Side-Turkey.

Manavgat sits right at the heart of the Turkish Riviera, a district of Antalya province where the famous resort and ancient town of Side belong. If you are staying anywhere from Side to Belek, you are closer to its best sights than you might think. We are Murat Atalay's team, a local tour operator based here, and this is our honest, on-the-ground guide to the things genuinely worth your time in Manavgat, without the brochure fluff.

The Manavgat Waterfall and River

The Manavgat Waterfall (Manavgat Şelalesi) is the area's signature sight, and it is not what most people expect. Instead of a tall, narrow drop, it is wide and low, with a remarkable volume of water thundering across the full breadth of the Manavgat River. It sits inside a green park dotted with shaded tea gardens, so you can sip Turkish tea right beside the spray. It makes an easy, family-friendly stop that pairs naturally with other excursions in the area.

Boat Trips on the Manavgat River

From the riverbanks, boat trips set off along the Manavgat River. Gliding on the water is a relaxed, scenic way to take in the reedy banks and riverside life away from the crowds. It is a gentle activity suitable for all ages and a lovely contrast to the energy of the waterfall.

The Green Canyon (Yeşil Kanyon)

The Green Canyon is the reservoir of the Oymapınar Dam, and it is the photograph everyone wants. Its water is a deep, almost unreal emerald green, hemmed in by steep forested mountains. It is explored by boat, drifting between the cliffs where the colour shifts with the light. Per the Antalya Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, tour boats operate on the lake, with restaurants along the shore. For exact departure points and what is included, these are confirmed at booking.

Manavgat Town, Market and Bazaar

Manavgat town has a big weekly market and a lively riverside bazaar, often called the Grand Bazaar, that draws shoppers looking for textiles, spices, leather and souvenirs. Haggling is part of the fun, and it gives you a real slice of everyday Turkish life. The ancient city of Side, with its Roman theatre and Temple of Apollo, sits right next door, so a Manavgat day blends easily with classical sightseeing.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Varies by chosen excursion, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Confirmed at booking (typically transfers and guiding where applicable)
• Excludes: Personal spending, shopping, optional extras; check official details
• Family Friendly: Yes, suitable for all ages
• Best Season: Spring to autumn; pleasant much of the year
• Difficulty: Easy, mostly relaxed sightseeing

Related Excursions

• Side excursions & tours
• Antalya excursions & tours
• Alanya excursions & tours
• Belek excursions & tours
• Kemer excursions & tours
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Manavgat?

Manavgat is a district of Antalya province on the Turkish Riviera. The well-known resort and ancient town of Side belongs to it, so it is easily reached from nearby resorts.

What is the Manavgat Waterfall like?

It is wide and low rather than tall, with a powerful flow across the Manavgat River, set in a park with tea gardens where you can relax beside the water.

What is the Green Canyon?

It is the reservoir of the Oymapınar Dam, known for its deep emerald-green water between forested mountains, and it is visited by boat.

Can I do a boat trip in Manavgat?

Yes. Boat trips run on the Manavgat River, and separate boat tours operate on the Green Canyon lake. Departure points are confirmed at booking.

Is Manavgat good for shopping?

Yes. The town has a large weekly market and a riverside bazaar, popular for textiles, spices, leather and souvenirs.

Is it suitable for families?

Very much so. The waterfall park, river boat trips and bazaar are all relaxed and easy for all ages.

How do I get the best price?

Book direct with us. Going through agencies or online travel platforms adds commission. Booking direct with a local operator removes that markup, and we back it with a best-price guarantee.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring through autumn is ideal, though the area is pleasant for much of the year. Exact timing is confirmed at booking.

Ready to explore Manavgat the local way? Book direct with Murat Atalay's team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. As a direct local operator we cut out agency and OTA commission, so you get our best-price guarantee and honest, on-the-ground advice. Message us today and we will tailor the perfect Manavgat day for you.