15 activities in Side, Turkey

You can’t visit Turkey without trying one of its oldest customs – a visit to an authentic Turkish bath, or hamam.

Since ancient times the hamam has provided locals with a way to relax, exfoliate, freshen up and catch up with gossip all at the same time.

Everything starts when you are taken to one of the best local hamams. Here, you will change into your swimwear in a cubicle and wrap up in a towel. Then it is off to the hamam itself - a humid, steam filled, marble-tiled room with a `gobektasi', or heated stone slab, in the centre.

Sit back and indulge yourself in relaxation as the heat softens your skin before enjoying a rejuvenating and exfoliating full-body scrub on the raised marble stone (gobek tasi' ) in the centre of the room followed by a head-to-toe massage in soft, soapy bubbles.

After you have rinsed off, it´s time for an all-over massage with oils, which will not only leave your skin silky smooth and positively glowing, but your body feeling refreshed and thoroughly pampered!

Although a fabulous experience at any time, its best enjoyed at the beginning of your holiday to fully cleanse and exfoliate your body, giving you a perfect canvas ready for that golden glow!

Experience the rush of adrenaline.

You can do rafting at the rapid water currents of Koprulu Canyon. During the scenic journey with a group of maximum 15 people, you’ll pass through the breathtaking Taurus Mountains of the Antalya region.

It’s a truly amazing experience fit for a family, as sophisticated security measures are taken by the rafting guides. Visit the Koprucay Canyon National Park for a stirring and adrenaline-charged, full-day rafting tour.

Languages
English, German and Russian

Sun, sea, and swimming are just a few of the things that make this boat trip so relaxing. Sailing aboard a traditional Turkish gulet, you’ll enjoy an open bar, opportunities to swim and snorkel, and a tasty local lunch.

Hop aboard and enjoy the chance to spot dolphins in the sea as you cruise from the Side ancient harbor to Dolphins Island. It’s an amazing and relaxing boat trip, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, and sunbathe on deck.

As the boat drops anchor, you’ll have time for a refreshing dip in the sea, while the crew prepares a delicious lunch back on board. After your meal, there’s still plenty of time to unwind as the boat takes a leisurely sail back to the harbor.

Don’t forget your camera, great pictures taken during the trip will be a perfect reminder of this unforgettable experience.

Taking a walking tour of Antalya Old Town is a wonderful way to explore the city's rich history and vibrant culture. In this essay, we will outline a recommended itinerary for a walking tour of Kaleici, the historic heart of Antalya.

The Antalya Kaleici walking tour is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the city's cultural heritage. The tour guides visitors through the historic center, nestled beside the stunning turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Once a bustling hub of international trade due to its strategic location, this area has been beautifully restored to reflect the grandeur of the ancient port city. As you stroll through the charming streets of Kaleici, you’ll be captivated by its many highlights.

One of the most iconic stops on the tour is Hadrian's Gate, a majestic structure built in 130 AD during the reign of Roman Emperor Hadrian. This impressive monument still stands tall today, offering a striking example of Roman architecture in the region. Visitors can walk through the gate, admiring its intricate design and historical significance.

Another must-see is the Old Harbor, a picturesque spot especially enchanting at sunset. The panoramic views are breathtaking, and visitors can enjoy a walk along the docks, where boats of all shapes and sizes are moored. It’s also a great place to take a boat tour or savor fresh seafood at the surrounding restaurants.

As you continue through the winding cobblestone streets, you’ll discover hidden gems like the Clock Tower and Hadrian’s Wall. The Clock Tower, built in 1901, once marked the main entrance to Antalya Castle and now offers a commanding view over the city’s rooftops. Meanwhile, Hadrian’s Wall is a remnant of the ancient fortifications that once protected the city.

In conclusion, the Antalya Kaleici walking tour is a fantastic way to experience the historical and cultural richness of the old city. From the majestic Hadrian’s Gate to the ancient city walls, each site offers a glimpse into Antalya’s storied past. Visitors can take their time exploring the fascinating, winding streets, each corner revealing a new piece of history.

The Hadrian's Gate, also known as Üç Kapılar or Three Gates, is one of the most remarkable landmarks in Antalya Old Town. Built in 130 AD to honor Emperor Hadrian’s visit, it marks the entrance to the old city and serves as an ideal starting point for your walking tour.

The Yivli Minaret Mosque is another iconic site, known for its distinctive eight-fluted minaret. Constructed in the 14th century during the Seljuk dynasty, it remains a functioning place of worship and a beautiful example of Islamic architecture—a must-visit in Antalya Old Town.

Lastly, the Hidirlik Tower, a Roman-era structure perched on a hill overlooking the city and the sea, dates back to the 2nd century AD. Once used as a lighthouse, it now offers spectacular views of both Antalya Old Town and the Mediterranean, making it a favorite spot for visitors.

Be ready for an exciting journey on a specially designed Cabrio bus. This tour is the best option to discover Side's surroundings and become familiar with the historical and cultural heritage of this region.

You will drive through the Taurus Mountains having the possibility to enjoy charming views of the countryside on the way to Seleucia - an ancient Greek city of Pamphylia. Walking in the fresh air you will discover the outstanding ruins of Seleucia (city walls, agora, monumental city gate, church, necropolis, etc.) and at the same time you can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding pine forests.

Next attraction to visit is a Roman aqueduct and village mosque; this is an opportunity to learn more about the life of the local people, their cultural and religious traditions. This is followed by a visit to Manavgat Waterfalls where we stay for approximately 2 hours. Refresh yourself with a swim in the natural pool or just relax in the quiet surroundings and enjoy your meal at a local restaurant (grilled fish or chicken, rice or spagetti, salad, bread). On the territory of the restaurant there is a mini-aviary (peacocks, turkeys, ducks, geese, etc.).

Watch the Dolphin show and enjoy the dolphins perform an exceptional act with special visuals to create a beautiful story - a must-see for the whole family. Take part in the numerous choices of water slides, whether it is the thrill of the Turbulence, the adrenaline-making Tunnel Deep Dive, Twister Racer or the scary Typhoon Coaster, 43m high and 525m long. For kids, there’s the Aqua Tower and Aqua Play to keep them happily occupied.

As well as a massive choice of slides and pools, this superb venue has added a theme park with 20 units with thrilling names such as Power-Fall Family, Hurricane-Adult and Uptown Loop-Family as well as a 5D cinema which is a watery cinematic adventure with exciting special affects like moving seats, wind, fog, lasers and light affects.

There is also the possibility to purchase one of the interactive experiences from the following optional extras:
Dolphin Swim – A 30-minute programme inter-acting with Luna, Aras, Honey, Xenia and Loza, the park’s dolphins with whom you can kiss, dance and swim! (Minimum age 10 years to participate). Or for an even more intimate experience, try the private dolphin swim.
Dolphin Encounter – Meeting the dolphins in shallow water and having the opportunity to interact with them during a 30 minute programme. (Minimum age 10 years to participate)
Mythical Journey – In the company of professional divers, this begins with pre-dive training then an underwater walk in diving clothes among colourful tropical fish during the fish feeding session, while sharks look on from their aquarium next door. (Minimum age 16 years to participate)
Snorkelling – Explore a deep pool going to 4m in depth and observe the marine life as well as the sharks and stingrays which are behind a glass pane in another aquarium. (Minimum age 10 years to participate)

Watch the Dolphin show and enjoy the dolphins perform an exceptional act with special visuals to create a beautiful story - a must-see for the whole family. Take part in the numerous choices of water slides, whether it is the thrill of the Turbulence, the adrenaline-making Tunnel Deep Dive, Twister Racer or the scary Typhoon Coaster, 43m high and 525m long. For kids, there’s the Aqua Tower and Aqua Play to keep them happily occupied.

For refreshment there’s a variety of venues to choose from serving fast food and refreshing drinks.

A day to let yourself go and enjoy some well deserved fun!

To join the safari you don’t need any driver license but you have to be older than 16 years.

Before the safari can start you will receive a detailed briefing how to drive a Quad and get all the necessary safety information. After the briefing it’s time to pass the test drive. The professional team will assist and support you with any help that you might need. Then the exciting safari can start.

The tour will be 10 km long and will take two hours. Enjoy this adventure and have great fun on this off-road drive by following forest paths and passing water. During the tour there will be stopovers to take memorable photos.

Duration
Between 2-3 hours.

Start/opening time
Morning tour at 9am and afternoon tour at 2pm.

Languages
English.

The tour begins with a spectacular cable car ride on the Tunektepe cable car which rises 1,700m above the coastline of Antalya affording superb views to the west of the city. Passing through pine forests on the sides of Tunektepe Hill on the climb to the summit in the 8 passenger cable cars, at the top there is a restaurant that rotates on it's axis and other social facilities including viewing terraces and a cafeteria. After enjoying the beautiful views, its time to descend the hill and drive on to the old town, known as Kaleiçi.

The Kaleici’s narrow, cobbled streets are a great place to explore numerous boutiques, art galleries and interesting museums as well as to stop and have a refreshing drink in one of the many café courtyards.

Don't miss the possibility to get familiar with an amazing Turkish riviera resort - Alanya. Join this guided tour to see the main tourist attractions: Panoramic terrace, Damlatas Cave, Alanya harbour and Dimcay River.

On the way to Alanya city you will visit a banana garden and after enjoy the stunning city view from a panoramic terrace or from the top of Alanya Castle. Next in the programme is Damlatas Cave which has numerous stalagmites, stalactites and columns. Nearby the cave you will see Alanya’s most famous beach, Cleopatra.

After you can relax as the tour takes a one hour boat trip departing from Alanya harbour and going around the peninsula. You will see the Red Tower, the ruins of the Seljuk Castle built in the 13th century and numerous caves at the base of the peninsula. We then drive to Dimcay River, a lovely place with plenty of shade and really cold water to dip your toe into; this is where we have lunch. On the way back to Side you will have 1.5 hours free time in Alanya to look around the city and perhaps do some shopping in the pedestrianized shopping area.

Get ready for the most thrilling off-road and white water adventure of your life! You'll be taken to new heights on an unforgettable mountain buggy ride, followed by an exhilarating white water rafting adventure down the Kopulu River.

Come and see the most picturesque local villages and mosques you've ever seen, set against the absolutely stunning Taurus Mountains. And get ready to have the time of your life as you prepare to get wet, with instructors guiding guests safely down the most intrepid rapids you've ever experienced!

Prepare for a day of adrenaline-fuelled activity as you tear down the rapids of the Koprulu Canyon, then hike or swim in the Koprucay Canyon National Park.

Experience the best of Turkey’s beautiful countryside on this Köprülü Canyon National Park canyoning and rafting tour. Travel deep into the Köprülü Canyon National Park with a guide and enjoy sweeping views over the mighty Taurus Mountains. Paddle along the Köprüçay River’s swirling twists and turns, and enjoy lunch near pretty Oluk Bridge. Afterwards, explore winding pathways through the dense forest as native birds sing in the treetops.

Experience the rush of adrenaline! Want to add an element of extreme adventure to your trip? Go rafting on your holiday in Turkey — it's a great activity to enjoy with friends or family. You will be taken from Antalya to the Koprulu Canyon by road. Once you reach Koprulu Canyon National Park, you will be kitted out for a fast-paced rafting experience, tearing down an 8.5-mile (14 km) stretch of river.

It’s a truly amazing experience for all the family, with sophisticated safety measures in place.

Duration:

From Alanya, Side, Kemer: 12 hours

From Antalya: 9 hours

From Beek: 10 hours

Join the best night party in Alanya aboard a luxurious triple-decker yacht. Get ready for a night of non-stop fun with a crazy foam party, modern club music, a professional DJ, a spectacular fire show, and much more. To top it all off, unlimited drinks are included throughout the night.

Come with your friends and enjoy an unforgettable evening—dance to the beats of the DJ, sip on your favorite drinks, and dive into the foam party in the middle of the sea aboard our luxury yacht. All of this unfolds against the backdrop of breathtaking coastal views, creating the perfect setting for a night to remember with exceptional, picturesque scenery of the Alanya coastline.

Souvenir photos will be available for purchase, allowing you to take home lasting memories of this lavish maritime adventure.

StarCraft Alanya is one of the most popular boat tours in the beautiful city of Alanya, located on Turkey’s southern coast. This tour takes passengers on a scenic journey along the Mediterranean coastline, showcasing some of the most picturesque landscapes and seascapes in the region. Along the way, guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on some of Turkey’s most pristine beaches.

The StarCraft Alanya tour itinerary typically includes several stops along the coast, each offering a unique and exciting experience. The day begins early in the morning with hotel pick-up, followed by a transfer to the dock. After a short briefing by the tour guides and the boat captain, guests board the StarCraft Alanya boat, which features comfortable seating and modern amenities for a relaxing cruise.

The first stop is usually at the famous Cleopatra Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Here, guests can swim, try water sports, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning coastal views.

Next, the boat sails to one of the hidden bays or coves along the coastline. These secluded spots are ideal for swimming and diving in the refreshing Mediterranean waters, and snorkeling offers a chance to explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.

Around midday, the boat stops at a local restaurant or café, where guests are treated to a delicious lunch of traditional Turkish cuisine. After lunch, the journey continues to the Pirate Cave, a natural sea cave once used by pirates to hide their treasures—a fascinating and photogenic stop.

The final destination is often the stunning Damlataş Beach, famous for its clear waters and colorful marine life. Here, guests can enjoy more swimming, sunbathing, or try exciting water sports like jet skiing or parasailing.

Overall, the StarCraft Alanya boat tour offers an unforgettable experience, combining natural beauty, fun activities, and authentic Turkish flavors. It’s a must-try adventure for anyone visiting the vibrant city of Alanya.

Do you feel like giving scuba-diving a go? Then this full-day excursion will give you a taste of the underwater world and you'll find out whether you are cut out for a wetsuit.

After being picked up from your hotel we'll whisk you to a top-rated PADI diving school where you will get to grips with the basic skills. Then, once you feel comfortable, you will head out by boat to a secluded bay for your first fun dive.

Descend into the warm waters with an experienced PADI instructor by your side. As you explore the waters, keep a lookout for grouper, octopus and damselfish. You might even spy more elusive species like barracuda and parrotfish, too. At some point, your instructor will hold out bits of food, attracting shoals of fish to give you a really close look.

Then, after lunch back on board, you'll enjoy a second, afternoon dive, giving you another chance to brush up your skills and see even more sea life before we turn to the resort.

Languages
English

The boat trip to the island begins in the bay of Adrasan. The journey takes you past high cliffs and caves. If you're lucky, you might see dolphins and turtles. The island has three beaches where the many tour boats can drop anchor. All are bright white and completely unspoilt. The clear water sparkles in the sun and invites a refreshing swim.

The first stop will be the infamous Suluada Island, where you can swim in the cool waters of the Love Cave, sunbathe, feel the warmth of the Mediterranean sun and make new memories with your loved ones.

The second stop on the itinerary is Akseki Bay. Also known as Love Island, this unspoilt spot is popular for its small cave. The waters of the Love Cave are always cold and there is a local myth that the waters are actually the tears of a girl. Enjoy your time swimming in the magnificent waters and discover the beauty of nature during your time there.

After spending some time on the island, return to the boat for a delicious lunch. The mouth-watering flavours will give you the energy you need to continue your boat trip.

Next we will stop at Hacivat Karagoz Bay, also known as Pirate's Bay, known as an old pirate settlement.

After the boat trip we will sail back to the port. A car will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

Options

Hotel pick-up from Antalya, Belek, Side or Kemer