From city of Side: Antalya Old City and Waterfall Day Trip

Exploring Antalya’s Old Town and Waterfalls: An Honest Review of the Day Trip from Side

If you’re in Side and considering a day trip to Antalya, this tour might catch your eye. For just around $23 per person, you get a chance to visit the historic Kaleiçi district and marvel at the lower Düden Waterfall—two highlights that many travelers find worth the journey. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and here’s a candid breakdown to help you decide if it’s a good fit.

We really like the value for money—for a day filled with sightseeing, cultural vibes, and natural beauty, it’s quite affordable. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to make a difference, bringing explanations and local insights that enrich the experience. On the flip side, some might find the timing at certain stops a bit rushed, especially if you’re keen to explore every corner or linger longer at the waterfalls.

This tour suits travelers who want a structured day out, mixing cultural exploration with some scenic downtime. If you’re not expecting a private, personalized experience, but rather a well-organized group trip that covers key sights without breaking the bank, this could work well for you. However, don’t expect extensive free time at each stop—there’s a pretty set schedule.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At $23, it offers good value, especially considering hotel transfers and guided commentary.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned buses make the ride pleasant, even on warmer days.
• Rich Cultural Highlights: Walking through Kaleiçi reveals Antalya’s charming old town with narrow streets and historic architecture.
• Natural Beauty: The lower Düden Waterfall provides a lovely photo opportunity and a peaceful natural escape.
• Flexible Free Time: About four hours in Antalya’s old town gives enough space to explore, shop, or relax at seaside cafés.
• Mixed Reviews on Timing: Some travelers wish they had more time at the waterfall or in the city, indicating the schedule can feel a bit tight.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Day:
Most trips start with hotel pickups in Side, in an air-conditioned vehicle—something we definitely appreciate, especially in the warm Turkish climate. The guides seem to be quite knowledgeable, sharing interesting local stories and history to set the scene for the day ahead. As you drive towards Antalya, you’ll get a scenic ride, with some guides even surprising guests with unexpected stops, like a strawberry plantation, which adds a nice, personal touch.

Kaleiçi Exploration:
Once in Antalya, the main highlight is the Kaleiçi district, the old city. With around four hours to spend here, you’ll have plenty of time to wander the cobbled streets, admire the Ottoman-style houses, and peek into local boutiques. Many reviews mention how lovely this area is and how easy it is to get lost in its charm. Travelers often enjoy sitting at seaside cafés, soaking in views of the Mediterranean, or taking photos of the historic architecture.

A common theme in reviews is that this part of the trip is a highlight. One reviewer described it as “absolutely beautiful,” and many appreciated the chance to explore at their own pace. However, some found the meeting point at a shopping shop a bit claustrophobic, with the mandatory waiting period for shopping or speaking with guides. If you prefer to explore without constraints, be aware of that.

Visit to the Lower Düden Waterfall:
After the city stroll, the tour continues to the lower Düden Waterfall, a scenic site where water cascades into the sea. The stop lasts around 20-30 minutes, giving you just enough time to snap photos, take in the views, and appreciate the power of nature. Several travelers mention the waterfall’s beauty—one described it as “stunning”—and it’s often a crowd favorite for photos and memories.

Some reviews note that the waterfall area is smaller than expected, and one even pointed out that the entrance to the waterfalls is extra and not included in the tour price, which could be a surprise if you’re expecting it to be free. It’s worth keeping in mind if you’re planning to spend additional time or want to explore more closely.

Return Journey:
After this, you’ll head back to Side, usually arriving in the late afternoon. The entire trip lasts around eight hours, which is quite reasonable considering the sights you cover. The buses tend to be comfortable, and the guides keep the mood friendly and informative.

The Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

What Travelers Love:
Many reviews rave about the friendly guides, with one reviewer mentioning a guide who was “very effective, funny, and good with language skills.” The scenic spots, especially the waterfalls and the old town, are repeatedly praised for their beauty. Food at stops was also highlighted as delicious, with some reviews mentioning local rotis and tasty snacks.

What Could Be Better:
A common critique is the short time allocated at each stop—particularly at the waterfall, which some say could be longer. One reviewer wished for more time in Antalya rather than in the city’s outskirts or in transit. Plus, the timing can feel rushed, especially if you’re a slow explorer or want to linger in certain spots.

Practical Considerations:
The tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues, as it involves walking through cobbled streets and potentially uneven terrain. Also, while the trip includes lunch options at some stops, drinks are not included and can be somewhat pricey—so bring some cash if you want refreshments.

What This Experience Means for You

If you’re after a cost-effective way to see two of Antalya’s highlights without a lot of hassle, this trip offers a straightforward option. It’s particularly good if you enjoy guided tours with informative commentary, appreciate scenic natural sights, and are okay with a fixed schedule. For those who love exploring historic districts at their own pace, four hours in Kaleiçi provides a decent window.

However, if you’re someone who prefers more time at each site or enjoys discovering hidden corners, you might find the schedule a little tight. Also, if you’re traveling with limited mobility, it’s best to consider the physical demands.

Final Thoughts

For just around $23, this day trip from Side packs in a good mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. The highlights—Antalya’s old town and the lower Düden Waterfall—are both visually striking and culturally enriching. The guides seem to be a real asset, making the journey informative and fun, as several travelers noted.

It’s a solid choice for budget-conscious explorers who want to tick off key sights without the fuss of planning every detail themselves. The trip’s pacing might not suit everyone, but if you’re looking for a straightforward, value-packed day out, this tour could comfortably fit into your travel plans.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from hotels in Side, including Titreyengöl, Sorgun, Kumköy, Evrenseki, Çolakl, and Gündodu. Pickup will be in front of your hotel gate, and the exact time will be sent to you a day before.

How long is the drive to Antalya?
The transfer takes about two hours each way, making it a comfortable journey in an air-conditioned bus.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, comfortable shoes for walking, and an umbrella—especially if the forecast calls for sun or rain.

Is there free time at the old town?
Yes, approximately four hours are allocated for exploring Kaleiçi, which is enough to wander, take photos, or relax at a café.

Can I buy food or drinks during the trip?
You can purchase food and drinks at various stops; meals are not included in the tour price, and drinks tend to be extra.

Are children or families suitable for this tour?
While not explicitly designed as a family tour, the trip is generally suitable for anyone able to walk and sit for a few hours. Keep in mind the physical demands and timing.

What if I want more time at the waterfalls?
The waterfall stop lasts about 20-30 minutes—if you want longer, you might need to explore other options or extend your stay independently.

If balanced sightseeing, cultural exposure, and natural beauty appeal to you, and you’re happy with a bit of a schedule, this Antalya day trip offers a convenient and enjoyable way to experience some Turkish highlights without overspending.

You can check availability for your dates here: