Full-Day Antalya Old City Tour: Kaleiçi, Waterfalls & Boat

Planning a trip to Antalya and wondering how to make the most of a day? This full-day tour offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and local flavor that can give you a well-rounded glimpse of this vibrant city. While it’s not a hidden secret—many travelers find value in the comprehensive nature of the experience—it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for to see if it matches your travel style.

What really stands out are the knowledgeable guides who bring each site to life and the chance to see stunning landscapes like the Düden Waterfalls from a boat. Plus, the price point—around $41 per person—feels quite reasonable given the variety packed into the day. That said, a potential downside is the use of time at some stops (like the jewelry shop) which might not appeal to everyone.

This tour suits those who want to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of planning transport or figuring out multiple tickets. It’s especially good if you’re interested in history, culture, and scenic views but don’t want to be on your feet all day. If you’re traveling with family or prefer a relaxed, guided experience, it could be a good fit. Just keep in mind it involves some walking and a boat ride, so be prepared.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Old Town, waterfalls, and a boat trip
• Knowledgeable guides adding context and stories
• Good value for money at around $41
• Flexibility with free time to explore at your own pace
• Not suitable for wheelchair users
• The tour includes lunch, hotel pickup, and drop-off

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Antalya’s Old Town: Kaleiçi

When you start your day, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle—no fuss there. The real charm begins as you arrive in Kaleiçi, the historic heart of Antalya. This area is like walking through a living museum, with narrow cobbled streets, ancient walls, and iconic landmarks such as Hadrians Gate, the Clock Tower, and the Yivli Minaret Mosque.

Your guide will provide insights into each site, making history feel alive rather than just a bunch of old stones. We loved the way guides like Ercan bring stories to life, making the experience more engaging and less like a typical sightseeing bus tour. Plus, you’ll have free time to wander, shop, or grab a coffee, which is a nice touch—there’s no rush to leave this charming neighborhood.

While most reviews highlight the beauty and ambiance, some mention that the jewelry boutique isn’t very relevant to the cultural experience. As one review states, “This has nothing to do with culture,” so if shopping isn’t your thing, you might just skip that part or browse quickly.

The Boat Trip to Düden Waterfalls

After soaking in the old town, you’ll hop on a boat from Kaleiçi Marina for a scenic hour-long cruise along the coast. This part of the tour is particularly praised for the beautiful views and the sense of freedom from the sea breeze. It’s a relaxing way to see Antalya from a different perspective, and it’s a highlight for many travelers, including those who loved the quote, “We got to see the waterfalls. We had around 45 mins to explore and take pictures.”

Following the boat ride, you’ll visit the Lower Düden Waterfall, which is truly a sight to behold. The water cascades approximately 40 meters down into the Mediterranean, creating a dramatic scene perfect for photos. Many reviewers, including Zahra, mention that the waterfall is stunning and well worth the visit. Watching the water hit the sea with such force is visually impressive and adds a natural touch to the day.

Lunch and Local Experiences

A key part of the tour is the included lunch at a local restaurant, offering authentic Turkish cuisine. From what travelers say, the meal is generally good and satisfying—an important consideration because it’s a convenient way to enjoy local flavors without searching for a spot on your own.

Keep in mind, drinks are not included and can be quite expensive at the restaurant, so bringing cash and your own beverages might be wise. One traveler, Zahra, pointed out that “bring your own drinks as they are quite expensive,” which is helpful advice for future guests.

Visiting the Silver Workshop

After lunch, the tour makes a stop at a local silversmith workshop. While this is an opportunity to see traditional craftsmanship, some reviews mention it as less relevant—”they were trying to sell us jewelry”—and not particularly culturally enriching. If you’re not interested in jewelry, it’s an optional stop to skip or browse quickly.

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Final Highlights and Return

The tour wraps up with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel. The whole experience lasts between 6 to 8 hours, which means you get a good variety of sights without feeling overly rushed. The group sizes tend to be manageable, and the entire experience is guided by a licensed professional who speaks English.

While it’s a well-organized tour, keep in mind that weather can affect the boat trip, and some parts (like the jewelry shop) may be less appealing depending on your interests.

Who should consider this tour?

This tour is particularly suited for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of Antalya’s highlights. It’s also great if you prefer guided experiences that take care of transportation, admission fees, and scheduling. Travelers who appreciate scenic views and a mix of natural and cultural sites will find this especially worthwhile.

If you’re traveling as part of a family, the tour can work well, though children should be prepared for some walking and the boat ride. It might not be ideal for wheelchair users due to site accessibility, so check in advance if mobility is a concern.

The Bottom Line

This full-day Antalya tour offers a solid introduction to the city’s key sights, with knowledgeable guides, beautiful landscapes, and good value for money. It’s a convenient way to see a bit of everything—Old Town charm, dazzling waterfalls, and a scenic boat ride—all packed into one day.

It’s a strong choice if you want a guided, relaxed experience that covers history, nature, and local culture without needing to plan each step yourself. While some stops may not be appealing to all, the overall experience tends to be positive, as reflected in the reviews.

For travelers looking for an efficient, well-organized tour that balances sightseeing with free time, this tour could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and you can be picked up from your accommodation in Manavgat.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 6 to 8 hours, depending on group size and pace.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel transfer, lunch at a local restaurant, guided tour services, free time in Kaleiçi, and the boat trip in Kaleiçi Marina.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included and tend to be an extra expense at the restaurant. It’s advisable to bring your own.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed for children, the tour can work for families. Children should be comfortable with walking and boat rides.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

If you’re looking to experience a good mix of history, nature, and local culture without the hassle of planning, this tour provides a solid, enjoyable day in Antalya. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see a lot without feeling overwhelmed, and those who appreciate guides that bring the sites to life.

You can check availability for your dates here: