Perge Aspendos Aquaduct Side with Waterfall

Discover the Full-Day Tour of Ancient Sites and Natural Wonders in Antalya

This full-day tour in Antalya, Turkey, offers an engaging mix of history, architecture, and stunning natural scenery. At $80 per person, it includes roundtrip transportation, lunch, and entrance fees, making it a convenient and affordable option to explore some of the region’s most celebrated landmarks. The tour spans approximately 9 hours, starting with hotel pickup at 8:00 am, and takes you through ancient cities of Perge, Aspendos, and Side, with additional visits to the Manavgat Waterfall and Oymapinar Dam.

While the journey includes several stops packed with historical significance and scenic views, it is best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and moderate walking. The tour boasts a high rating of 5.0 out of 5, based on 24 reviews, with 100% recommendation, reflecting strong satisfaction from previous participants. This experience is ideal for anyone interested in archaeology, classical architecture, or Turkey’s natural beauty, offering an excellent overview of the Antalya region.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $80 per person for a 9-hour full-day exploration.
• Included Services: Hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, transportation, entrance, and facility fees.
• Main Stops: Perge, Aspendos, Side, Manavgat Waterfall, and Oymapinar Dam.
• Highlights: Ancient Greek and Roman ruins, spectacular theatre at Aspendos, powerful waterfall views.
• Tour Group Size: Limited to 25 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Guide and Accessibility: Professional guide leads the tour, with some reviews praising knowledgeable storytelling.

Visiting the Aspendos Theatre and Ruins

The tour begins at Aspendos, famous for its extraordinarily well-preserved theatre built in the second century. With seating for 15,000, the theatre is renowned for its outstanding acoustics, a feature crafted by architect Xenon whose secret formula remains a mystery. The ruins here also include the remains of a stadium, baths, and colonnaded streets, offering a fascinating glimpse into Roman architectural prowess.

While not the largest site, Aspendos impresses with its almost intact structure and historical significance. Visitors can appreciate the craftsmanship and imagine performances that once drew large audiences in this ancient open-air theatre.

Exploring Perge Antik Kenti: The Bronze Age Root

Next, the tour takes you to Perge, an ancient Greek city that was once the capital of Pamphylia Secunda. The site, located 15 kilometers east of Antalya, features ruins from Hellenistic and Roman times, including a notable acropolis dating back to the Bronze Age.

The extensive remains include a theatre, stadium, baths, and columned streets, most of which belong to the Pax Romana period. Although its scale is smaller compared to other famous sites like Ephesus, Perge’s ruins are vast enough to walk through and imagine life in ancient times. The site provides a clear sense of the city’s historical importance as a trading hub.

Discovering the City of Side: A Blend of Ancient and Modern

The third major stop is the ancient city of Side, located on a north-south peninsula on the Pamphylian coast. Today, Side combines the charm of a resort town with the intrigue of its archaeological remains, which include a Roman theatre, temples, and city walls that date back to Hellenistic and Roman periods.

The city’s location, about 78 km from Antalya, makes it a prime site for exploring well-preserved ruins right beside modern cafes and shops. It sits on a small peninsula about 1 km long, offering scenic views of the Mediterranean and a chance to soak in both history and seaside ambiance.

The Manavgat Waterfall and Oymapinar Dam: Natural Power and Serenity

Along With ancient ruins, this tour highlights the powerful Manavgat Waterfall, located 3 km north of Side. The waterfall is notable for its white, foaming waters that cascade over rocks from the Manavgat River. Visitors enjoy watching the rushing waters from elevated viewpoints and relaxing near the shady tea gardens nearby.

The Oymapinar Dam, situated 12 km north of the waterfall, is also part of the visit, providing insight into regional water management. The waterfalls’ high flow during floods can temporarily obscure the falls, adding an element of natural unpredictability.

Practical Logistics and Group Experience

This tour features air-conditioned transportation, with pickup and drop-off services from selected hotels, making logistics straightforward. The group size is limited to 25 participants, ensuring a comfortable environment for interaction and personalized attention from the professional guide.

The tour includes lunch, served as part of the package, allowing travelers to relax and refuel after visiting the historical sites. Admission fees for Aspendos, Perge, and the waterfall are covered, while drinks are not included, so travelers might want to bring additional refreshments.

The Experience of the Guide and Pacing

Previous reviews commend the guide for their knowledge and friendly approach, with mentions of Jim and Jill as standout storytellers who share detailed insights into the sites. The tour is described as well-organized, with a logical sequence that balances sightseeing with manageable walking.

However, some reviews note that the travel conditions can be uncomfortable, especially in the small minibus for the group of 18, and advise caution during rainy months when outdoor stops may be less enjoyable due to weather.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This full-day adventure is perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those interested in natural scenery. It suits travelers seeking a rundown of the Antalya region’s ancient sites and waterfalls all in one day.

Those comfortable with a busy schedule and moderate walking will find it rewarding, while visitors wanting more leisure time at each site may prefer a different, less packed option. The cost-efficient price combined with professional guiding and included meals makes this tour especially appealing for budget-conscious travelers.

Final Thoughts on the Perge Aspendos Side Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Antalya’s archaeological and natural highlights. The theatre at Aspendos and the ruins at Perge and Side provide a captivating glimpse into the past, while the Manavgat Waterfall adds a refreshing natural element.

The high ratings and positive reviews reflect consistent satisfaction, especially with the guides’ storytelling. Despite some minor concerns about comfort during transportation, the overall value and quality make this tour a strong choice for those eager to explore the rich history and scenic beauty of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $80 fee covers transportation, lunch, entrance and facility fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:00 am.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, entry to Perge, Aspendos, and the Manavgat Waterfall are included in the price.

Is there an age limit or physical requirement?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking and standing are involved, so moderate mobility is recommended.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and possibly some extra drinks, as only the lunch is included.

Can I cancel the tour for a refund?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews praise the guides for their expertise and storytelling skills.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, providing a comfortable experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, children should be comfortable with walking and a full day of sightseeing.

Can I customize or extend any part of the tour?
The standard package does not specify customization options, but the comprehensive itinerary covers the main highlights.