Tours and activities in Side

Nat Geo Day Tour: Exploring Antalya's Nomadic Culture

The foothills of the Taurus mountains have been a region of travel and trade for millennia. On this National Geographic tour, you'll embrace the region's ancient traditions that are still thriving today and immerse yourself in the nomadic lifestyle by visiting a Yörük family. Head over to the Seljuk bridge at Aspendos with your guide who will reveal alluring facts about the site. Built around the 4th century on the banks of Köprüçay, this architectural marvel is renowned for its distinctive zigzag design, a testament to its intriguing history. Continue your voyage and head over to an ancient caravanserai, where much of the original layout remains remarkably intact. Step back in time as you wander through the inn's chambers, guardian's quarters, bathhouse, and prayer hall alongside your guide. This is a place that radiates history, where countless travelers sought refuge and replenishment. The Yörük people have perfected their nomadic lifestyle for centuries. Every spring, communities migrate with their herds from the gentle coastal plains to the mountainous summer pastures. Spend time with a Yörük family and learn about their sustainable ways of life. Tuck into a tasty meal with eye-catching views of the Taurus mountains. Nearby, you'll find a spot to purchase locally-made goods like soaps, teas, oils, and more. Proceeds support communities affected by recent earthquakes or forest fires. Finally, Explore Ormana, an Ottoman village famous for its ingeniously crafted 'button houses'.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Women of Antalya, Past to Present

Nearly two millennia ago, Plancia Magna blazed a trail by making an impressive impact on the city of Perge despite the usual passive role of women at that time. She was born into a wealthy, powerful family, but instead of an easy life, she used her privilege to benefit her city. Her courage, independence and character was celebrated long after her time, and inspired women through the ages to seek influential roles in society. Your National Geographic-trained guide will reveal the ancient city of Perge with a focus on the life and legacy of Plancia Magna, an inspirational figure even today. Perhaps Plancia was a source of inspiration for Hatice Adıgüzel, whose workshop you will visit next. Discover the skills and artistry involved in creating lamps and garden ornaments from gourds, and learn from Hatice herself what sets her business apart - her leadership in a male-dominated workforce, her commitment to empowering local women and her choice of sustainable materials. During a hands-on workshop, you will have the opportunity to create your own decorative gourd and learn more about Hatice's work with the local women's community. She pays her success forward by employing women to grow and decorate the gourds from their own homes for the business. They also make the snacks you'll enjoy during the workshop. Hatice's aim is to help women who are unable to work in regular employment due to childcare commitments or similar restrictions by giving them a convenient way to earn.

Ancient Perge and Aspendos Tour

You'll travel back in time to the days of togas and chariots with this half-day excursion to the ancient sites of Perge and Aspendos. Among the attractions you'll discover is perhaps the best-preserved Roman theatre of all.

Pamukkale Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Experience from Antalya

Pamukkale is spectacular seen from the ground – but even better with bird's eye views. See one of Turkey's top natural treasures from above with this hot air balloon experience. You'll need to rise and shine well before sunrise, but it's all worth it as you soar over the cotton-white calcium terraces, making memories that'll last long after you leave.

Manavgat Market & Waterfall Tour with Riverboat Cruise

Sightseeing and a relaxing river cruise – there's something for everyone on this full day tour, exploring Manavgat bazaar and the beautiful surrounding area. Visit Manavgat Falls and enjoy a riverboat cruise.Everything begins at the Manavgat Falls on the River Manavgat. They're known as the ‘Little Falls' as their fast-flowing waters crash down a ridge into a bubbly, foaming fresh-water pool. Next, you can grab a bargain at a multi-brand outlet store, before heading inland for Manavgat's open air bazaar for more retail therapy. You'll hop onboard a riverboat cruise along the Manavgat next. Sit back and relax in the sunshine as you sail past reed beds and sandy beaches. After lunch on board, you'll moor at a beach, where the sea and the river meet. A perfect swimming opportunity ends this jam-packed day out.

Antalya Aquarium Ticket for Side Hotels

Boasting the longest aquarium tunnel in the world and a dazzling array of species, Antalya Aquarium is a great day out. The main tank features a life-size aeroplane, a shipwreck and a submarine, and each installation is brimming with dozens of species of tropical fish and sharks. There's also a special tank for jellyfish and a wax museum. For a small extra cost – and if you're brave enough – you can take on the Fear Trophy, a creepy exhibit that showcases the world's deadliest snakes, spiders and more. Or at Snow World, discover a winter wonderland with igloos, Santa's grotto and cafés. You can even have a snowball fight and make snowmen.

Turkish sunrise hot air balloon ride over Aspendos

You'll need to rise and shine early to catch this ride, but the wow-worthy views of the ancient city of Aspendos are worth the early wake-up call. As your guide expertly coaxes the hot air balloon skywards, you'll gain a whole new perspective of this beautifully preserved site. Soar over the ruins, enjoying the fresh morning air and the silence it brings, broken only by the occasional blast of the burner and the ‘ooos' and ‘ahhhs' of your group. The Roman theatre is the star attraction. It was built in the 2nd-century BC during the reign of Marcus Aurelius – remember the emperor in the movie Gladiator? That guy. As you gaze down, just imagine those fight scenes playing out to an audience of thousands in the tiered semi-circle. The bird's eye view helps you appreciate the Romans' feat of engineering with the ancient aqueduct snaking its way towards the mountains that once fed it. This is definitely one to have your camera handy for. The surrounding rolling hills and fruit farms, the Mediterranean to the south and the Taurus Mountains to the North frame photos that you'll want to remember. You'll round off the experience with a celebratory glass of fizz and head home with a certificate – just in case you look back and wonder if it was all a dream.

Aqua Fun Park with buggy safari, rafting and paddle-boarding

Dive into adventure on this full-day water-themed tour. After a quick safety briefing, it's time to make a splash. First up is a 13-kilometre rafting route, followed by the wild waters of the Koprucay River. Then, you'll enjoy stand-up paddle-boarding on the final stretch. Back on land, you'll hit forest trails on a buggy safari before cooling off at an inflatable river waterpark. Afterwards, it's time to fish for your lunch. You'll end your adventure soaring over the river on a 300-metre-long zip-line.

Adults-only sunset gulet cruise with dinner from Side

Set sail on this luxurious adults-only cruise for a laid-back evening as the sun sinks below the horizon. Departing from Side Harbour, you'll hop aboard a traditional Turkish gulet boat and head out into the Mediterranean, before gliding along the scenic Manavgat River.With plenty of space on deck and your own guaranteed sunbed, you're free to unwind, visit the bar for a drink and soak up the coastal scenery surrounding you. The captain will also make a couple of swim stops along the way, so you can enjoy a cooling dip beneath the setting sun.With the sky painted gold, a freshly prepared dinner will be served onboard by the professional crew as you sail. After dinner, there's more time to kick back, sip a chilled drink and relax under the evening sky – the perfect way to wrap up a memorable night at sea before returning to port.

Mount Tahtali paragliding activity including cable car and hotel transfer

Experience the thrill of paragliding over Antalya's ancient cities and Mediterranean vistas. Ride the aerial tramway at Tahtali Mountain for an unforgettable adventure.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis day trip from Antalya-Kemer with meals

Book your day trip from Antalya and visit two of Turkey's most stunning sites, Pamukkale and Hierapolis, in a single day.

Luxury Turkish spa experience from Side

Step into a world of R&R with this luxury spa experience. You'll get the traditional Turkish treatment, combined with some more modern techniques, all designed to melt your stress away. Start with a soothing salt sauna, before rejuvenating your skin with a mineral-rich mud bath. Then, you'll have a traditional Turkish bath, before unwinding with a 30-minute massage. Plus, you'll get some personalised skincare recommendations, before ending your visit with a soak in the hot tub.