Shared Alanya City Tour from Side

If you’re considering a day trip to Alanya while staying in Side, this tour might catch your eye. It offers a good mix of sightseeing, activities, and free time — all for under $20. While it’s not perfect, it’s a solid option for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of this vibrant Turkish town without breaking the bank.

What we like about this tour is its variety of stops — from a scenic boat ride and historic castle to exploring caves and waterfalls. Plus, the price makes it accessible for many, and the pickup service adds convenience. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that some experiences, like the Damlatas Cave visit, aren’t included in the ticket price, which can be a bit confusing if you’re expecting everything to be covered.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a full-day itinerary packed with different activities and don’t mind a bit of a rush. If you like having a guide to give you context and enjoy exploring multiple sites in one day, this could be a good fit. However, if you’re looking for a leisurely experience focused solely on one or two highlights, you might want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes this tour accessible for budget travelers.
• Includes a boat trip around Alanya Beach, providing scenic views and caves.
• Visit to Alanya Castle offers a taste of history and photo opportunities.
• Time at Dim Waterfall allows for swimming and relaxation in nature.
• Free time in the city center gives you the chance to explore at your own pace.
• Limited inclusions mean some attractions, like Damlatas Cave, cost extra.

What the Tour Offers

This shared tour from Side promises a full day of sightseeing, combining natural beauty with historical landmarks. Starting at 8:30 am, you’ll be picked up at your hotel and driven comfortably in an air-conditioned bus. The tour lasts about nine hours, giving you a nice chunk of the day to experience Alanya without feeling overwhelmed.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day kicks off with a short drive to Alanya, where the first highlight is a boat trip around Alanya Beach. This hour-long cruise is a highlight for many, as you’ll glide past several caves carved into the coastline. These caves are often a crowd favorite because of their intriguing formations and the chance to see Alanya from a different perspective.

We loved the way the boat tour sets the tone for the day — relaxing but active, with plenty of photo ops. It’s a great way to get a feel for the coastline and enjoy some fresh air before heading inland.

Next, you’ll visit the Alanya Castle, an ancient fortress perched above the city. From the walls, you’ll get panoramic views of the town and sea. It’s a solid historical stop, perfect for those who enjoy exploring old structures and snapping some souvenir photos. While the entrance fee isn’t included, it’s a scenic spot worth visiting.

Then, the tour takes you to the Dim Waterfall, a natural spot ideal for cooling off and savoring a delicious lunch. The waterfall area usually takes around two hours, providing time for swimming in the clear waters and enjoying some rest amid nature. We heard from other travelers that this part of the day is especially relaxing and a good break from busier sightseeing spots.

Exploring Alanya in Your Free Time

After lunch, you’ll get 2-3 hours of free time in Alanya city center. This is a real advantage because it allows you to wander, shop for souvenirs, or just soak in the local atmosphere. It’s a chance to visit cafes, browse markets, or explore small alleyways at your own pace.

Visiting Damlatas Cave and Banana Garden

Finally, the tour includes a visit to Damlatas Cave, a notable natural wonder, and the Banana Garden, where you can learn about tropical fruit cultivation. Be aware that entrance tickets to Damlatas Cave are not included, so you’ll need to pay on the spot if you want to go inside. Certain reviews mention that some travelers found the tour confusing regarding what was included, so it’s worth clarifying with your guide.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned bus, which helps keep you comfortable throughout the long day. The group size is capped at 45 travelers, meaning it’s not too crowded, and you’ll have a chance to interact with the guide and fellow travelers.

The pickup service is a big plus, especially if you’re staying in Side or nearby. Since the tour starts early at 8:30 am, you’ll want to be ready for a full day of exploring.

The Guide and Overall Experience

Reviews highlight that the professional guide is a key part of the positive experience. Many travelers appreciated the guide’s patience and friendly attitude, which enhances the trip considerably. The guide’s language options include English, German, and Russian, so check if your preferred language is covered.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One traveler felt the tour was misleading because of discrepancies between what’s advertised and what’s actually included, especially regarding the cave entrance and lunch. It’s a reminder that some things might be extra costs or not part of the standard package.

The Value of the Tour

At just under $20 per person, this tour offers a lot of variety for the price. The boat, castle, waterfall, and free time in the city provide a well-rounded experience, especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and transportation.

That said, some attractions like Damlatas Cave require additional tickets, which can add to your costs. It’s worth budgeting a few extra lira if you’re interested in exploring more independently.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for budget travelers who want to see multiple highlights of Alanya in one day without fuss. It’s also good for those who enjoy a mix of natural scenery, history, and free time to explore on their own. If you prefer a relaxed pace or want to concentrate solely on one or two sites, this might feel a bit rushed.

Travelers interested in photo opportunities will appreciate the panoramic views from the castle and the boat tour. Families, couples, or solo adventurers who enjoy a full-day plan with guided commentary will find this a reasonable way to maximize their time.

Final Thoughts

This shared Alanya City Tour from Side offers a practical way to experience the highlights of Alanya at a budget-friendly price. The mix of activities—from boat trips and waterfalls to historical sites—means you’ll leave with a good sense of what this colorful Turkish town has to offer.

While it isn’t a luxurious or deeply personalized experience, the convenience, affordability, and variety make it a worthwhile option for many travelers. Just remember, some attractions aren’t included in the price, so having a little extra cash for extras can enhance your day. The tour is best suited for those happy to be on the move, enjoy guided insights, and want to see a diverse slice of Alanya in a single day.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll be driven comfortably in an air-conditioned bus with pickup from your accommodation.

What is the tour start time?
The tour begins at 8:30 am, so plan to be ready for pickup early in the morning.

Are entrance fees included?
No, certain attractions like Damlatas Cave require an additional ticket. The tour price covers the main activities, but extras are at your expense.

How long is the free time in Alanya city center?
You’ll have approximately 2 to 3 hours to explore on your own after the waterfall and lunch.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, it can work for families with older children who enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear for the waterfall, some cash for extras, sun protection, and comfortable shoes for walking.

If you’re after a day of varied sights, natural beauty, and historical interest, this tour could be a practical and enjoyable choice. Just keep expectations aligned with what’s included and be prepared for a full, busy day.