Side: Electric Catamaran Cruise, Waterfall, Seleukia, Mosque

Traveling to Side, Turkey offers endless opportunities for memorable experiences, and this guided tour packs a lot into one day. We’ve reviewed this popular excursion, which combines scenic boat rides, cultural visits, and natural beauty, all for just $25 per person. With an average booking window of 16 days, it’s clear many travelers find this adventure both accessible and appealing.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to capture stunning photos of Green Canyon on a catamaran cruise. Second, visiting historic sites like Seleukia ruins and a local mosque offers a glimpse into the area’s past and culture. Third, the mix of nature, history, and local cuisine makes it a well-rounded day out.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the waterfall entrance fee isn’t included, so a small cash charge applies there. This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of scenic views, cultural insights, and outdoor fun without the hassle of self-driving or complicated logistics. It suits those who enjoy a relaxed, informative day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of Turkish hospitality.

Key Points

• Scenic Green Canyon cruise offers exceptional photo moments and water-based activities.
• Historical stops at Seleukia ruins and Manavgat Mosque provide cultural depth.
• Delicious Turkish lunch with options of fish or chicken, salads, and fresh fruit.
• Round-trip transfers make the day seamless, avoiding transportation stress.
• Guided experience with a knowledgeable, friendly tour guide.
• Affordable price of $25 offers great value for a full day of sightseeing.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Kulliye Camii: A Brief Mosque Visit

The tour starts with a short stop at Kulliye Camii, a beautiful mosque that functions as a quick cultural introduction. The visit lasts about 20 minutes, and it’s free to enter, making it a peaceful way to kick off the day. While brief, it offers a chance to appreciate Turkish Islamic architecture and participate in a bit of local ambiance.

Manavgat Waterfall: Nature’s Refreshing Pause

Next, you’ll visit Manavgat Waterfall, where a 30-minute stop allows for some quick photos and a breath of fresh air. Entrance costs about 6 Turkish Liras per person, which isn’t included in the tour price, so be prepared with some cash. Reviewers mention that the waterfall is “ok,” but it’s more about the atmosphere and quick snap shots rather than a major sight. It’s a nice contrast to the historical and water-based activities later on.

Seleukia (Lybre): Ancient Roman Ruins

One of the highlights is the visit to Seleukia, an ancient Roman city. The 30-minute stop is free, and travelers often find the ruins quite evocative. The views from here are described as “lovely,” and it’s a great chance to stretch your legs and explore some significant archaeological remnants. Several reviews, like that of Sanne_K, mention the Seleukia ruins as “great” with beautiful scenery, adding a historical dimension to the day.

Manavgat Dam: Green Canyon’s Best Viewpoints

A quick 15-minute stop at Manavgat Dam offers the perfect photo opportunity of Green Canyon and Green Lake. The view here is fantastic, and it’s a great chance to appreciate the scale of the dam and the lush landscape. This quick break is highly regarded in reviews, providing excellent views that justify the short stop.

Green Canyon: The Heart of the Tour

The real star of the day is the 1-hour catamaran cruise around Green Lake. This scenic waterway offers stunning natural beauty—think clear water, lush greenery, and peaceful surroundings. You will soak up the views, take photos, and enjoy the fresh air. Reviewers like Sanne_K mention the comfortable, air-conditioned van that gets you there, and the cruise itself is described as “great.”

During the cruise, you can fish, canoe, or simply relax. The tour includes a lunch at Gölba Restaurant, which boasts lake views and serves up fish or chicken with rice, salad, and fresh fruit. Travelers often praise the quality of the food and the chance to enjoy a scenic meal with a view.

Additional Perks

The whole experience is complemented by hotel pickups and drop-offs, making it very convenient. The guide, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness—like Achmed, who was described as “very knowledgeable and funny”—adds value, making the trip both educational and enjoyable.

Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

Transport is via air-conditioned vehicles, and the entire tour spans roughly 8 to 9 hours. Most group sizes are up to 49 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable environment. The tour departs at 8:30 am, so a relatively early start is involved, but it’s worth it for a full day of exploration.

What’s Not Included?

• Drinks (alcoholic or soft drinks)
• Photos (unless you buy them separately)
• Waterfall entrance fee (~6 TL)

This means you might want to bring some cash for extras or souvenirs, but overall, the tour’s value remains high considering the included lunch, transfers, and guide.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

Many reviews mention the friendly and knowledgeable guides as a standout feature. Stefan_F appreciated the “great guidance and customer interaction”, while Sanne_K raved about Achmed’s “knowledgeable and funny” approach. Several travelers noted the well-organized logistics, with hotel pickups running smoothly and comfortable transportation making the day worry-free.

Some reviewers, like Gordon_T, pointed out minor language quirks from guides, but overall, they felt the guides did a good job. The off-road Land Rover experience mentioned by Andrew_N adds a hint that certain versions of this tour might include unexpected fun, though that’s not standard.

Value for Money

At $25, this tour offers a full day of sightseeing, good food, and comfortable transportation. The inclusion of the catamaran cruise and lunch makes it especially appealing, giving you a taste of Turkey’s natural beauty and culture without breaking the bank.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded taste of Side’s highlights. It suits those who enjoy water-based activities, history, and authentic local cuisine. It’s also a good choice for families or groups seeking a relaxed, fully guided day out with minimal planning.

Those who prefer more adventure or longer hikes might find it too short or gentle, but if variety and scenery are your priorities, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour provides a balanced mix of culture, nature, and leisure. You’ll enjoy beautiful water views, archaeological sites, and a delicious meal, all with the convenience of hotel transfers. The friendly guides and scenic stops make it feel personal and authentic, not overly commercialized.

The tour’s affordability and comprehensive itinerary make it a great value, especially if you want an easy way to see Side’s diverse attractions in one day. It’s suited for travelers who want a relaxed pace combined with memorable sights and some fun on the water.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, affordable way to explore the region’s natural scenery and historical sites, this tour hits the spot. Just be prepared with some cash for the waterfall entrance fee and maybe a camera to capture those unforgettable Green Canyon views.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel transfers in air-conditioned vehicles, making it easy and comfortable to start and end your day.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am.

What’s the main activity on the Green Canyon?
You’ll enjoy a 1-hour catamaran cruise, with opportunities to fish, canoe, or simply relax and take photos.

Are there any extra costs?
The waterfall entrance fee (~6 TL) isn’t included, so be sure to bring some cash. Drinks and photos are also not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for families, though children should be comfortable with walking and water activities.

What do reviewers say about guides?
Many mention guides like Achmed as knowledgeable, friendly, and funny, enhancing the overall experience.

This tour offers a fantastic way to experience a mix of natural beauty, history, and Turkish culture—all in one accessible, affordable package. Whether you’re seeking scenic photo ops, cultural insights, or just a fun day on the water, it’s a solid choice for your Side itinerary.