The Turkish Riviera is a land of stunning coastlines, ancient ruins, and diverse landscapes—the kind of place that makes every tour feel like a new discovery. What sets it apart is its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and opportunities for active adventures. For example, if you’re looking for a unique way to see the coast, the Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour offers a fantastic mix of exploring ancient ruins and enjoying the water, all with a local guide handling logistics. It’s perfect for those who want a hands-on experience in the Sunken City area without relying solely on boat trips. We love that it includes a short hike for panoramic views and a chance to swim, making it a well-rounded day.
In this list, you’ll find tours for history lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and relaxation seekers alike. Whether it’s exploring Antalya’s highlights, tackling the Koprulu Canyon on a quad, or relaxing in Pamukkale’s thermal pools, each tour brings its own flavor. Below, we’ll introduce the top options, highlighting what makes each one special.
1. Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour
At number 1, the Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour stands out for combining active kayaking with cultural exploration. For around $54, you’ll spend about four hours paddling along the coast from Ucagiz, with your guide organizing everything from kayaks to lunch. The tour focuses on exploring the Sunken City and ancient ruins like Kalekoy and Theimussa—perfect for those keen on history and scenery without the crowds. The highlight is a moderate hike to a viewpoint that offers sweeping views of Kekova’s coastline, making it more than just paddling.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of easy logistics, guided insights, and the opportunity to swim at designated spots (although restrictions mean you can’t swim near the sunken city itself). Reviewers praise the guide’s local knowledge and the well-organized nature of the trip, even if the kayaking distance can be challenging for beginners. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy water sports but also want cultural context. The value is excellent considering all equipment and lunch are included.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a balanced mix of physical activity, history, and scenic views—ideal for those comfortable on the water and curious about ancient Turkey.
2. Antalya: City Tour w/Olympos Cable Car, Boat & Lunch
Number 2 on our list is the Antalya City Tour, which takes about 6 to 7 hours and offers a rundown of Antalya’s highlights. For $75, all transportation is included, making it a hassle-free way to see the city’s historic and natural sites. You’ll visit the Old Town (Kaleici), Hadrian’s Gate, and the Marina, plus take a scenic ride on the Olympos cable car to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The tour also includes visits to the Duden Waterfalls, where your guide provides engaging commentary on local history and geology. A Turkish lunch is served during the day, and there’s time for shopping. It’s notable for being a well-rounded, in-depth exploration that appeals to culture and nature lovers alike.
Reviewers love the smooth logistics and the opportunity to see multiple attractions in one day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local flavors without strenuous activity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those with a limited schedule who want a full, engaging introduction to Antalya’s best sights.
3. Quad Safari at Koprulu Canyon National Park – 20 km riding experience
For adrenaline junkies, number 3 is the Quad Safari at Koprulu Canyon National Park. Priced at just under $32, this four-hour adventure involves riding an all-terrain vehicle along a 20 km trail through scenic mountains and forests. The tour includes a refreshing swim in the Koprucay River, making it a true outdoor thrill.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on adventure and scenery—the instructors are experienced, and safety is emphasized. Reviewers rave about the experience, describing it as “brilliant” and “easy to do,” even for first-timers. The route takes you through rugged terrains, with plenty of photo opportunities of the surrounding nature.
This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a hands-on, high-energy activity. It’s a great value for its length and includes all necessary equipment, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you crave outdoor activity, scenic views, and a chance to get your adrenaline going in a safe environment.
4. Pamukkale & Lake Salda: Experience the Wonders of Nature
Number 4, the Pamukkale & Lake Salda tour is a full-day trip offering a rare combination of natural beauty and ancient ruins. For around $125, you’ll visit Lake Salda, often called the “Maldives of Turkey,” with its long beaches and striking blue waters. Then, you’ll explore Pamukkale’s thermal terraces and Hierapolis ruins, finishing with a swim in Cleopatra’s Ancient Pool.
The tour’s strength lies in its variety, covering diverse landscapes and historical sites in one day. The drive is scenic, and the guide provides engaging commentary on the significance of each stop. The bath in Cleopatra’s Pool is a standout experience, swimming among ancient columns and ruins. The dinner in the forest restaurant is an appreciated highlight to cap off a busy day.
Reviewers mention the early start and a bit of a long day but agree the sites are worth it. This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a full immersion in Turkey’s natural and ancient marvels without multiple separate excursions. The value is excellent given the packed itinerary.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cultural and nature lovers who want to maximize sightseeing with minimal hassle.
5. Green Canyon Boat Trip from Alanya with Unlimited Soft Drinks
Number 5 is the Green Canyon Boat Trip from Alanya. For about $25, you get an eight- to nine-hour day exploring the turquoise Green Canyon. The trip includes swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the boat, plus stops at Green Lake for lunch and more swimming.
This tour is perfect for those seeking a laid-back day on the water. The boat cruises past towering limestone cliffs, and you’ll have frequent chances to jump into the water or explore caves. The included lunch is simple but satisfying, with options like fish, chicken, or meatballs, and soft drinks are unlimited. The scenery alone makes it worth the price.
Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace and the opportunity to see Green Canyon from the water, making it suitable for most fitness levels. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy natural beauty without strenuous activity.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a relaxing day with plenty of swimming and scenery, all at a very reasonable price.
6. Rafting Quad Safari and Zipline Combo Tour with Lunch 3 in 1
Number 6, the Rafting Quad Safari and Zipline Combo is an action-packed 5-hour tour blending three adrenaline activities. It starts with whitewater rafting on a rushing river, then switches to quad biking through rugged terrain, and concludes with a zipline ride over scenic landscapes.
The tour is designed for those who want diversity and excitement. The instructor-led route ensures safety while providing a thrilling experience. Reviewers note the well-organized nature of the trip, with praise for how smoothly each activity is arranged. The combination makes it a fantastic option for groups or families seeking adventure.
This tour suits active travelers with no prior experience required, as all activities are guided. If you’re looking for a full day of varied outdoor fun, this is a solid choice. The only downside might be its intensity, so it’s better for those in good physical condition.
Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers wanting a multi-activity day, this tour delivers a memorable and diverse adventure.
7. Adana Unveiled: A Timeless Tour
Coming in at number 7, the Adana Unveiled offers a quick, two-hour exploration of one of Turkey’s lesser-known cities. The tour includes stops at the Great Clock Tower and Ulucami, with a knowledgeable guide sharing legends and city secrets.
This tour is perfect for those interested in urban charm and local stories. Adana’s streets and buildings reveal layers of history, and the guide’s storytelling adds a personal touch. While short, the tour provides a rich snapshot of a city often overshadowed by Turkey’s more famous destinations.
Reviewers mention the charming guide and the opportunity to learn about Adana’s mythology and culture. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time who want a cultural bite rather than an exhaustive city tour.
Bottom Line: Ideal for curious travelers wanting a quick but meaningful introduction to Adana’s character.
8. Authentic Turkish Bath & Spa Experience in Antalya
Number 8 is the Authentic Turkish Bath & Spa. This two-hour session offers a traditional hamam experience with a kese (scrub) and foam massage. It’s a relaxing way to experience Ottoman culture firsthand, with the added benefit of skin cleansing and stress relief.
The tour is simple but highly rated, with reviewers calling it “stress-free” and “highly recommended.” It’s perfect for travelers wanting to unwind after busy sightseeing days or those interested in local wellness traditions. The price is very reasonable at just $23 per person, offering good value.
It’s best suited for those looking for relaxation rather than adventure, and no prior experience is needed. The setting is authentic, and the process is explained clearly, making it accessible to everyone.
Bottom Line: Great for relaxing, experiencing Ottoman culture, and treating yourself to a pampering session.
9. Green Canyon: 5 Hours Boat Trip with Lunch and Soft Drinks
For a longer, more relaxed experience, the Green Canyon boat trip offers about 8 to 9 hours of scenic cruising. It’s perfect for those who want a full-day adventure including swimming, fishing, and relaxing in nature.
The trip starts with a visit to Oymapınar Dam, then cruises through Green Canyon, with stops for swimming and exploring caves. Lunch is included, featuring options like fish, chicken, or meatballs, plus soft drinks. The scenic views of limestone cliffs and emerald waters make it a visual treat.
Reviewers mention the long but enjoyable day, making it a good choice for those who want to soak in the scenery at a leisurely pace. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, provided you enjoy being on a boat.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers seeking a full-day, scenic water trip with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing.
10. Dust, Speed, and Fun: Ultimate Buggy Safari Experience in Antalya
Rounding out the list is the Buggy Safari, a 4.5-hour adventure priced at about $89. It offers the ultimate off-road thrill in the Taurus Mountains, where you drive or ride buggies along rugged trails, riverbeds, and forest paths. No license is needed, and guides ensure your safety through set routes and instructions.
What makes this tour distinctive is the combination of dust, speed, and scenic mountain views. Many reviewers say it’s “worth trying,” especially if you enjoy getting dirty and wet, and the experience is often described as “great fun.” It’s ideal for those looking for a high-energy, memorable experience outside the usual sightseeing tours.
The tour is flexible for beginners and experienced riders alike, with options to drive or be a passenger. The scenic setting enhances the adrenaline rush, making it a perfect choice for thrill-seekers.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers wanting a fun, outdoor adventure with memorable mountain views.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Picking the best tour depends heavily on your interests, activity level, and how much time you want to spend exploring the Turkish Riviera. If you love water sports and history, the Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour is a top pick. For a mix of sightseeing and culture, the Antalya City Tour offers excellent value.
Adventurers should consider the Quad Safari, which combines scenic views with high-energy activities. For those who want a relaxing yet scenic experience, the boat trips to Green Canyon or the thermal pools at Pamukkale deliver stunning visuals and soothing waters.
If you’re short on time but want a cultural snapshot, the Adana Unveiled provides a quick city overview. And for a cultural treat, the Turkish bath experience in Antalya is perfect for unwinding.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred dates and avoid disappointment. Consider your interests and activity level carefully to match the right tour with your travel style.
Final Thoughts
From active kayaking and quad biking to relaxing thermal baths and scenic cruises, the Turkish Riviera offers a wide array of tours suited for different travelers. If you’re looking for adventure and scenery, the Kekova Sea Kayaking and Buggy Safari are excellent choices. For a cultural and historic experience, the Antalya City Tour and Adana Tour will give you deeper insights into Turkey’s rich past.
Looking for relaxation? The thermal pools at Pamukkale or the Green Canyon boat trips provide peaceful settings with stunning views. With such a diverse selection, your only challenge will be choosing which experience to do first. Be sure to book early in high season, and enjoy your time exploring all that the Turkish Riviera has to offer.
