Antalya Sightseeing Old City Tour with Cable Car & Boat Trip

If you’re looking for a well-rounded snapshot of Antalya’s beauty and history in just one day, this sightseeing tour offers a solid package. It combines scenic views, cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventures—all with the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off. What makes this experience stand out is how it layers natural beauty with history, giving you a taste of everything from the ancient city walls to waterfalls plunging into the Mediterranean.

Two features I really appreciate are the scenic cable car ride that offers sweeping views of the city and coast, and the two waterfalls—Düden and Lara—that deliver both photo opportunities and a refreshing break from the sun. Plus, it’s clear that the guides genuinely bring the city’s stories to life, with plenty of positive reviews praising their knowledge and enthusiasm.

A potential downside is the tight schedule—there’s a lot packed into a single day, which means some moments might feel hurried, especially in the Old Town where shops and sights beckon. Also, keep in mind that free time in the Old Town is limited, so if shopping or exploring every alley is your priority, you might want to customize your plans.

All in all, this tour offers great value for those who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Antalya without the hassle of planning every step. It’s ideal for first timers or travelers with limited time, and it’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor scenery, history, and cultural exploration.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Two Waterfalls in One Day: You visit both Duden and Lara waterfalls, a rare combo that packs a lot of natural scenery into your trip.
• Genuine Guides: Many reviews highlight guides like Kaan, Apo, and Unzile as knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging storytellers.
• Scenic Cable Car Ride: Ascending to 2,365 meters, this offers breathtaking panoramic views that you won’t forget.
• Convenient Hotel Transfers: No worries about finding taxis; pickups and drop-offs are included from various locations across Antalya.
• Good Value for Money: The price includes entrance fees, a local lunch, and most activities—making it a cost-effective way to see a lot.
• Limited Shopping Time: Some reviews note short stops at jewelry shops and markets, so plan to prioritize what interests you most.

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Early Beginnings

The tour kicks off early with hotel pickup options from multiple locations like Kemer, Belek, and Antalya itself. You’ll appreciate how smoothly the logistics are handled—no need to stress about finding meeting points or navigating unfamiliar streets. Just be ready at your hotel’s main security gate about 10 minutes before your scheduled departure.

Once aboard, the air-conditioned bus provides a comfortable ride through the landscape. The journey itself gives you a first glimpse of Antalya’s sprawling coastline and the lush greenery that surrounds this lively city.

Ascending the Olympos Cable Car: Views and Refreshment

The highlight for many is the ride on the Olympos Cable Car, which takes you up to 2,365 meters. The ascent is smooth and swift, and the views from the top are stunning. You’ll see the sparkling Mediterranean below, along with the city’s rooftops and the distant mountains.

Many reviewers mention the top as a perfect spot for photos—just be aware that if you want a professional picture, it might cost you. One traveler noted that a single shot costs around $22 USD, which many found overpriced, especially since great photo opportunities are available without splurging.

At the summit, you can relax at a café, enjoy a cup of Turkish tea or coffee, or take a gentle walk around the area. It’s a fine chance to breathe in the mountain air and appreciate the scenery before heading back down.

Exploring Kaleiçi: The Old Town’s Charm

Next stop is Kaleiçi, Antalya’s historic heart. This is where the city’s layers of history are most evident—narrow cobblestone streets, small mosques, and colorful Ottoman houses line the way. You’ll see iconic sights like Hadrian’s Gate, built in 130 BC to honor Emperor Hadrian, and the Fluted Minaret, a striking medieval structure.

Guides like Kaan and Unzile have been praised for their storytelling skills, bringing history to life with stories and insights. They’ll point out the Clock Tower, another landmark that has stood since the Ottoman era. During free time, many enjoy wandering the alleys, browsing shops, or sampling local delicacies. Keep in mind, the tour’s schedule limits how much shopping or exploring you can do—most reviews agree that it’s a quick but rich overview.

Lunch and Shopping: Balancing Taste and Timing

Lunch is included, often at a local restaurant that serves Turkish favorites or light tapas. Several reviews mention the quality of the food as good value, with some noting that the meal is generous. However, drinks are not included, and prices at the restaurant can be inflated—bring some cash if you want to buy water or soda.

The jewelry shops and markets scattered through Kaleiçi are popular stops, but many find the time allocated a bit tight. One reviewer described being brought to a large jewelry store for about 45 minutes—a stop that felt a bit commercial but was appreciated by those interested in Turkish gemstones. If shopping isn’t your thing, you might find this part of the tour a little rushed or unnecessary.

Waterfalls: Düden and Lara’s Refreshing Cascades

One of the tour’s standout features is visiting two waterfalls—a rare opportunity to see both Düden and Lara waterfalls in a single day. Düden Falls, located in the lower district, features a cascading 40-meter drop into the sea, with lush greenery and plenty of photo spots. Many travelers mention how beautiful and invigorating they find these waterfalls, especially with the sea breeze cooling things down.

Lara Waterfall, near Lara Beach, is equally stunning and offers a different perspective—more of a plunge into the sea with impressive force. Visitors often comment on how the waterfalls make for excellent photo opportunities and a chance to connect with nature amid a busy sightseeing day.

Relaxing at Lara Beach: A Moment of Calm

After the waterfalls, the tour often includes a quick visit to Lara Beach. It’s a chance to relax on sandy shores or just enjoy the sea breeze before heading back to the city. It’s a brief stop, but many reviews agree it’s a nice way to unwind and soak in some sun.

Boat Trip: From the Harbour to the Heart of Antalya

The boat cruise is another highly praised part of the day. You’ll set sail from Antalya’s harbor, enjoying views of the coastline and the city skyline. Many reviewers say the boat ride is relaxing and scenic—an ideal way to see the city from a different perspective. The boat company often offers photos for a fee, so if you want a memory of the moment, be prepared for the extra cost.

Wrapping Up: Return to Your Hotel

The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel, often in the late afternoon or early evening. Many travelers reflect positively on how comprehensive the experience was, especially considering it covers so much in just one day—waterfalls, old town, mountain views, boat ride, and more.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a “big picture” introduction to Antalya without spending their whole trip planning every detail. If you enjoy a mix of outdoor scenery, history, and local culture, you’ll find plenty to love here. Families, first-time visitors, or those with limited time in Antalya will appreciate how much ground is covered efficiently.

Keep in mind, if you’re someone who prefers more leisurely exploration or shopping, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. Also, limited mobility could be an issue, particularly with the cable car and some walking in narrow old streets.

This tour offers solid value for its price, especially considering that entrance fees, meals, and activities are included. The guides consistently receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more enriching. The natural beauty of the waterfalls, combined with the historical charm of Kaleiçi and spectacular mountain views, ensures you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments.

It’s a day that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation—perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided snapshot of what Antalya has to offer. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, a camera, some cash, and a spirit ready for a busy, enjoyable day.

• What is included in this tour?
  Hotel pickup and drop-off, guide, local lunch, Duden Waterfall entry fee, boat trip (if selected), and cable car ride (if selected).

• How long does the tour last?
  Around 9 to 10 hours, depending on your pickup location and pace during the day.

• Are there any restrictions?
  It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those over 95 years old.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, cash, and charged smartphone.

• Is the schedule flexible?
  The itinerary is quite packed, so expect some short stops and limited free time, especially for shopping and exploring.

• Can I skip the jewelry shop?
  The jewelry stop is a scheduled part of the tour; if you wish to skip, discuss it with your guide beforehand.

• How do I know where to meet if I stay at a small hotel?
  For small hotels in Antalya Old Town, meet in front of McDonald’s, as buses cannot reach narrow streets.

• What are the best parts of the tour?
  The cable car ride, waterfalls, and guided Old Town tour are highlights praised in reviews.

• Is lunch included?
  Yes, a local meal is included, but drinks are extra and may be overpriced at the restaurant.

• How good are the guides?
  Guides like Kaan, Apo, and Unzile receive high praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling skills.

This tour offers a balanced, engaging way to experience Antalya’s top sights in one day—perfect for getting a taste of the city’s natural and cultural highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.