Have you ever wanted to escape the sweltering heat of Antalya and surrender to the cool embrace of nature? Or perhaps you've dreamed of a place where you can leave the city's hustle and bustle behind and listen to the soothing sound of water? If your answer is yes, then we invite you to one of Antalya's most iconic natural wonders: the Düden Waterfalls. But wait, this is a bit different from the waterfalls you might know. Düden is a natural marvel with two distinct personalities, offering you two separate worlds in one location. This guide will be the centerpiece of your
things to do at Düden Waterfall list and will show you, step by step, how to explore both of its unique faces. If you're ready, let the adventure begin!
Watch the waterfall from behind the cave at Upper Düden

Just a short drive from the city center, a lush green oasis awaits you in the Kepez district: the Upper Düden Waterfall. This is a hidden paradise, free from noise, filled with the chirping of birds and the murmur of water under the shade of trees. The park surrounding the falls is a perfect escape for a family picnic or simply to find a moment of peace.
However, the real magic of Upper Düden lies in the unique experience it offers: entering the cave behind the waterfall and viewing the world through a cascading curtain of water. As you step into the coolness of the cave, the powerful sound of the water echoes inside, transporting you to another atmosphere. The daylight filtering through the openings and the mist created by the water droplets create a mystical scene, offering an unmissable opportunity for photography enthusiasts. Be mindful that the ground can be slippery, so it's wise to watch your step.
The existence of this magical cave is no accident. It's the result of the Düden River carving its way through Antalya's soluble limestone rock—a karst formation—for thousands of years. So, you are, in fact, witnessing a geological wonder shaped by the power of nature. Legend has it that even Alexander the Great watered his horses here while conquering Pamphylia, which is why the waterfall is also known as Alexander's Waterfall.
Take photos at the cliffs where Lower Düden flows into the sea

After the calm and serene atmosphere of Upper Düden, we now take you to a breathtaking stage where nature displays its power and glory: the Lower Düden Waterfall. Known locally as Karpuzkaldıran, this waterfall is the spectacular finale where the Düden River meets the Mediterranean Sea. Here, the water plunges directly into the sea from cliffs approximately 40 meters (131 feet) high, creating an unforgettable visual spectacle.
Witnessing this view is a true sensory explosion. The deafening roar of the water crashing into the sea, the cool mist on your face, and the massive cloud of spray serve as a powerful reminder of nature's might. On sunny days, the rainbows that form in the spray complete this picturesque scene, making for timeless photographs.
The best place to view the waterfall from land is the adjacent Düden Park. With its walking paths, viewing terraces, and cafes, the park is ideally situated for taking in the scenery. Moreover, entry to the park is generally free, and it's open 24/7, which is a great advantage for those who want to see the waterfall at sunset or illuminated at night. After enjoying this magnificent view from the land, you can head towards the heart of the city for your next adventure by checking out our page on
See the waterfall from the sea on tours departing from the Marina

While the view from the cliffs of Lower Düden is captivating, the most impressive way to experience this natural wonder is undoubtedly from the sea. Day-long boat tours departing from the historic Kaleiçi Marina offer you a front-row seat to this visual feast. As you glide along the majestic cliff faces, you'll discover a completely different side of Antalya.
As the boat approaches the waterfall, the roar you heard from the land intensifies into a thunderous sound, allowing you to feel the power of the water to your core. The refreshing spray created as you pass directly underneath provides incredible relief, especially on hot summer days. Photos taken from this angle capture the full 40-meter glory of the waterfall—a perspective you can never get from the shore.
These tours are typically planned as full-day activities. The itinerary often includes lunch, swimming breaks in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, and sometimes stops in coves where you might spot sea turtles. The Düden Waterfall boat tour is just one of the many adventures and joyful moments Antalya has to offer. For other options in the region, be sure to check out our list at
www.yerelrehber.com/en/city/antalya.
While You're Here...
If you still have energy after your Düden Waterfalls tour, fantastic places to explore are waiting for you nearby:
Sandland (Sand Sculpture Museum): Located on Lara Beach, this open-air museum is a unique place where artists from all over the world create giant sand sculptures. With a new theme each year, it fascinates both children and adults.
Lara Beach: Very close to Lower Düden, this famous beach is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sun with its fine sand and crystal-clear blue sea.
Kurşunlu Waterfall: If you can't get enough of waterfalls, you can visit Kurşunlu Waterfall, located a bit further inland. With its tropical vegetation and calmer atmosphere, it's another corner of paradise for nature lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do I get to Düden Waterfalls and what are the entrance fees?
Since Upper and Lower Düden are in different locations, transportation and fees vary. Entrance to the park where Lower Düden is located is generally free. There is a small entrance fee for Upper Düden Waterfall Nature Park, which may change depending on the season.
By Private Car: You can easily reach Upper Düden via the Varsak road and Lower Düden via the Lara road.
By Public Transport: Both waterfalls are accessible by buses from Antalya city center. Here are some lines that can help you :
| Destination | Bus Lines |
|---|---|
| Upper Düden Waterfall | VC30, CV17A, VL62, VF66 |
| Lower Düden Waterfall | KL08, LF09, LF10, LC37 |
2. Are Upper Düden and Lower Düden in the same place? What is the distance between them?
No, they are not in the same location. They are different points along the Düden River. Upper Düden is located about 10 km north of the city center in Kepez, while Lower Düden is 8 km east of the center in Lara, on the cliffs. The distance between them by car is approximately 12-15 km.
3. What is the best season to visit the waterfalls?
Düden Waterfalls are beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience :
Spring: This is when the water flows most powerfully due to the melting snow from the Taurus Mountains. The view is at its most dramatic during this time.
Summer: Ideal for escaping the Antalya heat, cooling off by the waterfall, and enjoying a swim during a boat tour.
Autumn: A great time for a peaceful visit when the weather is milder and the crowds have thinned.
Winter: The quietest and most serene time. It offers a perfect atmosphere for those who want to be alone with nature.
Source:
The geographical information in this article regarding Antalya's karst structure and natural formations was sourced from official publications by the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Culture and Tourism. For more detailed information, you can visit their page at(https://antalya.ktb.gov.tr/TR-67488/2-bolum---cografi-durum.html).


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