What's included in the EUR 25 price?

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Side, round-trip minibus transport to Manavgat, the 7-hour boat cruise, barbecue lunch onboard, and entrance to the bazaar area. Activities like souvenirs and any optional drinks are separate.

Is the barbecue lunch suitable for vegetarians?

The menu includes pasta and salads alongside fish and chicken. Inform the operator of dietary needs when booking to ensure vegetarian options are prepared.

How much time do I get to explore the Grand Bazaar?

You'll have approximately 1.5 hours of free time to browse stalls, shop for souvenirs, and visit the Blue Mosque before returning to Side.

Is swimming compulsory, and is the water safe?

The swim stop at the river mouth is optional. The water is clean and safe for swimming in this designated area; however, bring appropriate footwear as the riverbed can be rocky.

What's the boat like, and will I be comfortable?

The traditional wooden boat holds 45 passengers and offers open-air seating with views. It's not luxurious, but well-maintained. Bring a hat and sunscreen; shade is limited.

Are there accessibility considerations for mobility issues?

The boat has steps for boarding and limited accessible facilities. Alert the operator during booking if you have mobility concerns so they can advise on feasibility.

Side: Manavgat River Cruise, Waterfalls ve Market Tour 1

Side: Manavgat River Cruise, Waterfalls ve Market Tour 2

Side: Manavgat River Cruise, Waterfalls ve Market Tour 3

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Side: Manavgat River Cruise, Waterfalls ve Market Tour

(5)

Side, Turkey

Boat ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsFood & Drink ToursCity Breaks

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About this activity

A full-day immersion into Manavgat's natural and cultural highlights, combining a scenic river cruise with lunch aboard a traditional wooden boat, a refreshing swim where the river meets the sea, and exploration of the bustling Grand Bazaar. Perfect for travellers seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, local flavour, and authentic Turkish markets.

Enjoy a full-day tour of the Grand Bazaar in Manavgat and cruise along the Manavgat River. Laze in the sun, enjoy a barbecue lunch aboard a traditional wooden boat, and pick up some souvenirs along the way.

Following a pick-up from your hotel in Side, transfer by comfortable, non-smoking minibus to the town of Manavgat. Here, climb aboard a 45-passenger wooden boat for a cruise along the river. Sit back and enjoy the views of the river banks and mountains. Relax in the sun, and soak up the cool breeze.

A barbecue lunch of fish, chicken, pasta, and salads will be served on board. Stop at the mouth of the river for a refreshing swim at a beach where the river meets the sea. Disembark the boat to go to the Grand Bazaar, waterfall, and Blue Mosque of Manavgat.

Pick up some souvenir bargains from the diverse stalls in the market. Enjoy 1.5 hours of free time to wander around the bazaar, before your return transfer to Side.

Highlights

✓7-hour guided tour from Side with hotel pickup and drop-off
✓45-passenger traditional wooden boat cruise along Manavgat River with mountain and riverbank views
✓Freshly prepared barbecue lunch (fish, chicken, pasta, salads) served onboard
✓Swim stop at the river mouth where it meets the Mediterranean
✓1.5 hours free time to explore Grand Bazaar and browse local handicrafts and souvenirs
✓Visit to Blue Mosque of Manavgat

Insider tips

★Bring swimwear and a towel for the river-mouth beach stop—the water is refreshing and the setting unique
★Arrive at the bazaar with energy to haggle; prices are negotiable and vendors expect it, especially for textiles and ceramics
★The morning boat departure is less crowded; request early pickup if available for a more peaceful cruise experience

Good to know

•Non-smoking minibus transport provided; inform operator of any mobility concerns during booking
•Lunch is included; dietary restrictions (vegetarian options available in pasta and salads) should be mentioned in advance
•Wear sun protection (hat, sunscreen) as the boat offers limited shade during the 7-hour day
•Hotel pickup typically occurs 8–9am; confirm exact time with your accommodation the day before

Who it's for

Couples seeking a romantic blend of nature and cultural explorationFamilies wanting a manageable, all-inclusive day with swimming and casual diningSolo travellers and small groups interested in local markets and scenic river landscapesFirst-time visitors to Side looking for a representative taste of the Manavgat region

Best time to visit

Visit during shoulder seasons (April–May or September–October) when temperatures are warm but not oppressive, and the river is pleasant for swimming. Avoid midday summer heat (July–August) when crowds peak and sun exposure is intense.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Claire C.

Jun 2026

our captain Yusuf was nice enough, but the little blue cave stop felt a bit rushed honestly. Last day of the trip. Would only really suit you if youre not fussy, got loads of photos. Bit disappointed ngl, over easter break.

Sofia B.

Apr 2026

our captain Kemal had so many stories and jumping off the back into clear water was the highlight. Did it on our first morning so it wasnt too busy. Good as a half-day option, and got loads of photos, and stopped at 3 different bays. Would book again no question.

Mike T.

Feb 2026

loved it — captain Aiko top notch, spot on for a couples day out, and stopped at 3 different bays

Kev N.

Jun 2025

our captain Yuki had so many stories and dolphins riding the bow for ages was the highlight, and for our anniversary, 10/10

Ruth M.

Apr 2025

our captain Yusuf couldnt do enough for us and dolphins riding the bow for ages was the highlight, and fine even with my dodgy knee, and about 5 hours on the water.

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