Antalya: Ancient Perge, Aspendos Theater & City of Side Tour

Antalya’s Ancient Perge, Aspendos Theater, and City of Side Tour offers a comprehensive look at Turkey’s rich archaeological heritage, all for $33 per person. The 9-hour guided trip departs from Antalya, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it a convenient way to explore three iconic sites in one day. The tour features expertly led visits to impressive Roman ruins, a remarkably preserved amphitheater, and a scenic seaside temple, ideal for travelers interested in history, culture, and scenic landscapes.

While the tour packs in many highlights, it also involves a long day of travel and walking, which is worth considering for those with limited mobility or a preference for a more relaxed pace. The tour is well-suited for history enthusiasts and curious explorers eager to connect with Turkey’s ancient past, with high praise for guides and well-organized logistics.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $33 covers entry fees (if selected), lunch, and transport.
• Nine-hour tour includes visits to Perge, Aspendos, and Side‘s main sights.
• Expert guides like Ozzy and Aykut are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• The Aspendos Theater, built in 155 AD, remains one of the world’s best-preserved Roman theaters.
• The Temple of Apollo in Side offers spectacular seaside views, perfect for photos.
• The tour involves comfortable air-conditioned bus transport and moderate walking at each site, but is not suitable for wheelchair users.

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Starting from Antalya: Convenient Hotel Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Antalya, saving travelers the hassle of planing logistics. From there, it takes about 50 minutes in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach to reach your first stop, Perge. This setup ensures a smooth start, letting you settle in and get ready for a day filled with history and scenery.

The transport is praised for its reliability and comfort, with some reviews noting the A/C can be weak on hot days, which is a minor point for most. The small group size, typically around 12-15 people, fosters a friendly atmosphere and allows guides to give detailed explanations without feeling rushed.

Discover the Roman Ruins at Perge

Perge is an archaeological site that once served as a Roman capital, and its monumental gates, colonnaded avenues, and stadium bring the ancient city to life. Visitors walk through a 500-meter colonnade and see the remains of Roman baths with intricate stonework, along with an acropolis dating back to the Bronze Age.

The site offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to imagine life in ancient times. Reviewers highlight ample time at Perge, allowing for thorough exploration without feeling rushed. The guide provides insightful commentary that makes the ruins more meaningful, keeping the atmosphere engaging.

Marvel at Aspendos’s Remarkable Roman Amphitheater

Aspendos is famed for the best-preserved Roman theater in the world, built in 155 AD. Its flawless acoustics and impressive architecture make it a highlight of the trip. Visitors can climb the stone steps for panoramic views and imagine performances of gladiator fights or concerts that echoed here nearly 2,000 years ago.

The site also offers galleries and scenic vistas, adding to its visual appeal. The entry and guided tour are included if you select that option, giving deeper context to this architectural marvel. Many reviews emphasize the awe-inspiring nature of the amphitheater, making Aspendos a must-see for fans of ancient engineering.

Enjoy a Traditional Turkish Lunch

Midway through the tour, a local restaurant provides an opportunity to recharge. The lunch is described as delicious, with varied options that satisfy diverse tastes. This break also offers scenic views and a chance to socialize with fellow travelers.

Reviewers appreciate how lunch complements the busy sightseeing schedule, providing good value and quality food. Since drinks are not included, bringing a personal water bottle or soft drinks can enhance comfort during the hot day.

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Visit the Seaside Temple of Apollo in Side

Side, a charming port town, features fountains, marble columns, and an ancient agora, culminating at the Temple of Apollo. This seaside temple, built centuries ago, offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean, perfect for photos and absorbing the coastal atmosphere.

The temple’s scenic location and well-preserved architecture make it a memorable part of the tour. Reviewers mention ample time at Side, allowing for independent exploration and enjoying the beach vibes afterward.

Shopping and Souvenir Opportunities

A visit to a local shop is included, giving travelers a chance to browse regional products and authentic souvenirs. While this stop is brief, it provides a nice chance to support local artisans and take home a memento of the day.

Review comments note that shopping stops are well-timed and do not feel intrusive, adding a little extra to the overall experience without detracting from sightseeing.

The Role of Guides in Bringing Sites to Life

The tour features live guides like Ozzy and Aykut, both praised for their knowledge, friendly manner, and storytelling skills. Many reviews highlight the balance of information and entertainment, with guides sharing fun facts, historical context, and local stories.

Their passion for history and ability to engage the group make each site more meaningful. They also excel in timing, ensuring travelers have enough free time for photos and independent exploration. The guides’ language skills and warm personalities help create a positive atmosphere throughout the long day.

Pacing, Timing, and Site Duration

The 9-hour itinerary allows for thorough visits to each site, with ample time at Perge, Aspendos, and Side. The stops are well-organized, avoiding crowds and excessive rush.

Some feedback suggests more time in Side would be appreciated, but overall, the timed schedule keeps the trip smooth and efficient. The bus ride between sites is about 50 minutes, giving a chance to rest or listen to the guide’s stories.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, as walking is involved at each stop. Bringing a sun hat and sunscreen helps manage the summer heat, especially since A/C on the bus can sometimes be less effective on hot days.

Since drinks are not included, packing water bottles is recommended. The long daytime means a light, breathable outfit makes the experience more enjoyable. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain and walking requirements.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This full-day adventure appeals most to history buffs, culture seekers, and those curious about Roman architecture. The combination of well-preserved ruins, scenic seaside views, and expert guides makes it a value-packed experience.

It’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time, see multiple significant archaeological sites, and learn from knowledgeable guides. The affordable price and comprehensive itinerary make it a smart choice for anyone looking for a cultural outing from Antalya.

Antalya: Ancient Perge, Aspendos Theater & City of Side Tour

The Antalya tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local culture, all in a well-organized package. With expert guides and good logistics, travelers gain a deep appreciation of Turkey’s ancient civilizations without the hassle of planning individual visits.

While the long hours and heat are considerations, the experience of standing in front of Roman ruins and ancient theaters makes the effort worthwhile. Suitable for history lovers and adventure travelers alike, this tour provides a memorable glimpse into Turkey’s past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach.

How much does the entry fee cost?
If the entry fee option is selected, it costs 30, payable on the day of the tour. Some options include entry fees in the price.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain and walking involved at the sites.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, sunscreen, and water bottles are recommended, especially on hot days when the A/C on the bus might be less effective.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 9 hours, starting with hotel pickup and ending back in Antalya in the evening.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The schedule follows a pre-set route designed for efficiency and coverage. Additional stops are not typically available, but ample time is allocated at each major site.

This full-day archaeological excursion from Antalya offers an engaging look at Roman architecture and ancient cities with the benefit of expert guides and comfortable transport. Perfect for those eager to see Turkey’s historic highlights in one well-organized trip.

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