Ultimate Guide: Side Green Lake Bus and Boat Tour

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines history, nature, and relaxation, the Side Green Lake Bus and Boat Tour is a must. This one-day tour takes you on a journey through the ancient city of Side, the Green Lake, and the enchanting Manavgat waterfall. Read on to learn more about this exciting tour and how to plan your trip:

Experience

The Side Green Lake Bus and Boat Tour is an opportunity to discover the natural beauty of Side, a city located on the southern coast of Turkey. The tour guides you through the ancient Roman city, where you’ll learn about its rich history and culture, before taking a boat trip on the Green Lake, swimming and enjoying the view. The tour also takes you to the Oymapinar Dam, offering a panoramic view of the Green Canyon and the Green Lake, and ends with a visit to the Manavgat waterfall.

Highlights

• Explore ancient Side by bus
• Visit the Kulliye Mosque to learn about the history of Islam
• Taste traditional Turkish gozleme
• Discover the Seleukia Ancient Roman City with your guide
• Take a boat trip through the Green Lake and swim in its refreshing waters
• Enjoy a delicious lunch while appreciating the beautiful natural scenery at Green Lake
• Visit the breathtaking Manavgat waterfall
• Stop at an orange garden and try freshly picked oranges from the trees

How to Plan Your Tour

To book the Side Green Lake Bus and Boat Tour, visit the official website of Get Your Guide, a reputable online booking platform, where you can choose your preferred date and number of travelers. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details of the tour and the pick-up time from your hotel. Be ready at the specified time and location, and don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

Full Description

The Side Green Lake Bus and Boat Tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Side. A comfortable bus will take you to the Kulliye Mosque, a magnificent mosque built during the Ottoman period, where you’ll learn about the history of Islam from your guide. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste traditional Turkish gozleme, a savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach or minced meat.

The next stop is the Seleukia Ancient Roman City, an impressive site with remains of ancient structures and buildings, including a theater and a bathhouse. Your guide will provide you with detailed information about the history of this city and its significance during the Roman Empire.

After exploring the ancient city, your bus will take you to the Oymapinar Dam, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Green Canyon and the Green Lake. The dam offers a perfect spot for taking photos and admiring the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Afterwards, you’ll embark on a relaxing boat trip, cruising through the Green Lake for about an hour. During the boat trip, you’ll have the opportunity to swim in the refreshing waters of the lake and marvel at the natural scenery.

The tour also includes a stop for lunch at Green Lake. You’ll have 1-2 hours to relax, eat delicious Turkish food, and enjoy the magnificent view of the lake. After lunch, you’ll continue to the Manavgat waterfall, a popular tourist attraction located on the Manavgat River. The waterfall is about 4 meters high and offers a great opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the natural pool below. You’ll have about 30 minutes to explore the area and enjoy the beauty of the waterfall.

The last stop on the tour is an orange garden, where you’ll have the chance to try freshly picked oranges from the trees and learn about the cultivation of citrus fruits in the region. The tour then returns to your hotel in Side, where you’ll arrive in the late afternoon.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re looking for a one-day adventure that combines history, nature, and relaxation, the Side Green Lake Bus and Boat Tour is an excellent choice. You’ll get to explore the ancient city of Side, admire the stunning views of the Green Canyon and the Green Lake, and take a refreshing swim in the lake. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the enchanting Manavgat waterfall and taste delicious Turkish food. Book your tour now, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Side, Turkey

Side is a beautiful coastal town located in the Antalya province of Turkey, known for its ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and clear blue waters. If you are planning a trip to Side, you might have a lot of questions in your mind. Here are answers to some of the most Frequently Asked Questions.

1. Where is Side located?

Side is located on the southern coast of Turkey, in the Antalya province, approximately 75 km from Antalya city center. It is situated on a small peninsula jutting out into the Mediterranean Sea, with the Taurus Mountains as a backdrop.

2. What is the best time to visit Side?

The best time to visit Side is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is perfect for swimming. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, it is recommended to visit Side in May or September when the weather is still pleasant, and the beaches are less crowded.

3. How do I get to Side?

The nearest airport to Side is Antalya International Airport, which is approximately 65 km away. You can take a taxi or shuttle bus from the airport to Side. If you are traveling by bus, there are frequent buses from Antalya to Side, and the journey takes approximately one hour.

4. What are the best things to do in Side?

There are plenty of things to do in Side, which caters to all kinds of travelers. Some of the most popular activities include:

• Exploring the Ancient Ruins – Side is home to many ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo, the Roman Amphitheater, and the Agora. A guided tour of these sites is highly recommended.
• Relaxing on the Beach – Side has some of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, including the West Beach, East Beach, and Sorgun Beach. The crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
• Taking a Boat Tour – A boat tour is a great way to explore the coastline of Side and discover hidden coves and beaches. You can also take a sunset cruise or a fishing trip.
• Visiting the Manavgat Waterfalls – The Manavgat Waterfalls are located approximately 10 km from Side and are a popular day trip destination.
• Shopping in the Bazaar – Side has a lively bazaar, which is a great place to shop for souvenirs, spices, and local handicrafts.

5. What is the currency used in Side?

The currency used in Side and the rest of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). You can exchange foreign currency at exchange offices or banks in Side. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops.

6. What language do they speak in Side?

The official language of Turkey is Turkish, which is also spoken in Side. However, many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.

7. What is the food like in Side?

The food in Side is influenced by the Mediterranean and Ottoman cuisine. You can find plenty of seafood dishes, grilled meats, meze (small plates), and Turkish sweets. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Meze – A selection of small dishes, including stuffed grape leaves, hummus, and eggplant salad.
• Lahmacun – Thin, crispy Turkish-style pizza topped with seasoned minced meat and vegetables.
• Kebap – Grilled meat skewers with vegetables, usually served with rice and salad.
• Baklava – A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup.
• Turkish Tea and Coffee – Turkish tea and coffee are famous, and a must-try when in Turkey.

8. Is Side suitable for families with children?

Yes, Side is a great destination for families with children. The beaches are safe and suitable for kids, and there are plenty of family-friendly activities, such as boat tours, water parks, and adventure sports. There are also many hotels and resorts that cater specifically to families, with kids clubs, playgrounds, and family rooms.

9. What is the nightlife like in Side?

Side has a lively nightlife, with many bars, pubs, and nightclubs. The most popular areas for nightlife are the harbor and the main street, which are lined with bars and clubs. However, if you are looking for a more relaxed evening, many hotels have their entertainment programs.

10. What are the cultural norms in Side?

Turkey is a Muslim country, and it is essential to respect their cultural norms and traditions. When visiting mosques or religious sites, dress modestly and take your shoes off before entering. It is also considered polite to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. Public displays of affection are not common in Turkey, so it is best to avoid them in public places.

Book Your Tour Now

Side is a stunning destination, offering something for everyone from ancient ruins to beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for families with children. With this FAQ, you should have all the information you need to plan your trip to Side, Turkey. Remember to always respect Turkey’s culture and traditions, and enjoy your stay in this beautiful coastal town.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Side

If you’re planning to visit the beautiful town of Side in Turkey, you’ll want to make the most of your time here. Side is a charming town located on the southern coast of Turkey. It’s packed full of history, culture and stunning natural beauty. As a tourist, there’s plenty to do and see in Side. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time in Side.

1. Explore Side’s Ancient Ruins

One of the main attractions of Side is its ancient ruins. The town is home to several Roman and Hellenistic ruins, including the famous Temple of Apollo. You can explore the ruins on foot, taking a walk around them and taking in the beautiful views. The ancient amphitheater is a must-visit spot, where you can see the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea while enjoying the centuries-old history of Side.

2. Relax on Side Beaches

Side is known for its pristine beaches. You can relax and soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches that line the town’s coast. The Cleopatra Beach, located northwest of the old town, is among the most popular beaches in Side. Many of the beaches offer water sports, including jet skiing and parasailing if you want to add some adventure to your beach experience.

3. Visit Manavgat Waterfall

Just a short drive from Side is the Manavgat Waterfall, which is a spectacular sight to behold. You can take a boat ride to the waterfall or simply hike there on foot. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and you’ll feel refreshed and revitalized after experiencing the cool mist of the cascading water.

4. Shop at Side Markets

Side has several markets that are great places to shop for souvenirs or local produce. The Side Market, which is held every Saturday, is the most popular market in town. Here you can find everything from handmade crafts to fresh fruits and vegetables. You can bargain for your desired items, but make sure to stick to your budget.

5. Take a Boat Tour

Side’s stunning coastline is best admired from the sea. There are numerous boat tours available that will take you on a scenic tour around the coast. You can choose a tour that takes in the town’s ancient ruins, or one that takes you to secluded bays where you can swim and relax under the sun.

6. Sample Traditional Turkish Cuisine

Side is home to several excellent restaurants that serve authentic Turkish food. You can sample dishes like shish kebab, Turkish pastry, kefte, and many more. Dining at a traditional Turkish restaurant will give you a taste of local cuisine and culture.

7. Visit Side Museum

If you want to know more about Side’s ancient history, then you must visit the Side Museum. It’s located in the old town and contains fascinating exhibits from the Roman period, when Side was a bustling trading hub. You’ll be impressed by the ancient artifacts and well-preserved items.

8. Take a Trip to the Taurus Mountains

Side’s beautiful natural scenery is not limited to the coast. A short drive inland will take you to the Taurus Mountains, where you can explore national parks and beautiful lakes. You can go hiking or biking here and have a picnic while enjoying nature in its purest form.

Book Your Tour Now

Side is a beautiful town with plenty to offer to tourists. From its ancient ruins to breathtaking beaches, traditional cuisine, waterfalls, and scenic boat tours, there is something for everyone to enjoy. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time in Side and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.