City of Side: Mix Tour History, Nature, Culture Mosque Visit

Travelers seeking a well-rounded experience in Antalya Province will find this City of Side: Mix Tour an appealing option. Combining history, natural beauty, and local culture, this day trip offers a taste of everything that makes the region special. From ancient ruins to scenic boat rides and cultural visits, it’s a great way to maximize your day without breaking the bank.

What we love about this tour: First, the balance—it seamlessly mixes historical sites with outdoor activities. Second, the value—at just $22, you get a comprehensive experience with many highlights included. Third, the authenticity—engaging guides and local stops like orange groves make the journey feel genuine.

The only thing to consider is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and some uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure, sightseeing, and cultural exploration all in one day. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for an active day out, this tour offers plenty of variety.

Good To Know

• Diverse Itinerary: History, nature, and culture combined into one day
• Affordable Price: At $22, offers excellent value for a full day of activities
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Ahmed enhance the experience
• Authentic Cultural Stops: Visit a beautifully preserved mosque and local orange groves
• Outdoor Fun: Enjoy boat trips, swimming, jet skiing, and foam parties
• Flexible Options: Optional extras like Manavgat Waterfalls are available

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the City of Side: An Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed to give you a taste of the best scenery and history that Antalya’s surroundings have to offer. For just over eight hours, you’ll move through several carefully curated stops that highlight the region’s natural beauty, ancient sites, and vibrant local culture. The journey begins with a hotel pickup, so there’s no hassle in arranging transport, and the smooth bus travel helps set the relaxed tone for the day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts with pickups from Side or nearby areas, making it convenient whether you’re staying in a hotel or a nearby town. The first major stop is the Central Mosque complex in Manavgat. This mosque is not merely a place of worship but also a beautifully preserved example of Turkish architecture. As one reviewer mentioned, “Our guide Ahmed gave us a detailed explanation, and we appreciated the chance for some quiet reflection.” Visitors should note that modest clothing—covering shoulders and knees—is required, and women might want to bring a scarf, although these are usually provided.

Next, you’ll head towards the Manavgat Waterfalls, a popular scenic spot that offers great photo opportunities and a chance for a bit of leisure. After this, a lunch break is scheduled, often by the water—giving you a chance to relax and enjoy local cuisine.

Following lunch, the adventure continues with a boat cruise on Green Lake. This is a major highlight—expect lush surroundings and tranquil waters, perfect for unwinding. Many reviews highlight the boat trip as a peaceful, scenic segment that allows for some great photo moments.

Activities at Green Lake

Once on the lake, you’ll have options to swim, fish, rent a jet ski, or even join a foam party—something that children and adults alike find highly enjoyable. The tour’s flexibility means you can choose to relax or add a little adrenaline. Guests consistently mention how the guided explanations and friendly atmosphere make this part memorable.

Highlights of Oymapnar Dam and Orange Grove

The next stop is the impressive Oymapnar Dam, a significant engineering feat offering stunning views and a chance to learn about its role in regional water management. Travel writer Elke noted, “The views from the dam are incredible, and it’s fascinating to see how such a structure works.”

Then, you’ll visit a local orange grove, where you can smell the citrus and enjoy freshly squeezed orange juice. This is a real treat—simple but authentic—and one reviewer shared, “Walking through the grove and tasting fresh juice made me realize how much care goes into local farming.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Optional Visit to Manavgat Waterfall

For those wanting to extend their day, the Manavgat Waterfall can be added as an extra, with a small entrance fee. It’s a picturesque spot with cascading waters, perfect for final photos and a relaxing end to your active day.

Final Stops and Return

The last major stop is the Green Canyon, where you get a quick photo stop and a chance to appreciate more stunning scenery before heading back to Side. The return journey is via bus, with drop-offs at your hotel or nearby.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $22 covers essentials like pickup, transportation, lunch, and the boat tour. These elements alone provide great value, especially considering the variety of activities packed into one day.

However, keep in mind the additional costs: entrance tickets for the Manavgat Waterfalls (€3), orange grove (€1), and zoo (€3) are not included. Personal expenses, drinks, and souvenirs are also extra.

Genuine Traveler Insights

Reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides—notably, one traveler highlighted how Ahmed’s explanations made the history more engaging. The boat trip was described as “relaxing and scenic,” while the visit to the mosque was praised for its architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Some travelers mentioned that the timing can vary due to traffic, so flexibility is key. Also, the walk on uneven surfaces means comfortable shoes are recommended.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate uneven historical sites.
• Bring sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen, especially during summer.
• Pack a towel and beachwear if you plan to swim or participate in water activities.
• Have some cash handy for optional purchases like the orange juice or zoo entry.
• Be prepared for modest dress when visiting the mosque—bring a scarf if needed.
• Arrive at your hotel’s security gate promptly to avoid missing the pickup.
• Keep an eye on the weather forecast—activities like boat trips depend on good weather.

Why This Tour Works Well

This full-day experience offers a balanced blend of culture, history, and outdoor fun. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of the region’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. The relatively low price makes it accessible for budget-conscious travelers seeking a comprehensive day out.

The tour’s flexible options, like the chance to swim, jet ski, and enjoy local food, mean you’ll likely find plenty to keep everyone entertained. The presence of knowledgeable guides makes navigating the sites easier and more informative, especially for first-timers to the area.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys active days with diverse experiences, this tour is a solid choice. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore without fuss. History enthusiasts will appreciate the mosque and ancient ruins, while adventure lovers will savor the lake activities and optional water sports.

People who prefer organized excursions with transportation included will find this tour convenient and stress-free. It also works well for those with limited time, as it packs a lot into one day.

The Sum Up

The City of Side: Mix Tour offers excellent value, blending history, natural beauty, and local culture into a seamless 8-9 hour journey. With carefully curated stops like the ancient mosque, Green Lake, Oymapnar Dam, and orange groves, it gives you a well-rounded taste of what the region offers.

Expect knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and activities that cater to a range of interests. The price point makes it especially attractive, providing a rich experience without stretching your budget. This tour is particularly suitable for travelers looking for an active, diverse, and authentic day trip.

While it involves some walking and optional extra costs, the overall experience is rewarding and well-organized. Whether you’re new to the area or returning for a quick glimpse of Antalya’s highlights, this tour promises a memorable day.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, transfer from your hotel to all the stops and back is included, making it very convenient.

What is the tour duration? The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day of exploring and activities.

Are meals provided? Yes, a lunch is included, typically by the water, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy local cuisine.

Can I participate in water activities? Yes, options like swimming, jet skiing, and foam parties are available at Green Lake during free time.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are recommended. When visiting the mosque, modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is required.

Are there any additional costs? Entrance fees for Manavgat Waterfalls (€3), orange groves (€1), and the zoo (€3) are extra. Personal expenses and drinks are also not included.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children can enjoy the lake activities and the foam party, although parents should supervise at water stops.

With its mix of scenic, historic, and cultural highlights, this tour offers a well-rounded day that captures the essence of the Side region. It’s a fantastic way to experience the area’s natural beauty, ancient sites, and vibrant local life—all in one accessible package.

You can check if your dates are available here: