Alanya: Aspendos, Kursunlu Waterfalls and City of Side Tour

Exploring Turkey’s Rich Heritage and Natural Beauty: A Closer Look at the Aspendos, Side, and Kursunlu Waterfalls Tour

This tour offers a practical way to see some of the most notable sights in Antalya Province without the hassle of planning it all yourself. We’re not claiming to have experienced it firsthand, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a solid option for those wanting a mix of history, scenic views, and local flavor.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines impressive ancient ruins with tranquil nature spots. You’re getting a full day packed with sightseeing, and all for a reasonable price—$41 per person. Plus, the fact that it’s a private group means it’s less crowded, more personal, and you can soak in the scenery at your own pace.

On the flip side, a few reviews hint that the lunch could be better, and some travelers wish for more time in certain spots like Aspendos or Side. Also, if you’re not comfortable with walking or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

This tour would suit travelers who love history, architecture, and natural landscapes—and who don’t mind a busy, full day with some scheduled stops and guided insights.

Key Points

• Historic Marvels: Visit Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theaters worldwide.
• Ancient City of Side: Walk among ruins, temples, and a picturesque harbor.
• Natural Beauty: Enjoy the peace of Kursunlu Waterfalls set in lush pine forests.
• Local Flavors: Stop at a Turkish delight shop and a jewelry store for some local shopping.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, with a professional guide.
• Value for Money: For $41, you get a mix of culture, scenery, and some shopping, though some reviews mention the lunch could be improved.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Off: Convenient Pickup and Set Schedule

The tour begins with pickup options from various locations around Alanya, making it straightforward to connect from your accommodation. The guided experience is in English, which is helpful for many travelers. The group is private, so expect a more intimate setting compared to larger bus loads. The transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, which makes the long day more bearable, especially during warmer months.

Aspendos: A Roman Theater to Remember

The first stop is Aspendos, often highlighted as a must-see in Turkey. The highlight here is the Roman amphitheater, built in 155 AD, which continues to impress visitors with its near-perfect preservation. Originally seating 7,000, it now hosts events for up to 10,000 spectators, including the famous Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival.

From the reviews, we know explorers appreciated the guided tour and photo stops, with one traveler mentioning, “Aspendos must be seen, it was simply great.” The site offers plenty of opportunities for photos, especially of the grand stage and surrounding ruins. Some travelers wished for more time to explore the entire site, which suggests the sightseeing here is a highlight but can feel rushed if you’re eager to linger.

The Iconic Temple of Apollo in Side

Next, you’ll visit the ancient city of Side, located on a scenic peninsula. Here, the Temple of Apollo by the sea is a favorite photo spot. It’s not just about snapping pics—walking through the ruins, you’ll get a real sense of what life was like in this once-thriving port city. The guide will likely point out the Roman streets, amphitheater, and other key monuments.

One review mentions that the tour offers enough time to explore Side, but some folks would have liked a little more. Still, being able to walk around and take in the views of the ancient architecture alongside turquoise waters makes it worth the visit.

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Lunch Break and Local Shopping

After Side, the tour makes a stop for lunch at a local restaurant. The included meal is generally decent, though some reviews say it could be more fulfilling. You might find the lunch okay, but not memorable, and that’s pretty typical for included meals on group tours.

Post-lunch, there’s a quick stop at a traditional Turkish delight shop and a jewelry store. These are usually sponsored visits, giving you a chance to buy some souvenirs—though you’ll want to decide if these stops fit your shopping style.

Kursunlu Waterfalls: Nature’s Tranquil End

The final stop is the Kursunlu Waterfalls, set in lush pine forests. This peaceful spot offers a chance to breathe, take photos, and enjoy a break from sightseeing. The waterfalls are small but charming, with cascades that are perfect for a quick walk and some nature photos.

Based on reviews, visitors loved the scenery here and enjoyed watching for local wildlife like turtles and trout. It’s a calming contrast to the busy historical sites, making it a good way to end the day.

How the Day Unfolds

The tour runs approximately 8 hours, starting with pickup early in the morning. You’ll spend a good chunk of time at each site—enough to get a sense of history and beauty but sometimes leaving travelers wanting more time, especially at Aspendos and Side.

The pace is steady, and guides are praised for their knowledge and keeping everyone together. However, be prepared for some walking—especially around the ruins—and to wear comfortable shoes.

The group size being private means fewer crowds, but it also means you’ll share the experience with just your party and guide, which adds a personal touch.

Looking at the Price and Overall Value

At $41, this trip doesn’t break the bank considering everything included—transportation, guiding, and lunch. Some reviews suggest the tour offers good value, especially with a knowledgeable guide enhancing the experience.

However, the lunch, while included, might not satisfy everyone. If you’re a foodie or prefer a hearty meal, you might want to bring some snacks or plan to eat afterward.

What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a picture of a mostly positive experience. Many praise the expert guides and the stunning scenery. One traveler from Germany noted that Aspendos was simply “great,” and another from the Netherlands mentioned that the day “flew by,” which speaks to the engaging nature of the tour.

On the flip side, some felt the schedule was a bit tight—more time in Side or Aspendos would be welcomed. The waterfal stop is seen as a peaceful break, but some found the overall lunch to be “bad” or “meager,” which seems to be a common theme on group tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for those who want a well-rounded day of sightseeing in a manageable, private group setting. If you love history and architecture, you’ll find Aspendos and Side fascinating. Nature lovers will enjoy the tranquil Kursunlu Waterfalls.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided commentary and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re traveling with people who prefer more relaxed, unstructured days or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a solid, practical way to experience some of Turkey’s most iconic sights with minimal hassle. The mix of ancient ruins, scenic waterfalls, and local shopping keeps the day varied and interesting, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of everything.

While the lunch might not thrill every palate and some sites could use a little more exploration time, the overall value is good. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation make the experience smoother and more enjoyable.

If you’re keen on diverse experiences in a single day and enjoy learning from friendly guides, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for a full day on the go—comfortable shoes and a camera will become your best friends.

FAQ – Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
This tour isn’t specifically designed for children, especially because of the walking involved and the historical focus. It’s more suited for adults or older kids interested in history and nature.

How long do I spend at each site?
You’ll get enough time at each major stop to explore, take photos, and listen to guides, but some travelers felt they could use more time in places like Aspendos and Side.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen are recommended since you’ll be outdoors a lot. Bringing some water and snacks could also help, especially with the meals being simple.

Are there any additional costs?
Entrance fees for Aspendos (15 EUR) and Kursunlu Waterfalls (2 EUR) aren’t included, so plan for that if you want to go inside the ruins or waterfalls area.

What language is the guide in?
Guide services are in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments, mainly because of the walking involved at the sites.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the pickup process like?
Pickup is included from various locations around Alanya, making it easy to join from your hotel or accommodation.

Would I do this tour again?
Many reviews suggest it’s a worthwhile experience, especially if you enjoy guided tours with interesting sights. If you want a well-organized day packed with history and nature, it’s a good pick.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced, engaging way to see some of Turkey’s highlights without overspending or overcommitting your day. It caters well to those who appreciate history, scenic landscapes, and local culture, all within a comfortable, private group setting. Just keep in mind the pace and plan for some basic needs like snacks and sun protection, and you’re likely to have a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: