Located on the sunny Mediterranean coast of Turkey, Side offers the ideal blend of modern resorts and ancient ruins—resulting in a popular holiday destination for locals and internationals alike.

While Side has many attractions, it is still a relatively small town and you may find yourself looking to escape its confines and find other things to see and do in the region during your stay.

Manavgat day trips from Side offer the perfect solution, as you’ll get the chance to see something entirely different without having to stray too far from your accommodation. Known for its majestic waterfalls and buzzing bazaar, Manavgat is not to be missed!

Here's all you need to know about Manavgat, one of the most exciting day trips from Side.

How to get to Manavgat from Side?

The riverside town of Manavgat, located in Turkey’s Antalya region, is just 5 kilometers northwest of Side.

From Side to Manavgat by car

Driving from Side to Manavgat should take you less than 10 minutes, depending on traffic. There are a few different routes you can take, but the easiest would be to head northwest on the D400 and simply follow the signs to Manavgat.

From Side to Manavgat by bus

There are minibuses that run from the resort areas in Side to Manavgat Center every 10 minutes or so. These buses are clearly marked and offer an affordable and convenient way to get to Manavgat. The journey shouldn’t take longer than 15 minutes.

Guided tour to Manavgat from Side

Avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or hiring a car by opting for a guided tour to Manavgat from Side. An experienced tour guide will arrange your transportation and itinerary for the day so that you can sit back, relax and simply enjoy Manavgat.

Most Manavgat day trips from Side are full-day excursions, lasting between 6 and 9 hours.

What is the typical itinerary?

Most itineraries begin with hotel pickup from your accommodation in Side. You’ll meet your professional local guide and other tour participants, if any, and make your way to the nearby town of Manavgat.

Once in Manavgat, you’ll board a wooden boat and enjoy a cruise up the Manavgat River—stopping at the Grand Bazaar and the Manavgat Waterfalls along the way. You’ll enjoy a delicious lunch onboard the boat before your tour comes to an end.

Your professional guide will be with you every step of the way, providing commentary and information about the sights alongside the river. At the end of a busy and enjoyable day on the water, you’ll be taken back to your hotel.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Manavgat?

Guided tours to Manavgat from Side with river cruise

River cruises along the Manavgat River provide a fun and affordable way to experience the region. Not only will you get to see the famous Manavgat Waterfalls, but you’ll also see the Grand Bazaar and a few other sites along the way.

These group excursions offer the perfect opportunity to meet new people and make friends.

Scuba diving excursion to Manavgat from Side

Suitable for beginners and experienced divers, scuba diving excursions are a memorable experience visiting Manavgat from Side. Dive at two different dive sites, one in the Side harbor and the other in the clear waters of Manavgat.

You’ll enjoy lunch aboard the diving vessel and get to see a wide variety of underwater creatures.

How much does a day trip to Manavgat from Side cost?

Manavgat river cruises from Side typically cost around US$25 and US$35 per person, which includes hotel transfers, lunch and commentary from a professional tour guide.

Scuba diving trips from Side to Manavgat generally cost around US$55 per person and are also inclusive of scuba gear, lunch and hotel transfers.

What will you see and do?

Manavgat Waterfalls

While the Manavgat Waterfalls are not very tall, they spread across the entire river and offer picturesque views, with the sound of running water creating a relaxing atmosphere. The area around the waterfall is perfect for rafting, swimming and even fishing.

There are plenty of restaurants, as well as a picnic area, which makes it possible to enjoy a meal alongside the waterfalls.

Grand Bazaar

As one of the biggest open-air markets in Antalya, the Grand Bazaar in Manavgat is the perfect place to purchase sweets, souvenirs and textiles. If you’re not interested in shopping, simply strolling through the colorful market is an interesting experience in and of itself.

You’ll find stalls selling clothing, fruits, vegetables, glassware, textiles and so much more.

Blue Mosque

Manavgat’s Blue Mosque is a large, ornamental mosque that serves as one of the town’s most popular tourist attractions. The mosque got its name because of the beautiful blue tiles that were used in its construction.

The Blue Mosque provides a peaceful atmosphere and an excellent photo opportunity during your time in Manavgat.

Local fauna and flora

As you make your way up the Manavgat River, you should keep your eyes peeled for plants and animals, including turtles, sea bass, mullet, kingfishers, ducks, citrus trees and wild roses among many others.

The area is known for its healthy ecosystems, which are conducive for an array of plant and animal species.

When is the best time to visit Manavgat?

The best time to visit Manavgat for a day trip is typically from late spring to early autumn, specifically between April and October. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant and the Manavgat waterfalls are a beautiful sight. The Manavgat market, another popular stop, is in full swing throughout these months, offering an extensive variety of local goods.

June to September are the warmest and busiest months, so if you prefer a less crowded experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons in April-May or October.

Are there any tours to Manavgat from other cities in Turkey?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Turkey:

Travel tips

Plan your excursion from Side early in the day, especially in the warmer months. This can help you avoid the midday heat and peak tourist crowds.
You'll likely be doing quite a bit of walking in Manavgat, so wear comfortable shoes.
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, particularly if you're visiting in the warmer months.
Don't miss out on the local cuisine. Try dishes like pide (Turkish pizza) or fresh fish from the river.
While many places accept credit cards, having some Turkish Lira on hand can be useful, especially in markets and smaller establishments.

Manavgat: Day Trips and Tours from Side