Antalya Full-Day Old City Tour From Kemer With Boat Trip

If you’re considering a day trip from Kemer to Antalya, this tour promises a blend of history, scenic boat rides, and natural beauty. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, I’ve seen enough reviews and descriptions to give a balanced picture. It’s a great way to squeeze in some of Antalya’s top sights without the hassle of planning everything yourself.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines cultural landmarks like Kaleici and Hadrian’s Gate with relaxing sea views and a visit to the stunning Duden Waterfalls. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off make it convenient, especially if you’re staying in Kemer. One thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention upselling pressures and possible schedule changes, so managing expectations beforehand is wise. This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive peek into Antalya’s highlights in one day — perfect for travelers who prefer guided logistics and a packed itinerary.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience combining history, scenery, and boat trips
• Convenient pickup and drop-off from hotels in Kemer
• Good value for a full day of sightseeing, including lunch and entrance fees
• Some reviews highlight upselling and schedule adjustments to watch for
• Knowledgeable guides seem to enhance the experience
• Suitable for travelers eager to see top Antalya sights in a single day

A Practical Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Kemer Pickup

The day kicks off early around 8:30 am, when a friendly driver picks you up from your hotel. This is a definite plus—no need to worry about navigating or catching taxis. The drive to Antalya takes about an hour, giving you some initial anticipation of the sights ahead. It’s wise to bring your camera, some cash for souvenirs or drinks, and sunscreen because you’ll be outside a lot.

Kaleici: The Old Town Charm

First stop is Kaleici, Antalya’s historic heart. This area, with its Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman roots, is truly a walk through the ages. The streets are lined with beautiful old buildings, and the Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Cami mosque, built in the 18th century, is a highlight. Visitors often remark on how the streets “breathe history,” and how the architecture tells stories of centuries gone by.

One reviewer appreciated the planning, saying, “Gozde the tour guide was excellent. My family and I had a really good day. The planning was really good and so was the execution.” So, expect some insightful commentary from your guide about the landmarks, legends, and stories that make Kaleici special.

Hadrian’s Gate and the City Square

Next, the tour visits the famous Hadrian’s Gate, built to honor the Roman emperor Hadrian’s visit. The well-preserved arches and the floral art along the walls make it an Instagram-worthy spot. The surrounding square features the iconic clock tower, built during Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II’s reign, along with ancient statues.

While these sites are free to explore, the appeal lies in the storytelling. As one reviewer pointed out, the guide’s explanations can make the visit much richer, turning simple ruins into vivid stories of the region’s past.

Harbour and Yacht Tour

A highlight for many visitors is the boat trip from Antalya’s harbor. This one-hour cruise offers great photo opportunities and a relaxing view of the coastline. We loved the way this calm, scenic journey breaks up the day’s sightseeing with a serene sea experience.

According to reviews, the boat trip is a peaceful way to see the city from a different perspective. However, some mention that the cruise can involve some upselling during the ride, so be prepared for that. Still, many find it offers good value, especially considering the view and the chance to unwind.

Duden Waterfalls: Nature’s Refreshing Break

On the way back to Kemer, you’ll stop at the Duden Waterfalls, the highest in the Turkish Mediterranean at 42 meters. It’s a fantastic sight—powerful water cascading down, creating a refreshing atmosphere. Several travelers describe this as a highlight, especially if you appreciate natural scenery.

One reviewer shared, “The view of the waterfalls is wonderful,” and many find this a great photo op and a moment to stretch your legs after a busy day of touring.

Return to Kemer

The day wraps up with a drive back, with a final hotel drop-off. All in all, expect the full experience to last around 7 to 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day of sightseeing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers quite a bit for the price—$45 per person—especially with hotel pickup, entrance fees, a guided tour, and lunch. The boat trip and waterfall visit are also part of the package, which adds value for those wanting variety.

However, note that drinks are not included. You may want to bring some cash for beverages or snacks during the day. The lunch is generally included, but the reviews don’t specify the quality, so manage your expectations there.

Price Analysis

At $45, this tour offers a solid lineup of highlights. When you factor in transportation, entrance fees, and the guide, it’s quite a cost-effective way to cover a lot of ground. That said, be aware of potential upselling during stops, which some travelers find a bit overwhelming.

What the Reviews Say

The positive feedback often highlights Gozde, the tour guide, as being knowledgeable and helpful, making the experience more enjoyable. Many reviewers appreciated the good planning and the efficient schedule that covered all the key sites.

On the flip side, some guests mention feeling pressured to buy souvenirs or pay extra for activities—so if you prefer a more relaxed, no-pressure experience, this is something to consider. One participant pointed out that the cable car activity was canceled due to government restrictions, which was disappointing for some. It’s always good to check ahead if specific activities are crucial to you.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

• Bring extra sunscreen and water—expect outdoor time.
• Keep some cash on hand for souvenirs or optional drinks.
• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a fair amount of walking in Kaleici and other sites.
• Be prepared for upselling but don’t feel pressured—stay firm if you’re not interested.
• Confirm if any activities (like the cable car) are available, since cancellations can happen.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Antalya in one day. It’s also great for travelers who prefer guided experiences and don’t want to worry about logistics. If you’re interested in a mix of history, scenic views, and some relaxing sea time, this tour covers those bases.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a slower pace or dislikes being upsold, you might find parts of this tour less appealing. Also, if specific activities like the cable car are a must-do for you, double-check the current status before booking.

The Sum Up

All things considered, the Antalya Full-Day Old City Tour From Kemer offers a balanced blend of history, scenic beauty, and relaxation at a reasonable price. The inclusion of guided commentary and hotel pickup makes it a hassle-free way to see some of Antalya’s top spots.

While a few reviews mention upselling pressures or schedule changes, the overall consensus points to good value and well-organized sightseeing. The boat trip and waterfall visit add a nice touch of natural beauty to the historical and cultural stops, making for a well-rounded day.

This tour suits curious travelers eager to get a good taste of Antalya’s past and present without spending extra time planning. Ideal for those on a first visit or anyone wanting to tick off the city’s highlights in a single day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from hotels all over Antalya.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts around 7 to 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.

What’s included in the price? The price covers entrance fees, a guide, lunch, a boat trip, and transportation.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included, so bring some cash or water with you.

Can I expect to be pressured into buying souvenirs? Some reviews mention upselling, including jewelry shops and other stops, so be prepared for some sales pitches.

Is the boat trip relaxing? Yes, many find the boat ride peaceful and a nice break from walking.

What about the waterfalls? The Duden Waterfalls are a highlight, offering impressive views and photo opportunities.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, camera, some extra cash, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for families? While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children who enjoy sightseeing and boat rides will likely find it interesting.

What if activities like the cable car are canceled? The tour provider mentioned cancellations can happen, so it’s good to check the current status beforehand.

If you’re looking for a day packed with adventure, history, and scenic moments, this Antalya tour from Kemer could be a solid choice. Just go in with open eyes, a flexible attitude, and ready-to-enjoy the many sights that make Antalya a captivating city.