Perge-Aspendos-Side from Antalya and regions

Discover the fascinating world of ancient Anatolia with a full-day guided tour from Antalya that takes you through three remarkable archaeological sites: Perge, Aspendos, and Side. For $95.23 per person, this approximately 9-hour experience includes air-conditioned transportation, lunch, and entrance fees to Manavgat Waterfall. The tour offers an engaging look at Roman and Greek history, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. While some stops are brief, the tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s past, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and those eager to see multiple sites in one day.

The tour departs early from Antalya at 6:00 am, providing a full schedule packed with highlights. The strength of this experience lies in the expert guiding service and the convenience of included entrance fees and lunch. However, keep in mind that the Perge and Aspendos sites require an additional 30 euro entrance fee, not included in the base price. This tour balances educational value with comfort and practicality, suitable for most travelers interested in ancient history.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour visiting Perge, Aspendos, and Side from Antalya
• Price of $95.23 per person, includes lunch and Manavgat Waterfall entrance fee
• Approximately 9 hours long, starting at 6:00 am
• Travel in air-conditioned vehicles with guidance from knowledgeable guides
• Entrance fees for Perge and Aspendos are 30 euro; included in some parts of the itinerary
• Suitable for most travelers with good weather and basic mobility

Visiting Perge: A Roman City with Impressive Ruins

The tour begins at Perge, an ancient city founded, according to legend, by Trojans led by Calchas. This site boasts a large collection of Roman ruins, including a Greco-Roman theatre, a stadium that could hold 10,000 spectators, a Hellenistic city gate, an Agora, Roman baths, and colonnaded streets. The fountain and cascade channel add to the scenic and historic atmosphere. Visitors should expect a one-hour visit with admission included, and the site’s extensive ruins provide a vivid picture of Roman urban life.

The entrance fee to Perge is 30 euro, payable at the site. While the ruins are vast and well-preserved, they are primarily Roman-era, offering insights into the engineering and architecture of that time. The guide enhances the experience by explaining the history behind each monument, making the visit both educational and engaging. The short, focused stop allows ample time to appreciate the grandeur of this ancient city without feeling rushed.

Aspendos: The Well-Preserved Roman Theatre

Next, the tour heads to Aspendos, renowned for its extraordinarily preserved and restored amphitheater. Built in 155 AD, this theatre once hosted up to 55,000 spectators and remains a major cultural venue today, used for festivals and concerts. The amphitheater’s excellent acoustics and stage decor are highlights, showcasing Roman engineering at its finest.

This stop lasts about 40 minutes, with admission included. The amphitheater’s restoration allows visitors to imagine its original splendor and admire its impeccable preservation. The $30 euro entrance fee applies here as well, giving access to the historic structure. The guide provides context about its construction and use, making this a memorable stop for fans of ancient architecture and entertainment venues.

Exploring Side’s Ancient Coastal Charm

The final main stop is Side, a compact ancient city with a rich past visible in its port ruins, colonnades, and temples. The Temple of Apollo is particularly popular, with its intact columns and seaside setting offering picturesque views. Visitors have about an hour to explore freely, with admission included.

Side’s archaeological remains reveal a blend of Greek and Roman influences, and the seaside location makes it especially scenic. The free entry allows for flexible exploration, and the guide offers insights into the city’s historical significance. This stop is perfect for those who enjoy wandering among ruins and soaking in coastal views, with enough time to photograph the highlights.

Transportation and Comfort During the Day

Throughout the tour, travelers travel comfortably in air-conditioned vehicles. This ensures a relaxed experience, especially during the warm months when outdoor exploring can be demanding. The pickup service from your accommodation makes logistics straightforward, removing concerns about navigating between sites.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 100 travelers, ensuring a manageable and organized experience. The early start at 6:00 am means you spend most of the day immersed in history, with breaks to rest and enjoy the scenery. The lunch included is typically a convenient meal, providing sustenance after a busy morning of sightseeing.

The Guide’s Role and Commentary

The guiding service is a crucial element of this tour. As per reviews, guides like Ismail are well-informed, able to answer questions thoroughly, and contribute to a relaxed, organized atmosphere. The knowledgeable guides help bring the ancient sites to life, making the experience enriching rather than just observational.

Good guidance enhances understanding of the historical context, architectural features, and significance of each site. The guide’s storytelling style and ability to respond to questions are frequently praised, adding value to the overall experience.

Pacing, Timing, and Site Duration

The tour’s pacing balances sightseeing with enough time at each location to appreciate the sites. The short stops at Aspendos and Side keep the day dynamic, though Perge receives the longest visit, emphasizing its importance. However, some reviews suggest that the short duration at Side might leave visitors wishing for more time to explore independently.

The start time of 6:00 am allows for a full day of exploration but can be an early wake-up call, especially for late risers. The overall schedule is structured but not overly rushed, allowing travelers to absorb the sights without feeling hurried.

Entrance Fees and Additional Costs

While the tour includes guiding, lunch, and Manavgat Waterfall entrance fee, the entrance to Perge and Aspendos requires an additional payment of 30 euro, payable at the sites. This cost is not included in the base price but is clearly communicated beforehand.

The lunch typically involves a convenient meal, but beverages and personal expenses are not included. Travelers should budget for extra drinks or souvenirs if desired.

Suitability and Recommendations

This tour is well-suited for history enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and those interested in Roman and Greek architecture. Its full-day format suits most fitness levels, though some sites involve walking and standing. The comfort in transportation and guided commentary make it accessible for most, but active mobility might be required for exploring the ruins.

The tour’s early departure and long duration are worth noting for those with tight schedules or preferences for shorter outings. The combination of major archaeological sites and organized logistics offers good value for the price.

Final Thoughts on the Perge-Aspendos-Side Tour

This full-day guided excursion provides a solid overview of Antalya’s ancient sites, combining Roman ruins, an impressive amphitheater, and a coastal city. The guides’ expertise and the transport are key strengths, helping to make the experience memorable and hassle-free.

While the additional entrance fees for Perge and Aspendos** are a consideration, they are clearly communicated and add to the overall historical richness. The included lunch and waterfal fee enhance the value, making this a practical choice for those who want to maximize their sightseeing time.

This tour is best suited for visitors who enjoy structured, educational trips with reliable guidance and are comfortable with a full day of travel. It offers a comprehensive look at Antalya’s ancient past in a convenient package, making it a worthwhile option for most history lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most ages, provided participants can manage a full day of outdoor walking and standing. The transportation and guided service are designed for comfort.

Are the entrance fees to Perge and Aspendos included?
No, the 30 euro fee for these sites is payable on-site and not included in the $95.23 ticket price. The tour includes guiding, lunch, and Manavgat Waterfall entrance.

What should I bring for this day trip?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and a camera. The tour provides air-conditioned transport, but outdoor exploration requires appropriate clothing.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if plans change.

What is the start time for the tour?
The tour departs at 6:00 am, with pickup arrangements offered for ease of access.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a lunch is part of the package, providing a convenient meal during the day, though drinks are not included.