Holiday in Manavgat

What makes Manavgat special as a destination?

Manavgat is the green heart of the Turkish Riviera – a lively small town on the river of the same name, known primarily for its wide, roaring waterfall and as a gateway to the ancient ruins of Side. While most tourists come only for the famous Manavgat Waterfall, the region reveals a surprising depth of nature, history, and authentic Turkish daily life away from the hotel strips. The Manavgat Waterfall is not particularly high – only about two meters – but it is much wider and richer in water. The thundering, white foaming water cascades over a wide rock ledge, providing a refreshingly cool contrast to the summer heat of the coast. The surrounding tea gardens and restaurants right by the river invite visitors to linger. Even more spectacular is the Oymapınar Dam Lake inland, an emerald green mountain lake in the Taurus Mountains, where boat tours lead through narrow gorges – a natural experience reminiscent of Norwegian fjords. Downstream, one reaches the ancient city of Side, one of the most significant ancient centers of the Turkish Mediterranean coast, featuring an amphitheater, the Temple of Apollo right by the sea, and an atmospheric old town. The large Manavgat Bazaar, held every Monday and Thursday, is one of the most authentic markets in the region – here, mainly locals shop, and prices are significantly cheaper than in the tourist coastal towns. From Manavgat, rafting tours on the Köprülü Canyon, jeep safaris into the Taurus Mountains, and boat trips on the Manavgat River can be undertaken. Antalya Airport is about 75 kilometers away.