From city of Side: Guided Day Trip to Alanya City

Exploring the Turkish Riviera’s highlights with a day trip from Side to Alanya offers travelers a blend of history, scenic beauty, and local flavor. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, its glowing reviews and detailed itinerary make it a solid choice for those looking to see Alanya without the hassle of planning.

What truly stands out are the expert guides who bring the city’s stories to life and the stunning panoramic views from the castle and cable car. However, potential travelers should note that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and bus time, which might be tiring for some.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy structured sightseeing, appreciate local history and scenery, and prefer guided tours that cover a lot in one day. If you’re after an authentic taste of Alanya’s highlights with a manageable schedule, this tour might be just right for you.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Alanya Castle, harbor boat trip, Damlatas Cave, and a river-side lunch.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Affordable value at around $40 per person for a full 9-hour day, including meals and activities.
• Flexible free time allows for exploring or relaxing, with optional cable car rides.
• Scenic views of Alanya from the castle, boat, and cable car make for memorable photos.
• Ideal for those seeking a well-organized, authentic day trip from Side, with options for different interests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Out — Comfortable, Guided Transportation

The tour kicks off early in the day with hotel pickup from Side (and nearby areas), in an air-conditioned bus. This is great because it takes away the stress of finding your way, and the bus ride offers a chance to relax and chat with fellow travelers. The group size is not specified, but reviews suggest it’s well-organized, with friendly drivers and guides.

The journey itself is part of the experience—expect to see some of the lush landscape of Antalya Province en route, with your guide providing commentary on local sights and history.

Alanya Castle — A Medieval Marvel

The highlight of the day is the visit to Alanya Castle, which dates back to 1226. Walking through its ancient walls provides a tangible connection to the past, and the panoramic views of the city, the harbor, and the sea are stunning. We loved the way the guide brought the history of this fortress to life, making it more than just a photo spot.

Travelers often take plenty of photos here, and some reviews mention the value of the professional guidance in understanding what they’re seeing. While the walk involves some uphill sections, it’s manageable with comfortable shoes.

Harbor and Boat Trip — The Best View of Alanya

Next up is a boat cruise around the harbor, which allows travelers to see Alanya from a different perspective. The views of the castle from the water are especially striking, and the sea breeze makes it a refreshing break from walking.

The boat trip is included in the price, and guests appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to snap some memorable photos. For some, it’s the highlight of the day, especially given the opportunity for a panoramic perspective of the city’s skyline.

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Lunch at Dim Fall — Savor Local Flavors

After the boat trip, everyone heads to Dim Fall for a riverside lunch. The spot is praised for its delicious food and beautiful setting by the Dim River. It’s a good chance to unwind, enjoy Turkish cuisine, and take in the peaceful river views.

One review mentions, “Lunch was nice by the river,” which hints that the meal is a genuine and pleasant experience, offering a taste of local cuisine in a lovely setting.

Free Time in Alanya — Explore or Relax

Post-lunch, the group splits into options: either explore the city at your own pace or enjoy the cable car ride near Damlatas Cave, which offers breathtaking views of Alanya from above.

The free time allows those who want to shop at the local bazaar or visit landmarks like the Red Tower to do so. The cable car ride is especially popular, with departures near Damlatas Cave, providing a fun and scenic way to see the city from above.

Damlatas Cave — A Natural Wonder with Health Benefits

The tour concludes with a visit to Damlatas Cave, famous for its stalactites and supposed health benefits, especially for asthma sufferers. While the entrance fee is not included in the tour price, the cave itself often leaves visitors in awe of its natural formations.

Many reviews mention the cave as a must-see, with some noting its reputed healing properties, which adds an interesting local legend to the natural beauty.

Return and Drop-Off — Easy and Hassle-Free

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll be transported back to your hotel in Side, relaxed and full of impressions. The overall schedule is tight but well-paced, allowing plenty of time at each spot without feeling rushed.

Practical Insights and Value

Transportation and Group Size

The use of an air-conditioned bus ensures comfort, especially during the warm summer months. Pickup from a variety of nearby hotels makes it flexible, although the exact pickup time is confirmed a day in advance, so travelers should stay in touch with the tour provider.

While group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest a friendly, manageable number of participants, avoiding the feeling of being lost in a crowd.

Price and What’s Included

At around $40 per person, this trip offers good value. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide fluent in English and German, a boat trip, lunch, and the cable car if you choose that option. Travel insurance is also included, adding peace of mind.

What’s not included? Drinks at lunch, entrance fees for Damlatas Cave, and personal expenses. It’s wise to bring some cash for souvenirs or additional snacks.

Accessibility and Considerations

The tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the walking involved at the castle and cave. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and cash for extras.

Authenticity and Experience

This tour strikes a nice balance between guided commentary and free exploration time. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making the history and sights more engaging. The boat trip and scenic views add memorable touches, especially for first-time visitors.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides, the timely service, and the delicious lunch location. One enthusiastic traveler noted, “I had the best time and it’s one of my best highlights in Turkey,” confirming that the experience resonates with visitors.

Others appreciated the relaxed pace and the chance to see Alanya from different angles—on foot, from the water, and from above. The combination of historical sites, natural beauty, and local cuisine seems to hit the right notes for many.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of Alanya without the hassle of organizing individual activities. It’s suitable for those who enjoy guided tours, scenic views, and cultural sights in one well-organized package.

If you’re traveling with family, prefer a schedule that covers key sights, and like to get a feel for local flavor, this trip offers solid value. However, those with mobility issues might want to consider other options, as some walking and stair-climbing are involved.

The Sum Up

This guided day trip from Side to Alanya offers a well-rounded experience packed with history, natural beauty, and local charm—all at a reasonable price. The knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and variety of activities—castle, boat, cave, and river lunch—make it a strong choice for those wanting to maximize their time in the region.

While it requires a full day’s commitment and involves some walking, the balance of organized sightseeing and free time makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a structured yet relaxed day. If you appreciate authentic experiences, stunning vistas, and learning about Turkey’s vibrant coastal culture, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide in English and German, a boat trip, lunch at Dim Fall, and the cable car if you select that option.

How long is the tour?
The full-day experience lasts about 9 hours, with starting times based on availability.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues due to walking at the castle and cave.

Can I choose to skip the cable car?
Yes, the cable car is an optional add-on, and you can enjoy the free time exploring the city or visiting other landmarks instead.

How much does the Damlatas Cave entrance fee cost?
The entrance fee to Damlatas Cave is not included in the tour price, so you might want to bring some cash if you plan to visit.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and cash are recommended for the day. It’s also good to have some personal items like a hat or water bottle.

You can check availability for your dates here: