Antalya City Tour from Side & More: (opt. Boat Trip or Aquarium)

If you’re planning a trip to Turkey and looking for a way to see some of Antalya’s top sights without the hassle of organizing everything yourself, this Antalya City Tour from Side really could be a good fit. Offered by Laledi Tur, it combines convenience, diverse activities, and enough flexibility to suit different interests—all for around $29 a person. Most travelers book this about two weeks in advance, which suggests it’s quite popular, and for good reasons.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances guided exploration with free time—allowing you to soak in the sights at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of options like a boat trip or a visit to the aquarium adds a bit of variety, making sure there’s something for all. On the downside, the tour doesn’t include entry fees for the aquarium or boat, which means you’ll need to budget extra if you want to partake in those activities. It’s also a full day of activities, so if you’re after a more relaxed experience, this might feel a bit packed.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who want a broad overview of Antalya’s highlights without the stress of planning each stop. Whether you’re into history, scenic views, or marine life, there’s enough flexibility here to tailor your day. If you’re traveling with family or prefer a guided day that hits major sights, this could be just the right choice.

Key Points

• Flexible options: Choose between exploring the old town, a boat trip, or the aquarium—depending on your interests.
• Good value for money: At around $29, it covers multiple attractions and includes transport and pick-up/drop-off.
• Knowledgeable guides: Multiple reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and expertise.
• Full-day itinerary: With about 8 to 9 hours, it’s a comprehensive experience—perfect if you want to maximize your time.
• Extra costs: Entrance fees for the aquarium and boat trip are not included, so budget accordingly.
• Limited group size: With a maximum of 16 travelers, it’s a relatively intimate experience.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Antalya

After a scenic drive of about an hour from Side or Manavgat, you’ll arrive in the heart of Antalya’s charming Kaleiçi district. This old town is the core of the city’s charm, with narrow streets, colorful Ottoman houses, and lively cafes. When we read reviews, the guides seem to make this part especially enjoyable, sharing insights that deepen your appreciation of this historic area. One reviewer noted, “Yusuf, our guide, was knowledgeable and caring,” which hints at the quality of the guiding service.

Your Personalized Experience: Three Options

The tour offers variants depending on your interests:

• Explore the Past: Combine a visit to the Antalya Aquarium with a walk through Kaleiçi. The aquarium itself is home to over 5,000 creatures, including sharks, seahorses, and a spectacular tunnel aquarium. If you love marine life or simply enjoy fascinating exhibits, this will be a highlight. Plus, the aquarium visit is free with the tour, but the entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll need to pay on the spot if you choose this option.

• Scenic Views & History: Enjoy a boat trip along Antalya’s coastline, where you can take in views of city walls, cliffs, and hidden coves. The boat trip lasts about an hour and is a wonderful way to see the city from the water, with the breeze cooling your skin and plenty of photo opportunities. One reviewer mentioned, “Bathe in breathtaking views of the city walls and hidden beaches,” which sounds pretty enticing.

• Deep Dive into Kaleiçi: Spend about 4.5 hours wandering through the old town, exploring the markets, the harbor, and local shops. This is perfect for those who want to soak up local culture, haggle at the Grand Bazaar, or enjoy some Turkish cuisine at a traditional eatery.

The Waterfall Experience

Midday or late afternoon, the tour takes you to the Lower Duden Waterfalls. With a 40-meter cascade into turquoise waters, it’s a dramatic scene perfect for photos and relaxing moments. Visitors often mention the serenity and natural beauty here, with some taking boat rides underneath or just enjoying the overlook. It’s a chance to briefly escape the city and connect with nature—an underrated stop, in our opinion.

Additional Tips

• The tour includes pickup and drop-off, making logistics smoother.
• It’s a full day, so wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for some walking.
• Lunch isn’t included, so plan to grab a bite during your free time—local restaurants near Kaleiçi are a good bet.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One traveler raved, “Thanks to our guide Yusuf, even the cancellation of the cable car, due to bad weather, matters,” emphasizing how good guides can turn a potentially disappointing day into a memorable one. Another mentioned, “We had such a great time visiting Antalya,” highlighting the overall positive experience.

The guides seem to make a big difference—knowledgeable and caring guides are consistently praised. That’s reassuring if you’re looking for an experience that’s both relaxed and informative.

The Practical Side: What’s Included & What’s Not

For around $29, you get insurance, air-conditioned transportation, pick-up and drop-off, and a tour guide speaking English and German. However, entrance fees for the aquarium and boat aren’t included, so you should budget roughly an extra $10-$35 depending on what activities you choose.

Lunch isn’t provided, but there are plenty of cafes and restaurants near Kaleiçi, so timing your free hours for a meal isn’t a problem. The tour operates with a small group cap of 16 travelers, which helps keep things personal and manageable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys exploring at a comfortable pace, appreciates local guides with good knowledge, and wants to see the highlights without too much planning, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good if you’re into history, scenic boat rides, or marine life. It might not suit those who prefer a very relaxed day—since it’s a full itinerary—or travelers expecting all activities included in the price.

For families or those traveling with children, the aquarium option could be particularly appealing, but keep in mind the day might be long, and some attractions like boat trips require a bit of stamina. Always consider your own pace and interests when choosing your activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
While the tour involves walking around Kaleiçi and some boat time, it’s generally manageable for most travelers. However, it’s best to check with the provider if mobility is a concern, especially for the boat or aquarium visits.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving you a full day of sightseeing and activities.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the aquarium and boat trip fees are extra. You’ll need to pay these on-site if you want to join those parts of the experience.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 14 days in advance, which helps secure your spot. The tour departs at 8:30 am, so early booking is recommended, especially in peak seasons.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there are plenty of options during your free time, especially around Kaleiçi.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can plan without much worry.

What language are the guides speaking?
Guides speak both English and German, making it accessible for many travelers.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 16 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Are there options for customizing the tour?
The tour offers different activity options (aquarium, boat trip, or just exploring Kaleiçi), so you can tailor your day based on your interests.

To sum it up, the Antalya City Tour from Side & More offers a practical, well-rounded way to see the city’s highlights without the stress of organizing multiple visits independently. With knowledgeable guides, scenic options, and enough free time to explore or relax, it’s a solid choice for curious travelers wanting a taste of Antalya’s best. Just remember to budget extra for some attractions, and consider your pace to make the most of this full-day adventure.

Whether you’re into history, scenic views, or marine life, this tour can serve as an excellent introduction to Antalya’s vibrant character—especially if you prefer guided outings that don’t sacrifice flexibility. It’s a good pick for those who value comfort, insight, and efficient sightseeing all in one package.