Antalya: Perge, Aspendos & City of Side Day Trip with Lunch

Exploring Antalya’s Ancient Treasures: A Detailed Look at the Perge, Aspendos & Side Day Trip

If you’re considering a day trip around Antalya to see some of Turkey’s most remarkable ancient sites, this tour might catch your eye. It’s designed to give travelers a taste of the region’s Roman-era landmarks, with highlights like Perge, Aspendos, and Side. From what you gather about it, the experience seems well-rounded—combining history, scenery, and a touch of local cuisine—making it appealing whether you’re a history buff or just looking to explore the area’s highlights efficiently.

What we really like about this trip? First, the inclusion of Aspendos’ famous theater, regarded as one of the best preserved and most impressive in the world. It’s a chance to see a Roman amphitheater still in remarkable condition, which isn’t something you find everywhere. Second, the guided tour aspect makes a difference; having a knowledgeable guide can really deepen your understanding of these ancient sites.

One notable consideration is the timing and pace—since it’s a full-day tour covering multiple sites, some might find it a bit rushed, especially if you’re someone who likes to linger longer at each location. Also, keep in mind that entry tickets to Perge and Aspendos are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of some of Turkey’s most iconic ancient ruins without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s a solid choice if you’re staying in Antalya and want to maximize your sightseeing in a single day.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience with hotel pickup, guide, and lunch, making logistics much simpler.
• In-depth historical insights from a professional tour guide, enriching your understanding of each site.
• Visiting top sites like Perge, Aspendos, and Side, known for their well-preserved ruins and significance.
• Cost-effective at $59 per person, especially considering the guided experience, transportation, and lunch.
• Flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Not suitable for those with mobility issues or those wanting to explore at a more relaxed pace, given the packed schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A closer look at what this tour offers

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

One of the first things that stand out is the door-to-door pickup from your hotel or location, which is a big plus. You won’t have to worry about how to get to the meeting point or navigating public transport; your guide and driver handle it all. The transportation is comfortable enough for a 9-hour day, allowing you to focus on the sights rather than the logistics.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First stop: Perge

Perge was once the capital of the Pamphylia region, and stepping into its ruins feels like walking back in time. As you explore the site, you’ll see the stadium, Roman Gate, Nymphaeum, Roman bath, Hellenistic Gate, Column Street, and the State Agora. These ruins paint a vivid picture of what life was like in ancient times. From reviews, visitors appreciate the interesting historical commentary provided by guides like Ozzie, who makes the stories come alive. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was very friendly and informative,” highlighting how much a good guide can enhance the experience.

Next: Aspendos

Aspendos’ theater is often considered the highlight—it’s the best preserved Roman theater globally and still used for events today. This isn’t just a static ruin; it’s a living reminder of the grandeur of Roman engineering. You’ll love the chance to walk into such a well-preserved structure and imagine the performances held here centuries ago. Many visitors find Aspendos to be a real “wow” moment, with one reviewer calling it “the best antique theatre.”

Then: the Aqueduct

Nearby is the ancient water canal, or aqueduct, which showcases the engineering prowess of the Romans. Though smaller than the theater, it’s an essential piece of the region’s history and offers some great photo opportunities.

Lunch by the Euromedon River

A relaxed break by a riverside restaurant gives you a moment to enjoy local flavors—many recommend trying the fish. The setting is scenic, with the river adding a peaceful backdrop. It’s a good chance to recharge and discuss what you’ve seen so far.

Finally: Side and Manavgat

In Side, the ruins are both impressive and atmospheric—think temples, theater, and agora, all dating back to the 17th century B.C. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit Manavgat Waterfall. It’s one of those spots that makes for a nice contrast—nature meeting history—especially since reviews mention that the waterfall entry is included.

Who’s This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re a history enthusiast or just someone eager to see several famous sites without the hassle of arranging transport and guides, this trip fits well. It also suits travelers who appreciate guided commentary to bring ruins to life. Keep in mind, it’s a full, busy day, so if you prefer slow-paced exploring or have mobility restrictions, it might not be ideal.

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The Value of the Experience

At $59, considering the guided tour, transportation, lunch, and site visits, this is pretty good value. Entry tickets to Perge and Aspendos aren’t included, so that’s an extra cost, but many reviews find the overall experience worthwhile. Travelers like Andrea and Saket S have praised the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, which can make a significant difference once you’re on-site.

Practical Tips

Bring comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking quite a bit over uneven terrain. A hat and sunscreen are essential, especially if visiting in warmer months. An umbrella might also be handy for shade or light rain. Since drones, bikes, alcohol, and electric wheelchairs aren’t allowed, plan accordingly if you have specific gear.

The Tour’s Downsides

While the tour covers a lot in one day, that means it’s somewhat fast-paced. Some might feel they don’t get enough time at each site, especially in Side or Perge. Also, since entry tickets are separate, you’ll need to budget that in advance. Finally, this isn’t tailored for those over 95 years old or over 140 kg, which is worth considering for those with mobility or health concerns.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a solid, guided overview of some of Turkey’s most significant ancient sites—perfect if you want to tick off multiple landmarks in one go. The combination of professional guides, scenic locations, and a convenient setup makes it a popular choice among visitors. The many positive reviews point to friendly guides and a well-organized day that keeps the focus on the history and scenery rather than logistics.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy learning about history, appreciate good guide commentary, and want an efficient but comprehensive day out. If you’re comfortable with a somewhat busy schedule and want to explore without the hassle of planning each step, this trip could be a good match.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or location, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, so plan for a full day of sightseeing and walking.

Do I need to buy tickets for Perge and Aspendos separately?
Yes, entry tickets to these sites are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, and an umbrella are recommended for comfort and protection.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a riverside lunch is included, and many guests enjoy the setting and local dishes like the fish special.

Is this tour suitable for families or those with mobility issues?
It’s not specifically tailored for children or those with mobility restrictions, given the amount of walking and site terrain.

What language is the tour guide in?
The tour is conducted in English, with a professional guide providing commentary throughout.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

Overall, if history, ease, and a guided experience appeal to you, this trip to Perge, Aspendos, and Side hits many right notes. It’s a practical way to see some of Turkey’s ancient marvels without the fuss, leaving you with lasting memories and a good sense of the region’s past.

You can check availability for your dates here: