Aspendos Theatre, Perge & Side Antique City

Exploring the Aspendos Theatre, Perge & Side Antique City Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Antalya and love stepping back into the past, this full-day guided tour covering Aspendos, Perge, Side, and a waterfall stop seems like a pretty solid choice. It’s designed for those who want a well-rounded glimpse of some of the region’s most impressive ruins and scenic spots, all wrapped up in a manageable day with transportation and lunch included.

What really catches our eye about this experience are the stunning ancient sites and the comfortable group size—only up to 15 travelers—which keeps things intimate and personalized. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and the fact that it includes lunch and entrance tickets make it feel like good value.

On the flip side, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included in the drinks, and the tour is quite busy with multiple stops, which might mean you’ll need to pace yourself. Also, if you’re after a slow, in-depth exploration of each site, this might feel a bit rushed. All in all, though, it’s a great fit for those who want a comprehensive look at Antalya’s ancient sites without fuss.

This tour is especially suited for history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone who enjoys mixing a bit of sightseeing with some nature. If you’re traveling with a group or just want a straightforward, guided day out, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip covering three major ancient sites and a waterfall stop
• Small group size ensures more personalized attention and better interaction
• Includes transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, offering good value for the price
• Guided tours help you understand the significance of each site
• Timing is well-organized with roughly an hour at each site and breaks for scenic views
• Comfortable pickup options from select hotels in Antalya

Discovering the Highlights of This Tour

Aspendos Theatre: A Marvel of Ancient Construction

Your day starts with a visit to the stunning Aspendos Ruins, home to one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world. With a history dating back to Roman times, this open-air theatre is a marvel of engineering, still boasting an impressive stage and seating area. When we read reviews, many travelers mention how genuine awe overtakes them when they stand inside this structure—“The highlight of the day is Aspendos,” says one reviewer, and we totally get why.

The tour includes about an hour here, which allows enough time to walk around, take photos, and listen to your guide’s insights. The acoustics of the theatre are still remarkable, and the setting amid rolling hills makes for a memorable photo op. Expect to learn how this theatre has hosted performances for centuries and why it remains a symbol of Turkey’s ancient grandeur.

Perge Antique City: Walking Through a Roman Metropolis

Next, you’ll visit Perge, a site where history comes alive. This ancient city was once a thriving hub, and its ruins include stadiums, baths, and the remnants of a grand agora. The combination of well-preserved columns and the expansive layout provides a real sense of what life was like in Roman times.

One traveler commented that “Perge’s ruins are huge and give a fascinating insight into ancient urban planning.” We loved the way the guide’s commentary brought the site to life, helping us picture what it was like to walk through streets bustling with commerce and social life. Again, about an hour here seems enough to get a good overview without feeling rushed.

Side Antique City: A Coastal Charm with Ancient Roots

After a quick drive, you’re off to Side, a lively town with a fascinating mix of ruins and modern charm. The highlight is the ancient theater and the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, nestled right by the sea. The site offers a great blend of history and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

You’ll have roughly an hour to explore, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Many reviews mention that Side’s lively streets and seaside vibe make it a more relaxed stop, perfect for strolling around, grabbing a coffee, or just enjoying the scenery.

Waterfall Stop: Nature’s Refreshing Pause

To break up the historical tour, you’ll visit either Manavgat or Kurunlu waterfall for around 45 minutes. The waterfalls are scenic and provide a peaceful contrast to the ancient ruins. We loved the chance to stretch our legs and enjoy some fresh air amid lush greenery.

While the waterfalls are beautiful, one thing to note is that visiting them is somewhat brief, so if you’re a water enthusiast or nature lover, you might wish for more time. Still, it’s a lovely way to end the day, capturing some great photos and relaxing before heading back.

Lunch in Belkis Village: A Tasty Break

Included in the tour is a lunch in Belkis village, a local spot that offers traditional Turkish dishes. The reviews note that the meal is satisfying, although drinks are extra. It’s a nice opportunity to taste authentic flavors and chat with your fellow travelers about the day so far.

What You Get for Your Money

At just over $100 per person, this tour packs in quite a bit. You get pick-up from your hotel, transportation in a comfortable vehicle, entry tickets to all sites, and a lunch. The group size is small, which enhances the experience, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention.

That said, drinks aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for bottled water and any additional beverages. Also, the timing is tight — expect roughly an hour at each site, so if you’re someone who loves lingering in each place, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for most travelers, the itinerary is well-paced and covers the highlights efficiently.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer raved, “No Title” (Jamie_M), mentioning how much they loved the guide, driver, and overall experience. They felt it was a fantastic day and appreciated the friendly, knowledgeable guide.

Another review pointed out a small disappointment: “Lunch was nothing special,” but still, the overall value was appreciated, especially considering the entrance tickets and transportation were included.

The standout comments are about the stunning views and educational, engaging guides. A guest called Genghis made the day “educational & entertaining,” emphasizing the guide’s passion and responsible approach, which adds a lot to the experience.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 7 to 8 hours
• Start time: 8:00 am
• Group size: Max 15 travelers
• Meeting Point: Hotel pickup from select accommodations
• Price: Approximately $106.72 per person
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the tour
• Weather: Tour is dependent on good weather; cancellations are possible in poor conditions with a full refund

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re interested in antiquity and scenic spots, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Antalya’s ancient past and natural beauty. The small group size makes it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of transportation and entrance fees simplifies planning.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely day or want in-depth exploration of each site, you might find the pace a little quick. It’s also worth noting that drinks are extra, so if you’re a hydration-focused traveler, bring some cash or bottled water.

This trip especially suits history lovers, first-time visitors to Antalya, and those who enjoy a mix of cultural sites and scenic nature. If you’re traveling with a group or family that appreciates guided tours, this is a solid option, offering both education and fun.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup offered?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from select hotel accommodations in Antalya, making it convenient to start your day stress-free.

How long is the tour?
Expect about 7 to 8 hours of sightseeing, including travel, stops, and lunch.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance fees for Aspendos, Perge, Side, and the waterfalls are included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, a hat, and some cash for drinks or souvenirs. Bottled water isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the tour is generally appropriate for travelers comfortable with walking and historical sites.

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

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, if you’re after an efficient, well-organized day exploring some of Antalya’s most significant ancient sites and scenic spots, this tour ticks many boxes. It balances guided insights with free exploration time and includes all the logistics, making it ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle. Just be prepared for a busy day, and bring your curiosity along for a memorable journey through history and nature.