Perge, Aspendos, Side & Manavgat Waterfall Tour from Antalya

Explore the Ancient Ruins and Waterfalls of Antalya with this Full-Day Tour

For history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, the Perge, Aspendos, Side & Manavgat Waterfall Tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Turkey’s Greco-Roman past. Priced at $282 per person and lasting about 10 hours, this guided trip from Antalya covers some of the region’s most impressive archaeological sites and natural wonders. The tour is well-suited for those who want to see the highlights of ancient Turkey in a single day, with the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off included.

While the itinerary is packed with sightseeing and some walking, it’s designed for travelers who appreciate historical architecture and scenic landscapes. A notable highlight is the Aspendos Theatre, a remarkably preserved Roman structure still used for festivals today. The tour also features a relaxing stop at the Manavgat Waterfall, adding a natural touch to the cultural exploration. The only thing to keep in mind is the limited time spent at each site, especially Side, which some may find a bit rushed.

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Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip visiting Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfall from Antalya
• Includes all entrance fees for the sites mentioned in the itinerary
• Guided tour led by an English-speaking guide with detailed site explanations
• Lunch included (beverages extra) at a restaurant by a river
• Transportation is in a fully air-conditioned coach, with hotel pickup and return transfer
• Suitable for those interested in history, architecture, and scenic waterfalls

From Hotel Pickup to First Stop at Perge

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Antalya, with flexible timing based on your hotel location. Once on board the air-conditioned coach, you head to Perge, a large ancient city in the Pamphylia region. As the former capital of Pamphylia, Perge offers impressive remains like the Roman Baths, the Agora, the Colonnaded Street, the Nympharium, and the stadium.

The Perge archaeological site invites visitors to walk among the remnants of a thriving Roman city, giving a tangible sense of antiquity. The guide provides insights into the historical significance of each site, making this stop both educational and visually striking. Expect to spend some time exploring these ruins before moving on to Aspendos.

Discovering the Well-Preserved Aspendos Theatre

Next, the tour takes you to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in Turkey. Built in the 2nd century A.D., this theatre can hold up to 15,000 spectators and continues to host events today, including festivals and concerts. Its remarkable condition is a highlight, offering a glimpse into Roman engineering and entertainment.

The guide leads you through the structure, explaining its design and historical uses. The Aspendos Theatre is particularly praised for its acoustics and size, making it a favorite stop despite the limited time allocated for photos and brief exploration. After soaking in the views, the group heads to a nearby restaurant for lunch.

Enjoying a Relaxing Riverside Lunch Break

A lunch break at a riverside restaurant provides a chance to relax and enjoy local flavors. Though drinks are extra, the meal offers a welcome pause before continuing the journey. The scenic setting by the river enhances the experience, giving a peaceful backdrop to the busy morning of sightseeing.

This break also allows travelers to chat with the guide or take additional photos of the surrounding nature. After lunch, the tour moves toward Side, a renowned ancient port city with a lively atmosphere and historical ruins.

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Exploring the Roman Ruins of Side

Side was once a bustling port and the region’s largest slave market. Today, it features impressive Roman architecture, including a large theatre, Roman Baths, and the Temple of Apollo. Visitors are given about an hour of free time to explore, relax by the sea, or enjoy some local shops and cafes.

While some reviews mention that the time at Side is somewhat limited, the site remains a highlight due to its well-preserved structures and vibrant seaside vibe. It’s an ideal spot for photography, strolling along the waterfront, or simply soaking up the ancient atmosphere.

Visiting the Manavgat Waterfall

On the return leg, the tour makes a stop at the Manavgat Waterfall, a natural spectacle set along the Manavgat River. The waterfall’s cascading waters and lush surroundings make this a peaceful end to the busy day. The viewing area offers good photo opportunities, and visitors can enjoy the cool spray and natural scenery.

This stop is appreciated for its scenic beauty and provides a relaxing moment before heading back to Antalya. The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel, bringing the day full circle.

Practical Details and What’s Included

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Antalya, making logistics straightforward. All entrance fees for Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfall are covered, so there are no surprises on site. The fully air-conditioned coach ensures comfort throughout the day.

Lunch is included at a riverside restaurant, although drinks are not included and need to be purchased separately. The English-speaking guide provides informative commentary at each stop, enriching your understanding of the ancient sites.

Considerations and Tips for the Tour

While the tour offers a well-rounded experience, the time spent at each site is relatively limited, especially at Side, which some might find rushed. The walking involved is moderate, mainly around ruins and open-air sites, but comfortable footwear is recommended.

The price point of $282 reflects the inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to see the highlights of this Turkish region in one day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour suits history buffs, architecture lovers, and those who appreciate scenic waterfalls. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a guided, all-in-one day trip that covers key archaeological sites and a natural attraction with minimal hassle.

Visitors who prefer more time at each site or want to explore in greater depth might find the limited duration at some stops a drawback, but overall, this trip offers a thorough overview of Antalya’s ancient treasures and natural beauty.

Perge, Aspendos, Side & Manavgat Waterfall Tour: Final Thoughts

This full-day adventure from Antalya combines cultural exploration with scenic landscapes, providing a balanced itinerary for those interested in ancient ruins and natural sights. The well-preserved Aspendos Theatre and Roman ruins in Perge and Side are highlights that stand out for their historical significance and visual appeal.

The guide’s knowledge and friendly manner are often praised, enhancing the overall experience. The lunch and transportation arrangements streamline the day, allowing you to focus on the sites.

While the limited time at Side may leave some wanting more, the combination of historical sites and Manavgat Waterfall makes this tour a practical choice for a comprehensive day out in Antalya.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation in a fully air-conditioned coach is included, along with hotel pickup and drop-off.

Are all entrance fees covered?
All entrance fees for Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfall are included in the price.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting with hotel pickup and ending with hotel drop-off.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
Lunch is included, but drinks are extra, and you may want to bring water or snacks for the day.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s appropriate for most travelers who can walk on uneven surfaces and enjoy outdoor sites.

How flexible is the schedule?
The departure time is flexible depending on your hotel location, but the itinerary is fixed with limited time at each site.

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