Manavgat is a popular Mediterranean destination known for its blend of turquoise waters, emerald nature, and rich historical heritage. Since the 1960s, it has remained a premier choice for summer tourism, offering everything from massive waterfalls and ancient cities to unique thematic museums.
Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure or a quiet cultural retreat, Manavgat provides a wide range of experiences for every traveller.
1. Manavgat Waterfall
Manavgat Waterfall is the most iconic landmark of the district, located just 5 km from the town centre. Unlike taller falls, its lower elevation allows you to observe the powerful water flow from a close perspective.
The area features viewing platforms and quality fish restaurants where you can enjoy the cool atmosphere created by the river. Visitors often participate in outdoor activities like rafting and jeep safaris or enjoy a day in the designated picnic areas
2. Side Ancient City
Located approximately 80 km from Antalya’s city centre, Side Ancient City is a significant cultural heritage site situated within the historical Pamphylia region. The city’s name is believed to mean “pomegranate,” symbolising abundance.
Estimated to have been founded thousands of years ago, the site contains traces of civilisations ranging from the Hittites to the Byzantines and Seljuks. Temple of Apollo is the most famous structure here, drawing international visitors with its impressive columns and coastal setting.
3. Köprülü Canyon National Park
Köprülü Canyon National Park covers 37,000 hectares and is a primary destination for water sports and nature exploration. The park is most famous for hosting professional rafting events along the Köprüçay River.
The area is a biodiversity hub where you can spot rare plant and animal species. Adding to its cultural value, the ancient city of Selge is located within the park boundaries, making it a unique stop for both history and adventure.
4. Side Museum
Side Museum is notable for being the first museum in Turkey to be established within a village. It is housed in a restored Roman-era bathhouse (Agora Bath) located directly inside the archaeological site.
The collection includes a wide variety of artefacts such as inscriptions, statues, sarcophagi, and portraits from periods ranging from the Hellenistic to the Late Hittite eras. Don’t miss the Statue of Nike located in the museum’s garden area
5. Titreyengöl (Trembling Lake)
Titreyengöl takes its name from the way its surface ripples even with the slightest breeze. Located in the Sorgun area 5 km from the centre, this 3,000-square-metre lake is home to a significant bird population.
The lake is famous for its ducks, which visitors can easily feed from the shore. The surrounding area is well-developed with various restaurants and resting facilities for a peaceful break
6. Oymapınar Lake
Oymapınar Lake is a reservoir lake that forms a scenic border between Oymapınar and Manavgat. The area is ideal for boat tours, mountain trekking, and rafting adventures.
For the best views, follow the road to the right of the dam and pass through a tunnel carved into the mountain. A specialised viewing platform at the tunnel’s exit offers a panoramic perspective of the entire lake and dam.
7. Altınbeşik Cave
Altınbeşik Cave features Turkey’s largest and Europe’s third-largest underground lake. Located 54 km from Manavgat centre within Altınbeşik National Park, the cave has a total length of 125 metres.
While the cave has been open to tourism since 1995, swimming is strictly prohibited to protect its natural structure. Ongoing archaeological studies continue to explore the deeper sections of this 2,200-metre-long cave system.
8. Boğaz Beach
Boğaz Beach is a secluded 3-km stretch of coastline where the Manavgat River meets the Mediterranean Sea. Its distance from residential areas makes it a quiet choice for travellers seeking peace and natural beauty.
The beach is famous for its fine sand and the numerous fish restaurants nearby. Because of the local trout farms, you can find fresh fish served at these riverside establishments throughout the day.
9. Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City
Lyrbe is an impressive mountain city located 15 km from Manavgat near the village of Bucakşeyhler. Though less known than other sites, it contains well-preserved remains of an agora, a temple, a bathhouse, and city walls.
The site features historical traces from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Many artefacts recovered from this city are currently on display at the Side Museum.
10. Aspendos Bridge
Aspendos Bridge is a 13th-century structure built by the Seljuks over Köprüçay River. The bridge was constructed using stones taken from the nearby Aspendos Ancient City.
The current structure sits on the foundations of an older Roman-period bridge. It remains a significant example of medieval architecture and is open to visitors free of charge.
