Alanya Sightseeing Tour from Side with Boat Trip and Lunch

Traveling through Turkey’s southern coast often means balancing the historic with the scenic, and this Alanya Sightseeing Tour from Side promises an engaging mix of both. If you’re craving a full-day experience that takes in iconic sights, offers a relaxing boat cruise, and features a peaceful riverside lunch, this tour might just fit the bill.

What we genuinely appreciate about this experience is how it combines different aspects of Alanya’s allure — from its colorful history to its stunning coastline. Plus, with hotel pickup and a knowledgeable guide, it makes navigating this often bustling tourist hotspot manageable and enjoyable. On the flip side, a few reviews hint that some parts of the tour might not fully meet expectations, especially if you’re hoping for an in-depth exploration of every site.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded, value-packed day without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of sightseeing, scenic boat rides, and a laid-back lunch, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major sights like the Red Tower, Damlatas Cave, and Alanya Castle
• One-hour boat cruise offering scenic views along the coast
• Relaxing lunch at Dimcay River, perfect for a peaceful break
• Guided experience with a professional guide and hotel pickup/drop-off
• Cost-effective at around $40 per person, including lunch and boat trip
• Potential for longer stays at some stops based on reviews, so consider your pace

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Easy Pickup and Early Start

The tour kicks off bright and early at 8:30am, with hotel pickup arranged for most travelers. This convenience means you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or finding meeting points — just wake up refreshed and ready to explore. Tour groups are kept small, with a maximum of 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Exploring Alanya’s Iconic Sights

First up, you visit the Red Tower, a striking structure that’s easy to spot and offers a quick, free photo op. Its history and architecture make it a worthwhile stop, even if you only have 15 minutes. The views from here are often praised, and many find it a perfect introduction to Alanya’s rich history.

Next, the Shipyard is visited, giving a glimpse into the maritime past of this lively port city. Although not much detail is provided about the shipyard, it’s part of the scenic drive around the harbor area and adds context to the city’s seafaring importance.

Visiting Damlatas Cave

A highlight for many is the Damlatas Cave, a natural wonder that promises cool, dramatic interior formations. However, note that admission isn’t included in the tour price, so if you decide to enter, there’s an extra fee. Some travelers, like one reviewer, felt the cave was worth the visit, while others might prefer a more inclusive experience. Expect about 20 minutes here — enough to explore without feeling rushed.

The Castle and the Beach

The tour then continues to Alanya Castle, where you’ll get a view of the fortress walls and the city below. According to reviews, you only get as far as a free-access viewpoint rather than the castle interior itself, which some found a bit of a letdown. Still, the panoramic views of the coastline are worth it, and it’s a great spot for photos.

Following that, Kleopatra Beach provides an opportunity for some leisure time. The fine sands and clear waters are ideal for stretching your legs or dipping your toes in, although how much time you’ll have depends on the day’s schedule.

Relaxation and Lunch at Dimcay River

Perhaps the most appreciated part of the tour is the stop at Dimcay River. Here, you’re treated to a two-hour riverside lunch at a scenic spot, as reviewers highlight. The setting is peaceful, and many say this break is necessary after a morning of sightseeing. The meal included is local and relaxed, perfect for recharging.

One traveler mentioned that longer time at this stop would have been better, suggesting it’s a highlight worth lingering over. The river’s atmosphere offers a chance for photos, relaxing, or just unwinding before heading back into the city.

The Boat Trip

A one-hour boat cruise along Alanya’s coast is included, and it’s often considered a major highlight. The views of the coastline, with castles, beaches, and the Red Tower from the water, provide a perspective you can’t get from land. It’s a laid-back way to see the city from a different angle, and most travelers enjoy the fresh sea breeze.

Final Stops and Departure

The tour wraps up at the Alanya Harbor, giving you a last glance at the lively port area before heading back to Side. The entire experience lasts about nine hours, so expect a full day of activity but with plenty of opportunities for relaxation.

What Do Travelers Say?

From reviews, it’s clear that the guide makes a difference. One reviewer praised their guide, Ümet, for making the trip feel special. Others appreciated the scenic boat ride and the overall value — especially considering the included lunch and guided nature of the tour.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some felt the castle visit was limited or that certain stops like the banana plantation were pointless. A German-speaking traveler noted that the lack of English explanations made it less enjoyable for non-German speakers. So, if language is a concern, it’s good to check if a multilingual guide is available.

Price and Value

At just over $40 per person, this tour offers a lot — multiple sights, a boat cruise, and a riverside lunch. Considering that some sites have extra entrance fees, like Damlatas Cave, the overall package remains quite reasonable. Keep in mind that some reviews suggest the tour could benefit from longer stops or more in-depth visits, but as a quick, guided overview, it’s a good deal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced introduction to Alanya without the stress of organizing everything themselves. It’s suited for those with a general interest in history, scenic views, and coastal landscapes. If you’re looking for a relaxed day with a mix of sightseeing and leisure, this tour ticks those boxes.

However, if you’re seeking immersive explorations or detailed historical insights, you might find it a bit superficial. Also, if you prefer to spend more time inside each site or want a more flexible schedule, this may not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Alanya Sightseeing Tour from Side with Boat Trip and Lunch offers a practical way to see some of the most scenic and historic sights of Alanya in one day. Most travelers seem to come away satisfied, especially with the guide and the boat cruise. The included lunch at Dimcay River adds a relaxing element, making the day feel well-rounded.

While it’s not perfect — some sites are visited briefly, and a few reviews mention limited access or language barriers — the tour delivers good value and a memorable experience for those wanting a hassle-free day of exploration. If you’re after a manageable, guided day that combines culture, scenery, and leisure, give this tour a serious thought.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most travelers will be picked up from their hotel, making the start of the day stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including sightseeing, boat cruise, and lunch.

What sights are visited during the tour?
Stops include the Red Tower, Shipyard, Damlatas Cave (entry not included), Alanya Castle, Kleopatra Beach, and Dimcay River for lunch.

Is the boat trip free?
Yes, the 1-hour boat cruise is included in the tour package.

Do I have to pay extra for Damlatas Cave?
Yes, admission to Damlatas Cave is not included in the tour price.

Can I bring children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the tour’s pace and stops suit most travelers, but consider your children’s comfort with walking and outdoor activities.

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s about $40.12 per person, which covers most activities, lunch, and guide services.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you will need to pay for entrance fees to Damlatas Cave if you decide to visit.

How do I book this tour?
Most bookings are made 15 days in advance via Viator or similar platforms. You’ll receive confirmation and details after booking.

Is the tour group large?
No, it’s limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personalized.

If you’re planning a trip to Side and want to add a scenic, varied day centered around Alanya’s highlights, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for some brief visits and a busy schedule, but with plenty of scenic and cultural rewards.