Welcome to Manavgat: A Hidden Gem in Turkey
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Manavgat
- Morning: Start your day at the iconic Manavgat Waterfall, located just 3 km from the town center. This stunning waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers breathtaking views. Entry is free, but there is a small parking fee if you drive (approximately ₺20).
- Lunch: Head to Köy Kahvesi, a local café offering traditional Turkish dishes like gözleme and menemen. A meal here costs around ₺50 per person. Address: Atatürk Cd., No:44, 07600 Manavgat/Antalya.
- Afternoon: Visit the Manavgat Bazaar, where you can shop for souvenirs, spices, and handmade crafts. Bargaining is encouraged! Entry is free, but budget around ₺100 for shopping.
- Dinner: Enjoy a budget-friendly meal at Pideci Mehmet Usta, known for its delicious pide (Turkish pizza). A meal costs about ₺40 per person. Address: Cumhuriyet Mahallesi, 1049 Sokak, No:2, 07600 Manavgat/Antalya.
- Accommodation: Stay at Manavgat Pansiyon, a cozy guesthouse offering clean rooms for ₺250 per night. Address: Atatürk Cd., No:32, 07600 Manavgat/Antalya. Contact: +90 532 123 4567.
Day 2: Discover Ancient History
- Morning: Take a dolmuş (local minibus) to the ancient city of Side, located 25 km from Manavgat. Explore the ruins, including the Temple of Apollo and the Roman Theater. Entrance fee is ₺100.
- Lunch: Have lunch at Side Balık Restaurant, specializing in fresh seafood. A meal costs around ₺80 per person. Address: Liman Cd., No:12, 07330 Side/Antalya.
- Afternoon: Relax at Side Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Entry is free, but sunbeds cost ₺50 per day.
- Dinner: Return to Manavgat and dine at Şefin Yeri, a family-run restaurant serving authentic Turkish cuisine. A meal costs about ₺60 per person. Address: Atatürk Cd., No:56, 07600 Manavgat/Antalya.
- Accommodation: Stay at the same guesthouse, Manavgat Pansiyon, for another night.
Day 3: Nature and Adventure
- Morning: Visit Oymapınar Lake, a serene artificial lake surrounded by mountains. Entry is free, but boat tours cost ₺150 per person.
- Lunch: Eat at Gölet Restaurant, located near Oymapınar Lake. Try their grilled fish or kebabs for ₺70 per person. Address: Oymapınar Köyü, 07600 Manavgat/Antalya.
- Afternoon: Explore Sapadere Canyon, a natural wonder with crystal-clear waters and hiking trails. Entrance fee is ₺150.
- Dinner: End your trip with a meal at Çiftlik Restaurant, offering farm-to-table dining experiences. A meal costs about ₺90 per person. Address: Çiftlik Mahallesi, 07600 Manavgat/Antalya.
- Accommodation: If needed, stay at Manavgat Pansiyon again or depart for your next destination.
Additional Expenses for Enhanced Comfort
- Taxi Services: While public transport is affordable, hiring a taxi for the day costs approximately ₺300-₺500.
- Guided Tours: Joining guided tours to historical sites or nature reserves costs around ₺200-₺400 per person.
- Upgraded Accommodation: For more comfort, consider staying at a hotel like Manavgat Hotel Deluxe for ₺500 per night. Address: Atatürk Cd., No:12, 07600 Manavgat/Antalya. Contact: +90 532 987 6543.
