Full-Day Tour of Kursunlu Waterfalls, Aspendos, and Ancient Ruins of Side From Alanya

Exploring the Best of Alanya: A Deep Dive into the Kursunlu Waterfalls, Aspendos, and Side Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Alanya that combines history, nature, and a bit of local flavor, this full-day tour offering visits to Aspendos, Kursunlu Waterfalls, and the Ancient Ruins of Side could be just what you’re looking for. Based on reviews and tour descriptions, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to see some of the most iconic sights in the region without the hassle of planning transportation and tickets on your own.

What we particularly like about this experience is the guided visits—having an expert give you context makes the history come alive—and the hotel pickup and drop-off, which takes the stress out of logistics. Plus, the inclusion of lunch is a nice touch, saving you a meal while offering some traditional Turkish flavors.

Of course, no tour is perfect. Some travelers have noted that the group sizes can be large, leading to a somewhat crowded experience, and that certain stops might not match everyone’s expectations—like the waterfalls, which some feel aren’t as impressive as hoped. So, if you’re someone who prefers intimate excursions or has specific interests, keep these in mind.

This tour is best suited for history and nature lovers who want a rundown of the area in one day, enjoy guided commentary, and appreciate the convenience of included transfers and meals. It’s also a good pick for first-timers wanting to maximize their sightseeing with minimal stress.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip visiting major sites from Alanya, including Aspendos, Kursunlu Waterfalls, and Side
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier
• Guided experience offers informative insights into the ruins and natural sights
• Cost-effective with lunch and entrance fees included, but some individual site entries are extra
• Large group sizes could mean a busier, less personalized experience
• Ideal for travelers seeking a convenient overview of the region’s highlights

What to Expect from This Full-Day Tour

This tour is designed to give you a taste of Turkey’s historical and natural beauty, all wrapped into one day. It starts early with hotel pickup in Alanya, followed by a roughly 58-mile drive to your first stop: Aspendos. Known for its remarkably preserved Roman theatre, Aspendos is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient architecture. The theatre, built during Marcus Aurelius’s reign, is often praised for its excellent condition, and it’s listed as a tentative UNESCO World Heritage site.

Once at Aspendos, you’ll have about two hours to explore on your own with your guide’s insights. While entrance fees aren’t included (costing around €15), you’ll get plenty of time to wander past aqueducts, temples, and the impressive amphitheater, soaking in the historic atmosphere.

Next, the journey takes you to Kursunlu Waterfalls, just outside Antalya. This spot is beloved for its scenic cascades set amid pine trees, providing a peaceful contrast to the ancient ruins. You can snap photos of the waterfalls, see turtles and trout in the water, and perhaps enjoy a bit of downtime walking around the lush area. The waterfalls are accessible with a staircase, and the visit lasts around two hours.

After soaking in nature, you’ll stop for a Turkish lunch—options include fish, chicken, or a pide (Turkish flatbread)—at a local restaurant. Many reviews mention the quality of the food and the convenience of having lunch included. Some travelers also appreciate the opportunity to browse a nearby leather and jewelry shop, which can be a good chance to pick up souvenirs.

The final major stop is Side, an ancient city filled with well-preserved ruins. Here, you’ll have about four hours to explore at your own pace, visiting Roman baths, temples, the agora, and the famous nymphaeum spring. Many visitors find Side’s mix of history and seaside charm especially rewarding, with some saying it was one of their favorite parts of the trip.

The return journey wraps up with a comfortable bus ride back to Alanya, arriving around late afternoon. The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day under the sun.

Aspendos: The Roman Theatre That Wows

Aspendos is arguably the highlight for many travelers. Its theater is considered one of the best-preserved ancient Roman theaters still standing, and the size and acoustics are impressive. You’ll love the chance to wander through the ruins and imagine the lively events that once took place here.

However, some reviews reflect that the visit can feel rushed, with only about two hours allocated for exploring. Still, having a guide’s commentary helps you appreciate what you’re seeing beyond just the stones.

Kursunlu Waterfalls: A Refreshing Nature Break

Many visitors find Kursunlu Waterfalls to be a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by pine forests, the waterfalls provide lovely photo opportunities, especially if you enjoy scenic nature stops. Watching the turtles and trout adds a little extra interest, especially for those traveling with nature lovers.

That said, a few reviews have expressed disappointment, noting that the waterfalls might not seem as grand as expected. If you’re craving a dramatic cascade, this might not match your image—but the tranquil setting is still worthwhile.

Side: A Mix of Ancient Ruins and Seaside Charm

Sprawling and lively, Side offers a variety of sights—from Roman temples to the iconic Nymphaeum spring. Many reviews mention the well-preserved walls and ruins as “interesting” and “beautiful,” making it a highlight of the tour.

Four hours at Side can be enough to explore the key spots without feeling rushed. Plus, the chance to walk along the seaside promenade or relax at a café adds to the experience. However, keep in mind that the large group size can make navigating busy streets and ruins a bit challenging.

The Logistics and Practicalities

The bus ride from Alanya to Aspendos is about an hour, and the climate-controlled bus ensures comfort throughout the day. The tour’s price of around $65 includes lunch and entrance fees—which is pretty reasonable considering the sites visited. Nevertheless, some individual entrance fees, like Aspendos (€15) and Kursunlu (€2), are paid separately if you want to go inside.

The group size maxes out at 27 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded, but larger than small-group tours. If you prefer more intimate experiences, that’s worth considering.

The tour’s timing—starting at 8:15 am—means an early start, but it helps maximize your day. Plus, the guide is described as friendly and professional, providing helpful information and making the trip more engaging.

The Reviews: Honest Insights

Looking at actual feedback, it’s clear that most travelers appreciated the sights and organization. Some said the team is very nice and helpful, and many enjoyed the interesting ruins and beautiful scenery. One traveler noted, “Ein schöner Ausflug mit vielen interessanten Ruinen,” which translates to “A nice trip with many interesting ruins.”

However, there are some grumbles—one reviewer pointed out the large group and tight schedules, while another was disappointed that the waterfalls didn’t meet expectations. Another mentioned the tour’s itinerary changed unexpectedly, which can be frustrating if you’re expecting specific sites.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For the price, this tour offers good value—covering a mix of culturally rich ruins, stunning waterfalls, and seaside scenery, all with the convenience of transport and lunch included. If you’re interested in history and nature, enjoy guided tours, and don’t mind a somewhat busy group, this tour could suit you well.

It’s especially convenient if you want to see multiple sights without the hassle of booking separate tickets or arranging transportation. But if you’re seeking an exclusive, off-the-beaten-path experience or have specific site interests, you might want to consider alternatives.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is suited for first-time visitors to the region who want a structured overview of some of Turkey’s best sights. It also works well for travelers who appreciate having logistics taken care of—the hotel pickup, transfers, and lunch make it straightforward.

Those with limited time in Alanya will find this tour a great way to see a variety of attractions in one day. If you’re a history buff, the Aspendos amphitheater alone makes it worthwhile. Nature lovers will enjoy Kursunlu waterfalls, even if they aren’t the grandest waterfalls around.

However, if you prefer small-group tours or highly personalized experiences, you might find the group size and schedule a bit limiting. Also, if you have specific accessibility needs or want to avoid large crowds, it’s worth considering.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Alanya, making it easy to join without extra planning.

How long is the drive from Alanya to Aspendos?
The trip is approximately 58 miles (94 km), with the drive taking about an hour, depending on traffic.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance fees for Aspendos (around €15) and Kursunlu Waterfalls (€2) are extra if you want to go inside. The tour price covers the main sites, but you’ll pay at the entrance if you choose to enter.

What meals are provided?
A Turkish lunch is included, featuring options like fish, chicken, or pide with salad. Vegetarian options are available if requested during booking.

How much time do we spend at each site?
Aspendos: 2 hours, Kursunlu Waterfalls: 2 hours, Side: 4 hours. These times allow for exploring and taking photos but are somewhat flexible depending on your group’s pace.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While not explicitly family-focused, the stops are generally suitable for older children who enjoy history and nature. Always consider your kids’ stamina and interest level.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. Money for extra souvenirs or snacks is optional.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, giving you flexibility if needed.

How crowded does the tour get?
The group size is limited to 27 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded, but it’s larger than a private or small-group tour.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this tour is a solid choice for travelers wanting a well-organized, value-packed day exploring Turkey’s historic and natural highlights. While it may not satisfy those seeking a more intimate or customized experience, it offers a nice balance of sights, comfort, and convenience—especially for first-timers or those on a time crunch.