Alanya Sunset Tour: Cable Car & Cleopatra Beach from Side

If you’re planning a trip around Antalya Province and looking for a way to enjoy some of Turkey’s most iconic sights with a touch of local charm, this Alanya Sunset Tour offers a well-rounded experience. Designed for those who appreciate a mix of natural beauty, historic sites, and the chance to relax by the sea, this tour packs a lot into just four hours.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning sunset views from Alanya’s hillside panorama point are truly memorable. Second, the combination of cultural exploration and leisurely beach time makes it a flexible and enjoyable outing.

However, keep in mind that the tour includes optional activities like the cable car ride, which costs extra, and might require some planning if you prefer to skip certain parts. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, light walking, and a scenic, sunset finale. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized way to see Alanya’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Includes hotel transfers for convenience, with pickup from various areas around Side and Alanya
• Visit Damlata Cave and Cleopatra Beach for a taste of natural beauty and history
• Optional cable car ride to Alanya Castle adds a panoramic perspective (extra fee)
• Enjoy free time at Cleopatra Beach for swimming or relaxing by the water
• End at the Sunset Viewpoint for stunning photos and memorable views
• A balanced mix of guided exploration and free time ensures you experience Alanya at your own pace

This tour offers a practical way to see some of Alanya’s top sights without the stress of self-organizing. Starting from Side, the journey takes you through diverse environments—from caves and beaches to historic castles and mountain vistas. The whole experience is designed to be both engaging and relaxing, perfect for travelers who want a taste of everything without feeling rushed.

Transport and Guide: Expect air-conditioned vehicles and a knowledgeable guide speaking English and Russian—making the experience friendly and informative. The tour lasts approximately four hours, with some variation depending on your pickup location and traffic.

Tour Highlights Explained

You can check availability for your dates here:

Pickup and Initial Transfers

Your day begins with hotel pickup from designated areas around Side. The comfort of air-conditioned transportation is a plus, especially during warm days, and the tour guide will greet you with a friendly attitude, ready to share insights along the way.

Damlata Cave and Cleopatra Beach

The first stop is Damlata Cave, famous for its stalactites and stalagmites, as well as its reputed health benefits for respiratory issues. For just 5 EUR, you can explore this natural marvel, or simply enjoy the cool air and impressive formations. Critics mention that it’s a must-see if you’re into caves and geology, but some note that the cave’s size isn’t large, so don’t expect an extensive tour inside.

Next, you’re given an hour to enjoy Cleopatra Beach, one of the most iconic spots in Alanya. The turquoise waters and soft sands are perfect for a quick swim or a relaxing walk along the coast. Several reviews emphasize how photo-worthy this stretch of sand is and how the calm waters invite a refreshing dip. It’s a great chance to unwind and soak in some sun before heading to more historical sights.

Alanya Castle and Optional Cable Car

The highlight for many is the Alanya Castle, a fortress dating back centuries, perched on a hilltop overlooking the city and sea. While the walk up can be steep, the trip is made easier with the optional cable car ride, which costs 12 EUR and is payable directly to your guide. This option is highly recommended by those who want the best panoramic views without exerting too much energy.

Once at the top, you’ll have around 1.5 hours to explore. Inside, you’ll find the Süleymaniye Mosque, which adds an Ottoman-era flavor, and the Bedesten Bazaar—a lively spot for browsing local crafts and souvenirs. Many travelers mention how the views from the castle walls are breathtaking and how the setting offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially at sunset.

Note: If you opt out of the cable car, you can still visit the castle by foot, but the ascent is more demanding. The guide will wait at the meeting point afterward, so plan your timing accordingly.

Panoramic Viewpoint and Sunset

The final stop is the Alanya Panorama Point, where you’ll get a sweeping view of the city, sea, and the famous Alanya sign. This is where the sunset magic happens—a perfect photo moment and a chance to appreciate the area’s natural beauty. Many reviews rave about how the sunset views are truly stunning, making this a favorite part of the trip.

Looking at the cost, the tour is reasonably priced considering the inclusions—hotel transfers, guide service, and free time at key sites. The optional cable car and Damlata Cave entrance fee (totaling around 17 EUR if you choose both) are extras, but they are affordable additions for the experience they provide.

This tour balances guided knowledge with free time well, giving travelers the flexibility to explore or relax. The small group atmosphere (implied by the nature of the offering) ensures a more personal experience compared to large bus tours. Plus, the ability to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, especially for spontaneous travelers or those trying to keep within a budget.

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Practical Details

• Duration: Four hours—be sure to check availability for the start time that suits your schedule.
• Pickup areas: Multiple locations around Side and Alanya, with designated meeting points for hotels inside Side Old Town.
• Languages: Guides speak English and Russian, which covers most travelers’ needs.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, warm clothing for the evening, and a towel if you plan to swim.

Many appreciate the stunning views at sunset and the convenience of the guided tour. One reviewer notes, “The views from Alanya Castle are spectacular, especially at sunset—worth every lira.” Others mention the ease of transfers and how the free time at Cleopatra Beach allowed them to relax after sightseeing.

A few comments highlight the optional cable car, with some wishing it were included in the base price but still considering it a worthwhile extra for the views. Travelers find the tour well-organized, scenic, and a good value for a quick introduction to Alanya’s highlights.

This Alanya Sunset Tour is ideal for travelers staying in Side who want a compact, scenic overview of one of Turkey’s most picturesque coastal cities. It’s perfect if you love stunning panoramic views, are interested in a mix of natural beauty and history, and enjoy some leisure time on the beach.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate ease of logistics—the hotel pickup, guided commentary, and optional activities make it straightforward. If you’re looking for a low-stress way to experience Alanya’s highlights with the bonus of a sunset view, this tour checks all those boxes.

However, those who prefer more extensive exploration or want to avoid additional costs might consider other options or extending their time in Alanya on their own. But for a short, memorable evening, this tour offers a nicely balanced introduction.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from various areas around Side and Alanya, making it convenient for most travelers.

Can I skip the cable car?
Yes, you can visit Alanya Castle by foot if you prefer not to pay the 12 EUR fee for the cable car. Your guide will wait at the meeting point afterward.

How long do we stay at each site?
You’ll have about 1 hour at Cleopatra Beach, 1.5 hours at Alanya Castle, and time for the sunset at the Panoramic Viewpoint, with the guide facilitating transitions.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers hotel transfers, guide service, insurance, swimming at Cleopatra Beach, and the visit to Alanya Castle by cable car (if you choose the option).

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the cable car (12 EUR) and Damlata Cave entrance fee (5 EUR) are paid directly if you decide to visit those sites.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking and warm clothing for the evening are recommended, especially since it’s a sunset tour. Bringing a towel if you want to swim is also a good idea.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most, the tour involves some walking and optional cable car rides, so consider your children’s comfort and stamina.

How long is the total duration?
The tour runs approximately four hours, but timing may vary slightly depending on pickup locations and traffic.

Will I get good photo opportunities?
Absolutely. The sunset from the viewpoint and views from Alanya Castle are prime photo moments, especially if you’re into landscape shots.

Is this tour available year-round?
Availability depends on the season, so check current schedules when booking. The sunset timing may vary, affecting the experience slightly.

This carefully curated sunset tour combines natural beauty, historical sights, and relaxed beach time into a manageable package, making it a fine choice for anyone eager to see Alanya in just a few hours. With stunning views, personal touches, and the flexibility of optional extras, it’s a memorable way to end a day exploring this vibrant Turkish city.

You can check availability for your dates here: