Perge-Aspendos-Side from Antalya and regions

If you’re heading to Antalya and interested in soaking up some of the region’s historical gems, a guided day trip to Perge, Aspendos, and Side might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what you can expect. It’s a full-day experience that combines rich history, scenic views, and a comfortable ride, making it a solid choice for history buffs or travelers wanting a relaxed, informative outing.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the chance to explore well-preserved ruins with insightful guides, plus the inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and lunch—all at a reasonable price. On the flip side, some travelers have mentioned the time constraints at certain sites and the overall pace, so it’s worth considering if you prefer a leisurely or more in-depth exploration.

This tour works well if you’re keen to see major archaeological sites in a single day, especially if you’re staying in Antalya and want a structured, guided experience. It’s ideal for those who enjoy learning from experts and having logistical details taken care of, leaving you free to enjoy the sights and sounds of ancient Anatolia.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers three major sites—Perge, Aspendos, and Side—giving a broad overview of the region’s history.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary and answers to your questions.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles makes the whole day more enjoyable.
• Includes entrance fees to Manavgat Waterfall and lunch, adding value and convenience.
• Time at each site varies, with some travelers wishing for more time to explore freely.
• Price point around $95 per person offers a good balance for an all-inclusive day trip.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Early: The 6:00 am Pickup

The tour kicks off early in the morning, which means you’ll need to be ready to leave around that time. The benefit here is that you get a full day of sightseeing, but if you’re not a morning person, it might feel a bit rushed. The group size can go up to 100 travelers, so expect a lively atmosphere, but also, some parts might be more rushed compared to a private or smaller tour.

First Stop: Perge Ancient City

Perge is often the first highlight. According to legend, it was founded by Trojans led by Calchas, which adds a touch of myth to its already impressive ruins. Here, you’ll find the Greco-Roman theatre, which once hosted performances for thousands, and a large stadium that could seat 10,000 spectators—impressive even today.

The site also boasts the Hellenistic gate, agora, Roman baths, colonnades, and various fountains, giving a sense of the city’s once lively urban life. A guide’s commentary makes these ruins much more meaningful by explaining their significance and how they fit into the broader Roman Empire.

One reviewer mentioned, “We learnt a lot from the guide. Very organized and relaxed tour,” emphasizing that knowledgeable guides really elevate the experience. The one-hour visit might seem brief if you’re a history enthusiast, but it’s enough to get you a solid overview. Entrance fees are included, making this a straightforward stop without extra costs.

Aspendos: The Restored Amphitheater

Next is Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Built in 155 AD, the Aspendos amphitheater is famous for its amazing acoustics, originally accommodating up to 55,000 spectators. Today, it’s used for concerts and events, and you can walk through the stage and seating areas to get a real feel for its grandeur.

The guide shares insights about Aspendos’s role in the region as a cultural hub and its significance in ancient trade and philosophy. The 40-minute stop allows enough time to explore, admire the architecture, and snap some photos.

A reviewer praised the experience, noting the “beautifully restored” theater, but also mentioned that the visit was somewhat limited in time. If you’re a history or architecture fan, you’ll find this a highlight.

The Coastal Charm of Side

After Aspendos, the tour heads to Side, a charming ancient city on the coast. Its small size makes it easy to walk around and soak in the atmosphere. The main attractions are the port, colonnades, and three temples, including the well-known Temple of Apollo.

This stop is free and offers a more relaxed vibe. You’ll get about an hour here, which is enough to wander and take pictures. Side’s seaside location adds a lovely contrast to the ruins, providing great photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the sea breeze.

The Waterfall & Lunch Break

En route back or during the day, the tour includes a visit to Manavgat Waterfall, a popular natural spot for photos and a brief rest. Entrance fees are included, giving you a chance to enjoy some nature before returning to Antalya.

Lunch is also part of the package, with a meal provided to keep you energized for the rest of the day. While some reviews don’t specify the quality of the food, the inclusion of lunch and entrance fees offers good value, especially since you’re covering multiple sites in one day.

What the Reviews Say

The reviews highlight the expertise of the guides, with one reviewer mentioning, “The tour guide Ismail was very knowledgeable and able to answer all our questions,” which shows that the guiding service makes a real difference. The relaxed pace and organization are also appreciated, making the experience more enjoyable for most.

However, some travelers felt the visit to Side was too brief—about 30 minutes alone, which they found limiting. Others noted that the site visits at Perge and Aspendos were just the right length for a day trip, especially considering the logistics involved.

Practical Considerations

The price of around $95.23 per person seems reasonable, given that it covers transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and a guide. That said, the site entrance fee to Perge and Aspendos is approximately 30 euros (~$32), so you’re paying for convenience and guided insights as well.

Some travelers have mentioned that the tour may feel rushed, especially if you want to linger over the ruins. Also, the early start might not suit everyone, particularly if you’re not an early riser or prefer a slower pace.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is well-suited for those who want a rundown of the region’s historical sites in one day without the hassle of planning individual visits. If you’re interested in learning from knowledgeable guides and enjoy structured group outings, you’ll likely find this very rewarding.

It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort and convenience, as transportation and entry fees are taken care of, and you get a balanced mix of ruins, natural scenery, and seaside charm. However, if you’re after a more leisurely or in-depth exploration, you might prefer a longer or smaller tour.

Final Thoughts

The Perge-Aspendos-Side tour offers good value for its price, especially if you’re interested in ancient history and want a hassle-free way to see some of the most notable archaeological sites near Antalya. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary make it a dependable choice, particularly if you’re short on time and want to maximize your sightseeing.

While it might feel a little rushed at times, the highlights—especially Aspendos’s famous amphitheater—are well worth it. If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that balances history, scenery, and local flavor, this tour is probably a good fit.

This experience is best for history enthusiasts, first-time visitors to the region, or anyone eager for a structured, guided day outdoors. Just remember to bring your curiosity and an appetite for learning—plus your camera, of course.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided commentary, entrance fees to Manavgat Waterfall, and lunch. The site entrance fees for Perge and Aspendos are also included in the price.

What is the starting time?
The tour begins with pickup at 6:00 am, so you’ll need to be ready early. It makes for a full day of sightseeing.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 9 hours, giving you enough time to visit each site and enjoy some breaks.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but the early start and walking involved might not suit those with mobility issues or very young children.

Are entrance fees to the archaeological sites included?
Yes, the entrance fees to Perge and Aspendos are included, but the site entrance fee is approximately 30 euros.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a group guided tour, customization isn’t typically an option. However, the guide aims to answer your questions and provide insights during the stops.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch is part of the package, so you won’t have to worry about finding a meal during the busy day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, and a camera are recommended. Also, some cash might be useful for souvenirs or extra drinks.

How many people are on the tour?
The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, so expect a lively group atmosphere.

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

If you’re after a well-organized, insightful way to explore Antalya’s ancient sites, this tour makes a solid choice. Just keep in mind the timings and your interest level in historical ruins—then sit back, enjoy the journey, and learn some fascinating stories from your guide.