Antalya: Perge Aspendos Side 1 Day Private Tours

Antalya: Perge Aspendos Side 1 Day Private Tours is one of those experiences that really packs a punch for anyone interested in Turkey’s deep history and stunning landscapes. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel to when you’re dropped back at the end of the day, it’s a thoughtfully curated journey through some of the most impressive archaeological sites and natural sights in the Antalya region.

What we really appreciate about this tour are the well-preserved ancient sites — especially Aspendos, which is considered one of the best Roman theaters still standing in the world — and the relaxed pace that allows you to truly soak in each location. Another highlight is the scenic drive along the Euromedon River, which adds a touch of tranquility and beauty to what could otherwise be a busy sightseeing day.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour runs about eight hours, so it’s a full day out, and you’ll need to be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure. Also, entry fees for Perge and Aspendos are not included, so budget accordingly. This experience suits travelers who love historic sites but prefer a private, more personalized touch rather than a crowded group tour.

If you’re after an engaging, educational, and visually stunning day, especially if you’re into Roman architecture and ancient ruins, this tour might be just right for you. It’s particularly good for those who want to explore at a comfortable pace and enjoy some scenic breaks along the way.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Includes key archaeological sites like Perge, Aspendos, and Side
• Highlights well-preserved Roman architecture and historical landmarks
• Enjoy scenic natural sights such as Manavgat Waterfall and Euromedon River
• Moderate walking involved — good to wear comfortable shoes
• No included entry fees for Perge and Aspendos, so plan for extra costs

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from This Tour

If you’re considering this private day trip, here’s what’s in store. We’ll start with the convenience of hotel pickup, which takes the hassle out of organizing transport — especially useful if you’re staying in Antalya and want to maximize your sightseeing time.

Visiting Perge: The Ancient City

Our journey kicks off at Perge, once the capital of the Pamphylia region. This site is often praised for its impressive Roman remains, and it’s easy to see why. As you walk through the ruins, you’ll come across the Stadium, Roman Gate, Nymphaeum, Roman Bath, Hellenistic Gate, Column Street, and the State Agora. These ancient structures tell stories of the city’s vibrant past.

The guide provides interesting insights into the history, making the ruins come alive. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of each site, which is essential to really appreciating what you’re seeing.

Aspendos: The Roman Theater Marvel

Next, you’ll travel to Aspendos, home to what’s considered the best preserved Roman theater in the world. This is a real highlight — the theater’s architecture is extraordinary, with its nearly intact stage and seating area. The theater is so well preserved it’s still used for concerts and festivals today, which speaks to its quality.

We loved the contrast of walking through this historic structure, imagining the crowds that once gathered here. It’s not just a ruin; it’s a piece of living history.

The Aqueduct and Water Canal

After Aspendos, the tour includes a visit to the Aqueduct, an incredible example of ancient water engineering. Walking along the water canal, you’ll get a sense of how advanced these ancient civilizations were in terms of infrastructure.

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Lunch by the Euromedon River

For lunch, you’ll enjoy a meal at a restaurant situated beside the river, offering relaxing views and a break from the sightseeing. The Euromedon River is a serene setting, and it’s nice to pause here, especially if you’re a bit footsore. The meal is included in the tour price, which makes this a stress-free part of the day.

Side Ancient City and the Apollon Temple

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Side, famous for the Temple of Apollo. This site offers a picturesque glimpse into ancient religious life, with the temple ruins perched overlooking the sea. It’s a beautiful spot for photos and imagining ancient rituals.

Manavgat Waterfall

Finally, the tour rounds off at the Manavgat Waterfall, a lovely natural spot that provides a peaceful conclusion to a busy day. Here, you might enjoy some quiet moments, take photos, or simply enjoy the sound of falling water.

The Practical Side of Things

Transportation and Group Size: As this is a private tour, the group is limited — usually just your booking party. This means more flexibility and personalized attention from your guide, which we find makes a big difference.

Duration and Timing: The tour lasts about 8 hours, so it’s a full day that will require some energy, but the pacing seems well-managed. Remember to check the start times when booking, as they can vary.

Pricing and Value: At $94 per group, this tour offers good value considering it includes hotel transfers, guide, and lunch. Entry fees aren’t included, but given the quality and number of sites visited, it’s a fair price for a private, curated experience.

Accessibility and Comfort: The tour isn’t recommended for people over 70, likely due to walking and outdoor exposure. Also, it’s wise to bring passport or ID, cash for extras, and dress comfortably — but note that umbrellas and hats are not allowed, so plan accordingly.

What Past Travelers Say

One review highlights how smoothly everything went, saying, “Everything went smoothly and professionally,” and that communication was courteous and clear. The trip was a gift for parents, and they “were very excited,” which suggests it’s well-organized and enjoyable for all ages.

From our perspective, this indicates a reliable and well-managed experience, especially for travelers who want to avoid surprises or logistical hiccups.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is perfect for history lovers who want an in-depth look at Roman-era ruins without feeling rushed. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a private setup over crowded group tours, especially if you value comfort and flexibility.

It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy scenic natural spots like waterfalls and river views, and for those looking for a comprehensive day with diverse sites. It’s generally not suited for very elderly travelers over 70 or those with mobility issues, due to walking and outdoor activity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a culturally enriching day that combines ancient ruins, architectural marvels, and lovely natural scenery, this tour ticks many boxes. It balances history, nature, and leisure, all wrapped in a private setting that feels personal rather than commercialized.

You’ll love the way the sites are explained, the chance to walk through history at your own pace, and the scenic breaks along the river and waterfalls. The overall experience feels both educational and relaxing — a nice combo for a full-day adventure.

While the price is reasonable, remember that entry fees are separate, so factor that into your budget. The tour’s length and pace make it ideal for those who want a thorough, yet manageable, exploration of Antalya’s highlights.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates well-preserved history with a touch of natural beauty, this could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially worth considering if you want a private, flexible experience that’s designed with care and attention.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead ensures you get a spot, especially since it’s a private tour with specific start times. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in English, Russian, and German, so check your preferred language when booking.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch is included, with a scenic riverside setting, adding to the relaxing atmosphere of the day.

Are entry fees included?
No, entry fees for Perge and Aspendos are not included, so you should bring some extra cash.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a full, yet comfortable day out.

Can children join this tour?
While children with passports or ID are allowed, the tour isn’t specifically designed for kids, and some walking or outdoor activity might be tiring for very young children.

Is this suitable for elderly travelers?
It’s not recommended for those over 70 due to walking and outdoor exposure involved in exploring ruins and natural sites.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, cash for extras, and dress in comfortable clothes (though hats and umbrellas aren’t allowed). Sunscreen and sunglasses are also good ideas.

All in all, this Antalya day tour strikes a good balance between history, scenery, and comfort — perfect for those who want depth without the hassle.

You can check availability for your dates here: