From Antalya: Roman Ancient Sites & Manavgat Waterfall Tour

If you’re visiting Antalya and craving a mix of history, nature, and a little adventure, this Roman Ancient Sites & Manavgat Waterfall Tour might just be a solid choice. Based on numerous reviews and detailed descriptions, it offers a day packed with archaeological marvels, scenic views, and a taste of local cuisine. While it’s not perfect for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or young children—its highlights make it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

What really draws us in is how this tour combines stunning ancient ruins with a relaxing visit to a beautiful waterfall, all while providing insightful guides who bring history to life. Plus, the chance to explore sites like Perge and Aspendos without the hustle and bustle of larger crowds is a definite plus. On the downside, the entrance fees aren’t included in the base price, so prepare for some extra costs if you want to fully enjoy every site.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, scenic beauty, and a relaxed pace. Perfect for day-trippers who want a rundown of Antalya’s ancient past combined with some natural refreshment. If you’re traveling with friends, history buffs, or outdoor lovers, you’ll likely find this trip engaging and rewarding.

Key Points

• Affordable value: At $52, it offers a full day of exploring significant sites with a knowledgeable guide.
• Historical highlights: Visit Perge, Aspendos, and Side—each with its own story and unique features.
• Beautiful scenery: Manavgat Waterfalls provide a peaceful break and great photo opportunities.
• Flexible schedule: Available any day, with morning start times and hotel pickup included.
• Guided experience: A professional guide enhances understanding and makes the day more engaging.
• Extra costs: Entrance fees aren’t included, so budget accordingly for site tickets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup & First Stop at Perge

The day kicks off with hotel pickup—easy and stress-free, especially if you’re staying in Antalya. We loved how smooth the process was, and it meant we could relax knowing transportation was taken care of. The first stop, Perge, is a well-known Roman settlement, infamous for the statues that now mostly reside in the Antalya Museum. Here, you’ll walk among ancient ruins, columns, and remnants of a once-thriving city that dates back to the Roman era, founded after the Trojan War.

Our guide was quite enthusiastic, sharing stories about Perge’s significance and the discovery of statues. As one reviewer remarked, “Learned sooo much and had an amazing day,” and that educational vibe really sets this tour apart. You can expect to spend around an hour exploring, but many suggest requesting a bit more time—especially at Perge—since it’s a site you’d want to take your time with, avoiding rushing through.

Aspendos: The Roman Theatre That Still Performs

Next up is Aspendos, home to what’s arguably the best-preserved ancient theatre in Anatolia. The theatre’s impressive architecture has stood the test of time, and it’s still used for performances today, a testament to its durability and the skill of Roman engineers.

Visitors have praised this part of the tour, with comments like, “The theatre visit is a fabulous bit of ancient architecture and like no other you will have visited.” We loved the way the guide explained how this theatre is still functioning, providing a living link to the past. Expect to spend around 45 minutes here, soaking in the views and history. The theatre’s acoustics and structure are genuinely impressive, and if you’re a fan of architecture or history, it’s a highlight.

Lunch in Local Style

After Aspendos, the tour includes a delicious buffet lunch. The reviews consistently mention how satisfying the meal was, with many noting the quality and variety of the food served. It’s a good chance to relax and recharge before heading to the next sites. Keep in mind that the lunch is included in the price, which adds great value considering the full day of sightseeing.

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Discovering Side’s Ancient Charm

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Side, an ancient city with plenty of ruins—temples, a theater, marble columns, and scenic views over the Mediterranean. It’s a charming spot that allows for some wandering and exploring on your own, or with the guide if you prefer. One review mentioned, “Make sure you wander off the beaten track,” highlighting the old baths and untouched ruins. The old city offers a perfect blend of history and seaside beauty, ideal for those wanting a mix of culture and scenic photos.

Relaxation at Kursunlu Waterfall

The final stop is Kursunlu Waterfall, set within a national park. The emerald-green water cascading from 18 meters creates a tranquil scene that many reviewers found beautiful and worth capturing. It’s a nice, relaxed ending to the day, giving everyone a chance to sit back, listen to the water, and enjoy nature.

Return to Antalya

After soaking in the waterfall, the bus will take you back to your hotel, typically arriving in the late afternoon. The transportation is air-conditioned and comfortable, ensuring a relaxing journey after a full day of exploration.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guided Expertise

The value of a professional guide cannot be overstated. Reviewers consistently mention guides like Kerem and Cengiz, praising their knowledge, humor, and genuine friendliness. One reviewer said, “He became a friend and made us all feel prioritized,” describing how the guide’s personality elevated the experience. Expect insights that bring history to life, making the ancient sites more than just ruins.

Scenic and Cultural Balance

The combination of archaeological sites and natural scenery offers a well-rounded day. You get a taste of antiquity in Perge and Aspendos, and then switch gears to relax at Kursunlu Waterfall, which breaks up the day nicely and adds a peaceful touch.

Good Value for Money

At $52, the tour covers transportation, guided narration, and lunch. While entrance fees aren’t included and total around 26 euros (per the reviews), these are considered worthwhile. The overall experience provides a lot of value—especially considering the convenience and the depth of insights offered.

Flexibility & Accessibility

The tour is available any day of the week, with morning starts and hotel pickup, which makes planning easier. It’s suitable for most travelers who can handle walking around outdoor sites—note, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or over 70.

Potential Drawbacks

While many rave about this tour, some things are worth noting. The entrance fees aren’t included, meaning you’ll need to carry cash or cards for additional expenses. The fees, totaling around 26 euros, are worthwhile but can catch you off guard if unprepared.

Plus, not suitable for young children or those with mobility issues, given the walking involved and uneven terrain at sites like Perge and Side. Baby strollers aren’t permitted, so plan accordingly if traveling with little ones.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for history enthusiasts and nature lovers who want a comprehensive look at Antalya’s ancient past combined with scenic natural beauty. It’s ideal for travelers who are comfortable walking and want a guided, educational day out. If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized tour that covers multiple significant sites with minimal hassle, this fits the bill.

However, those seeking a more leisurely or family-friendly adventure might want to consider other options, especially since the sites involve quite a bit of walking and some entrance fees.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without logistics stress.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, starting in the morning, with the exact starting time depending on your hotel location.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included in the price. Expect to pay around 26 euros for access to sites like Perge, Aspendos, and Side.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for very young children or those with mobility impairments because of walking and uneven terrain. Baby strollers aren’t allowed.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, a camera, and cash for entrance fees. A waterproof camera might be useful for the waterfall.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included in the price, offering a good variety of local dishes.

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

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, Russian, and Italian.

Is there a private group option?
Yes, private groups can be arranged if you prefer a more personalized experience.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves walking around outdoor archaeological sites, so a reasonable level of mobility is recommended.

Wrapping It Up

All in all, the From Antalya: Roman Ancient Sites & Manavgat Waterfall Tour offers a rich, well-rounded day for those interested in history and natural beauty. It’s a solid value, especially if you enjoy guided tours that combine storytelling with scenic exploration. While there are a few extra costs and some walking involved, the knowledgeable guides and stunning locations make it a trip worth considering.

If you’re eager to explore Antalya’s ancient past without the hassle of planning each stop yourself, or if you want to see some of the best-preserved Roman sites along with a peaceful waterfall, this tour is a good pick. Just be sure to pack cash for entry fees and wear comfortable shoes. Happy exploring!

You can check availability for your dates here: