Alanya City Tour from city of Side Whit Lunch

Exploring Alanya from Side: A Balanced Look at the City Tour with Lunch

If you’re staying in Side and considering a day trip to Alanya, this Alanya City Tour from Side with Lunch could be a solid way to see some of the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. We haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, but based on reviews and the itinerary, it offers a mix of sightseeing, cultural stops, and relaxing moments, making it appealing for those who want a full day out.

What we like about this tour is how it combines stunning views of Alanya’s coastline with a delicious lunch in nature, plus a chance to explore the local market. On the flip side, it’s a fairly packed schedule, which might feel rushed if you’re someone who loves lingering at each spot. Overall, it seems best suited for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one experience that covers the city’s main sights, especially if you’re curious about comparing Side and Alanya.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary combining sightseeing, a boat trip, and cultural experiences
• Includes a scenic boat tour along Alanya’s coastline for photos and relaxation
• Delicious Turkish-style lunch at Dimcay River with grilled options and fresh ingredients
• Two hours of free time in Alanya’s lively bazaar and town center
• Natural highlight with a visit to Dripstone Cave (Damlata Cave)
• Comfortable transportation from Side in air-conditioned vehicles
• Language options include English, German, and Turkish guides
• Duration of around 8 hours — a full but manageable day out

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed as a full-day adventure with a bit of everything. Starting with hotel pickups in Side, you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for about 1 hour and 30 minutes towards Alanya. The journey itself sets the scene for a day immersed in scenic views and anticipation of what’s ahead.

Once at Alanya Harbor, you’ll board a charming boat waiting to take you on a 1-hour cruise along the coast. Here, you’ll get the chance to see iconic sights like Alanya Castle, the Shipyards, and the bustling harbor from the water—a perspective that really amplifies the beauty of the city. The boat trip provides plenty of Photo Ops, so keep your camera handy.

After the boat, your guides will take you to Dim River for a well-earned lunch. The setting is relaxing, with seating under pergolas amid nature. The menu features grilled chicken, trout, kebab, pasta, and fresh salads, offering a taste of authentic Turkish flavors. Many reviews highlight the tasty, well-prepared food, making this a highlight for food lovers.

Post-lunch, you’ll head into Alanya’s vibrant town center for around 2 hours of free time. This is your chance to browse the local bazaar—where prices are said to be affordable—and to soak up the lively atmosphere in cafes or bars. If shopping’s your thing, you’ll appreciate the chance to pick up souvenirs or simply enjoy people-watching.

Later, you’ll visit Damlata Cave (Dripstone Cave), a natural site famed for its stalactites and supposed health benefits. It’s a short stop but one that adds some natural wonder to your day.

The trip wraps up with a return journey to Side, arriving around 5:30 pm, just in time for a relaxing evening after a busy day.

The Pros of This Tour

Guided Experience – The guides are described as knowledgeable, which makes a big difference in making the day smooth and informative. Having someone explain the history and significance of sights like Alanya Castle enhances the experience.

Beautiful Views & Natural Sites – The boat trip along the coast offers some of the best scenery you could wish for. From the water, you’ll see Alanya’s striking castle and shipyards, with plenty of opportunities for photos.

Delicious Food & Relaxing Lunch – Lunch at Dimcay River is a highlight for many. The setting in nature, combined with good Turkish cuisine, makes it more than just a meal—it’s part of the experience.

Flexibility & Free Time – The two hours at the bazaar give you some freedom to explore at your own pace, shop, or relax with a drink. It’s a good balance to the more structured parts of the day.

The Cons or Considerations

Rushed Schedule – With a packed itinerary, you might find yourself rushing through some stops or wishing for more time at certain sites. The tour is about 8 hours total, and with so many highlights, it can feel a bit full.

Weather Dependency – The boat trip is weather-dependent. One review mentions it was canceled due to weather, which can affect the day’s flow and enjoyment.

Cost-Value Balance – While the tour covers a lot, some travelers might wonder if the price justifies the quick stops and the included lunch. For those looking for in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit surface-level.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a rundown of Alanya with a mix of scenic views, short cultural stops, and a good meal, this tour suits those who want a guided day without the hassle of planning. It’s especially good for first-time visitors or those curious about comparing Side and Alanya’s beauty.

Travelers who appreciate a balanced schedule and don’t mind a busy day will get plenty of value from the highlights. However, if you prefer slow-paced sightseeing or want to spend more time exploring individual sites, you might find this tour a bit tight.

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In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup & Transport
Starting from Side, the comfort of air-conditioned transport makes the longish drive more enjoyable. The group size isn’t specified but is likely moderate, providing a friendly yet manageable atmosphere.

Alanya Harbour & Boat Tour
Board a charming boat for the 1-hour coastline cruise. This trip is probably the most memorable part for many, offering panoramic views of Alanya Castle and shipyards. It’s a chance to see the city from a different angle, perfect for photographers wanting postcard-worthy shots.

Lunch at Dimcay River
After the boat, you’ll settle into a lovely setting with Turkish-style pergolas. The menu’s good variety — grilled chicken, trout, kebab, pasta, and salads — caters to different tastes. The food is generally appreciated for its quality and authenticity, making this a much-loved part of the tour.

Free Time & Market Visit
Post-lunch, you’ll have two hours to explore Alanya’s bazaar and town center. This is the ideal window for shopping, cafes, or just soaking in the local vibe. Many reviews mention how affordable the shopping can be, which adds to the appeal.

Dripstone Cave Visit
A brief stop at Damlata Cave offers a natural contrast to the rest of the day. While not a lengthy visit, it’s a fascinating natural formation that adds variety to the tour.

Return to Side
You’ll head back in the late afternoon, with an estimated arrival around 5:30 pm, leaving you time to unwind before evening.

Authentic Traveler Opinions

Swen from Germany describes the trip as “Rundum gelungener Ausflug mit netten Personal und schönen Zielen,” translating to a well-rounded trip with friendly staff and beautiful sights. Viola also shared that despite the boat trip being canceled due to weather, she still found the day very enjoyable—highlighting that sometimes flexibility is key.

These insights reinforce that while weather can be a factor, the overall experience tends to be positive, especially thanks to the guides and the variety of stops.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for the boat and outdoor stops.
• Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the bazaar or walk around Alanya Castle.
• Be prepared for a full day; pack water and some snacks if you like, though drinks are often available.
• Check the weather forecast ahead of time, especially if you’re keen on the boat trip.
• Arrive at your pickup point promptly; hotel pickups are included, but timing can vary.

Final Thoughts

This Alanya City Tour from Side with Lunch presents a practical way to experience some of Alanya’s most iconic sights without the stress of organizing transport or guides yourself. It’s a good fit for those who want a guided, all-inclusive day with a mix of cultural, natural, and leisure activities.

While the schedule is somewhat full, many travelers appreciate the variety, the quality of the included lunch, and the scenic boat trip. If you’re looking for a way to compare Side and Alanya, or simply want a well-rounded day trip, this tour offers decent value for its price.

To sum it up, it’s best suited for first-time visitors, those with a curiosity for natural caves and coastal views, or anyone wanting to tick off Alanya’s highlights in a hassle-free way. If you prefer a slow pace or in-depth exploration of fewer sites, you might want to consider other options. But for an engaging, scenic, and tasty day out, this tour hits many of the right notes.

FAQ

Is the boat trip always included?
The boat trip is scheduled as part of the itinerary. However, one review mentions it was canceled due to weather, so it’s weather-dependent.

How long is the drive from Side to Alanya?
The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable trip for a full day out.

What kind of food is served at lunch?
Lunch includes Turkish-style grilled chicken, trout, kebab, pasta, and salads, served in a scenic setting on Dim River.

How much free time do we get in Alanya?
You will have approximately 2 hours to explore the bazaar and town center at your leisure.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not specifically targeted at families, the stops and natural sites like Damlata Cave could appeal to older children. Always check with the provider for specific family considerations.

What are the language options for guides?
Guides speak English, German, and Turkish, so language shouldn’t be a barrier for most travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour mentions wheelchair accessibility, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

If you’re aiming for a day filled with both scenic beauty and cultural highlights, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. Just keep in mind the busy schedule and weather considerations, and you’ll likely find it a worthwhile addition to your Turkish holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: