Antalya: Old City Tour w/Boat Trip, Cable Car & Waterfalls

Travelers considering a day in Antalya often crave more than just a glance at its beautiful coastline. They’re looking for a blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxed exploration. From waterfalls crashing into the Mediterranean to cobbled streets teeming with history, this tour manages to tick many boxes.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the dual waterfall visits—a stunning display of nature that’s hard to beat. Second, the scenic boat trip offers a peaceful way to see the coastline from the water. And third, the Olympos Cable Car gives a breathtaking view from over 2,300 meters altitude.

A possible consideration? The tour can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re a slow walker or like to linger at each stop. Also, the tour is best suited for those comfortable with group outings and some walking, as it covers a lot of ground in a full day.

Overall, if you love combining history, scenery, and a touch of adventure, this tour is a solid choice. It appeals especially to travelers wanting an active, varied day out without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Good To Know

• Diverse Attractions: Mix of waterfalls, historic old town, boat cruise, and cable car.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Gozde and Ibrahim enhance the experience.
• Cultural & Natural Balance: Perfect combination of sightseeing and relaxing nature moments.
• Good Value: Includes entrance fees, lunch, and all transportation, making it cost-effective.
• Photographers’ Paradise: Stunning waterfalls, scenic coastlines, and panoramic views.
• Time Management: The itinerary can be flexible based on crowd levels, so expect some adjustments.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Complete Look at the Tour Experience

This Antalya day trip offers a well-rounded look at the city’s highlights, with a focus on natural beauty and cultural landmarks. Starting with hotel pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, your day kicks off smoothly. The tour officially begins with visits to the Düden Waterfalls, the icons of Antalya’s natural landscape. The Lower Düden Waterfalls are especially dramatic, plunging from cliffs into the sea below, creating perfect photo ops. As one reviewer pointed out, “Waterfalls were absolutely beautiful loved every second of it,” highlighting how breathtaking this spot can be.

Next, the tour takes you to Kaleiçi, Antalya’s historic old town. Walking through its narrow, cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time. Here, you’ll find landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate, a Roman triumphal arch, the Yivli Minaret from the Seljuk period, and the Clock Tower, a symbol of the city. Reviewers describe this part of the tour as “fantastic,” with guides like Gozde providing detailed insights into Antalya’s layered history. Many travelers take time to browse small boutiques, sip Turkish tea, or snap photos of charming architecture.

Following Kaleiçi, it’s time for a scenic boat trip from the old harbor. This peaceful cruise along the coast offers views of Antalya’s cliffs, turquoise waters, and the sprawling coastline. “Seeing the city from the sea was such a relaxing way to appreciate the scenery,” one guest noted. It’s a gentle break from walking and provides excellent photo opportunities, especially with the sunlight dancing on the water.

Midday, everyone gathers for lunch at a local restaurant serving authentic Turkish cuisine. The food is described as tasty and filling, with many reviewers praising the quality and variety. One noted, “The lunch was very good, authentic Turkish food,” emphasizing how this adds to the overall value, especially as it’s included in the tour price.

In the afternoon, the tour takes a ride on the Olympos Cable Car. Ascending to over 2,300 meters, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the mountains and surrounding landscapes. Some reviewers mention that the weather can be chilly at the top, so dressing warmly is advisable, especially since “the trip up the cable car was freezing.” Although only one waterfall visit is included in the cable car program, the views are unforgettable and worth the ride.

The second waterfall stop at Upper Düden Waterfalls offers a tranquil retreat in lush surroundings. Visitors enjoy wandering through quiet parkland, spotting caves, and taking more photos. Many highlight this as a peaceful, scenic contrast to the more dramatic Lower Düden Waterfalls.

Transport, Timing, and Group Size

Transportation is via a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long day manageable and pleasant. The tour duration is approximately 9 to 10 hours, with most starting in the morning and returning by evening. Groups tend to be well-organized, with guides like Ibrahim and Gozde ensuring smooth transitions between attractions. The reviews consistently praise their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the group entertained.

While the itinerary includes many stops, it’s worth noting that the pace can be brisk, especially during busy times or if the group is large. Some reviewers mentioned that “everything moves slowly,” but this was generally balanced by the excellent guidance and clear communication.

Value and Cost

Considering the inclusion of entrance fees, a quality lunch, and all transportation, this tour offers good value. It’s especially appealing for those who want a rundown without the hassle of coordinating multiple bookings. The reviews show that many guests felt it was worth the price, citing the knowledgeable guides and the variety of sights as key benefits.

Highlights from Guest Reviews

Guests consistently praise their guides—particularly Ibrahim and Gozde—for being friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating. “Our guide Ibrahim explained everything with passion,” said one reviewer, while another called Gozde “an amazing host who kept the group entertained and well-informed.” The waterfalls receive universal praise for their beauty, with many noting the Lower Düden’s dramatic cascade and the Upper Düden’s peaceful surroundings.

Food also gets high marks, with “authentic Turkish dishes” making the lunch a highlight for many. The boat cruise is a peaceful, scenic addition that many found relaxing and enjoyable.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking in old town and at waterfalls.
• Bring sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.
• Dress warmly if you plan to take the cable car, especially if weather looks cloudy or windy.
• Carry some cash for souvenirs or small snacks outside the included lunch.
• Meet the guide at the hotel’s main entrance if staying in Kaleiçi due to local access restrictions.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature and history in a single day. It suits those who enjoy sightseeing, photography, and gentle outdoor activities, but might not be ideal if you’re looking for a very leisurely or slow-paced experience. If you appreciate guides who are friendly and knowledgeable, and value good food and scenic views, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

It’s also a great choice for those who want to tick off several top attractions without the stress of planning each stop. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer quiet, private tours, you might want to reconsider the boat trip or opt for a more customized experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most hotels in the Antalya region are included for pickup, but travelers should meet at the main entrance due to local regulations.

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts about 9 to 10 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers the Duden Waterfalls entry fee, along with guided commentary and lunch.

Do I need to bring cash?
While most expenses are covered, it’s wise to carry some cash for optional souvenirs or small personal purchases outside the included lunch.

Is the cable car ride included?
Only if you select the cable car option; note that only one waterfall is included in the cable car program.

Can I visit both waterfalls in a day?
Yes, the tour visits both Upper and Lower Düden Waterfalls, offering different scenic experiences—one dramatic and one tranquil.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s best for travelers comfortable with walking and some outdoor activity. It’s not suited for wheelchair users, and the pace might be too brisk for some elderly travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Antalya tour provides an engaging mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and relaxing moments—all within a full-day itinerary. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge elevate the experience, and the variety of stops ensures there’s something for all. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply want a taste of Antalya’s best sights without the hassle of planning, this trip offers good value and memorable moments.

Just remember to dress appropriately for the weather, pace yourself, and enjoy the many stunning vistas along the way. It’s a well-rounded adventure that caters to diverse interests, making it an excellent choice for a comprehensive day in Antalya.

In sum, this tour is ideal for those looking for a full, varied day out—rich in scenery, history, and local flavor—delivered with expert guidance and a friendly touch.

You can check if your dates are available here: