Antalya: Guided City Tour with Top 2 Waterfalls incl. Lunch

If you’re considering visiting Antalya and want an experience that balances sightseeing with some relaxing moments, this tour might catch your eye. It’s a well-rated option, boasting a 5.0 rating based on 224 reviews, and with its price of just under $32 per person, it’s appealing to many travelers looking for good value. The tour promises a mix of natural beauty, historic sights, and cultural stops, all packed into roughly seven hours.

What makes this experience stand out are two key elements: the stunning Duden Waterfalls – a highlight often only available on more expensive excursions – and the opportunity to explore Antalya’s Old Town at your own pace. These features give you a taste of both nature and history without blowing your budget.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Several reviews mention that the tour can run shorter than advertised or involve some less-than-ideal stops, such as jewelry shops or souvenir stores, which might feel more like sales pitches rather than sightseeing. This could be a turn-off if you’re expecting a deeply educational or leisurely experience.

This tour suits travelers who want a cost-effective way to see some of Antalya’s most iconic sights, enjoy a boat ride, and have some free time to meander through the charming Old Town. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and some minor inconveniences, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $32, it’s a budget-friendly way to see multiple highlights.
• Highlights Natural and Historic: Duden Waterfalls and Old Town provide scenic and cultural experiences.
• Flexible Schedule: Free time in Old Town means you can explore at your own pace.
• Mixed Reviews on Timing: Some travelers found the tour shorter than expected, so managing expectations helps.
• Guide Quality: Many reviews praise knowledgeable guides, making the experience more engaging.
• Potential for Sales Stops: Jewelry and souvenir shops are included, which might feel more like shopping than sightseeing.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour hits several key spots around Antalya, with an emphasis on nature, history, and local culture. It starts in the morning with a pickup (which many reviewers appreciated), and then heads straight to the Lower Duden Waterfalls. For about 30 minutes, you’ll be able to stand close to the cascading water, often considered a regional highlight. The waterfalls are accessible, and the entrance fees are included, making it a convenient stop for nature lovers.

Next, the tour visits Talya Gümü, a local silversmith. Here, you get a brief look at Turkish craftsmanship, and while the entrance is free, many find these stops a mixed bag: some enjoy the cultural insight, others feel pressured into purchases. One reviewer, Elzbieta, was frustrated about spending an hour in a jewelry store, which she felt detracted from the sightseeing experience.

Following that, there’s a quick stop at Kaleici Marina, the historic old port area, where you can grab some photos and enjoy the lively atmosphere. This brief stop is enough to get a feel for Antalya’s charm without lingering too long.

From here, the tour visits several iconic landmarks including Antalya Saat Kulesi (Clock Tower) and Hadrian’s Gate, both symbols of the city’s rich history. These sites are great photo opportunities and give you a snapshot of Antalya’s past.

The next highlight is Upper Duden Waterfalls, where you’ll spend about 40 minutes admiring a more dramatic cascade and enjoying the natural surroundings. Many reviews describe these waterfalls as “beautiful,” and the fact that entrance fees are included makes it a favorite for nature lovers.

The Waterfalls: Duden’s Two Sights

The Lower Duden Waterfalls are accessible and close to the city, offering a scenic spot that’s often included in more expensive tours, so it’s a major plus here. The Upper Duden Waterfalls, further upstream, provide a more dramatic view and a peaceful retreat. Their inclusion in the tour at no extra cost makes it a good value, especially since many travelers find waterfalls a memorable part of any Turkey trip.

Free Time in Old Town

After these stops, you’re given some free time to explore Antalya’s Old Town (Kaleici). There’s a lot to see — cobblestone streets, historic mosques, boutique cafes, and small museums. One review pointed out that the 15 minutes allocated at some stops felt rushed, which is something to keep in mind. You’ll want to prioritize what interests you most, whether it’s snapping photos of Hadrian’s Gate or just soaking in the lively street scene.

The Boat Cruise

While not originally on the itinerary, many reviews mention the boat cruise component, which offers a relaxing way to see the coastline and enjoy the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean. Some travelers have been fortunate enough to see dolphins during the ride, which adds a special touch. The boat ride is a lovely way to unwind after a busy morning of sightseeing.

The Lunch

A significant part of the tour is the included lunch, generally at a local restaurant. Reviewers mention the meal as delicious and hearty, providing a good break in the middle of the day. It’s a chance to recharge and enjoy some authentic Turkish cuisine.

The Shopping Stops and Criticisms

A recurring theme in reviews is the jewelry and souvenir shops. While these are part of the experience, some travelers feel they are more sales pitches than genuine sightseeing stops. One reviewer, Husain, was especially disappointed, citing a lack of explanation and long waits. If you’re not interested in shopping, be prepared for these stops, and perhaps set your expectations accordingly.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

The tour is conducted in a mini-bus, typically accommodating up to 35 travelers, which tends to keep things intimate enough to ask questions and stay engaged. The group size often hovers around six to ten people, which many reviewers liked because it felt personal and well-organized.

The cost of $31.86 includes all entrance fees to waterfalls, the guide’s expertise, and the lunch. Compared to pricier tours that cover fewer sights or charge extra for waterfalls, this makes it quite a good deal. However, some reviews suggest the tour can end earlier than planned or feel rushed, so managing your expectations is key.

The Guide

Many reviews praise the tour guides for their knowledge and friendliness, describing them as helpful and informative. One reviewer, Filipe, appreciated the tips on taking photos and bargaining, which adds value to the experience. On the flip side, a few had less positive experiences, citing guides who didn’t speak English well or seemed more focused on sales than storytelling.

The Timing

While the scheduled start at 9:00 am works for most, some travelers noted the tour can feel hurried, with stops shorter than advertised. The short duration at some locations was a common complaint, so if you’re someone who wants to linger over every sight, this might not be the ideal tour.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour for?

This tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want to hit key sights around Antalya without spending a fortune. If you enjoy a blend of natural beauty, history, and a bit of local culture, this is a solid option. The included waterfalls, Old Town exploration, and boat cruise offer a diverse day out that leaves you with plenty of memorable moments.

That said, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, less commercial stops, or a deeper dive into history and culture, you might find this tour a little rushed or sales-heavy. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind a busy schedule and enjoy guided outings with some free time for personal exploration.

The experience offers great value, especially given the reviews praising knowledgeable guides, stunning waterfalls, and the scenic boat ride. If you’re eager to see Antalya’s highlights at an affordable price, this tour is a worthwhile choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup provided?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start your day without extra arrangements.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 7 hours, starting around 9:00 am. Be prepared for a full but flexible day.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees for the waterfalls and other stops are included in the price, which adds to the overall value.

Can I explore Old Town at my own pace?
Yes, you’re given free time in Antalya’s Old Town, allowing you to walk around, take photos, or visit local cafes and shops.

What should I expect at the waterfalls?
The waterfalls are scenic and accessible, with the Lower Duden offering a close-up view and the Upper Duden providing more dramatic scenery.

Are there any shopping stops?
Yes, stops at jewelry and souvenir shops are part of the tour, which some travelers find useful, while others see them as sales pitches.

This tour offers a practical, affordable way to get a taste of Antalya’s natural beauty and historic charm. Whether you’re after eye-catching waterfalls, a stroll through Old Town, or a relaxing boat ride, it’s worth considering—just keep in mind the potential for busy schedules and commercial stops. If you’re looking for a straightforward, value-packed day out, this one might just fit the bill.