From City of Side: Cabrio Bus Safari & Boat Tour with Lunch

Exploring the City of Side: Cabrio Bus Safari & Boat Tour with Lunch

If you’re considering a day out from the usual beach lounging in Side, this Cabrio bus and boat tour offers a nice blend of nature, history, and relaxation. Designed to give you a taste of the local villages, stunning scenery, and some well-deserved downtime, it’s a trip that can add a different dimension to your Turkish holiday.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how accessible it is—at just $19, it’s an affordable way to see some of the less-touristy spots around Side. Plus, the fact that it includes both a boat ride and a traditional Turkish lunch makes it quite the value. That said, it’s a long day, so keep that in mind if you prefer shorter excursions or if you’re traveling with younger kids.

One thing to consider is the duration—about 7 hours long—which might feel a bit stretched for some. You’ll spend quite a bit of time on the road, but the scenery and stops make it worthwhile. This tour suits travelers who love exploring outdoors, enjoy scenic drives, and are eager to combine cultural sights with some leisure time on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $19, it’s budget-friendly for an all-day excursion.
• Diverse Highlights: Combines nature, history, and leisure with village visits, waterfalls, and a boat ride.
• Scenic Travel: The Cabrio bus offers great views through open windows, perfect for photo opportunities.
• Guided Experience: You’ll have a live guide speaking multiple languages, making it easy to follow along.
• Value for Money: Lunch, boat trip, and sightseeing are included, with optional extras like waterfalls entrance.
• Long But Rewarding: The trip’s length might be tiring for some, but many reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and friendly guides as worth it.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transport

The day kicks off with hotel pickup in the Side region, which means you don’t have to worry about organizing transport. The main transport is a Cabrio bus—a convertible-style vehicle that’s perfect for sightseeing. With windows that can be rolled down, you get a feeling of freedom and close-up views of the landscapes as you drive through the Taurus Mountains.

This mode of transport isn’t just practical; it enhances the experience by letting you feel connected to the scenery, especially on a warm day. The relaxed pace on the bus allows you to soak in the surroundings without feeling rushed.

The Drive Through Taurus Mountains and Seleukia

Driving through the Taurus Mountains is a highlight in itself. The roads wind up and down past lush greenery, offering panoramic vistas that are perfect for photos. Once you reach Seleukia, you’ll get to admire the ancient ruins and the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

A reviewer noted, “The views of Seleukia and the green canyon are magnificent,” emphasizing how much these sights resonate with travelers seeking authentic landscape experiences.

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Waterfalls and Green Lake

One of the most popular stops is the Manavgat Waterfalls where you can catch the spray and breathe in fresh mountain air. This spot is particularly loved for the natural beauty and the relaxing atmosphere. Many visitors enjoy hanging around here, although the waterfalls entrance costs extra (about 15 lira), which is quite affordable.

Following that, you’ll head to Green Lake for a leisurely lunch. The setting is peaceful and scenic, making it a perfect spot to unwind after the drive. The included lunch typically features local flavors, and many reviewers have enjoyed the meal, describing it as “delicious and plentiful.”

Boat Tour on Green Lake

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a catamaran boat ride on Green Lake. This is a relaxing break that many find to be the highlight of the day. The gentle cruise offers beautiful views of the surrounding nature, and it’s a chance to sit back and enjoy the peaceful waters.

The boat tour is quite well-regarded, with travelers saying it “made the day memorable” and that the scenery from the water is “breathtaking.” It’s a chance to cool off and enjoy a different perspective of the landscape.

Additional Sights and Market Visits

After the boat ride, the tour takes you to a local orange garden and the famous Manavgat Waterfalls again, where you can explore markets and see the natural beauty up close. The waterfalls are easily accessible and affordably priced to enter (15 lira). Visitors appreciate the opportunity to browse local markets afterward, adding some cultural flavor to the day.

The Guides and Overall Experience

Guests consistently mention the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. They keep the energy up and make sure everyone stays informed about the sites. One review praised the guides for being “very nice & very professional,” which can make a big difference on a long tour.

What’s Not Included

A key point to remember is that Manavgat Waterfalls entrance isn’t included in the price. If you’re eager to see the waterfalls up close, budget for the small entrance fee. Also, while the boat ride and lunch are included, any additional snacks or personal extras aren’t.

Duration and Practicalities

The tour lasts about 7 hours, which is quite a full day. The start times vary, so check availability ahead of time. The long duration is appreciated by travelers who want a comprehensive look at the area without multiple separate outings. However, if you prefer shorter tours, this might feel a bit lengthy.

The group size tends to be manageable, and with options for guides speaking English, German, and Russian, language barriers are generally not a concern.

How Do the Reviews Reflect the Experience?

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear many travelers found this tour to be a fantastic value. One said, “Such a brilliant day out, absolutely worth the price,” highlighting the mix of activities and the fun guide. Another noted the beautiful scenery and the professionalism of the team, making it feel like a well-organized adventure.

Even those who found the trip a bit long appreciated the experience, citing the breathtaking nature and engaging guides as reasons they’d recommend it anyway.

Final Thoughts

This Cabrio bus and boat tour near Side offers a well-rounded day, blending scenic drives, cultural sights, natural waterfalls, and relaxing boat rides. It’s a good choice if you’re after an affordable, full-day excursion that covers a variety of highlights beyond the beaches.

It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy being outdoors, appreciate good-value experiences, and want to see some of Turkey’s natural and historical treasures without too much hassle. The inclusion of lunch and the boat ride makes it a convenient option for those who prefer a hassle-free, all-in-one day.

While it’s a longer trip, many find it’s worth it for the views and the chance to explore areas outside of the usual tourist spots. Just be mindful of the length and plan accordingly, especially if you have limited mobility or prefer shorter outings.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes about 7 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and activities. Check the starting times to fit it into your schedule.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in the Side region, making it easy to join without extra planning.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, and Russian, so communication shouldn’t be an issue for most travelers.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch at Green Lake is included in the tour price. However, if you want to visit the waterfalls, entrance fees are extra (around 15 lira).

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities is best. Since windows are down on the bus, be prepared for a breeze and possibly some dust.

Can I buy additional snacks or souvenirs?
Yes, there are markets at some stops, especially near the waterfalls, where you can browse local goods and maybe pick up a snack or two.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the activities are generally suitable for all ages, especially outdoor-loving kids who enjoy nature and boat rides.

How much does it cost?
The tour costs about $19 per person, making it a very affordable way to see several sights in one day.

Final Verdict

If you’re after a value-packed day with scenic views, a touch of history, and relaxing water activities, this tour is a solid pick. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience a bit of everything, especially nature and local culture, without breaking the bank. Just remember, it’s a full day, so come prepared for a bit of a long haul—though many reviews confirm it’s a memorable, worthwhile journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: