Ancient Perge, Aspendos Amphitheater & Manavgat Waterfalls Tour

Exploring the ancient sites of Perge and Aspendos, along with a relaxing visit to the Manavgat Waterfalls, makes for a well-rounded day trip from Side, Turkey. Priced at $41.50 per person, this 10-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the region’s most impressive archaeological and natural attractions. The tour includes hotel pickup, a professional guide, and lunch, making it a convenient way to experience key historical sites without the hassle of planning.

What really makes this trip stand out is the detailed visits to Perge, a well-preserved ancient city, and Aspendos, home to one of the finest Roman amphitheaters still in use today. While entrance fees are additional, the value for the included guided tour, transportation, and lunch remains compelling. The only notable consideration is the moderate physical fitness level needed, as some walking and exploring are involved.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a full day of sightseeing with a local guide who knows the sites intimately. It suits travelers who want an efficient, all-in-one experience with minimal planning, ideal for a single day of exploration in the Side region.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip from Side with visits to Perge, Aspendos, and Manavgat Waterfalls
• Affordable price of $41.50 includes lunch and guided commentary
• Pickup and drop-off from your hotel offer added convenience
• Highlights include the ancient Roman theater, stadiums, and the Bronze Age acropolis
• Tour duration of approximately 10 hours allows for a relaxed yet packed sightseeing pace
• Entrance fees are extra, costing about $30 per person

Pickup from Side and Transportation in Comfort

The tour starts promptly at 8:00 am with hotel pickup in Side, making it easy to begin a busy day without transportation worries. Guests travel in an air-conditioned bus, ensuring comfort during the roughly 10-hour journey. The group size is small, with a maximum of 15 travelers, creating an intimate environment and allowing for personalized attention from the professional guide.

The transport allows for a relaxed pace, giving travelers time to admire the scenery and settle in between stops. The outside seating on the bus adds to the comfort, although some may find the AC slightly substandard based on reviews. The smooth transit helps maintain a steady flow throughout the day.

Exploring the Ruins of Perge Antik Kenti

The first stop is at Perge, located about 17 kilometers from Side, in the Aksu district. Known historically as Parha, this city dates back to the Hittite period and became highly organized during the Roman era. Its impressive architecture and marble sculptures make it an important archaeological site.

Key features include the well-preserved theater with a capacity of 15,000 people and the stadium, considered one of Turkey’s best-preserved. The main street stretches 500 meters and features numerous columns and fountains, giving visitors a vivid picture of ancient urban life. The site also includes an acropolis dating to the Bronze Age, adding to its historical depth.

Visitors walk through the ruins, seeing the Roman gates, city walls, and baths that highlight the city’s sophistication. The Antalya Museum hosts many artifacts unearthed here, emphasizing its archaeological significance. The sightseeing at Perge lasts about 1 hour, with admission fees not included.

Visiting the Legendary Aspendos and its Roman Amphitheater

Next, the tour heads to Aspendos, situated on the Köprüçay River. Once an important Pamphylian city, Aspendos today draws visitors primarily for its spectacular Roman amphitheater built in 155 AD. This structure is renowned for its exceptional preservation and acoustic quality, and it still hosts performances today.

The visit to the Aspendos ruins lasts about 2 hours, giving enough time to explore the theater, Roman gates, city walls, and baths. You can walk through the 500-meter-long main street, lined with columns and fountains, and imagine life in a prosperous ancient city. The amphitheater itself is a highlight, offering a glimpse into Roman architectural ingenuity.

The lunch stop follows at Aspendos Restaurant, where a included meal provides a chance to rest and refuel. The restaurant offers a simple but tasty meal with a nice view, perfect after a morning of exploration.

Shopping at a Jewelry Factory and Cultural Stops

After lunch, the tour makes a brief stop at a jewelry factory and store in Antalya. This one-hour break is free of charge and often serves as a chance for guests to browse local craftsmanship and perhaps purchase souvenirs. It’s a common feature in many guided tours, blending cultural insight with shopping opportunities.

This stop provides a relaxing moment in the middle of the day, offering a glimpse of local artisan work. It’s a short visit, so guests should be prepared to keep it quick if they’re eager to see the waterfalls afterward.

The Refreshing Manavgat Waterfalls

On the way back to Side, the tour includes a visit to the Manavgat Waterfalls. These natural attractions offer a peaceful contrast to the ancient ruins, with spectacular falls cascading over rocks into the Manavgat River.

Visitors enjoy the green surroundings and fresh air, with plenty of opportunities for photos and a leisurely walk. The cool atmosphere and the sound of rushing water provide a calming end to a busy day of sightseeing. This stop lasts about 1 hour and is not included in the entrance fees.

Tour Logistics and Physical Considerations

The tour departs at 8:00 am and lasts roughly 10 hours, with a schedule designed to balance sightseeing and relaxation. It is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking around the ruins and uneven surfaces is involved. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the professional guide offers insights into each site’s history and significance.

While the entrance fees are not included—costing approximately $30 per person—the tour’s overall value remains strong considering the guided commentary, transportation, and lunch. Travelers should be prepared for a full day, but most find the experience rewarding.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This full-day trip combines some of Turkey’s most renowned archaeological sites with a natural waterfall stop. Its affordable price, inclusive lunch, and hotel pickup make it accessible and convenient. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction with the guide and fewer crowds at each site.

The guide’s reputation for being knowledgeable, funny, and caring adds to the overall enjoyment. The well-preserved ruins and the opportunity to see active Roman theater performances in Aspendos are notable highlights.

Limitations and Considerations

The main limitation is the additional entrance fees, which are not included in the base price. Travelers should budget for about $30 per person for all sites. Also, AC in the bus has been described as substandard, so packing a fan or choosing seating near the front might improve comfort.

The moderate physical activity required means it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues. Also, the long duration requires good stamina and comfortable shoes.

Perfect for History Buffs and Curious Explorers

This tour offers deep insights into Turkey’s Roman and Hellenistic past through well-preserved ruins and an impressive amphitheater. It’s best suited for history lovers, photographers, and those wanting a comprehensive day of sightseeing without the hassle of organizing separate visits.

The balanced itinerary ensures you see both archaeological marvels and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone interested in the region’s heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Entrance fees are not included but can be added for about $30 per person.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is included at the Aspendos Restaurant, offering a simple but tasty meal.

Is the tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
It requires moderate physical fitness due to walking around ruins and uneven surfaces.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, a one-hour shopping stop at a jewelry factory in Antalya is included, but it is optional.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The key highlights include Perge’s ancient ruins, Aspendos’ well-preserved amphitheater, and the Manavgat Waterfalls.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the group travels in an air-conditioned bus, though some reviews mention AC limitations.

How many people typically join this tour?
The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a fan or small towel for the waterfalls are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.