Manavgat is the biggest county in Antalya and is a recently developed tourist destination with hotels along its beautiful sand beaches in the Titreyengöl district. The city is famous for its waterfalls, though the waterfalls are important for Turkey they are nevertheless not impressive. Still it is one of the stops for many daily tours in the region. Boat tours along the area where the Manavgat River meets the sea are also popular. The Manavgat River is one of the world's longest subterranean rivers, emerging from underground springs in the Taurus Mountains.
The most important sights of Manavgat county are the world-famous Aspendos theater — an almost fully intact Roman theater — Köprülü Canyon, and the Selge ruins. Side, the famous village of the Antalya region, is part of the Manavgat district.
Manavgat's economy was dependent on citrus, cotton, and vegetables, and they still generate revenues for farmers, though tourism is more important, like almost any other place in Antalya.
Manavgat, like other small cities along the coast, is located at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, and "yaylas" (plateaus) in the mountains offer cool air for farmers leaving the city center during very hot summer months.
Manavgat's tourism boom began in the late 1990s and accelerated through the 2000s. Today, the district has over 100 hotels ranging from small family-run pensions to massive international resorts. The main hotel zones are:
Residential Real Estate: Manavgat has become increasingly popular for foreign property buyers, particularly from Germany, the UK, and Russia. New residential complexes (sites) with shared pools, gardens, and security are common in the areas around Titreyengöl, Side, and Kızılot. Prices remain more affordable than central Antalya or Belek.
The Manavgat Waterfall is a wide, shallow cascade rather than a tall drop. While not dramatically high, it is picturesque, especially after rainfall when the water flow is strongest. There are tea gardens and restaurants overlooking the falls. The waterfall is located about 3 km north of Manavgat town center.
Boat tours depart from near the river mouth, taking visitors upstream past the waterfall and into the canyon. Tours often include lunch, swimming stops, and visits to the Green Canyon (Köprülü area). The river is one of the longest subterranean rivers in the world, emerging from underground sources in the Taurus range.
One of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world, dating to the 2nd century AD. The theater seats up to 15,000 people and still hosts performances today. Located about 10 km west of Manavgat center. The acoustic engineering is remarkable — a whisper from the stage can be heard in the top rows.
A stunning canyon carved by the Köprüçay River. Highlights include the historic Oluk Bridge (Roman), white-water rafting, trekking, and the ancient city of Selge. The park is about 40 km north of Manavgat. Rafting trips are available for beginners and experienced rafters alike.
The famous seaside ruin city is technically within Manavgat district. Highlights include the Temple of Apollo (iconic sunset views), the Roman theater, the city gate, and the harbor. The modern town has shops, restaurants, and hotels.
A less-visited ancient city in the mountains above Köprülü Canyon. Features a theater, agora, and city walls with stunning mountain views. Requires a longer day trip (4x4 recommended).
Getting there: Manavgat is 75 km east of Antalya city center (about 1 hour drive). Antalya Airport (AYT) is the closest airport (65 km, 50 minutes). Buses run frequently from Antalya's main bus terminal (Otogar) to Manavgat. Dolmuş (shared minibuses) connect Manavgat to Side, Titreyengöl, and surrounding areas.
Getting around: Dolmuş services run frequently between Manavgat town center, Side, Titreyengöl, and surrounding beaches. Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to visit Aspendos, Köprülü Canyon, and remote sites.
Best time to visit: May-June and September-October offer warm weather without the intense summer heat. July-August are very hot (35-40°C) and crowded, especially at the waterfalls and Side. For waterfall viewing, visit after rainfall (winter or spring) for the strongest flow.
Accommodation: The Titreyengöl and Side areas offer the widest range of hotels. For budget options, look at pensions in Manavgat town center. For long-term stays, residential complexes in Kızılot or Çolaklı offer apartment rentals.