Antalya: City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car, Boat & Lunch

If you’re considering a day to see the best of Antalya, this tour promises to hit many of the city’s top sights without breaking the bank. For just $15 per person, you get a full itinerary packed with natural beauty, historical landmarks, and a taste of local life. What makes this experience stand out is its comprehensive nature — from waterfalls and scenic views to a boat ride along the coast, all guided by a local who’s well-versed in the city’s stories.

We really appreciate the value here: an affordable price point that includes transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, plus options like a boat trip and cable car (though note that the cable car is often closed). The tour seems suited for those who like an active, varied day, and it’s flexible enough to cater to different interests. However, it’s worth knowing that some reviews mention inconsistencies, particularly with the cable car and shopping stops, so keep your expectations aligned.

One thing to consider is the pace. With so many stops packed into a single day, it’s a whirlwind experience—great if you want a snapshot of Antalya’s highlights, but perhaps less ideal if you prefer to linger longer at each site. Families with mobility concerns might want to be mindful of tricky steps at some waterfalls, and those expecting a guided, in-depth historical tour might find it a bit rushed or superficial. Still, if you’re after a lively overview with scenic views and good food, this could be a solid choice.

This tour suits travelers looking for a cost-effective, all-in-one day of sightseeing, especially if you’re curious about natural landscapes, historical sites, and coastal scenery. It’s perfect for those who enjoy active days, are happy to be on the move, and want a taste of Antalya’s best without a hefty price tag.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $15, this tour offers good value with many included features.
• Diverse Attractions: From waterfalls and old town sights to a boat cruise and mountain cable car (when available).
• Guided Experience: Led by an English-speaking local guide who provides context and stories along the way.
• Mixed Reviews on Experience: Some praise the guide, views, and food; others mention inconsistencies, especially with the cable car and shopping stops.
• Pace and Duration: The day is full and fast-paced, with limited free time at each stop.
• Family-Friendly? Suitable for most, but be aware of some tricky rocky steps at waterfalls and potential crowds.

What You’ll See and Do

Start at the Duden Waterfalls

Your day begins with a visit to Lower Duden Waterfalls, one of Antalya’s most stunning natural features. The waterfalls cascade into peaceful pools, making for beautiful photos and a calming start to your day. Many reviews mention how picturesque this spot is, and the included admission ensures you won’t need to pay extra.

After soaking in the scenery, you’ll enjoy a cable car ride up to Antalya’s cliffs. The views of the Mediterranean and cityscape from above are memorable, especially for nature lovers. However, keep in mind that the cable car isn’t always operational, so it’s worth double-checking if you’re eager for this experience.

Exploring the Upper Duden Waterfalls and Natural Caves

Next, you’ll visit Upper Duden Waterfalls, located just a short drive from the city center, amid lush greenery. Water plunges down high cliffs, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for photos. You’ll find caves and walking paths here, which add to the natural charm—an “Instagram-worthy” spot for sure.

Local Shopping Stop in Kundu

A quick stop at a local souvenir shop allows you to browse Turkish gifts and crafts. Some reviews flag this as a high-pressure sales environment, and the shop is not included in the main itinerary. It’s an optional break, but if you’re not interested in shopping, you can skip or keep it brief.

Lunch with a View at Konyaalti

Midday, you’ll pause for a local Turkish lunch near the water at a cozy restaurant. Many mention the quality of the food, with regional dishes served in a tranquil setting. It’s a good chance to recharge and enjoy the seaside ambiance. However, be prepared for some extra charges for drinks and extras, which some reviewers flagged as feeling like added costs.

Old Town and Coastline by Boat

The highlight for many is the one-hour boat cruise from Kaleici harbor along Antalya’s coastline. The views of the Mediterranean, plus landmarks like Karpuzkaldran Waterfall — where water falls 40 meters into the sea — make for fantastic photos. Some travelers note the boat ride is relaxing and enjoyable, although others mention that it can feel a little rushed or uneventful if you’re expecting a more narrated experience.

Visiting Kaleici Marina and Historic Streets

After the boat trip, you’ll have some free time to explore Kaleici’s charming streets, lined with shops, cafes, and historic ruins. It’s a lively spot to soak in local atmosphere, and many reviews appreciate the relaxed vibe here.

Olympos Teleferik Mountain Cable Car

The tour concludes with a ride on the Olympos Teleferik cable car to Mount Olympos (Tahtal), reaching over 2,300 meters above sea level. The panoramic views of the coastline, forests, and mountains are often described as breathtaking. You can relax with a coffee or tea at the summit café, taking in the scenery at your leisure. Keep in mind that the cable car ticket is not included in the tour price, and it’s often closed during certain times, so check ahead.

Final Relaxation in Antalya

Back in the city, your guide will share stories and insights about Antalya’s history and culture. The tour wraps up after about 7 to 8 hours, with hotel drop-off, making logistics hassle-free.

Real Traveler Experiences

Many reviewers highlight the expertise of the guides, especially praising those like Gozde and Ado, who provide clear explanations and helpful tips to avoid scams and tricky sales tactics. Several mention the good value for money, with the included lunch and boat trip being particular highlights.

Conversely, some note disappointments, especially around the jewelry factory stop, which felt pushy and unnecessary for those not interested in shopping. Others mention that the cable car is often closed, which could be a letdown for those expecting this feature. A few travelers found the schedule too tight, with limited free time to explore each site properly, especially at the waterfalls and old town.

The consensus is that this tour offers a balanced snapshot of Antalya—beautiful scenery, some cultural insights, and fun moments—and it’s a solid choice if you’re after a budget-friendly, varied day out.

Final Thoughts: Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys a busy, active day, ticking off several highlights with a friendly guide, this trip could be a good fit. The natural beauty of the waterfalls paired with the coastal views makes for memorable moments, especially if you’re keen on photography. The included lunch and boat cruise are nice touches that add to the experience without extra costs.

However, if you’re after a deep dive into Antalya’s history or prefer a more leisurely pace, you might find this tour a bit too rushed. The stops are quick, and some sites, like the jewelry shop and boat harbor, feel more like brief encounters than immersive experiences. Always double-check the operational status of the cable car if that’s a must-do for you.

For families, it’s generally suitable, but be aware of some tricky steps and the physical demands of the waterfalls. It’s best if everyone is prepared for a day with some walking, steps, and moments of busy sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, though some stops like the waterfalls involve stairs and uneven terrain, so keep that in mind if traveling with very young children or mobility issues.

What’s included in the tour?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees to waterfalls, lunch, a boat trip, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. The cable car and drinks are optional extras.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it a full day of sightseeing, with most travelers returning around late afternoon.

Can I skip the jewelry shop or other stops?
Yes, you can choose not to participate in optional shopping stops, though some reviews suggest these feel more like quick visits than genuine sightseeing.

Is the cable car ride guaranteed?
Not always. Many reviews mention it being closed during certain periods or days, so check availability before booking.

Are the waterfalls worth visiting?
Absolutely. Many travelers find the waterfalls beautiful and relaxing, though navigating some tricky steps might be challenging for some.

What about the boat cruise?
Most reviews praise the boat trip as a highlight, offering excellent views of the coastline and the impressive Karpuzkaldran Waterfall.

Is the lunch good value?
Yes, many reviewers mention the lunch as surprisingly good, with regional dishes and a peaceful seaside setting, though additional drinks may incur extra costs.

Final Word

This Antalya tour offers a practical, reasonably priced way to see many of the city’s best-known sights in one day. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and enjoy a mix of natural beauty, light history, and coastal scenery. While some aspects can be hit or miss — such as the cable car operation or the shopping stops — many find the overall experience enjoyable and worth the price.

If you’re after a lively, diverse day that covers the highlights without a hefty expense, this tour could be just what you need for a memorable visit to Antalya.