Alanya & Side: Novamall Shopping, Ancient City & Sunset Tour

Exploring Antalya’s surroundings can be a rewarding way to see a different side of Turkey beyond the beaches. The Alanya & Side: Novamall Shopping, Ancient City & Sunset Tour offers a nicely balanced combination of modern shopping, ancient history, and stunning coastal views, all wrapped into a flexible 3-4 hour experience. Based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, it seems to be a well-organized way to enjoy some highlights without overloading your day.

What I really appreciate about this tour are two key elements. First, the 45-minute shopping stop at Novamall gives you a chance to browse a large, modern shopping center with a variety of international brands and Turkish cuisine options. It’s a nice break if you’re looking to pick up souvenirs or just stretch your legs after a morning of travel. Second, the free 2-hour exploration of Side Ancient City provides enough time to wander among ruins, snap photos, and soak in the atmosphere of this historic site, which many travelers find authentic and compelling.

One point to consider is that the tour’s timing is somewhat flexible, but you’ll want to confirm the starting time to fit it into your schedule—especially if you’re eager to see the sunset. While the sunset views over Side are a highlight, keep in mind that if you choose to add the optional boat tour and swimming, this will extend your experience and might require a slightly longer time commitment. The tour is valued for its ease and guided service, but some travelers might prefer more time at each location if they’re particularly interested in history or shopping.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Convenient transfer from Alanya and Side makes it easy for travelers without renting a vehicle.
• Novamall offers a modern shopping experience with international brands and Turkish delicacies.
• Free time at Side Ancient City allows authentic exploration of historic ruins, perfect for history buffs or photo lovers.
• Sunset over Side provides truly memorable coastal views, ideal for capturing stunning photos.
• Optional boat tour available, perfect for those wanting a cruise with swimming at the beach—additional cost.
• Guided service in English and Russian ensures clear explanations and smooth logistics.

Entering the World of Antalya’s Local Flavors and Ancient Ruins

If you’re after a straightforward, no-fuss way to enjoy Antalya’s local treasures, this tour fits the bill. Starting with a comfortable transfer from your hotel, you’ll first visit Novamall, one of the largest and most modern shopping centers in the region. Here, you get about 45 minutes to browse and possibly enjoy some Turkish treats, which helps break up the day and makes shopping an enjoyable, relaxed affair.

What makes Novamall appealing isn’t just its size; it’s that you can find both familiar brands and local Turkish eateries, giving you a taste of Turkey’s contemporary shopping scene. One traveler, Ruby, mentioned that “John was really friendly and helpful,” making the shopping experience more personal. It’s a good opportunity to pick up souvenirs or just enjoy some retail therapy before heading to the history-filled streets of Side.

Next, you’ll have around 2 hours to explore Side Ancient City on your own. This is probably the most memorable part of the tour. Walk among ancient ruins, stand where Romans once stood, and take photos of the amphitheater and temples. It’s a real step back in time, without the crowds and commercialism of larger sites. Many visitors, like Ruby, found Side “absolutely beautiful,” and appreciated the authentic atmosphere. The guide’s general overview at the start sets the stage, but the free time allows you to wander at your own pace.

As the day winds down, the sunset over Side is a sight to behold. The views over the sea and the skyline are stunning—and, according to reviews, one of the true highlights. For a small additional fee, you can hop on a boat tour that cruises along the coast, with swimming opportunities, further enriching your experience.

Transportation, Timing, and Value

The tour’s vehicle transport is generally comfortable and reliable, with pickups from hotels and a prompt meeting point at Novamall. Keep in mind that transfer times can vary, so it’s good to be ready on time. The duration of 3-4 hours makes it an ideal short outing, especially if you’re already relaxed in Antalya or nearby.

In terms of value, the package includes guided service, transfers, insurance, and the sunset view—which adds up to a pretty good deal for a day combining shopping, history, and scenic beauty. The optional boat ride is a nice perk if you want more adventure, but even without it, the experience covers a broad spectrum for a reasonable price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers looking for a balancing act—not too rushed, with enough free time to explore at your leisure. It’s perfect for those who enjoy shopping but also want a taste of local history and scenic moments. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and authentic experiences will find it appealing.

It’s especially good for visitors who want a comprehensive half-day outing without the hassle of planning individual visits or transportation. The knowledgeable guides and easy logistics make it accessible, even for first-time visitors to Antalya.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

Considering the inclusion of transfers, guided commentary, free time, and sunset views, the tour offers solid value. The price reflects a curated experience rather than a DIY approach, saving you time and effort. The optional boat ride, while extra, is a worthwhile addition if you want more fun on the water.

The tour’s flexibility, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and to reserve without immediate payment, makes it accessible and low-risk. It’s a good choice for travelers who prefer to keep plans adaptable.

Final Thoughts

The Alanya & Side: Novamall Shopping, Ancient City & Sunset Tour combines convenience, authentic sightseeing, and lovely scenery in a well-organized package. It’s especially suited for those who want to see a mix of modern and historic Turkey without dedicating an entire day. The guides’ friendly approach and the stunning sunset are the tour’s standout features, making it a memorable addition to your Antalya trip.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-rounded half-day that showcases the best of both worlds—shopping, history, and coastal beauty—this tour is worth considering.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickups are available from hotels, so you don’t have to worry about finding the meeting point. Just be ready at the designated time, and if your driver is late, contact the tour provider.

Where do I meet the guide?
The guide waits in front of the Starbucks café inside Novamall Shopping Center, wearing a Turb2B t-shirt, making it easy to spot.

Can I cancel the tour?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How long is the free time at Side Ancient City?
You get approximately 2 hours, which is enough to explore the ruins at your own pace and take photos.

Is the sunset view included?
Yes, the sunset over Side is part of the tour, and it’s a highlight many travelers find memorable.

What about the optional boat tour?
It’s available at an extra cost, and includes a scenic cruise with swimming at the beach, perfect if you want more time on the water.

How comfortable is the transportation?
Transport is generally comfortable and reliable, with pickups and drop-offs at your hotel or the meeting point.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly option, especially if your kids enjoy history, shopping, or seaside views.

This tour offers a nicely balanced taste of Turkey’s modern and ancient sides, making it a practical choice for a short yet satisfying exploration of Antalya’s surroundings.