Alanya: Full-Day Cable Car & Boat Tour to Cleopatra Beach

Planning a day in Alanya and want to pack in some of its most iconic sights? This full-day tour offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and modern leisure, all at an accessible price. Whether you’re a history buff eager to explore the castle, a beach lover craving sun and sea, or simply after a well-organized day out, this experience ticks many boxes.

What we love about this tour is the way it combines different aspects of Alanya effortlessly: panoramic views from the castle, a refreshing sea swim, exploring fascinating caves, and a taste of local cuisine. Plus, the boat ride along the coast adds that extra dash of adventure. That said, some travelers noted that the boat trip can be canceled due to weather, so it’s worth preparing for that possibility. This tour is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive, value-packed day that covers history, scenery, and relaxation.

Good To Know

• Stunning vistas from Alanya Castle and the coastline make this tour a photographer’s dream.
• Authentic Turkish lunch provides a delicious break and cultural insight.
• Varied activities keep the day engaging, from caves to city shopping.
• Good value for the price, with multiple highlights included.
• Flexible options such as hotel pickup make planning easier.
• Authentic guides enhance the experience with local knowledge, though language options vary.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour, offered by Nks LLC, provides a full-day dive into what makes Alanya so special. Starting with hotel pickup in Side or Alanya, you’re eased into your adventure with a comfortable ride to the first stop: Alanya Castle. The highlight here is the cable car ride, a smooth ascent giving you breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean. From the top, the vistas of Cleopatra Beach and the coastline are panoramic, perfect for snapping memorable photos.

The Highlights of Alanya Castle and the Surroundings

Once at the top, you’ll wander through the historic Süleymaniye Mosque, which adds a touch of local spiritual atmosphere. The Bedesten Bazaar is next, offering a chance to browse local crafts, sweets, and souvenirs. Reviewers like Kasia from Poland mention that the tour is mostly in English, with voice guides sent via WhatsApp, adding a modern touch to the historical exploration. However, some travelers, like Piotr, noted that the Polish guide was unavailable, which might matter if you prefer local language explanations.

The Coastal Boat Trip and Red Tower

After descending from the castle, the tour continues with a boat ride along the Alanya coastline. This isn’t just a scenic cruise—it’s a way to view the Red Tower (Kzlkule) from the water, providing a unique perspective. The sea breeze and sound of waves make this a relaxing interlude, perfect for unwinding after the castle visit.

Cleopatra Beach – The Star of the Show

The boat stops at Cleopatra Beach, famous for its soft sands and crystal clear waters. You’ll have around 45 minutes here to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the scenery. Reviewers such as Natalie from the UK appreciated this break, citing it as a highlight of their day. The proximity of the beach to other landmarks makes it a convenient spot to relax without feeling rushed.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Damlata Cave – Nature’s Marvel

Next, the tour takes you to the Damlataş Cave, renowned for its stalactites and stalagmites. It’s a short walk into the cool, dark interior, and the cave’s supposed health benefits—like easing respiratory issues—add an extra layer of intrigue. While some travelers mention the small entry fee of 4 Euros, others find the visit worth it for the natural formations and cool respite from the heat.

Lunch and Local Culture

A highlight for many is the lunch stop at a local restaurant. Here, you’ll savor authentic Turkish cuisine, giving you a taste of the region’s flavors. The reviews consistently mention good, above-average food, with some saying it was a pleasant surprise compared to other tours. This sits well with travelers wanting genuine cultural experiences and delicious, filling meals.

Free Time & City Exploration

After lunch, the tour includes a stop at the Alanya city center, where you can explore, shop, or relax at a café. Reviewers like Grzegorz from Poland enjoyed the chance to visit the charming cat village, where the resident cats act like friendly hosts—adding a quirky local flavor.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup & Initial Introduction

The day begins with hotel pickup, a major convenience that takes away the stress of navigating unfamiliar transport. The group size can vary, but many reviews mention guides like John and Anna, who go out of their way to ensure no one is left behind. This personal touch makes a difference, especially when navigating busy tourist sites.

Alanya Castle & Cable Car

The cable car ride is the first real highlight, offering a smooth ascent with spectacular views. It’s a practical way to avoid steep climbs and makes the castle accessible to most. Once at the top, you’ll have time to wander around the fortress walls, admire the panoramic views, and absorb the historic atmosphere. The guide’s explanations, mostly in English, enrich your understanding of the site, although availability of other languages like German or Polish can depend on group size.

Coastal Boat Ride & Red Tower

The boat trip is a relaxing voyage along the coast, with a good chance to snap photos of Alanya’s rugged cliffs and the iconic Red Tower. Some reviews mention that the boat trip can be canceled if weather conditions aren’t suitable, so flexibility is a plus. The breeze and sea spray add to the experience, making it a refreshing break from sightseeing.

Cleopatra Beach & Damlataş Cave

The swim at Cleopatra Beach offers a quick but memorable experience, especially considering how soft and inviting the sands are. The nearby Damlataş Cave is a cool surprise, with stalactites hanging like natural chandeliers. Visitors often comment on the cave’s beauty and the cool, calming environment inside.

Lunch & Culture

The included lunch at a local restaurant is a wonderful way to try authentic Turkish dishes. Reviewers mention that the food was above average, and the relaxed pace allows for genuine cultural exchange. Afterward, you’re free to explore Alanya’s streets—shopping, visiting cafes, or taking in the lively atmosphere.

Practical Aspects & Tips

Transport & Duration: The tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off. The long duration means you’ll want comfortable shoes and a hat, especially during summer months.

Pricing & Value: At $23 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering the variety of activities included—cable car, boat trip, cave, lunch, and guided city exploration. Additional costs include optional activities like the Damlataş Cave entry fee (4 Euros) and the cable car ticket (12 Euros). The boat trip is optional at 5 Euros.

Guides & Languages: The tour is offered in multiple languages—English, German, Russian, Turkish, and Polish—though some reviews note that guides in smaller groups may only speak English. Guides like John and Anna receive praise for their friendly approach and detailed explanations.

What to Bring: Swimwear, camera, cash (for extras and entry fees). Remember, food and drinks are not allowed in the vehicle, but you’ll have chances to buy snacks during the day.

Weather & Cancellations: The boat trip is weather-dependent and might be canceled on the day. The guide will inform you if that happens, and alternative plans are usually made. Flexibility is key.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many travelers mention the guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude. For example, Grzegorz appreciated the stop at the cat village, describing the cats as “true hosts,” which adds a charming, unexpected touch. Others, like Arash from the US, praised the mix of activities, highlighting that the boat trip was chill and the history explanations by Anna were engaging.

Some reviews also point out minor issues—such as the guide attempting to hurriedly rush guests at the ATM or some confusion about language options. Still, most agree that the overall value and experience outweigh these small hiccups.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour of Alanya offers a well-rounded glimpse of the city’s highlights, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out without breaking the bank. The combination of scenic cable car rides, historical sites, a relaxing boat cruise, and beach time makes for an engaging itinerary. The inclusion of authentic Turkish lunch, guided city exploration, and optional cave visits enriches the experience, providing both entertainment and cultural insights.

It’s perfect for those who value a mix of history, nature, and leisure, and appreciate good value for their money. The knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and flexible schedule help make this a memorable day for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Alanya or Side, making it easy to start your day stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions, especially if the boat trip gets canceled.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the Damlataş Cave entry fee is 4 Euros, and the cable car ticket costs 12 Euros if you wish to ride it up to the castle. The boat trip costs 5 Euros if you choose to add it.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear for Cleopatra Beach, a camera for the scenic views, and cash for optional extras or souvenirs. Avoid bringing food or drinks in the vehicle.

Can the tour be canceled due to weather?
Yes, the boat trip might be canceled if weather conditions are poor, and the guide will inform you on the day. The itinerary may be adjusted accordingly.

Is the guide available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, German, Russian, Turkish, and Polish, though availability in smaller groups may lean towards English only.

This tour packs plenty into a day and offers a taste of Alanya’s vibrant culture, history, and scenery—making it a convenient choice for travelers wanting a full experience without the hassle.

You can check if your dates are available here: