Antalya City Tours with old city,Waterfalls & Boat ride

If you’re planning a trip to Antalya and considering a tour that combines city sights with natural beauty, this Antalya City Tour with old city, waterfalls, and boat ride might catch your eye. It’s an experience that promises a bit of everything—scenic waterfalls, historic streets, and a relaxing boat trip—all packed into roughly nine hours.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its affordable price point of about $17.20 per person, making it accessible for many travelers. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and transfer simplifies the day, especially if you’re not keen on navigating public transport or haggling with taxis. The guides seem to be a highlight, with many reviews praising their helpfulness and professionalism, which can make all the difference in a group outing.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have found the experience a bit longer than expected, mainly due to shopping stops or optional activities like the boat trip. Also, if you’re not a fan of shopping or long waits, you’ll want to pay attention to the itinerary details. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and natural scenery but don’t mind a busier schedule or a few commercial stops.

This tour offers good value for money and a chance to see some of Antalya’s most charming spots—perfect for first-timers or travelers on a budget who want to cover a lot in one day. Let’s break down what you can realistically expect from each part of this trip.

Key Points

• Cost-effective experience with many sights included
• Guides are often praised for their helpfulness and professionalism
• Waterfalls and scenic views are the highlights, especially the Upper Duden Falls
• Shopping stops are part of the itinerary, which might extend the day
• Boat trip and cable car add a relaxing and photogenic element
• Group size is limited to 40, offering a relatively intimate experience

Overview of the Tour

This tour is designed as an all-in-one introduction to Antalya, blending urban exploration with natural wonders. It’s suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves. The seven to nine-hour itinerary aims to give you a taste of the city’s history, natural beauty, and coastal charm, all while offering the convenience of pickup and transfers.

The tour starts early in the morning, around 9:00 am, and because it’s operated by Gref Travel, you can expect a professional setup with mobile tickets and a guided experience. The overall rating of 4.0 from 20 reviews indicates a generally positive reception, though some comments point out areas for improvement, primarily regarding shopping and scheduling.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Lower Duden Waterfalls

The day kicks off with a visit to the Lower Duden Waterfalls, a powerful display of nature where water plunges dramatically into the sea below. Here, you’ll see the waterfalls amid a river walk and a walking park, making it a good spot for photos and enjoying the fresh air. The admission ticket is included, so no extra costs, and most reviews consider this stop worth the visit, especially for its scenic landscape.

One reviewer noted that the Lower Duden Falls wasn’t as impressive as the Upper Duden, but still worth the visit. Some travelers appreciate the chance to see these waterfalls up close and take plenty of pictures, though a few mention the visit might be brief if the group chooses not to spend too much time shopping or exploring.

Kaleici Old Town

Next, the tour takes you into Kaleici, the historic heart of Antalya. You’ll have about 45 minutes to wander freely around the old city streets, seeing landmarks such as Nero Street, the Clock Tower, and Hadrian’s Gate. This is a highlight for many, as it offers a glimpse into Antalya’s past, with quaint shops, charming architecture, and lively cafés.

A notable point from reviews is that while the tour description doesn’t specify free time in Kaleici, guides typically allow some wandering while the rest of the group is on the boat trip. This flexibility is appreciated but also shows some inconsistency in how much free time you get.

Boat Ride in the Harbour

The 45-minute boat tour around Antalya’s harbor is a relaxing way to see the coastline and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Travelers often describe this as a calming, picturesque segment, especially appreciated after walking through the old town.

According to reviews, the boat trip is a highlight—”a nice chill in the beautiful harbour,” as one guest put it. It’s an opportunity to snap some good photos and unwind before heading to the waterfalls again.

Upper Duden Waterfalls

The Upper Duden Waterfalls are often cited as the real star of this tour. This area is more dramatic, featuring an antique mill, cave formations, and underground water sources. The scenery here is more rugged and lush, providing some stunning photo opportunities.

Multiple reviews mention the scenery at the Upper Duden as genuinely worth seeing, especially the waterfalls and the surrounding nature. One guest called it the highlight, noting that the guide described the site well and made the visit enjoyable.

Lunch and Shopping

A traditional Turkish lunch is included in the tour, typically served in a local restaurant. The quality varies, but most reviews agree it’s decent and satisfying after a busy morning.

Shopping seems to be a divisive point. The itinerary mentions a stop at a silver factory or jewelry shop, which some travelers found unnecessary or frustrating, especially if it extends the day or feels like a hard sell. One reviewer even called this stop “the purest rip-off,” though the tour providers clarify that shopping stops are included and optional. They also mention that you’re free to skip any shop if you prefer.

Additional Details

The tour is designed to be inclusive with hotel pickup and transfer, which makes logistics easier. The guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, helping visitors navigate the sites smoothly. The group size of up to 40 people keeps it manageable, but some reviews note that on busy days, seating and timing can be an issue—an argument for booking a private tour if you want more control.

What We Loved About the Experience

The main draw here is the combination of natural scenery and historical sights. The waterfalls, especially the Upper Duden, are genuinely striking and offer excellent photo opportunities. The guides are frequently described as friendly and helpful, making the experience smoother and more engaging.

The boat ride adds a relaxing dimension to the tour, giving you a break from walking and a chance to see Antalya from the water. The view from the cable car (if included in other similar tours) and the old town walk are also appreciated for their scenic and cultural value.

The cost is another advantage, providing access to multiple key sites in one affordable package, especially when you factor in the included lunch and entrance fees.

Considerations and Downsides

While many enjoy the tour, some points are worth noting. Timing can be tight, and visits to some sites might be cut short if the group spends too long shopping or waiting. For instance, one review mentions that the lower waterfall was less impressive, and skipping it could save some time.

Shopping stops are a common complaint, with some travelers feeling pressured or disappointed if the shopping isn’t their thing. The tour’s description does include shopping opportunities, but it’s worth noting these are limited to a few stops, and you’re free to decline.

A few travelers experienced bus overcrowding or delays, especially if they’re staying outside of Antalya, like in Kemer, which can affect start times and overall length.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Antalya who want a quick, affordable overview of the city’s highlights. It’s also suited for travelers on a budget who appreciate the convenience of organized sightseeing with some free time built in. If you enjoy natural waterfalls, harbor views, and historic streets, you’ll find plenty to like here.

However, if you prefer a more customized or private experience, especially avoiding shopping stops or long waits, this might not be the perfect fit. It’s also worth considering if long bus rides from places like Kemer** might impact your enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides solid value and a chance to see some of Antalya’s most engaging sights with the help of knowledgeable guides. The waterfalls, especially the Upper Duden, are genuinely mesmerizing, and the inclusion of a boat ride and lunch makes it a full, satisfying day.

While it isn’t perfect—some reviews highlight issues with timing, shopping, and crowding—it remains a reliable option for those looking to get the most out of their day without spending a fortune. If you’re after scenic views, historical sights, and a relaxed boat trip, this tour is likely to suit your needs well.

For travelers seeking a well-rounded introduction to Antalya on a budget, this tour hits most of the right marks. Just be prepared for a busy day, and consider whether shopping stops are a deal-breaker for your trip plans.

FAQs

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, it offers pickup from your hotel, which makes it easier to start your day without worrying about transportation.

Is the boat ride included in the price?
Yes, the 45-minute boat tour in the harbor is included in the ticket price.

What sites will I see in Kaleici?
You’ll have free time to explore the old city, including landmarks like Nero Street, the Clock Tower, and Hadrian’s Gate.

Are shopping stops mandatory?
No, you are free to decline shopping at the jewelry factory or any other shops. The itinerary mentions shopping as a possibility, but it’s optional.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 9 hours, starting around 9:00 am, which means your day will be quite full.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the sites are generally suitable for most travelers. Kids who enjoy waterfalls and boat rides will likely find it enjoyable, but keep in mind the long bus ride and busy schedule.

This Antalya tour strikes a good balance for those wanting to see natural beauty, historic streets, and enjoy some relaxing moments on the water—all at an affordable price. Just plan for a full day, and keep your expectations in check regarding shopping and scheduled stops.