Side Manavgat River Cruise, Waterfall, and Bazaar Boat Tour

Imagine spending a day on the water, feeling the spray of a stunning waterfall, swimming in clear rivers, and browsing vibrant local markets—sounds pretty great, right? That’s what the Side Manavgat River Cruise, Waterfall, and Bazaar Tour promises. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it seems like a solid option for travelers wanting a well-rounded day of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor.

One thing we love about it is the combination of scenic river cruising with opportunities for swimming and fun moments like the foam party. Plus, the visit to Manavgat Waterfall offers a chance to snap photos and soak in nature’s calm. Another highlight is the local bazaar, where you can hunt for souvenirs and enjoy authentic Turkish market vibes. A possible downside is that if you’re looking for a quiet, peaceful day at sea or a very relaxed pace, this tour might feel a bit busy or loud, especially with the foam and entertainment onboard. Still, it’s a versatile day trip suited well for those who want a bit of everything.

All in all, this tour tends to suit travelers who appreciate a mix of natural scenery, cultural shopping, and lively onboard entertainment. It’s especially good for groups or families who enjoy a lively atmosphere and want to make the most of their time in Antalya Province.

Key Points

• Varied Experience: Combines river cruise, waterfall visit, swimming, shopping, and onboard entertainment.
• Delicious Food: Onboard lunch with grilled chicken, bulgur, salads, and drinks.
• Authentic Market Visit: The bazaar offers a chance to buy local souvenirs and explore local life.
• Active and Relaxing: Swim breaks and the chance to soak up the sun make it suitable for those wanting some fun and relaxation.
• Good Value: The full-day experience packed with diverse activities compares well with similar tours.
• Family-Friendly (with considerations): Suitable for most groups, but those prone to seasickness should be cautious.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

The tour starts with a hotel pickup in Side, which is definitely a plus—no need to worry about organizing transport yourself. The bus ride takes about 75 minutes, giving you some time to settle in and maybe chat with fellow travelers or enjoy the scenery as you leave the town behind.

The River Cruise

Once on board the boat at around 10:00 am, you’ll spend roughly 2 to 3 hours cruising the Manavgat River. The boat itself is comfortable, and this part of the tour offers a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. We liked that the cruise isn’t overly long, making it manageable for those who prefer a shorter boat ride rather than a full-day affair. During this stretch, you can sit back, take photos, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Waterfall Visit and Photo Stop

After the cruise, you’ll stop at the Manavgat Waterfall, which is often highlighted as a favorite part of the trip. This waterfall isn’t just a scenic spot—it’s also a chance to get close enough to feel the refreshing spray on your skin and capture some beautiful photos. Visitors mention that visiting the waterfall is optional, with an entrance fee of 5 per person, paid on site. The stop includes some free time; you can walk around, take pictures, or simply enjoy the calming sound of falling water.

More Great Tours Nearby

Additional River Cruise and Swimming

Following your waterfall visit, the boat heads out for another cruise along the river for about an hour. This segment is perfect for relaxing, soaking up the sun, and maybe taking a swim in the river or the Bosphorus’s clear waters. The tour also includes a swimming break of around 30 minutes, which many reviews note as a highlight. The water is described as crisp and clean, ideal for cooling off after standing in the sun.

Onboard Lunch and Foam Party

Around midday, a delicious onboard lunch is served. Reviewers praise the quality of the food—grilled chicken, bulgur, fresh salads, and cold drinks. The lively crew often sets the tone with music, and the foam party adds a fun, energetic vibe to the day. It’s a bit of a spectacle, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy a bit of lighthearted chaos. If you’re looking for a tranquil, quiet day, this might be a bit too lively, but for many, it’s part of the charm.

Shopping at Manavgat Bazaar

In the afternoon, the tour takes you to Manavgat Bazaar, where you’ll have about an hour to browse and shop. The market is full of local produce, spices, clothes, and handmade souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up gifts or just experience the bustling local scene. Reviews mention that the market is lively and full of interesting sights—some even say it’s a highlight of the trip.

End of the Day

The tour concludes with a return to Side around 3:30 pm. Throughout the day, the guide shares insights in multiple languages—English, German, Russian, and Turkish—making it accessible for a diverse group of travelers.

The Good, the Bad, and the Practical

What’s great about this tour?
The combination of natural beauty and lively entertainment makes it a good value for a full-day experience. The food and drinks onboard get a lot of praise, and the waterfalls and swimming breaks add a refreshing element. The market visit offers a genuine taste of local life, and the boat cruise provides scenic views without feeling overly long.

Possible drawbacks?
Some reviews note that the tour can be quite lively and loud—especially with the foam party and onboard music. Also, if you’re not a fan of crowds or fast-paced activities, it might feel a bit hectic. The water-based parts are not suited for those prone to seasickness, and you should plan accordingly.

Practical tips:
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and cash for extra purchases or optional entrance fees. The tour is about 8 hours long, so pack light but practical. Be aware that you’ll need to give up any alcohol or drugs before boarding, as they’re not allowed on the boat.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re after a day packed with variety. It’s suitable for groups who want lively entertainment, scenic views, and a taste of local culture—all in one trip. Families with active children who enjoy swimming and a bit of fun might find it especially appealing, though very young kids or those sensitive to loud environments should consider if the energy matches their preferences.

Travelers looking for peace and quiet or a leisurely boat ride might want to look elsewhere. This tour excels at providing a lively, engaging, and visually stimulating day, making it a good pick for those wanting to see a bit of everything and enjoy some authentic Turkish atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes a pickup from your hotel in Side. You’ll need to provide your hotel name and room number, and the vehicle will wait no longer than five minutes.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts around 8 hours, with most of the activities packed into this timeframe, ending around 3:30 pm.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, a camera, and cash for extra expenses. Don’t forget to bring a sense of adventure and readiness for a lively day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable, especially for active kids who enjoy water, swimming, and busy markets. However, very young children or those prone to seasickness may want to consider their tolerance for boat rides and loud environments.

Can I buy souvenirs at the bazaar?
Absolutely. The bazaar is full of local produce, spices, and handmade crafts—ideal for picking up authentic souvenirs and experiencing local market life.

Is the water safe for swimming?
Reviewers describe the waters as crystal-clear and refreshing, perfect for a quick dip. The water temperature and conditions are generally good for swimming, but always exercise caution.

Are drinks included?
Cold drinks are available onboard, and ice cream is offered as well. You can purchase additional beverages if desired, but alcohol and drugs must be surrendered before boarding.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

The Side Manavgat River Cruise, Waterfall, and Bazaar Tour offers a lively, diverse day that balances scenic views, culture, and fun. It’s best suited for travelers who want a bit of everything—nature, shopping, and entertainment—without spending a full day on just one activity. If you enjoy energetic atmospheres and are looking to see some of the best local sights in a single outing, this tour could be just right.

However, if you’re after a peaceful escape or a quiet boat ride, you might find the lively foam party and bustling market a little overwhelming. The tour’s energetic vibe is part of its charm, but it’s good to keep your preferences in mind.

Overall, it’s a decent value for the experience packed into an 8-hour window, especially if you’re keen to combine sightseeing with some lively fun and local culture.

Happy travels, and I hope this helps you decide if the Side Manavgat River Cruise is the right fit for your adventure in Turkey!

You can check availability for your dates here: