• Convenient: Includes transfers from Alanya and Side hotels, making logistics simple.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded day, starting with a comfortable transfer from your hotel, which is especially handy if you’re staying in Alanya or Side. The day is thoughtfully designed to balance guided commentary with free time, giving you space to wander and soak in the sights.

Novamall Shopping Break

The day kicks off with a 45-minute visit to Novamall, one of Antalya’s largest shopping centers. Here, you’ll find everything from high-street brands to local Turkish delicacies. The included shopping stop isn’t just about retail therapy; it’s also a chance to stretch your legs after your journey, browse some souvenirs, or grab a quick snack. Several reviewers appreciated the variety and modernity of the mall. One traveler, Ruby, mentioned, “The mall was a nice change of pace, and we appreciated the chance to browse at leisure.”

Many guests also use this time to try Turkish delights or sample local street food stalls within the mall’s food court. It’s a relaxed way to ease into the day’s adventures.

Manavgat Waterfall – A Natural Pause

Next, you’ll head to Manavgat Waterfall, about 45 minutes away. It’s a charming spot where the Manavgat River cascades over rocks into a lush green setting. The waterfall isn’t just visually appealing; it’s also a peaceful retreat from the busier parts of the tour.

Expect about 45 minutes here, which is enough to snap some photos, enjoy the fresh air, and listen to the gentle rush of water. One reviewer, Indy, raved, “We had enough free time to explore at our own pace, which was perfect.” The waterfall’s accessibility and natural beauty make it a highlight for many, especially those who enjoy a moment of tranquility amid a busy sightseeing day.

Side Ancient City & Free Exploration

The next stop is Side Ancient City, where you’ll get roughly 2 hours to wander through ruins that date back centuries. It’s a site packed with history—columns, amphitheaters, and ancient streets that tell stories of Roman life.

This free time is the perfect chance to explore at your own pace. You might visit the Side Theater, stroll along the old harbor, or just sit and soak in the stunning seaside views. Several reviews mention how flexible this time was; Indy noted, “We had enough free time to explore at our own pace, which was perfect.”

One tip: Many sites in Side close fairly early, so if visiting the Ancient Theatre or other specific spots is on your list, aim to go early or be ready to prioritize.

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Sunset at the Apollo Temple

As the day winds down, the group moves to the Temple of Apollo—one of the most iconic sights in the region. The temple sits atop a hill overlooking the sea, offering truly breathtaking sunset views.

Expect a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities for photos, especially as the sky shifts colors. Guided by knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the temple’s significance and its ancient origins. The sunset here is a crowd favorite, creating a magical moment that many travelers cherish, as noted by Ruby, who said, “The views were absolutely beautiful, and the sunset was unforgettable.”

Optional Boat Tour & Beach

For those wanting extra relaxation, there’s an optional boat tour (extra cost), where you can enjoy a scenic ride, perhaps even take a dip in the sea. Reviewers like John mentioned the boat option as a friendly addition, especially for a refreshing break or to see the coast from a different perspective.

Practicalities & Tips

• The tour includes guided service, transfers, and travel insurance, making it straightforward.
• Be prepared to pay extra for entrance fees to Manavgat Waterfall and Side Ancient Theatre if you want to go inside, as these aren’t included.
• The meeting point is just outside the Starbucks at Novamall, with the guide easily identifiable in a Turb2B T-shirt.
• Timing can vary depending on hotel locations, so expect a flexible schedule.
• Booking allows for pay later options, with full cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance.

The Value of This Tour

At $65 per person, this tour offers a fairly comprehensive taste of the Antalya region. You’re getting a good blend of shopping, nature, and history without the hassle of planning multiple outings.

The guided elements add value—your guide will share stories and insights, making ruins and waterfalls more meaningful. Plus, the free time at Side is generous enough for individual exploration, which travelers seem to appreciate. The sunset experience at Apollo Temple is a highlight that elevates the trip into something memorable.

From reviews, it’s clear that most guests find the timing and pacing suited their interests. Several mention that the guide was friendly and knowledgeable, adding a personal touch to the experience. The optional boat trip is an added perk, especially in warm weather, giving you the chance to cool off after sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip caters well to travelers seeking a balanced day of sightseeing, shopping, and relaxing in natural scenery. It’s perfect if you want an easy, guided experience that covers key highlights without the stress of organizing transport or tickets.

History buffs will enjoy the ruins and the story behind the Apollo Temple, while those who love scenic views will find the sunset at Side unforgettable. The shopping stop at Novamall is great for a quick retail fix, especially if you’re interested in Turkish local products or international brands.

It’s also suitable for families or groups who want a comfortable, all-in-one day trip. Just keep in mind that the tour doesn’t include meals, so plan to eat afterwards or bring some snacks.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transfers from hotels in Alanya and Side, making logistics stress-free. The vehicle doesn’t wait more than five minutes outside hotel entrances.

How much free time do we get at Side?
You’ll have about two hours of free time to explore the ancient city, visit ruins, or just relax by the seaside.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Manavgat Waterfall and Side Ancient Theatre are extra. It’s advisable to keep receipts for any purchases at Novamall.

Can I join the optional boat tour?
Yes, you can opt for the boat ride at an additional cost, which is a refreshing way to enjoy the sea or take a quick swim.

What is the best time to see the sunset?
The sunset at Apollo Temple coincides with the late afternoon or early evening, providing a perfect light for photos and a magical viewing experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the leisurely pace, scenic stops, and cultural highlights make it good for families, provided they’re comfortable with walking and outdoor exposure.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded look at some of the most captivating sights in Antalya Province. It balances guided storytelling with free exploration, allowing you to enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant modern shopping in one day.

The sunset at Apollo Temple alone makes it worth considering, but the added visits to Manavgat Waterfall and Side Old Town make for a memorable trip. The optional boat ride is the cherry on top for those craving some seaside fun.

Perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free day that hits all the highlights without rushing, this experience is especially valuable for first-timers or those short on time. Whether you’re passionate about history, scenery, or simply relaxing by the water, this tour is a solid pick.

This experience is a great way to see a slice of Antalya’s diverse charms—nature, history, and lively town life—without overcommitting. It’s a balanced, enjoyable, and reasonably priced outing that’s likely to leave you with plenty of stories and stunning photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: