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.

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.

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.

Antalya family outdoor adventure experience in Aladdin's Canyon

An experience in the Anatolian wilds awaits with a day of canyoning, swimming, diving, jumping and enjoying the best of nature in the Taurus Mountains. You'll head deep into the countryside to Ahmetler Canyon for an action-packed 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.

Antalya’s Paradise Canyon tour with boat cruise and lunch

See a slice of Turkey's top natural sights by land and sea on this adventurous day trip. You'll ride a monster buggy – think open-air off-road minibus – as you bound across rugged, rural trails and splash through rivers on an outback safari drive. Then, as you reach Paradise Canyon, you'll understand the name. The pine-covered slopes of the Taurus Mountains give way to emerald-green waters, which you'll be cruising along after lunch at a lakeside restaurant. You'll then have plenty of free time for fun in the water, with everything from swimming and fishing to canoeing and riding a banana boat on offer.

Rafting, Buggy Safari, and Köprülü Kanyon National Park

Partake in three thrilling activities amidst the natural beauty of Köprülü Canyon National Park.

Selge Ancient City, Mini Cappadocia, Safari, and Rafting in Turkey

Visit Selge Ancient City, mini Cappadocia, and have fun during safari, and rafting in Turkey.

Half-day off-roading in the Turkish countryside from Belek, Side or Antalya

Get away from the coast to see a different side of Turkey as you ride the rugged trails of the countryside in a 4x4. It's an early start to make the most of this half-day off-road safari, but after pick-up from your hotel, there's a stop at Kemal's café where you can grab a drink and a snack to set you up for the morning.From there, it's off to meet your vehicle and get a safety briefing from an experienced instructor. You'll be driving a utility task vehicle (UTV) – think of a 4x4 buggy, but with four seats and a roll cage. Once you've got the knack of the controls, you'll head out into the countryside to see what these vehicles are made of.With your guide leading the way, you'll scale mountain paths and ramble through river crossings. Your route could take you through canyon territory, following winding rivers, or out onto the open plains to test your speed. Whichever parts of the hillside you explore, you'll find an adrenaline-fuelled adventure that gives you enviable views of the Turkish countryside.

Turkey's Wonder Garden and tropical safari

Escape the tourist traps and step into the tropical magic of Turkey's Wonder Garden. Your adventure begins at your accommodation, where you'll be picked up and taken on a scenic truck ride through some countryside villages. You'll even stop at one along the way. When you arrive at Wonder Garden, you'll explore greenhouses filled with exotic fruits and plants alongside the knowledgeable staff who work here. Afterwards, you'll try your hand at making traditional Turkish flatbread, learning the techniques before tasting what you've created. Alongside your flatbread, you'll enjoy a tasty local lunch featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients which offer a true taste of the region's culinary heritage.After lunch, you'll hop on a tractor and trailer for a leisurely tour of the gardens, with opportunities to feed some animals that live here. For families, there's another special treat – pumpkin painting for the kids.