Manavgat Boat Tour from Side

• Hotel Pick-Up: Depart from Side with a convenient hotel pickup in the morning, and travel to the Manavgat River harbor.
• Manavgat River Cruise: Board a spacious double-decker boat and cruise along the calm Manavgat River. Enjoy panoramic views of lush greenery and maybe spot turtles or birds along the banks.
• Delta Swim Break & Lunch: Stop at the river's delta where it meets the Mediterranean Sea. Take an invigorating swim in the cool river or warm sea, relax on the sandy shore, and savor a delicious lunch on board.
• Manavgat Waterfall Visit: After lunch, head to the famous Manavgat Waterfall (optional visit). Feel the refreshing mist and capture photos of this natural wonder (small entrance fee applies).
• Local Bazaar Time: Explore the bustling Manavgat town bazaar. Browse stalls of fresh produce, spices, textiles, and more. Enjoy free time to shop, mingle with locals, and practice bargaining.
• Return to Side: In the afternoon, meet up and relax on the ride back to Side. The tour ends with drop-off at your hotel, leaving you with great memories.

Discover Manavgat's Treasures on a Full-Day Tour

Experience the Best of Side and Manavgat: The Manavgat River Boat Tour from Side is one of the most popular excursions for visitors staying in Side, a resort town on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. Side’s prime location makes it easy to explore beyond the hotel and beach. Just a few kilometers inland lies Manavgat, a town famous for its meandering river and stunning waterfall that lend this tour its name. This full-day adventure seamlessly blends natural beauty and cultural experiences. From the moment you set off, you’ll be immersed in the region’s charm—cruising gentle river waters, visiting an iconic waterfall, and wandering a vibrant local bazaar, all in one trip.

Scenic Manavgat River Cruise

Start your day with a relaxing cruise along the emerald-green Manavgat River. As you glide over calm waters, you'll pass picturesque riverside landscapes dotted with lush vegetation and maybe even see local wildlife. Keep an eye out for basking turtles or wild birds along the banks. The boat itself is comfortable and spacious, often a double-decker with shaded seating and sun decks. Feel the breeze as you bask under the sun or cool off in the shade while taking in panoramic views. This Side excursion offers an idyllic start, perfect for families and couples who want to unwind amidst nature. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of inspiration here, from the vivid blue sky reflecting on the water to the green scenery framing the riverbanks.

Did you know? The Manavgat River is about 90 kilometers long, originating high in the Taurus Mountains and flowing all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. Its cool, clear waters irrigate local farms and even power small hydroelectric plants before forming the famous waterfall. During your cruise, you'll gain appreciation for how this river is truly the lifeblood of the region.

Where the River Meets the Sea

A highlight of the cruise is reaching the point where the Manavgat River flows into the Mediterranean Sea. Here, the boat will anchor at a golden sandbar that separates the fresh river from the salty sea. It's a unique sensation to have cool freshwater on one side and warm sea waves on the other. You’ll have about an hour to enjoy this special spot. Jump in for a refreshing swim in the clear river, or take a dip in the gentle sea waves – or try both! The kids will love splashing around, and adults will relish the stunning contrast of temperatures. You can lounge on the sandy beach, soak up the sun, or stroll along the shore. Don’t forget to snap some photos of this remarkable meeting of waters. If you're lucky, you might even catch sight of the famous Caretta Caretta sea turtles that sometimes visit this area, adding an extra thrill to your day. Friendly seagulls often trail the boat – kids and adults alike enjoy tossing bits of bread to them and watching these birds swoop down for a snack.

During the swim break, the crew prepares a delicious lunch onboard. Typically, you'll enjoy grilled chicken or fresh fish, accompanied by rice or pasta, a crisp salad, and bread. Dining on the boat with the scenic backdrop of the river delta is an experience in itself. Cold drinks are available for purchase from the onboard bar, so you can pair your meal with a refreshing soda or beer. As you savor your lunch, bask in the tranquil atmosphere — it's a moment of pure relaxation and enjoyment halfway through your adventure.

The Majestic Manavgat Waterfall

Following the river cruise, the journey continues with a visit to the Manavgat Waterfall, one of the region’s most beloved natural attractions. After disembarking the boat, a short drive brings you to this picturesque waterfall on the Manavgat River. Unlike towering waterfalls elsewhere, Manavgat Waterfall is known for its width and thunderous flow rather than height. The water crashes down a low cliff spanning the river, creating a wide curtain of foaming white water. Surrounded by protected woodlands and lush greenery at the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, the site offers a refreshing atmosphere and plenty of shady spots to escape the sun.

Take your time to admire the falls from various viewpoints and capture some stunning photos. There are wooden platforms and walkways that get you close to the cascade, offering excellent photo opportunities. The roar of the water provides a soothing natural soundtrack, and you can even dip your toes into the river in certain spots. Nearby, you'll find small cafes and snack stands where you can grab a tea, ice cream, or fresh-squeezed juice while enjoying the scenery. Visiting the waterfall is a great way to connect with nature and is often a highlight for those who love photography and the outdoors. (Note: The waterfall visit is optional on some tours and may require a small entrance fee, but it’s highly recommended for the full experience.) Manavgat Waterfall is so well-loved in Turkey that it once even appeared on the 5 lira banknote, highlighting its status as a national treasure.

Exploring the Local Bazaar in Manavgat

After soaking in the beauty of the waterfall, the tour takes you to the heart of Manavgat town for an authentic local shopping experience. Manavgat’s bazaar (held on Mondays and Thursdays) is a bustling open-air market that bursts with life and color. This is the perfect place to dive into local culture. Under a sprawling canopy of tents, vendors sell everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to spices, sweets, clothing, and handmade crafts. The scent of spices and herbs fills the air, and you'll see stacks of seasonal produce and local delicacies like Turkish delight and ripe watermelons.

Browsing the bazaar is not just about shopping—it's a cultural experience. Practice your bargaining skills as you hunt for souvenirs or gifts. You might find quality cotton textiles, t-shirts, dresses, leather goods, handbags, and shoes at bargain prices, as well as traditional items like evil eye trinkets (nazar boncuğu) or beautiful hand-painted ceramics. Amidst the stalls, you'll also find vendors cooking up tasty street food. Be sure to try a fresh gözleme (a Turkish savory flatbread) or a glass of pomegranate juice for an authentic treat. Don't be shy to interact with the friendly local vendors; haggling is expected and part of the fun. It's a lively atmosphere where you can also observe locals doing their weekly shopping, giving you a glimpse of everyday life in Turkey.

Beyond the shopping, take a moment to admire Manavgat town itself. The town’s impressive central mosque, with its elegant domes and towering minarets, stands not far from the market—you might hear the enchanting call to prayer echoing as you explore, adding to the authentic atmosphere. The market visit typically lasts a couple of hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and even relax. If shopping isn’t your thing, you can sit at a cafe and enjoy a cup of Turkish tea or coffee, watching the hustle and bustle around you. Perhaps snack on a roasted corn or chestnuts from a street cart as you people-watch. Whether you fill your bags with goodies or simply soak in the ambiance, the Manavgat bazaar is an eye-opening experience that adds a cultural richness to the Manavgat River Boat Tour from Side.

Comfort and Convenience All the Way

One of the best parts of this tour is how convenient and well-organized it is. From start to finish, everything is arranged so you can focus on enjoying your day. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Side in the morning by an air-conditioned coach, so there’s no need to worry about transportation logistics. The professional guide (or tour escort) provides insight about the sights and is there to assist you throughout the trip, ensuring you have a smooth experience. For your convenience, guides typically conduct the tour in English (and often additional languages) so everyone can follow along. Another plus: the tour runs on Manavgat’s main market days (Monday and Thursday), so you'll visit the bazaar when it's in full swing. The itinerary even offers flexibility: if you prefer to skip the waterfall visit, you can spend extra time at the bazaar while others see the falls, and regroup with the group afterwards.

The boat is equipped with amenities and safety features (life jackets are available for everyone). The boat also includes basic amenities like restrooms and a changing cabin, so you can freshen up after swimming and stay comfortable throughout the journey. Lunch is cooked fresh and served on board, which means you don't have to pack any food or search for restaurants. All these thoughtful touches make the trip stress-free and suitable for all ages. Families with children appreciate the mix of activities – kids can enjoy swimming and the novelty of the boat ride, while parents and grandparents love the relaxing cruise and the chance to explore the market. Couples find it a romantic and fun-filled outing as well, with plenty of scenic moments to share.

By combining several attractions in one tour, you also save time and get great value. Instead of organizing a separate trip to the waterfall or navigating to the bazaar on your own, everything is included in this itinerary. It's an efficient way to sightsee beyond Side’s resort area and create memories in different settings – from natural landscapes to lively town scenes. After a fulfilling day, you'll be dropped off back at your hotel by late afternoon, giving you time to rest or enjoy the evening in Side.

Know Before You Go

This tour typically operates during the warmer months (roughly April through October) when the weather is ideal for a day on the river. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and footwear, and of course pack your swimsuit, towel, and plenty of sunscreen (mid-summer temperatures often reach around 35°C/95°F), especially at midday on the water. A hat and sunglasses will also make your journey more comfortable. Don't forget to carry some cash (in Turkish Lira) for the bazaar or any extras like drinks and snacks, as not all vendors accept credit cards (though many will take euros or dollars). If you love capturing memories, consider bringing a waterproof pouch for your camera or phone so you can take photos during the swim stop without worry. Lastly, because the Manavgat boat trip is popular, it's wise to book early in your stay. That way, if a weather delay occurs or plans change, you'll have time to adjust and still fit this must-do excursion into your schedule. With a little preparation, you're all set for an unforgettable day on the Manavgat River!

Memories to Last a Lifetime

At the end of the day, the Manavgat River Boat Tour is more than just a boat trip; it’s a journey through some of the most charming aspects of the Side-Manavgat region. The contrast of swimming in a river and the sea at the same spot, the awe of standing before the powerful waterfall, and the vibrant energy of a Turkish bazaar make this excursion truly special. You'll return to your hotel with a satisfied smile, feeling like you’ve experienced a true slice of Turkey’s natural beauty and culture in one go.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a culture enthusiast, this tour has something for everyone. Plus, it's a great opportunity to share the experience with other travelers and maybe even make new friends along the way. It’s an ideal way to spend a day off the beach, adding variety to your holiday. Many visitors consider this outing the highlight of their Side holiday, thanks to the diverse experiences it offers. Don't forget your camera – the sights you'll encounter are as photogenic as they are unforgettable. With its unique blend of relaxation, exploration, and fun, the Manavgat River Boat Tour from Side is a must-do that will leave you with wonderful stories and memories to cherish long after your trip is over. You'll likely return with a camera full of beautiful photos and a few souvenirs from the bazaar – perfect reminders of your Manavgat adventure to share with friends and family.