Side: Electric Catamaran Cruise, Waterfall, Seleukia, Mosque

If you’re planning a trip to Side, Turkey, and want a day that’s packed with diverse sights and experiences, this guided tour might catch your eye. It promises a blend of natural beauty, history, and local culture—all wrapped up in around 8 to 9 hours of exploration. We’ve looked into it closely, so whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just after a relaxing day on the water, this tour has something to offer.

What we really like about it is the combination of scenic boat cruising on Green Canyon and the chance to see some notable sites like Manavgat Waterfall and the ancient ruins of Seleukia. Plus, the included local Turkish lunch adds a nice touch to the day. On the flip side, the waterfall entrance fee isn’t included, which might catch some travelers off guard, so it’s good to budget a little extra for that.

This tour works well if you’re after a well-rounded day trip without the hassle of self-driving or figuring out logistics. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and light adventure, and who appreciate having transportation and guides taken care of. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy varied experiences, this one could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary includes natural, historic, and cultural sites.
• Round-trip transfers from Side make it convenient and stress-free.
• Scenic boat trip on Green Lake offers great photo opportunities.
• A good value at $25, considering lunch, transportation, and guided commentary.
• Waterfall entrance fee is extra, so plan accordingly.
• The guides receive high praise, with guests noting their knowledge and friendliness.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour, priced at $25 per person, offers a comprehensive way to see some of the most notable sights around Side without the need to rent a vehicle or organize separate excursions. The company, Seven Tours, handles all the logistics with hotel pickups and drop-offs, which takes a lot of the usual travel stress off your plate.

The Morning Begins with Convenience

Starting at around 8:30 am, you’ll be picked up from your Side hotel by an air-conditioned vehicle. The small group size, maxing out at 49 people, helps keep things intimate and personable. The first stop is the Kulliye Camii, a short visit to a mosque that takes about 20 minutes. It’s a quick look, but it gives insight into local architecture and religious culture.

Next, you’ll head to Manavgat Waterfall. This spot is pretty popular, and you’ll get about 30 minutes here. The waterfall is charming, and for just 6 Turkish Liras (roughly a little over a dollar), it’s a budget-friendly photo op. Keep in mind, the entrance fee isn’t included in the tour price, so you’ll need some cash on hand. Several reviews note the waterfall’s modest size, but it’s a nice little break from the busier parts of the day.

Exploring Ancient Seleukia

Your next stop is Seleukia, the ruins of an ancient Roman city. This site offers a glimpse into the past, with historic remains that allow for some meaningful exploration. The tour doesn’t specify a detailed tour of the ruins, but guests mention that Seleukia provides lovely views and interesting photo opportunities. It’s a quick stop, about 30 minutes, but enough to appreciate the historic significance and snap a few pictures.

Manavgat Dam and Green Canyon Views

Shortly after, there’s a 15-minute photo break at Manavgat Dam, giving you a chance to snap some scenic shots of the Green Canyon area. This is a highlight for many, as the views here are generally appreciated for their natural beauty.

The Green Canyon and Lunch

The day’s centerpiece is undoubtedly the 1-hour catamaran cruise on Green Lake (Green Canyon). You’ll sail on a vessel across the calm, lush waters, soaking up the scenery that many say is picture-perfect. Guests consistently comment on how peaceful and beautiful the lake is, making it perfect for photos and just relaxing on the water.

Following the cruise, you’ll enjoy a lunch at Gölba Restaurant, which boasts views of Green Lake. The meal includes options like fish or chicken served with rice, salad, and fresh fruit. The food receives positive remarks for being tasty and satisfying, especially after a morning of sightseeing.

Additional Information from Guest Feedback

Reviewers emphasize the quality of guides, with Achmed often praised for his knowledgeable and humorous commentary. Whether explaining the history of Seleukia or pointing out the best photo spots, guides seem to add great value, making the day both educational and entertaining. One reviewer even mentioned taking a 4×4 adventure instead of a bus, which sounds like a fun twist, adding some off-road excitement to the mix.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Kulliye Camii: A quick, 20-minute visit offering a look at local religious architecture. It’s free, so no worries about extra costs, and it gives a taste of the area’s religious and cultural life.

Manavgat Waterfall: A scenic spot ideal for photos and a bit of refreshing nature. The entrance fee is low, but remember to bring cash if you want to go closer to the waterfall. Some guests mention the size isn’t extraordinary, but it’s still a nice, quick stop.

Seleukia: An ancient Roman city with ruins and panoramic views. The visit is brief but enriching, especially if you’re into history or ancient sites.

Manavgat Dam: Offers a brief but stunning view of the Green Canyon. Perfect for capturing some memorable photos.

Green Canyon: The star of the show, with a one-hour catamaran cruise. You’ll get a chance to relax, take pictures, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Lunch: At a local restaurant with lake views, offering simple but tasty Turkish fare. The meal is included in the price, which is a nice touch given the overall affordability of the tour.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

The organized round-trip transportation means you don’t need to worry about finding your way or coordinating pickups. The air-conditioned vans are comfortable, and the small group size helps maintain a friendly, less rushed atmosphere.

At $25 per person, including lunch, transfers, and a guided tour, this experience offers solid value. It’s especially attractive to budget travelers who want a full day of sightseeing without surprises. The tour also offers Mobile tickets and flexible cancellation, which adds to convenience and peace of mind.

The Cons to Keep in Mind

While most reviews are positive, some guests note that the guide’s English can be a little odd at times, which might make some explanations or historical details less clear. The waterfall entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll need some cash if you want to get closer to the falls. Also, the visit to the mosque is rather brief, so if you’re after an in-depth cultural experience, this might feel a bit light.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a well-rounded, hassle-free day with a mix of nature, history, and local flavor, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer guided experiences and want to avoid the stress of organizing individual transport.

Those who love boat trips and scenic views will enjoy the Green Lake cruise, while history buffs might appreciate the Seleukia ruins. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a taste of the Turkish landscape and its historic sites in one affordable package.

Final Thoughts

This Side-based tour packs quite a punch for its modest price. The combination of scenic boat cruising, historic ruins, and cultural sights makes it a versatile option for many travelers. The included lunch and hotel transfers make it convenient, and the overall experience is polished and well-organized.

While not a deep-dive into each site, it offers enough time and insight to make your day memorable. The friendly guides and stunning views are highlights that many guests cherish, and the flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind.

If you’re looking for a balanced day out that covers natural beauty and history without breaking the bank, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy a bit of everything—nature, culture, and relaxing boat time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickups are offered by air-conditioned vehicles, making the start of your day smooth and easy.

How long is the overall tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What does the day include?
It includes visits to a mosque, waterfall, Seleukia ruins, dam, a boat cruise on Green Lake, and lunch at a lakeside restaurant.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, the entrance fee for the waterfall isn’t included, so bringing a small amount of cash (around 6 Turkish Liras) is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the activities are generally light and scenic, making it suitable for most age groups, especially those interested in nature and history.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

Is the guide multilingual?
Yes, the guide is multi-lingual, helping ensure more guests understand and enjoy the explanations.

What are the reviews saying?
Guests praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, the beautiful views, and the tasty lunch. Some mention minor language issues and the waterfall fee.

How big are the groups?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 49 travelers, helping keep things more personal.

Would I recommend this tour?
For anyone wanting a varied, budget-friendly day out with a mix of natural scenery, history, and cultural sights, it’s a solid choice.

All in all, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see some of Side’s most interesting sights with minimal hassle.