Antalya Private Perge Aspendos Side Tours with Lunch

Exploring the Ancient Wonders Near Antalya
If you’re someone who appreciates stepping back in time, the Antalya Private Perge Aspendos Side Tour offers a compelling way to do so without straying far from the city. This 10-hour journey takes you through some of Turkey’s most iconic Roman ruins—from the remarkably preserved Aspendos Theater to the bustling ancient city of Perge, and the scenic beauty of Manavgat Waterfall. The tour is designed for those who want a comprehensive taste of the region’s archaeological and natural highlights in a comfortable private setting.

What I really like about this experience is the knowledgeable guide who seems to bring each site to life with stories and historical context—something that elevates a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable learning experience. Plus, the all-inclusive transportation, featuring air-conditioned vehicles and hotel pickup, makes the logistics painless, allowing you to focus on marveling at the sights. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that admission tickets to Perge and Aspendos are not included, so you’ll need to budget a bit extra for entry fees.

Another point worth noting is the timing. The tour is efficiently paced, with just enough time at each stop to absorb the atmosphere without feeling rushed. The small group size (up to four people) ensures a more personalized experience, which many travelers find rewarding. If you’re keen on exploring Turkey’s Roman heritage comfortably and with expert guidance, this tour offers excellent value.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides like Duralican receive praise for their local insights and engaging storytelling.
• Comfortable private transport: Air-conditioned vehicles with hotel pickup make the day smooth and hassle-free.
• Flexible and private: Only your group participates, allowing for a personalized pace and interaction.
• Cultural and natural highlights: Combines ancient ruins with the stunning Manavgat Waterfall for a well-rounded experience.
• Value for money: For $450 per group, you get a full day of sightseeing, transportation, and waterfall tickets—adding up to a satisfying adventure.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees to Perge and Aspendos are not included, so plan for those extra expenses.

Discovering the Ancient City of Perge

Perge Antik Kenti is an impressive archaeological site, and I find myself especially drawn to its scale and well-preserved structures. Known as the second best standing city of ancient times, Perge’s remains include a Roman stadium, baths, and a bustling agora. The guide’s commentary can make the ruins more meaningful, turning stones and columns into stories of Roman life.

Expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes here—enough to wander around, snap photos, and get a sense of the grandeur of Roman urban planning. Keep in mind, admission tickets to Perge are not included, so you’ll want to have cash or a card ready for entry. Many reviews highlight the guide’s depth of knowledge, with one traveler noting, “Our guide was very knowledgeable about the area and the sites we visited,” which makes all the difference in appreciating what you’re seeing.

Aspendos Theater: An Acoustic Marvel

Aspendos is probably Turkey’s most famous ancient theater, renowned for its astonishing acoustics and pristine condition. Built by the Romans, this theater still hosts performances today, which speaks to its durability and design brilliance. I love the way it stands as a testament to Roman engineering—impressive even by modern standards.

You’ll spend about an hour here, and again, admission isn’t included. Visiting Aspendos gives you a real sense of how Roman architects prioritized both function and beauty. Several reviewers note that the theater’s acoustics are so good, even whispering from the stage can be heard in the back rows—that’s a neat detail that makes it worth the visit.

Manavgat Waterfall: Nature’s Refreshing Stop

After exploring the ancient sites, the tour takes you to the scenic Manavgat Waterfall and its surrounding nature park. This is a refreshing break, both literally and figuratively. You’ll get about 30 minutes to enjoy the rushing water, snap photos, and breathe in some fresh air. The waterfall ticket is included, which means no extra costs or fuss.

Travelers often comment on the beauty of this stop—it’s a perfect contrast to the ruins, offering a moment to relax and take in Turkey’s natural landscape. As one reviewer put it, “Most travelers can participate,” making it accessible and enjoyable for almost everyone.

Side Antique City and the Apollon Temple

The final stop is Side, where you’ll see the spectacular Apollon Temple and stroll through the ancient city streets. The temple, with its iconic columns, is a striking reminder of the city’s historical importance as a port and cultural hub. With about an hour here, you have time to admire the architecture and soak in the lively atmosphere of this seaside town.

This part of the tour is free to explore, but don’t forget to look out for local cafes or shops if you want to extend your visit. Many find Side’s combination of ruins and modern life charming—a perfect end to a day of discovery.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour costs $450 per group (up to 4 people), making it quite competitive considering the personalized service and comprehensive itinerary. The pickup service from your hotel ensures you don’t need to worry about navigating local transport, and the air-conditioned vehicle keeps you cool—important when touring in warm weather.

While admission tickets to Perge and Aspendos are extra—you might find it worth budgeting an additional amount—the guides generally provide helpful insights that justify the cost. Also, note that extra charges apply for airport transfer if needed, so plan accordingly.

Most travelers find the duration of about 10 hours manageable, especially since the pace is tailored for small groups who can linger a little longer at preferred sites. The reviews highlight that guides like Duralican are particularly praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private tour is perfect for history enthusiasts who want an intimate look at Turkey’s Roman past without the crowds. If you appreciate expert guides and small-group intimacy, you’ll enjoy the personalized attention. It’s also suited for travelers who value comfort and convenience, thanks to hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer self-guided exploration, this might be less ideal due to the additional entrance fees. Also, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at each site. Overall, it’s best for curious travelers who want a balanced mix of history, scenery, and comfort.

FAQs

Are hotel pickups included in the price?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, which is included in the overall price, making logistics simple.

How much extra should I budget for entrance tickets?
Admission to Perge and Aspendos is not included, so you’ll need to pay for those separately—it’s worth checking current prices before you go.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the pace is designed to be manageable. However, some walking is involved at the ruins, so consider mobility needs.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, a full refund is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before start are not refunded.

What makes this tour special compared to others?
The private setting, personalized guiding, and combination of ancient ruins with natural scenery make it stand out. Many reviews highlight the guide’s exceptional knowledge and friendly attitude.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of local options near the sites or you can bring your own snacks.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended. Carry cash or cards for entrance fees and any extras.

In essence, this private Antalya tour offers a thoughtful, well-paced exploration of some of Turkey’s most famed Roman sites, combined with natural beauty and the comfort of a small group. If you value expert guiding and a relaxed day away from crowds, this is a worthwhile experience.