Alanya isn’t just about sunbathing on its beaches or exploring ancient castles — it’s also a fantastic place for shopping and market tours. The city offers a mix of cultural markets, scenic river cruises, and waterfalls that make for memorable outings. We especially like the Manavgat River cruises, which combine natural beauty with relaxed shopping stops, and the big bazaars that let you haggle for local crafts and fresh produce. Whether you’re after souvenirs, local cuisine, or just a good day out, these tours give you a glimpse of Turkey’s authentic side.
If you’re wondering which tour to pick, don’t worry — we’ve rounded up three of the best options. Each offers something unique: from leisurely river cruises with waterfalls to lively bazaars with great shopping. Read on for detailed breakdowns of each tour, so you can choose the one that best suits your trip style.
At number 1 on our list, this combination tour takes you on a scenic Manavgat River cruise with a stop for swimming where the river meets the sea. It also visits the impressive Manavgat Waterfall and wraps up with a trip to a lively local bazaar. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full day of natural beauty, relaxation, and authentic shopping.
What makes this experience stand out is the blend of outdoor fun with culture. You’ll enjoy boat rides along the river, with plenty of time to swim in clear waters—ideal for a hot summer day. The Manavgat Waterfall is a highlight, offering stunning cascades and peaceful scenery. Finally, the bustling bazaar is a prime spot to buy fresh fruits, spices, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. The tour typically lasts 6 to 8 hours, making it a well-paced day that balances sightseeing with leisure. It’s especially suited for those who want an active, nature-filled experience combined with local market exploration.
Bottom line: This tour is great for families or couples who want a mix of water-based activities, natural beauty, and a vibrant shopping environment.
Coming in at number 2, this tour offers a comprehensive itinerary that includes a scenic river cruise, a visit to Manavgat Bazaar, a boat tour, and a stop at the waterfalls. It’s a well-rounded option for travelers who want to experience a variety of sights in one day.
What sets this tour apart is the detailed market exploration combined with a relaxing boat trip along the river. The reviews highlight the friendly guides and the quality of the onboard food, making it a comfortable day. The Manavgat Bazaar is a lively place to browse for textiles, jewelry, and fresh produce — perfect for picking up souvenirs or gifts. The boat ride offers a different perspective of the area’s natural landscape, adding to the scenic appeal. The duration ranges from 5 to 8 hours, giving enough time for each activity without feeling rushed.
Guests particularly appreciate the personal, courteous guides and the organization of the trip. “A very great day trip. We had a personal guide — very friendly and courteous,” one reviewer notes. This tour suits travelers who want a detailed shopping experience combined with leisurely boat rides and waterfall visits.
Bottom line: If you want a slightly more curated experience with excellent reviews and a mix of culture and scenery, this tour delivers.
Our third pick offers a full day of nature, culture, and shopping with hotel transfers included. This tour combines a scenic river cruise, a visit to the famous Manavgat Waterfall, and a big bazaar, all topped off with a delicious local meal.
This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a hassle-free day that covers multiple interests. You’ll enjoy swimming in both river and sea, tasting authentic Turkish cuisine, and exploring a vibrant market. The tour’s detailed itinerary includes time at the waterfalls, a scenic boat ride lasting about three hours, and a 105-minute visit to the bazaar for shopping and sightseeing. Plus, the guided tour ensures you won’t miss hidden gems or local tips.
Reviewers love the smooth logistics and expert guiding, noting how relaxing and well-organized the day is. One quote highlights the peaceful atmosphere: “Feel the peace as you listen to the cool whispers of nature.” The tour lasts around 6.5 hours and includes hotel pickups from multiple locations, making it convenient.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want an all-in-one experience with good food, scenic views, and shopping, all with minimal hassle.
How to Choose the Right Shopping & Market Tour in Alanya
When deciding between these tours, consider your priorities. If you love natural scenery combined with energetic shopping, the Manavgat River Cruise & Waterfall Tour is a strong choice. For a more comprehensive day that includes a boat ride, vibrant bazaar, and positive reviews, the Manavgat Grand Bazaar with River Boat tour is recommended. If convenience and a full day of diverse experiences with included transportation sound best, the Alanya/Manavgat Waterfall, Boat, and Bazaar tour offers excellent value.
Think about your budget, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend on each activity. Each option offers a good mix of culture, scenic beauty, and shopping, but the choice depends on what you value most — whether that’s leisure, adventure, or convenience.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Alanya’s shopping and market tours provide a fantastic way to experience Turkey beyond the beach. The options range from relaxing river cruises with waterfalls to lively bazaars full of local color. For a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness, the Manavgat River Cruise & Bazaar tops the list. If you want a well-rounded, hassle-free day with great reviews, the Alanya/Manavgat tour is ideal.
No matter which tour you pick, you’re sure to bring back unique souvenirs, plenty of photos, and lasting memories of your trip to Turkey. Be sure to book in advance and enjoy exploring Alanya’s authentic side at your own pace.