From City of Side: Perge, Aspendos & Kurunlu Waterfall Trip

If you’re visiting the Side area in Turkey and craving a blend of history and nature, this tour offers a solid way to see some of the region’s highlights without the hassle of planning it all yourself. From ancient Roman amphitheaters to peaceful waterfalls, it packs a lot into a single day.

What we particularly like about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides who bring each site to life with stories and insights. Second, the variety — you’ll get a taste of history, architecture, and natural scenery, making it a well-rounded day.

A potential consideration is the long hours and warm weather, so be prepared for a full, busy day especially if you’re sensitive to heat. This trip suits travelers who want a rundown of the region’s top attractions and are happy to spend a day on the move, exploring historic sites and relaxing at scenic spots.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience with bilingual guides fluent in English and German
• Includes transportation and lunch, providing good value and convenience
• Highlights are Aspendos Amphitheater, Perge Ancient City, and Kurunlu Waterfall
• Entrance fees are not included in the price, so budget extra for tickets
• Comfortable transport with air conditioning (though some reviews mention it could be better)
• Good for history lovers and those wanting a natural retreat in one trip

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

When considering a full-day trip like this, the main appeal is the chance to visit multiple sites without the fuss of navigating alone. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel in Side or nearby areas, the day begins with a comfortable ride on an air-conditioned bus, guided by a friendly, knowledgeable host. The trip is designed to balance learning, sightseeing, and relaxing, in a way that leaves you with a well-rounded impression of the region.

The guided element is a real plus. According to reviews, guides like Murat or Borat are well-informed, engaging, and able to answer questions in both English and German, making the experience feel personable and educational. Many travelers emphasize how their guides shared interesting tidbits that made the sites come alive, which is a big factor in making the day memorable.

Aspendos Amphitheater: A Marvel of Ancient Engineering

Your first stop is Aspendos—famous for its incredibly well-preserved Roman theater. This site is a must-see for history buffs and architecture lovers alike. It’s renowned for its remarkable acoustics, so don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to whisper or sing and hear yourself clearly across the stands.

You’ll spend about an hour wandering the amphitheater, walking through the ancient stone corridors, and soaking in the atmosphere. The proximity to the Aspendos Bridge, a Roman engineering feat, adds to the intrigue of this location. As one reviewer noted, “Aspendos Theatre has to be seen,” and many find themselves awestruck by how intact and impressive it looks after all these centuries.

While tickets are not included in the tour package (costing around 15 Euros per person), many agree it’s well worth the small extra expense. The site’s well-preserved state means you can imagine the grand performances that once captivated audiences here.

Perge Ancient City: Walking Through History

Next up is Perge, a sprawling archaeological site that offers a glimpse into ancient city life. Spend roughly two hours exploring the ruins, including the theater, stadium, gates, baths, and the marketplace. The well-preserved mosaics and intricate stonework keep history interesting, and guides are great at storytelling.

Many reviews highlight how impressive Perge’s ruins are—the stadium, in particular, draws attention for its size and the way it echoes the grandeur of Roman architecture. Visitors often mention how the site feels very much like walking through a living museum.

Again, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee (about 11 Euros) if you want to go inside, but this investment adds depth to your experience. The site isn’t overly crowded, especially in the morning, which allows for better photos and more personal exploration.

Lunch Break: A Taste of Turkish Cuisine

After the morning’s explorations, the tour includes a 45-minute stop at a local restaurant. Here, you can enjoy a buffet-style meal with options like fish, chicken, or Adana kebap, accompanied by rice and fresh salads. Many reviewers praise the quality of the food, noting that it’s better than expected—an important point after a busy morning.

Keep in mind that drinks are not included, and some visitors mention that purchasing beverages can sometimes be a bit of a hassle if cash is needed. The pre-arranged lunch helps keep the day flowing smoothly, but if you’re particular about your drinks or dietary needs, it’s worth bringing some cash and snacks just in case.

More Great Tours Nearby

Aspendos Theater and Bridge: Architectural Highlights

Post-lunch, the tour guides you to Aspendos Amphitheater, which is often regarded as the most spectacular site of the day. The theater’s superb acoustics and vivid history captivate visitors. It’s a highlight that many reviews emphasize—one guest called it “truly amazing” and worth the visit.

Just next to the theater, the Aspendos Bridge spans the Eurymedon River, showcasing Roman engineering at its finest. It’s a great spot for photos and appreciating the craftsmanship of ancient builders.

Kurunlu Waterfalls: A Natural Escape

The last major stop is the Kurunlu Waterfall, where lush greenery and the sound of rushing water create a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a pleasant break from the archaeological sites, and many find it a relaxing way to end the day.

You’ll have about 45 minutes here to enjoy the scenery—perhaps walk along the trails, take photos, or simply sit back and listen to nature. The waterfall is described as an “Indiana Jones adventure” by some, with trails and spots for photos. No swimming is included, but the scenery alone makes this worth the visit.

Many travelers mention how refreshing it is to reconnect with nature after a day of history and sightseeing.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

Transportation is generally comfortable, with air conditioning in the bus, although a few reviews mention it could work better. The full itinerary spans around 8 hours, starting early with hotel pickups and ending back in Side in the late afternoon.

The cost covers transportation, guided tours, and lunch, making it a decent value considering the multiple sites you’ll visit. Entrance fees for Perge (€11), Aspendos (€15), and Kurunlu Waterfalls (75 TL) are extra but relatively affordable. Many reviews note that the guided experience makes it easier to navigate these sites without the stress of buying tickets on the spot or figuring out logistics.

A downside some mention is the need for cash at the lunch stop and at entrance points. Be sure to carry some extra money to cover these expenses.

Authentic Travelers’ Opinions

Most reviews are glowing about the guides, especially their knowledge and friendliness. “Murat was very professional, he told us many interesting notes about ancient cities, landscape and culture,” one reviewer shares, highlighting how a good guide can enhance your experience.

Others mention how the sites are stunning and well worth a visit. One reviewer said, “Perge is amazing, especially the stadium, and Aspendos theater has to be seen,” capturing the essence of why this tour is popular among history lovers.

Some minor drawbacks include the bus’s air conditioning not always working perfectly and the need for cash at multiple points, which can be inconvenient. But overall, travelers seem highly satisfied, with many saying they would recommend the tour to friends and family.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves history and architecture, this trip is a great way to see the highlights efficiently. It suits travelers looking for a well-organized day of sightseeing with a knowledgeable guide.

It’s ideal if you want to combine cultural discoveries with natural scenery like waterfalls. However, keep in mind that the tour is quite full, with a lot of walking and a schedule that sticks closely to the itinerary. If you have mobility issues or prefer a more leisurely pace, you might want to consider other options or ensure you’re comfortable with the walking involved.

This tour is also perfect for those who enjoy guided experiences and appreciate the convenience of transportation, especially if you’re not keen on renting a car or navigating public transport.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entrance fees for Perge (€11), Aspendos (€15), and Kurunlu Waterfalls (75 TL) are not included. You’ll need cash to pay at each site.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch with options like fish, chicken, or Adana kebap is included in the tour. Drinks are extra, and you should bring cash if you want to purchase beverages.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and some cash for entrance fees and extras.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the tour covers sites that can appeal to older children interested in history. However, it involves a lot of walking and some long hours in the sun, so prepare accordingly.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 8 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off, with the itinerary covering all major stops.

Is the tour group large?
You can opt for a private group, but the standard experience is part of a larger guided group, which tends to be around 9-15 people based on reviews.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Side is a solid choice if you’re eager to explore some of the region’s most iconic ancient and natural sites without the headache of organizing each detail yourself. The guides’ knowledge and the variety of stops make it especially appealing for those wanting a rundown in one day.

While the bus’s air conditioning could be better and extra cash for entrance fees and drinks is something to plan for, most travelers find the experience well worth it—especially considering the convenience and value offered. If you love history, architecture, and scenic spots, this trip is a satisfying way to spend a day in Antalya Province.

In summary, this tour is best suited for travelers who want an efficient, guided way to see major archaeological sites and enjoy some peaceful nature. It’s a good pick if you’re staying in or near Side and want to make the most of your day without stress. Prepare for a busy but rewarding experience that leaves you with plenty to talk about and photos to cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: