Manavgat Travel Guide: Waterfall, River Boat Trips, Grand Bazaar and Side
Manavgat blends nature, shopping and ancient history in one easy base near Side. Here is what to see, plus the simplest way to get there from Antalya Airport.
Published 2026-06-19
Why Visit Manavgat: Nature, Markets and History in One Town
Manavgat sits about 72 kilometres east of Antalya Airport, right next to the resort town of Side, and it makes a relaxed, well-rounded base for a holiday on the Turkish Mediterranean. In a single area you can combine cooling river scenery, lively local shopping and some of the region's most famous ancient ruins, all without long daily drives.
What sets Manavgat apart is the variety packed into a small radius. The wide Manavgat Waterfall and the river that shares its name anchor the natural side of town, while the inland Oymapinar Dam and Green Canyon add dramatic landscapes within easy reach. With Side's beaches and ruins just minutes away, Manavgat suits travellers who want more than a single-purpose beach break.
The Manavgat Waterfall and a River Boat Trip
The Manavgat Waterfall is the town's signature sight, known less for its height than for its impressive width, where the river spills over a broad rocky shelf in a constant rush of foam. Shaded riverside terraces and cafes line the area, making it an easy, family-friendly stop where you can sit with a tea and enjoy the cool air rising off the water.
For a different perspective, a boat trip on the Manavgat River is one of the most popular things to do here. Cruises glide between green banks toward the river mouth where it meets the Mediterranean, and longer excursions head upstream toward the Oymapinar Dam and the strikingly turquoise Green Canyon. It is a calm, scenic half-day that pairs well with a swim and a riverside lunch.
The Grand Bazaar and Nearby Side
The Manavgat grand bazaar is one of the largest markets in the region and a highlight for anyone who enjoys browsing and bargaining. Stalls overflow with spices, Turkish delight, leather goods, textiles, ceramics and souvenirs, and friendly haggling is part of the experience, so take your time and compare a few stalls before you buy.
When you have had your fill of shopping, the ancient town of Side is just minutes away. Its remarkably preserved Roman ruins, including a grand theatre and the seaside Temple of Apollo, sit alongside sandy beaches and harbour restaurants. Combining a market morning in Manavgat with an afternoon among Side's ruins is one of the most rewarding day plans in the area.
Getting to Manavgat: The Easy Airport Transfer
Manavgat lies roughly 72 kilometres east of Antalya Airport, and the drive typically takes around 70 minutes depending on traffic and your exact accommodation. Because the town is spread out and many highlights sit a little inland, having reliable transport from the moment you land makes the trip far smoother than juggling buses with luggage.
A private door-to-door airport transfer is the easiest and most comfortable way in, with a fixed price agreed in advance, no waiting for connections and a driver who takes you straight to your hotel. With 24/7 service and multilingual support, you can book before you fly and start your Manavgat holiday relaxed rather than navigating an unfamiliar route.