Side to Manavgat: the complete transfer guide
Side to Manavgat at a glance: 8 km, 12 minutes, from €20
Manavgat sits just 8 km east of Side, about 12 minutes by car, which makes it the shortest and cheapest run on this stretch of coast. A private transfer starts from €20 in an economy van, fixed at booking with no meter.
Most visitors go for one of three things: the wide Manavgat Waterfall on the river, the big Saturday market, or a boat trip up to the Green Canyon at Oymapinar Dam. All three fit comfortably into a half day from a Side hotel.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Distance | 8 km |
| Drive time | about 12 minutes |
| From price | €20 |
| Vehicle | Economy van, up to 6 |
The short drive from Side to Manavgat
The road east from Side runs inland through citrus groves and greenhouse country before reaching Manavgat town on the river of the same name. There is no motorway section and no mountain pass, so the 12-minute timing holds even in peak summer.
Because the trip is so short, a private transfer that waits and brings you back is often better value than two separate taxis, especially if you are combining the waterfall with the market or a boat trip.
Manavgat town and the river
Manavgat is a working Turkish town rather than a resort, built along the Manavgat River as it runs down to the sea. The riverbank is lined with fish restaurants where you can eat looking out over the water, and small boats run short trips from the town quays.
It is a good place to see everyday Turkey a few minutes from the resort strip: local shops, tea gardens and a busy centre that has nothing to do with tourism.
Manavgat Waterfall
The Manavgat Waterfall is low and very wide rather than tall, a broad sheet of water dropping over a rock shelf on the river. A short boardwalk and viewing terraces run along it, and there are tea gardens and cafes on site.
It is a quick, easy stop, ideal with children, and busiest in the middle of the day. Allow around an hour including a drink by the water.
The Manavgat Saturday market
Manavgat holds one of the largest weekly markets in the region on Saturdays, a sprawl of stalls selling textiles, spices, cheese, fruit, leather and household goods. It is where locals shop, so prices are keener than in the resort bazaars, though friendly bargaining is expected.
If your trip falls on a Saturday it is worth timing your transfer around the market. Go in the morning before the midday heat and the biggest crowds.
Green Canyon and Oymapinar boat trips
Upstream of Manavgat, the Oymapinar Dam has created the Green Canyon, a deep emerald reservoir between steep pine-covered slopes. Boat trips leave from the dam and cruise the canyon, often with a stop to swim, and it is one of the most scenic half-days near Side.
We can drop you at the boat landing and collect you afterwards, or run a return transfer that waits, so you are not left arranging a taxi back from the dam.
Your vehicle and transparent pricing
The standard vehicle for this route is a clean, air-conditioned economy van seating up to six with luggage, which suits couples, families and small groups. Larger groups or those wanting more room can request a Mercedes V-Class.
The price starts at €20 and is fixed when you book. There is no meter, no night surcharge and no per-bag fee, and you pay the driver in cash or by card.
| Vehicle | Passengers | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Economy van | Up to 6 | Couples, families, small groups |
| Mercedes V-Class | Up to 6, more room | Extra luggage, premium comfort |
How the transfer works
Book online with your Side hotel, your destination in Manavgat and the time. Your driver arrives at the agreed point, helps with any bags, and drives you straight there. For a waterfall or market visit we can wait and bring you back for a round-trip price.
If you are combining this with an arrival from Antalya Airport, we track your flight and meet you with a name board, then drive to Side or on to Manavgat as you prefer.
- Fixed price agreed at booking, no meter
- Waiting and round-trip options for the waterfall, market or boat trip
- Free child seats on request
- Pay cash or card; free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Practical tips
A few things make the trip smoother, especially in summer.
- Visit the waterfall or market in the morning to beat the heat and crowds
- Bring cash for the market and boat trips; small vendors rarely take cards
- Check whether your day is a Saturday if the market is your main aim
- Wear a hat and sunscreen; there is little shade at the waterfall terraces