Antalya/Kemer: Old City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car & Boat Ride

Planning a trip to Antalya and trying to figure out how to make the most of your time? This private city tour offers a well-rounded experience of the city’s highlights, blending history, nature, and local culture. It’s designed for those who want a flexible, personalized day without the hassle of big group tours, thanks to private guides and transfers.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines iconic attractions like the Duden Waterfalls with free time to explore Kaleici, Antalya’s historic old town. Plus, the chance to enjoy a boat ride adds a relaxing touch to the day. The optional Olympos Cable Car makes this tour even more special, offering sweeping views if you select that add-on.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the tour’s length—around 10 hours—which can be a lot if you’re not used to long days on the go. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full, varied itinerary and want to see a lot without sacrificing comfort. If you’re a history buff or nature lover, this tour could be just right for you.

This experience seems perfect for those who want an efficient way to see Antalya’s top sights while enjoying the flexibility of a private guide. It’s a budget-friendly option that makes big attractions accessible without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Key Points

• Flexible, Private Experience: Customizable pace with private guide and transportation.
• Diverse Sights: Waterfalls, old town, waterfalls, cable car (if chosen), and boat ride.
• Good Value: At $20, it offers many highlights, plus included lunch and boat trip.
• Time to Explore: Plenty of free time at key locations, especially Kaleici.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, hassle-free transfers.
• Long Day: Expect around 10 hours, so pack comfortable shoes and water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Out: Convenience and Personalization

This tour kicks off with hotel pickup at one of three locations—Antalya, Kemer, or Belek—making it easy to start your day without fuss. You’re transported comfortably in a private coach, which means no dealing with crowded group buses or confusing schedules. Having a private guide means you get tailored insights, and you can ask questions as you go, making it more engaging than typical group excursions.

Waterfalls & Nature Stops

The stops at Lower Düden Waterfalls and Duden Waterfalls are notable highlights. The first offers a chance for some quick photos and a breather, while the latter provides a chance to get closer to the cascading waters and enjoy a visit that’s both relaxing and photogenic. The reviews confirm these are delightful. One reviewer called the Duden Waterfalls tour “absolutely delightful,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed the experience.

The fact that the tour includes both waterfalls in one day is a real bonus — you get to see two different sides of Antalya’s natural beauty without needing to plan separate trips. It’s a good value for those who appreciate scenic views and a peaceful escape from urban life.

Exploring Kaleici: The Old Town

Next, you’ll spend about two hours in Kaleici, Antalya’s historic old town. This area is a maze of narrow streets, charming shops, and old Ottoman architecture. It’s perfect for wandering independently, shopping for souvenirs, or just soaking in the atmosphere over a cup of Turkish tea or coffee.

There’s a lot of positive feedback about Kaleici, with visitors appreciating the free time to explore on their own. One reviewer mentioned that the guide provides “important information” before letting you “wonder around to have your own time.” This balance of guidance and freedom is often what makes private tours stand out.

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Shopping and Local Flavor

Muratpaa is the designated stop for shopping, with about 30 minutes to browse local goods. This is usually a good chance to pick up unique souvenirs or enjoy some light haggle with shop owners. The review quotes a guide taking guests to a leather shop, where visitors can see a private catwalk and get discounts — a fun, behind-the-scenes look at local craftsmanship.

Lunch & Rest

A one-hour stop at Konyaaltı Beach for lunch provides a break from sightseeing. This is an ideal time to enjoy a meal with a view, or simply relax by the sea. The tour’s inclusion of a sit-down meal at no extra cost adds value, especially if you’re looking to get a taste of local cuisine without extra planning.

The Olympos Cable Car & Boat Ride

One of the optional highlights is the Olympos Cable Car, available on selected days (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays). This experience offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape — a treat for photography lovers and those seeking a bit of adventure. If you choose this add-on, it elevates the trip from sightseeing to a memorable experience.

The boat ride is included in the package, giving you a relaxing way to see the coastline, perhaps spotting some local life along the water or just enjoying the gentle sea breeze.

Final Stops & Return

The day winds down with more sightseeing, then a coach ride back to your starting point, giving you plenty of time to reflect on your day. Drop-off is available at Belek, Antalya, or Kemer, so you can easily return to your hotel or next destination.

What Travelers Say: Honest Feedback

Reviews paint a picture of satisfied travelers who appreciate the guide’s knowledge and the variety of stops. One reviewer called their guide “an exceptional guide who is both educational and patient,” highlighting the importance of a knowledgeable guide in making the experience richer. Others mentioned how the guide offered “excellent explanations” and even took them to a leather shop with a private catwalk and discounts, adding a touch of luxury to the shopping experience.

The waterfalls are particularly praised, with one describing their visit as “absolutely delightful,” which matches our impression of these scenic spots. The flexibility to explore Kaleici at your own pace seems to resonate well with visitors, allowing personal discovery and culture.

Cons to Consider

While the long duration suits most, it might be tiring for some, especially with a packed schedule. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and you’ll need to be prepared for a full day on your feet. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or shorter tours, this might feel a bit intense.

The Practical Details & What to Bring

The tour lasts about 10 hours, so comfortable shoes are essential. Sunscreen, a hat, and water are a must, especially if you’re visiting on a warm day. Cameras will come in handy, especially at waterfalls and from the cable car if you choose that option.

The price point of $20 per person offers great value considering the included activities — boat ride, lunch, and guide — plus the flexibility of private transfers. Personal expenses and drinks aren’t included, so bring some cash or cards for extra snacks or souvenirs.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want an efficient yet relaxed way to see key Antalya sights. It’s perfect if you enjoy a mix of nature, history, and local culture but prefer to do so with a personalized touch. The private guide makes it ideal for those who prefer a more tailored experience, and the price is reasonable considering the scope of activities.

If you’re visiting with kids or mobility is an issue, consider the long hours and walking involved. It’s not designed specifically for families with very young children or those with mobility challenges, but older kids who enjoy sightseeing might find it engaging.

Final Thoughts

This Old City Tour with Olympos Cable Car & Boat Ride offers a comprehensive snapshot of Antalya’s beauty and history without breaking the bank. The inclusion of waterfalls, a historic old town, a scenic cable car, and a relaxing boat ride creates a well-rounded day for curious travelers.

The experience’s success hinges on a knowledgeable guide who provides context and flexibility, tailoring the day to your pace. For anyone seeking a budget-friendly way to explore Antalya’s top sights while enjoying some authentic local flavor, this tour hits the right notes.

If you’re after a full day of varied sights, lively exploration, and scenic views, you’ll likely come away feeling you’ve made the most of your time in this vibrant Turkish city.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and exploring.

Can I choose to do the Olympos Cable Car?
Yes, it’s an optional add-on available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. You can select this when booking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended to enjoy the day fully.

Are meals included?
Yes, a one-hour lunch is included, giving you time to relax and enjoy local cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for older children who can handle a long day on their feet. The tour isn’t specifically tailored for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What languages are available on the tour?
The tour is conducted in English and Turkish, ensuring clear communication and insights.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Smoking isn’t allowed during the tour, and the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

This tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to soak up Antalya’s highlights with the convenience of private service and the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s a solid choice for travelers looking to balance guided insights with personal discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: