Antalya Perge Aspendos Side 1 Day Tours with lunch

Exploring Antalya’s Ancient Treasures: Perge, Aspendos, and Side in One Day

If you’re into history and love wandering through archaeological sites, this Antalya Perge Aspendos Side tour is one you’ll want to consider. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve reviewed multiple experiences, and what stands out here are the well-preserved ruins and the knowledgeable guides that make the day both enjoyable and educational.

Two things we really like about this tour are the value for money—at just over $18 per person—and the fact that it includes lunch and transportation, making it convenient and straightforward. The tour feels tailored for those who want a solid introduction to the region’s ancient sites without breaking the bank.

One aspect to keep in mind is the group size—with a maximum of 25 travelers, it’s not overly crowded but still lively. Also, since entrance fees to Perge and Aspendos are not included, you’ll want to factor in that extra cost if you plan to explore more deeply. This tour suits travelers who are eager to see key historical sites efficiently, especially if you’re in Antalya for a short time.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Affordable yet comprehensive day tour that covers major ruins near Antalya
• Includes transportation, lunch, and a guide, simplifying logistics
• Sightseeing at Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfall offers a well-rounded mix of history and scenery
• Good for history buffs and curious travelers wanting an educational experience
• Small group size for a more personal experience but still enough energy
• Entrance fees to Perge and Aspendos aren’t included, so budget accordingly

What to Expect from This Tour

This tour is a solid pick if you’re eager to soak up the ancient atmosphere of Turkey’s southern coast. It’s roughly a 9-hour experience designed to give you a taste of the region’s most significant archaeological sites, with some added scenic stops.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Perge Antik Kenti
Your day kicks off early, with pick-up around 8:00 am. Perge is often called the second most impressive city from ancient times, and for good reason. You’ll have about an hour and a half to explore. The site is pretty extensive, featuring a stadium, Roman baths, and an agora—those open-air marketplace ruins—where you can walk through history. Although admission isn’t included, the ruins are worth the extra fee, especially if you’re into impressive ruins and ancient architecture. Travelers have shared that Perge’s remains are spectacular, with one reviewer noting: “the ruins at Perge are wonderful.”

Stop 2: Aspendos Ruins
Next, you’ll visit Aspendos, renowned worldwide for its magnificent theater. Built by the Romans, it’s famous for being so acoustically perfect that you can hear a pin drop from the stage even when the audience is full. The theater dates back to ancient times and still hosts performances today, making it a highlight for many visitors. Expect about an hour here. It’s notable that the theater is Roman-built and considered one of the best preserved, which is helpful to know if you’re into well-maintained sites.

Stop 3: Apollon Temple
This stop is a quick visit to the interesting Apollon temple site. It’s free to explore, and it offers a glimpse into the religious history of the area. You’ll spend about an hour here, and it’s a nice contrast to the more extensive ruins, giving you a sense of sacred space in antiquity.

Stop 4: Manavgat Waterfall
Finally, a 30-minute photo break at Manavgat Waterfall. It’s not only pretty but also offers a break from the archaeological focus, adding a scenic element to your day. Your ticket is included, so you get this as part of the package without extra fuss. Reviewers have appreciated this peaceful stop, with one noting that the waterfall is a “great photo opportunity.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Air-conditioned vehicle for comfort
– Lunch—an easy way to refuel after a busy morning of exploring
– Guide service—knowledgeable guides help bring the sites to life
– Transfers to and from your hotel
– Waterfall entrance ticket

Not Included:
– All drinks (water, soda, etc.)
– Entrance fees for Perge and Aspendos, which are extra costs you’ll need to cover if you want to explore the ruins thoroughly

How the Experience Feels

Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and helpfulness of guides, often mentioning how much they learn about the sites’ history and architecture. One reviewer shared that their guide, Farida, was “knowledgeable and kind,” which adds a lot to the visit. Another pointed out that despite being busy during Eid holidays, they arrived early at Perge and had much of the site to themselves, making it a more intimate experience.

The transportation seems to be comfortable and well-organized, with pickup times being punctual. Given the small group size, you should feel a bit more personal interaction and less like just another face in a crowd.

Price and Value

For just over $18, this tour represents a solid value, especially considering the transportation, guide, lunch, and scenic stops. Keep in mind that the entrance fees aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget a few extra Turkish Lira for that. When you consider the convenience—no need to plan transport or worry about navigating alone—the price feels reasonable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for history enthusiasts, travelers who want a structured, informative day out. It also appeals to those on a budget, as it offers a lot for a modest price. If you’re traveling with a group or prefer small-group tours, this setup should work well. It’s not overly strenuous, making it accessible for most travelers of average fitness.

Final Thoughts

This Antalya tour offers a well-rounded, affordable way to explore some of Turkey’s most important ancient sites. The combination of stunning ruins, insightful guides, and scenic stops makes it a good choice for those short on time but eager to get a real sense of the region’s history.

While entrance fees are extra, the overall package balances convenience and value, giving you a smooth day without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. The tour’s highlights—Perge’s impressive ruins, Aspendos’ magnificent theater, and the peaceful waterfall—are likely to leave a lasting impression, especially if you’re into archaeology or enjoy cultural sightseeing.

If you’re after a practical, budget-friendly way to see Antalya’s ancient sites without sacrificing comfort or learning opportunities, this tour could be just right. It’s especially worth considering if you value guided explanations and want a manageable, enjoyable day that’s well organized.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the admission tickets for Perge and Aspendos are not included. You should set aside some extra money to cover these if you wish to explore the sites thoroughly.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, with pickup offered from your hotel or designated meeting point.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is provided, making it convenient to stay energized throughout the day.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, which should keep you comfortable during the day.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, offering a balance between social interaction and personal space.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the focus on archaeological sites and walking suggests it’s best suited for older children and adults.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

All things considered, this Antalya day tour offers a practical way to learn about ancient history, enjoy scenic stops, and keep things simple. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a well-organized, budget-friendly experience that hits the main highlights without the fuss.