Ancient City Perge, Aspendos, Temple of Apollo & Waterfalls Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Antalya that combines history, nature, and some scenic views, this tour might catch your eye. It’s designed to hit some of the most iconic sights in the surrounding region — from ancient ruins to waterfalls, and even a historic temple right by the sea. While it packs a lot into a single day, it offers a pretty balanced mix of cultural highlights and natural beauty at a price that makes it quite appealing.

Two things that stand out about this experience are the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery you’ll encounter along the way. The reviews rave about the guides’ depth of knowledge, which really enhances the experience of exploring ancient sites. Plus, the included transportation and hotel pickup make the day feel smooth and hassle-free. One potential downside is that the itinerary is pretty packed, so you might find yourself wishing for more time at some spots — especially the more extensive ruins like Perge.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of the region’s historical sites without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see a good variety of what surrounds Antalya. If you’re a history buff or just love a good scenic outing, you’ll probably find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of historical and natural sights in a full-day adventure.
• Small group size (max 15) ensures more personal attention and better interaction.
• In-depth historical commentary from guides who know their stuff.
• Comfortable transfers and hotel pickup/drop-off make logistics easy.
• Cost-effective at around $43.45 per person, offering good value with multiple sites included.
• Some stops may feel rushed, especially if you love exploring each site at your own pace.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Aspendos Ruins – The Roman Theatre Marvel

The tour kicks off with a visit to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theaters still standing today. For just about two hours, you’ll wander through this impressive structure, which has survived in remarkable condition. The theater’s size and preservation make it a highlight — according to reviews, many find it the most memorable part of the day. The theater can seat approximately 15,000 spectators and has been used for performances even today, showcasing its enduring grandeur.

A reviewer shared, “Aspendos theater was pretty cool,” emphasizing how well-preserved and impressive these ruins are. You probably won’t have time for a full exploration, but your guide will help you appreciate its historical significance and architectural brilliance.

Perge Ancient City – The Ancient Metropolis

Next, we head out to Perge, about 17 kilometers from Antalya. This site is a treasure trove for history lovers, with ruins dating back to the Hittite period and having grown into one of the most organized cities in Anatolia during the Roman era. You’ll see the well-preserved theatre, which could hold around 15,000 people, and stroll along the ancient streets that reveal the city’s former grandeur.

Many reviewers mention how lively and engaging the guide makes the site. One noted, “The sculptures unearthed here are famous, and the architecture is fascinating.” It’s a great place to imagine what life was like in Roman times, especially since you’re free to roam and get up close to the ruins. You get about an hour here, which some feel is enough to get a sense of the scale and importance of Perge.

Manavgat Waterfall – Nature’s Refreshing Pause

After a deep dive into history, the tour shifts gears to Manavgat Waterfall, located within the Taurus Mountains. This stop is perfect for a quick refresh and some stunning scenery. The waterfall is fed from Mount Seytan, and many visitors find this a peaceful, photogenic spot. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy some natural beauty.

One reviewer mentioned that they enjoyed the waterfall but felt it was somewhat overrated compared to other natural spots. However, the accessibility and the scenic views still make it worthwhile, especially if you’re looking for a break from the archaeological sites.

Side’s Temple of Apollo – Coastal Ruins with a View

The final highlight is the Temple of Apollo in Side, right by the sea. You’ll spend around two hours here, wandering among the ancient columns and stone structures that overlook the water. It’s a very scenic spot, perfect for photos and soaking in the history of the region.

Some reviews note that if you’ve visited Athens or similar sites, this may feel a bit less impressive, but it still offers a beautiful setting and a good dose of classical architecture. The location by the coast gives this part of the tour a relaxed, almost poetic feel.

The Practical Details

What’s Included?

• Lunch: A buffet meal that’s described as simple but satisfying.
• Professional Guide: Known for their knowledge, guides help bring the sites alive with stories and context.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off: Making the day stress-free, especially if you’re staying in Antalya.

What’s Not Included?

• Entrance fees for the sites (Perge, Aspendos theater, Manavgat Waterfalls) are paid separately. Expect to budget around a few euros per site.
• Drinks with lunch are not included, so bring some water.
• The lunch menu has been described as basic and not particularly memorable — many travelers opt to bring snacks or plan for a sit-down meal after the tour.

Duration & Group Size

The trip runs for about 10 hours, which is quite full but manageable if you’re used to a busy sightseeing schedule. The group is capped at 15 people, so you’ll get a more intimate experience with your guide, who can answer questions and give detailed explanations.

Accessibility & Physical Demands

The tour is suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness levels. Expect some walking and uneven surfaces at sites, but nothing overly strenuous. The van is air-conditioned, though some reviewers noted it wasn’t the most effective cooling, especially in late September’s heat.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with an impressive 4.9 out of 5 from over 500 reviews. Many praise the guides’ expertise, with comments like “Very knowledgeable tour guide” and “His historical knowledge was phenomenal.” Several mention how the guides make the experience more engaging, sharing detailed insights that make the ruins come alive.

One reviewer raved, “Ibrahim was so knowledgeable about so many things I wish I could’ve heard him a little better cause he was soft-spoken, but he was incredible,” highlighting how a good guide can elevate the whole experience.

Many appreciate the value for money, noting that for around $43, they got a full day of diverse sights and expert commentary.

However, a few less satisfied voices mention that the tour tries to cram in too many stops, leading to limited exploration time. One traveler said, “You might find yourself seeing only half of Perge,” which is worth considering if you’re craving a more leisurely pace.

The Bottom Line: Who is This Tour Best For?

This day trip offers a solid mix of history and scenery at a good price, ideal for travelers who want to see some of the region’s highlights without spending the whole day planning. It’s especially suited for those interested in archaeology, ancient architecture, and natural beauty, provided they’re comfortable with a busy schedule.

If you prefer to explore sites in more detail or have a relaxed pace, you might find this tour a bit rushed. But if you’re happy to get a taste of everything with enthusiastic guides leading the way, it’s a rewarding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making it easier to relax and focus on the sights.

How much are the entrance fees?
Entrance fees for sites like Perge, Aspendos, and Manavgat Waterfalls are not included. You might want to budget a few euros per site.

What is the size of the tour group?
The group is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience with your guide.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 10 hours, providing a full day’s worth of sightseeing but still manageable for most people.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly stated, the walking and site exploring involve moderate activity, so it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level.

What about the food?
Lunch is included as a buffet, but reviews mention it’s basic and not memorable. Feel free to bring snacks or plan your own meal afterward.

Can I customize the experience?
The itinerary is fixed, but the guide’s commentary is known for making the visit engaging. If you have specific interests, chatting with the guide might help tailor your experience a bit.

In the end, this tour offers a great way to get a broad sense of Antalya’s surroundings, especially if you’re keen on ancient ruins and natural scenery. It’s well-rated, reasonably priced, and led by guides who truly know their stuff. Just be prepared for a busy day and limited free exploration at each stop — but if that works for you, it could be a highlight of your trip.