Phaselis, Ulupinar, Khimera, Çirali, Olympos Beach Tour

Exploring Antalya’s Treasures: Phaselis, Ulupinar, Chimera, Çirali, and Olympos Beach Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Antalya and want to soak in a mix of ancient ruins, stunning natural landscapes, and relaxing seaside spots, this tour might be just what you need. It’s a well-rounded, full-day experience that takes you through some of the most iconic and scenic locations in the region. Based on various reviews and detailed itineraries, we’re sharing what you can truly expect—and what to consider—when booking this adventure.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines cultural sights like Phaselis and Olympos with natural wonders such as Ulupinar’s waterfalls and the legendary Chimera flames. Plus, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, it takes away much of the hassle of logistics. On the flip side, the price includes admission fees but not lunch or drinks, so you’ll want to budget for those. This tour caters best to travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and some light walking, making it ideal for those who want an active day without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience combining ancient ruins, natural scenery, and beach time
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple and stress-free
• Expert guidance enhances understanding of historical sites and local stories
• Includes admission fees for key attractions, saving you time and money
• Price point offers good value for a full-day guided tour
• Limited lunch options included, so consider bringing snacks or planning for extra spending

What to Expect from the Tour

This trip is designed to give you a taste of Antalya’s diverse appeal, all within around 7 to 8 hours. It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, which usually makes for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Comfortable Transportation

Starting with hotel pickup, you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned minivan, which is a nice touch, especially on warm days. The vehicle’s size means you’re not stuck in a crowded bus, giving you space and flexibility. The journey between stops is not overly long, which helps you maximize your time exploring rather than sitting in traffic.

The Stops and Their Highlights

U Can Travel and Ulupinar

Your first stop is Ulupinar, a stunning natural area rich with waterfalls, jungle scenery, and animals. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch with incredible views of the surroundings. This stop is a highlight for many, thanks to the lush environment and chance to unwind in nature. The included lunch isn’t detailed, but based on reviews, it’s generally considered tasty and filling.

Chimera (Çral)

Next, you visit Chimera, located within Olympos Beydalar National Park. This spot is famous for its permanent flames, which have burned for centuries on natural gas vents. You’ll spend about two hours here, exploring the cliffs and the ancient site. The guided explanation will help you understand the significance of the flames, which appear almost magical in the evening but are just as captivating during the day.

Phaselis Koyu

Then, onto Phaselis, an ancient city founded by Greeks and later used by Romans. The ruins are charming, surrounded by pine and cedar forests, giving it a peaceful, historical vibe. Expect to spend about an hour wandering the remains—columns, aqueducts, and theaters—while imagining what life was like thousands of years ago.

Olympos Archaeological Site and Beach

Your final stops are the archaeological site of Olympos itself and a walk along the beach. The ancient city is a sprawling area of ruins, and the nearby beach offers relaxing views of the coastline. It’s a great way to end the day with some leisure time, watching the sunset or just soaking in the sea breeze.

Real Traveler Insights

We found the reviews quite telling. One traveler called it “spectacular,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed the natural and historic sights. They praised the guide’s knowledge, which added depth to the experience. Another user pointed out that the two main places visited are “paradise,” and expressed how much they enjoyed the day overall.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include lunch or drinks, which could be a surprise for some. Budgeting for extra snacks or beverages might be a good idea, especially if you want to stay energized for all the walking involved. The tour’s timing and the inclusion of admission fees mean you’ll get good value, but do keep in mind that some stops are relatively brief—around an hour or two—so those with specific interests may want to plan additional visits.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is particularly suited to those who appreciate a balanced mix of history, nature, and beach relaxation without overly long travel times between sites. If you prefer guided tours with educational commentary, you’ll find the expert guidance helpful. It’s also great for travelers who want a hassle-free day—hotel pickup removes the stress of navigating public transport or parking.

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children or teenagers with an interest in history and outdoor activities could enjoy this trip. The walk along the beach and exploration of ruins makes for an engaging day, especially if you’re looking for an active day out.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

U Can Travel & Ulupinar (2 hours)

The area boasts waterfalls, animals, and lush jungle surroundings. We loved the way this stop offers some downtime amid nature, with the chance to enjoy a hearty lunch while taking in the beautiful scenery. The included meal is typically well-received, and the natural setting makes it a peaceful break from sightseeing.

Chimera (2 hours)

This spot is truly unique. The permanent flames, which have burned for centuries, create a surreal atmosphere. It’s fascinating to hear about how natural gas vents produce these flames, and the guided explanation adds context that makes the experience more meaningful. Expect a gentle walk and some photo opportunities—don’t forget your camera.

Phaselis (1 hour)

Walking through the ancient ruins, you’ll get a feel for what life in this Greek-Roman city might have been like. The surrounding pine and cedar forests add a fresh scent to the air, making it a pleasant environment to explore. The ruins are well-preserved enough to give a real sense of history without feeling overwhelming.

Olympos & Beach (2 hours)

The ancient city of Olympos is a sprawling archaeological site with ruins spread over a large area. Walking here is about exploring the history while soaking in the views of the mountains and coastline. The beach itself provides a relaxing finish, where you can sit back and admire the sea, perhaps even dip your toes in before heading back.

Practical Tips

• Timing: The entire tour lasts roughly 7-8 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a bottle of water.
• Budget considerations: While admission fees are included, lunch and drinks are not. Bringing snacks or extra cash is advisable.
• Photography: This tour offers plenty of photo-worthy moments—from the flames of Chimera to ancient ruins and scenic beaches.

FAQ

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a tasty meal at Ulupinar which many travelers enjoy. You should budget separately if you want additional food or drinks.

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it a convenient option, especially if you want to avoid navigating public transport.

Is this a group tour?
No, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more relaxed and personalized day.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, covering multiple sites and activities.

What attractions are included?
You’ll visit Ulupinar for nature and lunch, Chimera for the eternal flames, Phaselis for ancient ruins, and Olympos for archaeological exploration and beach time.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed for families, older children who enjoy outdoor activities and history may find it engaging. Be aware of the walking involved and plan accordingly.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is around $158.42 per person, which includes transportation, guides, and admission fees, but not lunch or drinks.

Final Thoughts

This tour is a solid choice if you want to experience a blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxation without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. The included expert guidance and transportation make it particularly appealing for those who prefer a structured day with minimal stress. It’s especially suitable for travelers who love learning about the places they visit while enjoying scenic views and outdoor adventures.

For anyone wanting to explore Antalya’s highlights in a single day, this tour offers a well-balanced introduction, with enough flexibility to enjoy the sights at a comfortable pace. Just remember to bring some extra snacks and a good camera—you won’t want to miss capturing the flames of Chimera or the ancient ruins at Phaselis.

Sources and Similar Experiences

Looking for more options? Consider similar experiences like the Pamukkale Tour or the Antalya city tour with waterfalls, which can complement this trip or serve as alternative ways to see the region’s wonders.

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More Antalya Adventures

Overall, if a day of exploring ruins, waterfalls, and scenic beaches sounds appealing, this tour offers good value and memorable experiences.