Ancient City Perge, Aspendos, Temple of Apollo & Waterfalls Tour

The Ancient City Perge, Aspendos, Temple of Apollo & Waterfalls Tour offers an engaging day exploring some of the most iconic sights surrounding Antalya, Turkey. Priced at $43.45 per person, this 10-hour small-group trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics smooth and hassle-free. With a maximum of 15 travelers, it provides a more personal experience, enhanced by professional guides who deliver in-depth commentary. The tour is highly rated, earning a 5.0 out of 5 from over 500 reviews, and is recommended by 98% of participants.

While the tour offers a fantastic mix of ancient ruins and natural beauty, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The stops at Side and Manavgat Waterfalls may feel rushed or less impressive compared to other highlights like Perge and Aspendos. Still, for those interested in history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, this tour packs a compelling punch, especially with expert guides and delicious included lunch.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for a seamless experience
• Visits Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfalls — a mix of history and nature
• Guides are highly knowledgeable, providing detailed explanations at each site
• Tour duration is approximately 10 hours, with comfortable ground transportation
• Stops at Aspendos and Perge feature remarkably preserved ruins and theaters
• Tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking is involved

Meet Antalya’s Top Surrounding Attractions in One Day

This full-day tour offers a well-rounded look at the historic and natural highlights near Antalya. The experience begins with hotel pickup, followed by visits to some of the region’s most significant ancient sites and scenic waterfalls. The small-group setting ensures a more intimate atmosphere, with guides sharing detailed insights into each location.

The tour emphasizes top sights like the Roman amphitheater of Aspendos, renowned for its exceptional preservation and acoustics. It also covers the Bronze Age-era city of Perge, famous for its architecture and marble sculptures, many of which are housed in the Antalya Museum. The Waterfalls of Manavgat provide a relaxing natural break, with admission included.

Aspendos Ruins and the Roman Amphitheater

The Aspendos Ruins take center stage as one of the most impressive sites on this tour. Known for its massive Roman amphitheater, Aspendos stands in excellent condition and can seat up to 15,000 spectators. Visitors can walk around the stone structures and appreciate the acoustics that made it famous in antiquity.

While the admission ticket is not included, the theater’s preservation makes it a highlight for fans of ancient architecture. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, explaining Aspendos’ significance in Roman history. The two-hour visit allows ample time to explore, take photos, and soak in the impressive atmosphere.

Exploring Perge Ancient City’s Architectural Marvels

The Perge Ancient City is a major highlight, located 17 kilometers from Antalya. This city dates back to the Hittite period and flourished during the Roman era. Its organized city plan features main east-west and north-south streets, with well-preserved ruins.

The theater, capable of seating 15,000, remains notably intact, and the sculptures and architecture uncovered here are so remarkable that they are housed in the Antalya Museum. Visitors can walk through marble ruins and imagine what life was like in ancient Anatolia. The one-hour stop provides a rich, immersive experience, especially with the guidance that brings the site’s history and significance to life.

Manavgat Waterfalls: A Refreshing Natural Stop

Situated within the Taurus Mountains, the Manavgat Waterfalls are a popular natural attraction, sourced from Mount Seytan. The waterfalls are among Turkey’s most famous, offering a scenic and peaceful setting.

The admission fee is included here, and visitors can enjoy the sound of rushing water and beautiful surrounding scenery. While some reviews note that the waterfalls might be less impressive than hoped, they still provide a refreshing break from cultural sightseeing. The one-hour stop is ideal for taking photos or simply relaxing amidst nature.

The Temple of Apollo in Side’s Coastal Ruins

The Temple of Apollo is a key highlight in the town of Side, located on the coastal waterfront. This site is celebrated for its scenic views and ancient temple ruins, characterized by notable columns and stone structures.

The two-hour visit offers a mix of historical exploration and ocean views, making it a favorite for those who appreciate coastal scenery combined with archaeology. The admission fee is not included, but the photogenic ruins and atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop. Visitors often enjoy walking around the ancient site and imagining its past grandeur.

Practical Logistics: Hotel Pickup, Transfers, and Group Size

This tour departs at 8:00 am with hotel pickup and drop-off included, simplifying the day for visitors staying in Antalya. The ground transportation is comfortable, with some reviews praising the professional driving and timely schedule.

The group size is capped at 15, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier interaction with the professional guides. The tour is designed for moderate physical activity, involving walking on uneven surfaces at sites like Perge and Aspendos, but no extensive hiking. Attendees should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, with some sites feeling more rushed than others, especially Side and Manavgat.

The Guides: Knowledgeable, Passionate, and Engaging

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the expert guidance. Guides like Ibrahim and others are described as very knowledgeable, capable of sharing detailed explanations about the history and architecture of each site.

Reviews highlight guides’ passion, their ability to set expectations, and their friendly demeanor. Many mention how the guides’ stories and insights significantly enhance the experience, making the history come alive. Some reviews note that guides are soft-spoken, so bringing a small voice amplifier might be beneficial.

Food and Refreshments: Lunch Included but Limited Drinks

The lunch provided is a buffet, described as casual with a variety of options. One review mentions that the food was not very impressive, with some guests preferring simple, familiar dishes like boiled potatoes.

Drinks during lunch are not included, so guests should consider bringing water or purchasing beverages separately. The lunch break offers a chance to relax and re-energize before continuing the sightseeing, but the quality may vary.

Pacing and Duration: Well-Balanced but Some Stops Feel Rushed

With a 10-hour duration, this tour covers a lot of ground, making it suitable for those who want a rundown of Antalya’s surroundings. However, some reviews suggest that certain stops, like Side or Manavgat Waterfalls, feel rushed or less worthwhile compared to Perge and Aspendos.

The guides do their best to keep the schedule on track, but guests should be prepared for a fast-paced day with limited free time at each site. The itinerary aims to balance natural landscapes and historical sites, but individual preferences might mean some stops are more appreciated than others.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts and those interested in ancient ruins and architecture. The knowledgeable guides and detailed commentary make it especially appealing for travelers eager to learn about Antalya’s archaeological sites.

It suits active visitors comfortable with walking and standing, as some locations involve uneven surfaces. Those seeking a relaxed pace or more time at specific sites might find it a bit rushed. The value for money and included lunch add to its appeal for budget-conscious travelers wanting a full-day experience.

Final Words on the Perge, Aspendos, Temple of Apollo & Waterfalls Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Antalya’s ancient ruins and natural scenery in a cost-effective package. The high ratings and numerous positive reviews highlight the expertise of the guides, the well-chosen sights, and the smooth logistics.

While some stops may feel less engaging or rushed, the key highlights—notably Perge and Aspendos—are well worth visiting. The inclusion of hotel pickup and lunch makes it a convenient choice for travelers with limited time in the area.

This tour is a solid option for those interested in Turkey’s historical sites combined with scenic natural attractions, especially if you value guided insight and organized logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $43.45 per person, including lunch and hotel transfers.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am with pickup included.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance fees for Perge and Aspendos theater are not included. Admission to Manavgat Waterfalls and the Temple of Apollo in Side is included.

What locations are visited during the tour?
Stops include Aspendos Ruins, Perge Ancient City, Manavgat Waterfalls, and the Temple of Apollo in Side.

Does the tour include food?
Yes, lunch is included, but drinks during lunch are not.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
It is designed for moderate physical activity; some walking on uneven surfaces is involved.

Can I expect a small group?
Yes, the group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying the day.

What is the guide like?
Guides are highly knowledgeable, passionate about history, and provide detailed explanations at each site.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.