Have you ever dreamed of visiting a place that has it all: stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, thrilling adventure, and relaxing comfort? If so, you might want to consider Manavgat as your next destination. Manavgat is a coastal town in the Antalya province of Turkey, that attracts visitors with its majestic river, waterfall, and ancient ruins, but remains unaffected by the tourism influx.
In this article, you will find everything you need to know about Manavgat tourism, including the best things to do, places to stay, and restaurants to eat in Manavgat. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Manavgat has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s explore Manavgat together!
Things to do in Manavgat
The main attraction of Manavgat tourism is the variety of activities and experiences that the town offers. You can enjoy the natural wonders, the historical sites, the fun attractions, and the relaxing activities that Manavgat has to offer. Here are some of the best things to do in Manavgat:
1. Manavgat Waterfall
One of the most iconic and popular attractions in Manavgat is the Manavgat Waterfall. This is a spectacular sight to behold, as the water cascades over a wide rocky ledge, creating a misty and rainbow-filled atmosphere. The waterfall is located about 4 km from the town center, and you can reach it by bus, taxi, or bike. The waterfall is open from 8 am to 8 pm, and the entrance fee is 5 TL per person. The best time to visit the waterfall is in the spring or autumn, when the water flow is at its peak, and the weather is pleasant.
2. Koprulu Canyon
If you are looking for some adventure and adrenaline, you should definitely visit the Koprulu Canyon. This is a stunning natural park that features a deep and narrow gorge, a turquoise river, and a lush forest. You can explore the canyon by rafting, kayaking, ziplining, or hiking, and enjoy the scenic views and the wildlife. The canyon is located about 40 km from Manavgat, and you can reach it by bus, car, or tour. The park is open from 8 am to 6 pm, and the entrance fee is 10 TL per person. The best time to visit the canyon is in the summer, when the water level is high, and the temperature is moderate.
3. Scuba Diving in Manavgat
If you are a fan of marine life and underwater exploration, you should not miss the opportunity to go scuba diving in Manavgat. The town has a long coastline that offers many diving spots, where you can see colorful corals, fish, turtles, octopuses, and even shipwrecks. The diving spots are located along the coast, and you can reach them by boat, car, or tour. The diving season is from April to November, and the prices vary depending on the diving center and the package.
4. Hamam in Manavgat
If you want to experience the authentic Turkish culture and hospitality, you should treat yourself to a hamam in Manavgat. A hamam is a traditional Turkish bath, where you can enjoy a relaxing and cleansing ritual that involves hot steam, scrubbing, massage, and aromatherapy. You can choose from different types of hamams, such as the Ottoman, the Roman, or the modern, and enjoy the benefits of the hamam for your body and mind. You can find many hamams in Manavgat, especially in the hotels and spas. The hamam hours are usually from 9 am to 9 pm, and the prices range from 50 to 200 TL per person.
5. Apollon Temple
If you are interested in the ancient history and mythology of Manavgat, you should visit the Apollon Temple. This is a magnificent temple that was dedicated to the god of sun, music, and prophecy, Apollon, and dates back to the 2nd century BC. The temple is located in the nearby town of Side, about 7 km from Manavgat, and you can reach it by bus, taxi, or bike. The temple is open from 8 am to 7 pm, and the entrance fee is 15 TL per person. The best time to visit the temple is in the evening, when you can witness the sunset and the illumination of the temple.
6. Side Museum
If you want to learn more about the history and culture of Manavgat and its surroundings, you should visit the Side Museum. This is a fascinating museum that showcases the artifacts and exhibits from the ancient civilizations that inhabited the region, such as the Hittites, the Greeks, the Romans, and the Byzantines. You can see coins, statues, mosaics, jewelry, and pottery that reveal the life and art of the past. The museum is located in the old Roman baths in Side, and you can reach it by bus, taxi, or bike. The museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the entrance fee is 10 TL per person. The best time to visit the museum is in the morning, when it is less crowded and more comfortable.
7. Upside Down House
If you are looking for some fun and quirky attractions in Manavgat, you should check out the Upside Down House. This is a unique and amusing attraction that features a house that is literally upside down, with the furniture, appliances, and decorations hanging from the ceiling. The house is located in the Antalya Aquarium complex, about 70 km from Manavgat, and you can reach it by bus, car, or tour. The house is open from 10 am to 10 pm, and the entrance fee is 20 TL per person. The best time to visit the house is in the afternoon, when the light is better for taking photos.
8. Eagle Canyon Jeep Safari
If you are feeling adventurous and want to explore the hidden gems of Manavgat, you should join the Eagle Canyon Jeep Safari. This is an exciting and exhilarating tour that takes you to the Eagle Canyon, a spectacular canyon that features a narrow passage, a deep pool, and a waterfall. You can drive a jeep through the rugged terrain, swim in the crystal-clear water, and jump from the rocks into the pool. The tour also includes a visit to the Manavgat Waterfall, a lunch at a local restaurant, and a stop at a village market. The tour is organized by various agencies in Manavgat, and you can book it online or in person. The tour lasts for about 8 hours, and the price is around 150 TL per person.
9. Green Canyon Boat Tour
If you are looking for a relaxing and scenic activity in Manavgat, you should take the Green Canyon Boat Tour. This is a peaceful and pleasant tour that takes you to the Green Canyon, a beautiful lake that is surrounded by green mountains and forests. The tour also includes a visit to the Oymapinar Dam, a lunch at a lakeside restaurant, and a stop at a fruit garden. The tour is organized by various agencies in Manavgat, and you can book it online or in person. The tour lasts for about 6 hours, and the price is around 100 TL per person.
Where to stay in Manavgat
One of the advantages of Manavgat tourism is the variety and quality of the hotels and accommodations that the town offers. You can find hotels that suit your budget and preferences, from luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses. Some of the best hotels and accommodations in Manavgat are Hotel Su, Rixos Premium Belek, Sueno Hotels Deluxe Belek and Crystal Sunrise Queen Luxury Resort & Spa.
Manavgat is a hidden gem of Turkey, that offers a variety of attractions and activities for every type of traveler. You can enjoy the natural beauty, the cultural heritage, the fun attractions, and the relaxing activities that Manavgat has to offer. You can also find the best hotels and restaurants that suit your budget and preferences. Manavgat is a destination that will satisfy your search intent and goals, and make you fall in love with Turkey. So, what are you waiting for? Plan and book your trip to Manavgat today, and share your feedback and experiences with us. We hope you enjoyed this article, and we hope to see you soon in Manavgat!