Apollo Temple, Perge Ancient City, and Waterfalls Tour with Lunch

If you’re planning to explore the highlights of Turkey’s Antalya region but don’t want the hassle of navigating alone, a guided tour like this one might be just what you need. This full-day adventure takes you through some of the most remarkable ancient ruins—Perge, Aspendos, and Side’s Apollo Temple—and ends with a refreshing visit to Manavgat Waterfall. Offered at a reasonable price, with hotel pickup included, it’s a popular choice for travelers eager to see a lot in one day.

What we really like about this tour is its comprehensive coverage of key archaeological sites combined with the convenience of pickup and drop-off from your hotel. Plus, the inclusion of a nice lunch and the chance to relax at Manavgat Waterfall are definite perks. However, a small consideration is the admission fees for some sites, which are not included, so you’ll want to budget a bit extra. This tour suits those who are interested in history, architecture, or simply want a taste of Antalya’s ancient past without the stress of planning each stop.

If you’re someone who values guided insights combined with free time for personal exploration, and you’re okay with a long day that covers quite a bit of ground, this trip could be ideal. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind walking around historical sites and appreciate comfortable, organized transportation. Families with kids who enjoy walking and exploring might also find this appealing, but keep in mind the physical activity involved.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines ancient ruins, a famous temple, scenic waterfalls, and lunch in a single day.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised for knowledgeable guides who share engaging historical insights.
• Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, making the day hassle-free.
• Value for Money: At $45 per person, it offers a full day of sightseeing with many memorable stops.
• Site Admission Fees Extra: Not included in the ticket price, so bring some cash for entrance fees.
• Moderate Physical Activity: Expect walking and exploring, suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting at Aspendos Ruins

Your day kicks off early around 8 a.m. with a pickup from your Antalya hotel. The first stop is Aspendos, home to one of Turkey’s most renowned ancient theaters, famous for its excellent preservation and impressive acoustics. Though the admission fee isn’t included, many travelers find the theatre worth the extra expense—it’s a highlight of the tour.

We loved the way guides explain Aspendos’s history, often sharing fun facts about the theater’s unique features. As one reviewer said, “The trip to Aspendos was very picturesque and memorable,” making it clear that this site is a must-see for history buffs and architecture lovers alike.

Exploring Perge Ancient City

Next, the tour heads 17 kilometers to Perge, known as “Parha” in ancient times. This city was a thriving hub during the Hittite period and blossomed under Roman rule, boasting an elaborate marble theater and a well-preserved stadium. The guide’s commentary makes the vast scale of the ruins easier to picture, and many visitors are impressed by the level of preservation.

With approximately two hours here, you’ll have time to wander around, snap photos, and absorb the atmosphere. As a reviewer noted, “Perge’s sculptures and architecture reflect the style of its time beautifully,” and the artifacts found here are now displayed in the nearby Antalya Museum, connecting past and present.

Lunch and Scenic Waterfalls

After touring the ancient sites, lunch is served — a buffet-style meal included in the tour. While some guests mention the lunch is simple, most agree it’s satisfying after a morning of exploring. The experience is relaxed, giving everyone a chance to refuel.

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Manavgat Waterfall. Sitting on slopes of the Taurus Mountains, the waterfall offers a lovely natural respite, with free-flowing water and lush surroundings. Visitors often share how refreshing this stop is, especially after a long morning of walking. The water’s power and beauty make it a peaceful ending to the sightseeing.

Visiting Side’s Apollo Temple

The last major stop is Side’s Apollo Temple, a scenic waterfront spot with majestic columns and ancient stone structures. The site is picturesque, with views of the sea complementing the ruins. Guides usually spend about three hours here, giving ample time for photos and leisurely exploration.

This site is especially loved for its romantic setting and historical significance. Many reviews highlight how the combination of ancient ruins and seaside views creates perfect photo opportunities and memorable moments.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who make history come alive with engaging stories. One review states, “Ramsey was a fantastic tour guide and accommodating,” emphasizing the importance of a friendly, informative guide.

The balance of structured sightseeing and free time also earns positive remarks. Guests appreciate the organized schedule that allows them to explore at their own pace while still covering all the major highlights.

Food quality varies, but most agree the included buffet lunch is decent and satisfying. Some mention it’s simple, but enough to keep you going through the long day.

The tour’s transportation is frequently praised for comfort and punctuality. As one reviewer shared, “The shuttle arrived exactly on time, and the driver was very kind,” which makes a big difference when managing a packed itinerary.

Potential Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While this tour offers many advantages, there are a few considerations. The admission fees for sites like Perge and Aspendos are not included, meaning you’ll need extra cash on hand. Prices are modest—about 11 and 15 respectively—but it’s good to budget ahead.

The full-day schedule can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to lots of walking or standing. Moderate fitness is recommended, as you’ll spend several hours exploring ruins and walking around scenic spots.

Another point is the visit to Side’s town, which some might find less impressive compared to the ancient ruins. One reviewer mentioned, “We could have skipped Side and visited the waterfall closer to Antalya,” suggesting that the last stop might feel a bit rushed or less compelling for some.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts who want to see well-preserved ancient sites without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate organized tours with knowledgeable guides and value for money, since it bundles many major attractions into one day.

Families with children who enjoy walking and exploring will likely find this engaging, but be prepared for a full day of activity. If you’re seeking a relaxed, leisurely experience, keep in mind the pace might be a bit busy.

For those with limited time in Antalya, this is an efficient way to tick off several must-see sights in just one trip. However, if you prefer to spend more time at each site, visiting independently might offer a slower, more in-depth experience.

The Sum Up

This Apollo Temple, Perge Ancient City, and Waterfalls Tour offers a full day of cultural discovery and natural beauty for a reasonable price. The combination of ancient ruins, scenic waterfalls, and seaside temples makes it an appealing choice for travelers eager to see the highlights of the Antalya region. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide and hotel pickup enhances the experience, making the day stress-free and engaging.

You’ll especially appreciate how well-organized the itinerary is, the quality of the guide’s insights, and the chance to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. While it’s not the cheapest option, the value is evident when you consider the comprehensive list of sites covered and the ease of transportation.

This tour suits those with a curiosity for history, a love of scenic spots, and a desire for a hassle-free way to explore Antalya’s archaeological treasures. If you’re comfortable with moderate walking and want a balanced mix of exploration and relaxation, this experience could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

• Is hotel pickup included?
  Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your central Antalya hotel.

• How long does the tour last?
  It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting around 8 a.m. and ending in the evening.

• Are entrance fees included?
  No, admission tickets for sites like Perge and Aspendos are not included. You should budget about 11 and 15 respectively.

• What’s the pace of the tour?
  It’s a full-day experience with several stops, involving walking around ruins and scenic spots, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

• Is the lunch included?
  Yes, a buffet lunch is part of the package, providing a good opportunity to relax and refuel.

• Can I enjoy free time at each stop?
  Yes, guides generally allow time for photos and personal exploration after brief introductions.

• Is this tour suitable for families?
  While the tour involves walking and some uneven terrain, families with children who enjoy exploring should find it manageable.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable walking shoes, some cash for entrance fees, water, and sun protection are advisable.

In the end, if you want a well-organized, insightful, and scenic day exploring Turkey’s ancient sites and waterfalls, this tour is a solid pick. It balances history, nature, and convenience, making it a worthwhile addition to your Antalya itinerary.