Antalya: Old City Tour w/Boat Trip, Cable Car & Waterfalls

Planning a day out in Antalya and wondering if a guided tour can give you a good taste of what the city has to offer? We’ve looked into one popular option — a full-day experience that promises waterfalls, historic streets, a boat cruise, and even a cable car ride. It’s a well-rated trip with plenty of satisfied travelers, but like anything, it’s worth knowing what you’re getting into before you book.

What really catches our eye about this tour is its variety — it mixes natural beauty with cultural sights and relaxing moments, so you don’t feel like you’re rushing from one place to another. Plus, the inclusion of a scenic boat trip and the chance to ride the Olympos Cable Car add some memorable experiences. On the flip side, some reviewers mention that the schedule can be a bit tight, especially with larger groups, and the itinerary might change depending on crowd levels.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out that covers highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re into scenic views, historical spots, and a bit of adventure (like the cable car ride), it could be a great fit. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore at your own speed, it’s worth considering the pros and cons.

Key Points

• Diverse Experience: Combines waterfalls, Old Town, boat trip, and cable car rides for a well-rounded day.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Many reviews praise the guides for being friendly, informative, and engaging.
• Value for Money: Despite a full day, travelers often find the price reasonable given the variety of sights.
• Timing & Group Size: Some mention that larger groups or busy days make the schedule feel rushed.
• Natural & Cultural Highlights: You’ll see stunning waterfalls and explore historic streets packed with character.
• Food & Comfort: Lunch is included, offering a chance to enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine, and transportation is generally smooth.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, usually in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. From there, the guide begins sharing insights into Antalya’s history and culture, making your journey informative from the start. The first stop is the Lower Düden Waterfalls — a show-stopping natural spectacle where water plunges over 40 meters into the sea, creating a dramatic scene perfect for photos. Many travelers mention how spectacular this spot is, with one review calling it “breathtaking.”

Next, you’ll visit Kaleiçi, Antalya’s historic old town. Wandering through its narrow, cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time. Expect to see iconic landmarks like the Roman-era Hadrians Gate, the Yivli Minaret, and the Clock Tower. This area is also great for browsing boutique shops, enjoying traditional cafes, or just soaking up the lively atmosphere. Reviewers love the mix of ancient architecture and local flavor, with one mentioning it’s where you really get a sense of Antalya’s cultural identity.

After the old town, the tour typically moves to the Düden Waterfalls again — this time the Upper Düden Waterfalls — which are quieter and more tranquil, surrounded by lush greenery. Here you can take relaxing photos, explore caves, and enjoy the peaceful setting. Many reviews highlight the beauty of this spot, noting it’s a perfect place to unwind and take in nature’s calm.

The scenic boat trip from the Old Harbor is next, offering a different perspective on Antalya. Sailing along the coast, you’ll pass by cliffs and beaches, with plenty of opportunities to relax, take photos, and enjoy the turquoise waters. Travelers often find this cruise a highlight, describing it as peaceful and scenic.

Midway through, you’ll stop for a local Turkish lunch. The included meal often features grilled meats, fresh salads, and traditional flavors, giving you a taste of regional cuisine. Many reviews point out how authentic and tasty the food is, making it a relaxing break before continuing.

Finally, the tour may include a ride on the Olympos Cable Car, ascending over 2,300 meters for panoramic views of the mountains and surrounding landscape. While some reviews note the cable car was not operational at the time of their visit, most say the overall experience remains worthwhile even without it, thanks to the waterfalls and Old Town.

Highlights & Practical Details

Waterfalls: Both Düden waterfalls are highlights — the Lower Düden crashing into the sea and the Upper Düden offering a peaceful retreat. Expect stunning photo opportunities and a chance to connect with nature.

Old Town (Kaleiçi): Perfect for leisurely walks, shopping, and enjoying local cafes. The landmarks like Hadrians Gate and Yivli Minaret give a glimpse into Antalya’s history.

Boat Trip: A relaxing 50-minute cruise along the coast, ideal for unwinding and viewing the city from a different angle.

Cable Car Ride: If available, it offers spectacular views from over 2,300 meters high, Great for photo buffs and adventure lovers.

Lunch: Included in the tour, the meal is authentic Turkish fare, appreciated by many for its flavor and variety.

Transportation: Most hotel pickups are included, but note that vehicles aren’t allowed in Kaleiçi hotels, so meeting points are often outside the hotels or at designated spots like McDonald’s.

Tour Duration: Usually around 9 to 10 hours, so be prepared for a full day. Some reviewers mention that the schedule can feel hurried, especially in busy seasons.

Group Size & Guide: The tour is guided in English, with many reviews highlighting friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the day enjoyable.

Price & Value: Given the array of attractions and included meals, most travelers find the tour offers good value for money. Some mention the cost is justified by the variety and convenience.

Real Travelers’ Experiences

Many reviews praise the guides, with comments like “Inci was very friendly and organized” and “Ibrahim was amazing—knowledgeable and kind.” Multiple reviewers mention the high level of organization and how guides added a personal touch, making the day both educational and fun.

Waterfalls seem to be a crowd favorite. One reviewer described the Lower Düden Waterfalls as “breathtaking,” while others say the peaceful Upper Düden Waterfalls are perfect for a relaxing break. The boat trip also stands out as a highlight, with descriptions of it being “enjoyable” and “peaceful,” giving a chance to relax after sightseeing.

On the downside, some guests note that the schedule can be tight, especially if the group is large or if there are delays. One reviewer mentioned feeling frustrated with the time lost between attractions, which is an important consideration if you want a more relaxed pace.

Food gets praise for being authentic and tasty, with many appreciating the included Turkish lunch. Some reviews mention the optional jewelry shop or souvenir stops, which might feel less exciting but are part of the itinerary.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re someone who enjoys a well-organized day packed with variety — from scenic waterfalls and historic streets to a relaxing boat cruise and panoramic cable car views — this tour could be a great choice. It’s suitable for travelers who want to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning, especially if you value knowledgeable guides and culture.

However, if you prefer a slower, more flexible experience or are sensitive to busy schedules, you might find parts of this tour a little rushed. It’s also not ideal for travelers with mobility issues, as some sites involve walking or uneven terrain.

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Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid way to explore some of the best sights Antalya has to offer in a single day. With natural wonders like waterfalls, cultural landmarks in Kaleiçi, and scenic coastal views, you’ll get a balanced taste of the region’s beauty and history. The inclusion of a boat trip and cable car ride adds that extra touch of memorable experiences, especially if you’re into photography or panoramic views.

Most travelers find the guides friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, which really makes a difference in making the day flow smoothly. The value for money is generally good, especially considering the variety of attractions, lunch, and transport included.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day out that covers natural sights, historic streets, and scenic vistas, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. Just be ready for a full day and occasionally tight scheduling, especially during peak season.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most hotels in Antalya are included for pickup and drop-off, but note that Kaleiçi hotels require meeting at designated spots like McDonald’s since vehicles aren’t allowed in the area.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, casual clothes, and some cash for personal expenses are recommended.

Is the cable car ride available?
It generally is, but some reviews note it was not operational during their visit. The tour usually includes it, but availability can vary.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat ride typically lasts about 50 minutes, offering peaceful coastal views.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local Turkish lunch is included, which many travelers praise for its flavor and authenticity.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It can be, especially if your family enjoys sightseeing and light walking. However, some parts involve walking on uneven terrain, so consider your family’s mobility.

What is the group size?
It varies, but reviews suggest it can be a large group, which might make the schedule feel a bit rushed.

What are the key highlights?
Waterfalls, Old Town, boat cruise, and the cable car ride are the main draws, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural sights.

Is the tour worth the price?
Most travelers say yes, especially given the variety of activities, included meals, and guide service. It offers a convenient way to see many top attractions in one day.

If you’re after a busy but rewarding day exploring Antalya’s highlights, this tour could be just what you need. It’s a solid choice for those who crave a mix of nature, history, and scenic views—and don’t mind a packed schedule to get it all in.

You can check availability for your dates here: