Best Excursions in Side: Top 10 Tours and Activities

Best Excursions in Side offer much more than beautiful beaches and all-inclusive resorts. From scenic boat trips and thrilling outdoor adventures to ancient landmarks and natural wonders, Side is one of the best places on the Turkish Riviera for unforgettable day tours. These experiences help visitors discover hidden landscapes, historical treasures, and exciting activities suitable for every type of traveler. Whether you are visiting with family, friends, or as a couple, they add something special to any holiday. Before planning your activities, explore Side Travel Guide, Best Time to Visit Side, and How to Get from the Airport to Side for useful travel tips.

Green Canyon Boat Trip

Green Canyon is one of the most peaceful and scenic destinations near Side, offering visitors a relaxing escape from the busy coastline. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and emerald-colored water, the canyon provides spectacular views throughout the journey. Boat tours cruise through calm waters while allowing guests to enjoy nature and take beautiful photographs. The tranquil atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and relaxing boat experience make it a popular choice for travelers looking to unwind. Many visitors also explore Best Hotels in Side and Best Beaches in Side while planning their holiday.

Who it suits: families, couples, and nature lovers.
Tip: bring a camera because the canyon offers incredible photo opportunities.

Manavgat Boat Trip

A Manavgat Boat Trip combines river scenery, coastal views, and opportunities to swim in refreshing waters. Visitors travel along the famous Manavgat River before reaching areas where the river meets the Mediterranean Sea. Many tours include lunch and free time to relax, creating a perfect balance between sightseeing and leisure. The combination of beautiful scenery, relaxing cruising, and swimming opportunities makes this tour a popular choice among visitors staying in Side. Before booking, many travelers compare Cheap Hotels in Side for future holidays.

Who it suits: families and travelers looking for relaxation.
Tip: bring swimwear because most tours include swimming stops.

Land of Legends Theme Park Tour

Land of Legends is one of Turkey’s largest entertainment complexes and offers a full day of excitement for visitors of all ages. The park features water slides, roller coasters, family attractions, and live performances that create an unforgettable experience. It is especially popular during the summer season when families look for activities beyond the beach. The combination of entertainment and world-class facilities makes it one of the best excursions in Side for families. Many travelers also browse Best Family Hotels in Side before planning their visit.

Who it suits: families with children and theme park enthusiasts.
Tip: arrive early to enjoy the most popular attractions before queues become longer.

Perge, Aspendos and Waterfall Tour

A Perge, Aspendos and Waterfall Tour combines some of the most impressive historical landmarks of the Antalya region in one full-day excursion. The journey takes travelers through the ancient city of Perge, known for its Roman streets, gates, baths, and archaeological remains, before continuing to the remarkably preserved Aspendos Theatre. The itinerary also includes Side and a waterfall stop, adding natural scenery to a day focused mainly on ancient history and culture. With a full-day program lasting around nine to ten hours, this excursion is a convenient way to explore several important attractions in one trip. Travelers interested in local products and souvenirs can also explore What to Bring Back from Side before their journey.

Who it suits: history lovers, couples, families, and travelers interested in ancient landmarks.
Tip: wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the tour includes considerable walking.

Horse Riding Tour in Side

Discover a quieter side of the Turkish Riviera on a Horse Riding Tour in Side, combining peaceful forest trails with beautiful Mediterranean beach scenery. The approximately two-hour experience takes riders through the natural landscapes around Manavgat before continuing toward the coast, where riding beside the sea creates one of the most memorable moments of the excursion. Hotel pickup makes the experience convenient, while guidance along the route allows even travelers with limited riding experience to enjoy the adventure. It is an excellent break from crowded attractions and full-day sightseeing tours, especially for couples and families looking for something different. After the ride, visitors can continue exploring the area with Shopping in Side.

Who it suits: couples, families, nature lovers, and first-time riders.
Tip: wear closed shoes and comfortable clothes suitable for riding.

Köprülü Canyon Rafting Adventure

Köprülü Canyon is one of the most popular rafting destinations in Turkey and offers an exciting outdoor adventure for visitors staying in Side. The rafting route passes through spectacular canyon scenery while providing thrilling rapids suitable for beginners and experienced participants. Professional guides ensure a safe experience while helping travelers enjoy the excitement of the river. The combination of adrenaline and natural beauty makes it one of the best excursions in Side for active travelers. After the adventure, many visitors enjoy dining at Best Restaurants in Side.

Who it suits: adventure seekers and active travelers.
Tip: wear clothes that can get wet and secure personal belongings.

Jeep Safari in the Taurus Mountains

A Jeep Safari allows visitors to discover the countryside surrounding Side while exploring mountain roads, forests, and traditional villages. The off-road journey offers beautiful scenery and opportunities to experience local culture away from tourist areas. Travelers can enjoy panoramic viewpoints while learning more about life in rural Turkey. This adventure remains one of the best excursions in Side for visitors looking to explore beyond the beach resorts. Many travelers continue their evening by enjoying Nightlife in Side.

Who it suits: active travelers and families.
Tip: wear comfortable clothing and bring sunglasses.

Dolphin Island Boat Tour

The Dolphin Island Boat Tour is one of the most enjoyable boat excursions available from Side. Visitors cruise along the coast while enjoying swimming stops and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. During some trips, lucky travelers may even spot dolphins in their natural environment. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful coastal scenery make this one of the best excursions in Side during the summer months. Travelers often combine this experience with a visit to Best Beaches in Side.

Who it suits: families, couples, and beach lovers.
Tip: bring sunscreen and a waterproof phone case.

Scuba Diving Tour from Side

Discover the underwater world of the Mediterranean on a Scuba Diving Tour from Side, a full-day experience combining adventure, clear blue water, and guided dives along the Turkish coast. After pickup from Side, travelers head toward Alanya for an approximately eight-hour diving experience accompanied by professional instructors. Beneath the surface, divers can explore rocky underwater landscapes and encounter Mediterranean marine life while enjoying a completely different perspective of the coastline. Lunch is included, making the excursion easy to enjoy as a complete day trip without organizing transportation separately. Even beginners can experience scuba diving with professional guidance and equipment. Before planning more activities during your holiday, explore the Side Travel Guide for additional ideas and practical information.

Who it suits: couples, beginners, adventure lovers, and travelers interested in marine life.
Tip: bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and follow your instructor’s diving instructions.

Turkish Hamam Experience

A traditional Turkish Hamam offers relaxation and cultural immersion while providing a refreshing break from sightseeing. Visitors can enjoy steam rooms, body scrubs, foam massages, and wellness treatments designed to leave them feeling rejuvenated. The experience has been an important part of Turkish culture for centuries and remains extremely popular among tourists. Many visitors consider it one of the best excursions in Side for relaxation and self-care. It is also a great activity during particularly hot summer days.

Who it suits: couples, wellness travelers, and anyone seeking relaxation.
Tip: schedule your hamam early in your holiday for the best tanning results afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

The best excursions in Side allow travelers to discover natural wonders, ancient history, exciting adventures, and unforgettable Mediterranean scenery. Whether you choose Green Canyon, Pamukkale, Cappadocia, or a relaxing boat tour, these experiences add incredible memories to any holiday on the Turkish Riviera. Before planning your next trip, explore Side Travel Guide, Best Hotels in Side, Best Beaches in Side, and Best Family Hotels in Side for more travel inspiration and useful recommendations.

© Valera Rychman