Antalya : Old City, Waterfalls with Boat & Olympos Cable Car

Antalya: Old City, Waterfalls with Boat & Olympos Cable Car offers an appealing blend of natural beauty and historical charm, wrapped into a nine-hour guided experience. Priced at $51.28 per person, and typically booked two weeks in advance, this tour promises a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s southern coast. From ascending the Olympos Cable Car for sweeping views to wandering the winding streets of Kaleici, the Old Town, and marveling at waterfalls that plunge into the Mediterranean—this trip is designed for travelers craving variety and authentic sights in Antalya.

One aspect I particularly appreciate is the insider guide expertise—guides like Ertan and Ekram receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep the group engaged. Another highlight is the spectacular scenery, especially from the cable car ride and the waterfalls, which provide perfect photo opportunities and memorable moments. The combination of historical exploration, seaside views, and natural wonders makes this tour very appealing. On the flip side, if you’re not a fan of long bus rides or off-tour shopping stops, this might feel a bit scattered, and some may find the lunch or boat trip less memorable than the landscapes and history.

The value of this tour is noteworthy. For around fifty dollars, you get transportation, a knowledgeable guide, a cable car ride, a boat trip, and visits to multiple key sights. Just keep in mind that your experience depends heavily on the weather (the cable car can be out of commission) and whether you enjoy a full day of sightseeing with some optional downtime.

Key Points

• Excellent value for a full-day experience that combines iconic sights and natural beauty.
• Knowledgeable guides like Ertan and Ekram enhance the trip with engaging historical and cultural insights.
• The scenic views from the cable car and waterfalls are the highlights, offering breathtaking photo ops.
• The Old Town of Kaleici provides a charming glimpse into Antalya’s past, with historic gates, streets, and architecture.
• The tour’s balance of activities offers both relaxed wandering and active exploration, suitable for a variety of travelers.
• Be aware that some reviews mention a lengthy “shopping” stop, which may not appeal to everyone.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting with the Olympos Cable Car

Your day kicks off with a comfortable, air-conditioned bus transfer from your hotel to Antalya’s city center. The highlight here is the Olympos Teleferik, where you’ll ascend 2,300 meters above sea level for spectacular vistas of the harbor and the Mediterranean. Many travelers mention the breathtaking views from the cable car, which make the roughly 30-minute ride worth every minute. If weather permits, you’ll enjoy photo opportunities from the hilltop and maybe even a coffee or tea at the local café.

One reviewer described their experience as “tremendous,” though it’s worth noting that the cable car can sometimes be out of operation due to faults, in which case the guide will likely suggest alternatives or reschedule.

Exploring Kaleici (Old Town)

After the cable car, the tour continues into Kaleici, Antalya’s historic heart. This neighborhood is a maze of winding streets, old Ottoman houses, boutique shops, and ancient landmarks. The Hadrianus Gate, built in 130 BC, is an impressive Roman arch that still greets visitors at the city’s entrance. The Fluted Minaret is a standout example of Seljuq architecture, and the medieval clock tower from the 9th century adds a layer of medieval charm.

Most travelers love wandering these streets, some opting for a relaxing boat trip or shopping for souvenirs. One review mentioned enjoying the stroll and saying: “The walk through the Old Town was lovely.” You might want to pace yourself here, as four hours is a generous amount of time to soak up the atmosphere, visit shops, or simply sit and watch the world go by near the harbor.

The Waterfalls and Beach

Later, you’ll visit the Lower Duden Waterfalls, where water plunges 40 meters into the sea. The sight of water crashing into the Mediterranean from towering cliffs is stunning and photograph-worthy. Visitors describe the waterfalls as “amazing,” with one reviewer feeling enchanted by the scenery.

Following the waterfalls, many take a quick trip to Lara Beach to unwind and enjoy the sea, though some find the beach visit in the itinerary somewhat brief. The waterfalls alone make for a memorable highlight—especially if weather conditions are clear.

The Optional Boat Trip

The boat ride, included in most bookings, offers a relaxing chance to see Antalya from the water. A reviewer noted that the scenery was “amazing”, and the boat trip was a “lovely” addition. Keep in mind, however, that some travelers experienced the boat trip as being unexpectedly not included in their booking if not clarified beforehand, which can cause confusion. Regardless, many agree that the boat adds a peaceful, scenic element to the day.

Practical Considerations

Throughout the trip, lunch is included, with vegetarian options available if requested—a thoughtful touch. The tour operates with a maximum of 100 travelers, keeping groups manageable for a guided experience. Pickup and drop-off from your hotel make logistics simple, although the schedule starts early at 9:30 am.

A recurring theme in reviews is the expertise of guides, like Mr. Ekram, who provided engaging, informative commentary. As one reviewer put it, “He explained the things very well” and was “very helpful.” This level of knowledge turns a sightseeing trip into a more meaningful experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers wanting a balanced day of natural scenery, history, and seaside fun without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic cable car rides and picturesque waterfalls, as well as casually strolling through historic streets. The inclusion of lunch and transportation makes it especially attractive for travelers on a budget or those with limited time in Antalya.

However, if you dislike having a busy schedule or prefer more personalized, less structured visits, you might find the tour somewhat hectic. Also, those hoping for a private or more exclusive experience may feel it’s a bit crowded. The “shopping” stop, though brief, has also been a minor point of dissatisfaction for some, so keep that in mind if shopping does not appeal to you.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers good value for travelers seeking a diverse taste of Antalya’s natural beauty, historic sites, and coastal scenery. The cruise-quality waterfalls, panoramic cable car views, and walk through Kaleici create a nicely varied itinerary. Plus, the guides receive high praise, making the experience more enjoyable and educational. At around $50, you are getting a full, structured day with plenty of photo-worthy moments and authentic sights.

If you’re comfortable with a structured, group experience, and weather conditions cooperate, this will be a highlight of many travelers’ visits. It is especially well-suited for those who prioritize scenic views and historical settings, and who appreciate a knowledgeable guide to enrich their understanding of Turkey’s southern coast.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or specified address, making logistics smooth.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:30 am, with a full day of sightseeing, so wear comfortable shoes.

Can I skip the cable car?
You might have the option to skip the cable car, especially if there are faults or weather issues, but check with your guide.

Is lunch included, and are vegetarian options available?
Yes, lunch is included, and you can request vegetarian options after booking.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
The Olympos Cable Car for panoramic views, Kaleici Old Town’s historic streets, and the stunning Lower Duden Waterfalls.

Is it suitable for children or families?
Yes, most travelers mention the tour’s family-friendly nature, but keep in mind the long day and some bus rides.

In summary, this Antalya tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s natural and historical treasures. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want a guided, organized day without missing iconic sights. With stunning scenery and engaging guides, it’s a memorable way to experience the best of Antalya.