Aquarium Tour & Wax Museum from Side

The Antalya Aquarium and its underwater tunnel

The Antalya Aquarium in Konyaalti is one of the largest aquariums in the region, and it is the reason most families choose an Antalya Aquarium tour from Side. The centrepiece is a 131-metre glass tunnel, among the longest in the world, where sharks, rays and shoals of fish glide above and around you as if you were walking on the sea floor.

Plan a few unhurried hours inside, because the halls are laid out as a route and each zone brings something new. The building is air-conditioned, which makes it a very good choice for hot afternoons or a rainy day. Since tickets are part of this tour, you do not need to buy them yourself or queue at the gate.

Themed tanks and the sunken city

Beyond the tunnel, more than forty themed tanks recreate habitats from oceans and rivers across the world, from bright coral reefs and tropical fish to cooler-water species rarely seen in this part of Turkey. Information boards explain what each tank holds, so children can read as they look, and there is plenty to point at for adults too.

Look out for the sunken-world displays, where ruins and wreck scenery create a strong backdrop for photographs. Each tank has a different feel, so move at your own pace and come back to your favourites. Wear comfortable shoes, as you walk throughout and the light inside is low.

The shark hall and the feeding show

The shark hall is one of the most talked-about stops, with large sharks cruising slowly through a big tank while visitors watch from the glass. If you are searching for the best time to visit the Antalya Aquarium shark show, the feeding show is usually around 13:00, and our schedule is planned so the group arrives with time to find a good spot.

Watching the keepers feed the sharks, with an explanation of how the animals behave, is a highlight even for guests who thought they would find it too much. Show times can change, so confirm the exact time at the aquarium. The hall is cool, so a light jacket is useful.

The doctor-fish pool and the Maldives-style pool

The doctor-fish pool is the playful stop of the visit. You sit at the edge, dip your feet in and feel dozens of small fish nibble gently at your skin, which tickles and makes children and adults laugh. Staff explain how it works and how long to stay in.

Outside, the Maldives-style pool area gives a bright, tropical setting where you can rest, take photographs and, depending on the day, see rays swimming close to the edge. It is a good place to catch your breath in the middle of the visit. Bring sun protection and keep your phone in a waterproof case near the water.

The wax museum

The wax museum stop gives the tour its second name and adds a second indoor attraction to the day. Life-size figures of famous personalities are arranged in themed settings, so you can walk between them, compare faces and take photographs standing next to your favourites.

It is a relaxed visit that suits all ages and takes less time than the aquarium, which makes it a good contrast to the big halls and the shark show. Photography is a big part of the fun, so charge your phone before you set off, and take your time in front of the figures that interest you.

Kaleici Old Town or a waterfall on some departures

On about half of our departures, the day continues with around two hours of free time in Kaleici, the old quarter of Antalya, with narrow lanes, Ottoman houses, small shops and the harbour below. It is a pleasant place to walk, have a tea and look at the old stone architecture after the aquarium.

On other departures the group visits the Duden or Kursunlu waterfalls, where cool water drops through green parkland, a good contrast to the indoor halls. Our team confirms which stop your departure includes after you book, and the main programme of the day stays the same either way.