Private Tour Perge, Aspendos, Waterfall …

If you’re considering a day exploring some of Turkey’s most impressive archaeological sites combined with breathtaking natural scenery, this private tour of Perge, Aspendos, and Kusunlu Waterfalls might be just what you need. It promises a well-rounded day that blends history, culture, and nature—something for travelers who love discovering the stories behind the ruins and enjoying scenic views along the way.

What really piqued our interest are two standout features of this tour: the personalized attention from a private guide and the chance to see remarkably well-preserved ancient ruins. Plus, after a morning of exploring, you’ll get to relax at a scenic waterfall spot, making it a nicely balanced experience.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s duration is roughly 6 to 8 hours, which means a fair amount of walking and some travel time. It’s a full day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a packed itinerary. If you’re into history, culture, stunning scenery, and enjoy having a knowledgeable guide to answer all your questions, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• All-in-one archaeological experience: Visit three ancient sites—Perge, Aspendos, and Side—without the hassle of organizing individual trips.
• Expert private guide: Your guide provides personalized insights, making the history come alive.
• Stunning natural scenery: Kusunlu Waterfall offers a refreshing break and fantastic photo opportunities.
• Includes Turkish lunch: Enjoy a delicious local meal, which adds value and a taste of local cuisine.
• Flexibility and convenience: Pickup and mobile tickets make the day smooth and stress-free.
• Good for culture lovers: Rich history, ancient ruins, and scenic views make this ideal for those who crave culture.

Exploring the Ancient Cities of Perge, Aspendos, and Side

This tour offers a comprehensive peek into Turkey’s ancient urban fabric. It’s perfect if you’re keen to see multiple sites in one day, saving you the effort of planning separate visits. Here’s a detailed look at what each stop entails and why they’re worth your time.

Perge Ancient City: Walking Through History

Perge kicks off the day, and it’s a fantastic starting point. Historically, this city dates back to the Pamphylian Greek period, and it’s seen a lot—Persians, Athenians, Romans, and even Alexander the Great himself. You’re likely to feel like a time traveler wandering around the ruins.

What makes Perge stand out is its impressive layout: well-preserved city walls, a theater, and the sacred Artemis Temple perched on a hill outside the city. The temple was once central to Perge’s religious celebrations, and its coins depict Artemis and her temple, giving you a glimpse into ancient worship practices.

The tour guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories about the city’s various rulers and its significance in the ancient world. One reviewer noted, “The tour guide has rich knowledge and this was apparent during the tour. His passion made our trip interesting.” Expect about two hours here, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions.

Aspendos Ruins: The Theater That Survives the Ages

Next up is Aspendos, renowned for its remarkably preserved Roman theater. You’ll marvel at how intact this structure still is—people today still use it for performances. It’s believed to be built in the 2nd century AD, and it’s one of the best-preserved theaters from antiquity.

The city of Aspendos once thrived as a trade hub, especially for salt, oil, and wool. Its coinage across different eras indicates its importance in the ancient world. Some scholars link Aspendos to earlier Greek foundations, but it’s the Romans who left behind the most impressive monuments.

A reviewer pointed out that “The guide was open to talking about anything Turkey related, really interesting conversations, we learnt so much about Turkey!” You’ll spend about an hour exploring here, soaking up the history and snapping photos of the stunning architecture.

Side’s Seafront: The Temple of Apollo and Ocean Views

While the tour primarily focuses on the ancient cities, you’ll also enjoy a visit to Side, especially the seafront Temple of Apollo. It’s a scenic spot where the ancient meets the modern, offering views of the Mediterranean and a sense of the city’s maritime past.

Though not a full site visit, this stop provides a picturesque moment to admire the coast, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere of a bustling port town that’s been a hub for thousands of years.

Kusunlu Waterfalls: Nature’s Refreshing Break

After a day of exploring ruins, your trip concludes with a visit to Kusunlu Waterfalls. Nestled in a lush, forested area, this spot offers a peaceful contrast to the archaeological sites. The waterfalls cascade into ponds, surrounded by greenery—perfect for photos or just relaxing in nature.

One traveler described it as “magnificent,” noting the opportunity to take “stunning photos” and enjoy some Turkish coffee, tea, or fresh fruit juice. This one-hour stop feels like a well-deserved breather before heading back to your hotel.

The Practicalities: What You Should Know

The tour costs around $326.38 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But when you consider this includes private guiding, all entrance fees, lunch, and transportation, the value is pretty good for a full day of curated experiences. Plus, it’s booked about 25 days in advance on average, so plan ahead.

The tour lasts between 6 to 8 hours, making it a full day but still manageable for most travelers. Pickup is offered, which simplifies logistics, and the group discounts and mobile ticket options make things convenient.

Meals are included—a Turkish-style lunch that adds a nice local touch. Drinks are not included, so if you want water, juice, or soda, you’ll need to purchase those separately.

What’s Not Included

While the tour covers most essentials, drinks are extra. Also, note that Side isn’t included in this particular tour, so if you’re especially keen on exploring that area in depth, you might want to look for additional options.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who love history, architecture, and scenic natural spots. It’s a good pick for those who prefer a guided tour to learn more about Turkey’s past without the hassle of navigating alone. It’s also suitable for those okay with a busy day on their feet, as there’s a good amount of walking involved.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Many reviews highlight the quality of guides—“The tour guide has rich knowledge and his passion made our trip interesting,” and guests appreciate the flexibility shown, such as accommodating changed start times. The guides’ enthusiasm really enhances the experience, making history feel alive.

One guest mentioned that “Mustafa and Ohmer are awesome,” emphasizing how personalized service and friendly guides contribute to a memorable day. The consistent five-star ratings reflect high satisfaction across the board, with travelers praising the sights, guide expertise, and overall organization.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a day packed with cultural highlights and stunning scenery, this private tour offers a lot of value. You’ll visit key archaeological sites that tell stories of different eras—Greek, Persian, Roman—and see the impressive Aspendos theater, which is a highlight for history buffs and architecture lovers alike. The inclusion of a local lunch adds flavor to the experience, and the waterfall stop provides a refreshing natural touch.

The private guide makes the experience more engaging and tailored, which can significantly enhance your understanding and enjoyment. However, be prepared for a full day on your feet, and consider whether you’re comfortable with travel times and walking involved.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want an efficient, well-organized introduction to some of Turkey’s most iconic ancient sites, all wrapped up in a scenic package. It’s a chance to learn, explore, and relax in one memorable day.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided, and pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without worrying about logistics.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, which includes all stops, lunch, and travel time.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance tickets for Perge, Aspendos, and Kusunlu Waterfalls are covered in the price.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the tour involves a fair amount of walking and history lessons, so it’s best suited for older children or teens interested in archaeology and culture.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. Drinks are not included, so bring some cash or cards if you want to buy extras.

Will I have enough time to explore each site?
Yes, the itinerary is designed to give you a meaningful visit to each location, with a balance of guided commentary and free time for photos and exploration.

Is Side included in this tour?
No, Side is not part of this particular itinerary, but you’ll visit the seafront area of Side, including the Temple of Apollo.

If you’re eager to cover a lot of ground and gain insight into Turkey’s layered past while enjoying scenic natural spots, this private tour strikes a good balance. It’s well-suited for those who value guided experiences with personal touches, making it a great choice for a memorable day out.