Antalya Perge Aspendos Side 1 Day Tours with lunch

A detailed look at the Antalya Perge, Aspendos, and Side tour, revealing what makes it a worthwhile experience for history buffs and curious travelers alike. This full-day excursion offers a solid mix of ancient Roman sites, stunning scenery, and a touch of leisure. For just over $18 per person, you get a well-organized visit to some of the most iconic ruins near Antalya, with the added convenience of pickup, included lunch, and waterfall tickets.

What I really like about this tour is how it balances highlights—Perge’s impressive remains and Aspendos’ theater—and gives you enough time at each spot to truly soak in the atmosphere. Plus, the guide’s extensive knowledge shines through, making the history come alive. I also appreciate how the tour includes a visit to the Manavgat Waterfall, offering a relaxed and picturesque photo-op and a chance to stretch your legs.

One small consideration is the price of entrance fees for sites like Perge and Aspendos, which are not included in the ticket price. If you’re interested in exploring these ruins in depth, budgeting for additional tickets is worth it. And, as with any guided tour, the group size—limited to 25—keeps things intimate enough to ask questions but still lively.

This tour is a fantastic way to efficiently explore multiple sites without the hassle of planning transportation or meals. It’s ideal for travelers who love history, want a comfortable experience, and enjoy seeing a bit of local scenery along the way.

Key points / Takeaways

• Incredible value for around $18, including lunch and transportation.
• Expert guides bring the history of each site to life, with some reviews mentioning particularly knowledgeable guides.
• Includes visits to Perge, Aspendos, and Side, with a scenic waterfall stop at Manavgat.
• Entrance fees for Perge and Aspendos are not included, so budget accordingly.
• The tour is well-paced, with approximately 1.5 hours at Perge and 1 hour at Aspendos, enough to explore without feeling rushed.
• Pickup service makes getting to the sites hassle-free, especially if you’re staying in Antalya.

Entering the World of Ancient Roman Cities

The tour kicks off early at 8:00 am with pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point, which means you’ll start your day before the crowds arrive. The first stop is Perge Antik Kenti, a sprawling Roman city famed for its well-preserved stadium, Roman baths, and agora. I love the way this site feels like stepping back in time—imposing columns, intricate mosaics, and the sense of a lively city long gone. Be aware that admission tickets are not included, so check ahead if you want to explore the ruins more thoroughly.

The guide’s commentary is a highlight, often laden with interesting details that bring the stones alive. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was very knowledgeable, though a bit opinionated—something to keep in mind if you prefer strictly facts over personal views. Still, the enthusiasm is contagious, and it greatly enhances the experience.

Aspendos: Home of the Magnificent Theatre

Next up is Aspendos, home to what many consider the best-preserved ancient theatre in the world. The acoustics are truly astonishing—standing in the center and whispering, you can be heard clearly from the back row. You’ll also see an aqueduct and Roman-built structures that showcase the engineering prowess of ancient times. Admission is again not included, so plan for that if you want to get closer to the theatre or explore more.

Reviews rave about Aspendos’ theatre, with one traveler calling it “magnificent,” and many noting the site’s preservation. The guide often explains the technical marvels of Roman architecture, making the visit both visually impressive and intellectually rewarding.

Apollon Temple and Local Sights

After Aspendos, the tour moves to the Temple of Apollon, a site that’s free to enter and offers a peaceful break from the busier ruins. The temple’s remains are smaller but interesting, especially if you’re into classical mythology or religious history. It’s a good spot for photos and a moment of reflection.

Relaxing at Manavgat Waterfall

The last stop is the Manavgat Waterfall, where you’ll get roughly 30 minutes for photos and a quick break. The waterfall is quite scenic, with lush greenery and the sound of rushing water providing a calming end to the busy day. Entrance is included, so no extra costs there. Many reviewers appreciated this stop as a relaxing contrast to the archaeological sites and noted how it offers a chance to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s inclusions make for a comfortable day. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a cool ride between sites, especially during warmer months, and the lunch helps keep everyone energized. The guide service is a key feature, providing context and answering questions, which many reviewers found helpful and engaging.

However, admission fees for Perge and Aspendos are not included, which means you should budget an extra few euros if you want full access to the ruins. The tour also doesn’t include drinks beyond water, so feel free to bring a bottle along.

How the Tour Runs and Who It’s Perfect For

Starting at 8:00 am, the tour typically lasts about 9 hours, making it a full but manageable day. Pickup is offered, simplifying logistics, especially if you’re staying in Antalya. The group cap at 25 travelers keeps things personable and manageable, while the pace is designed to give you enough time at each site without lingering too long.

This tour is especially suited for those with a keen interest in ancient history or archaeology, but it’s also a good choice for travelers who want to see a variety of sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. If you enjoy scenic landscapes, the waterfall stop adds a natural touch, rounding out the experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re fascinated by Roman architecture, enjoy informative guides, and prefer a well-organized day with minimal fuss, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s also ideal if you’re on a tight schedule but want to hit several highlights in one go. Budget travelers will appreciate the cost, especially with lunch and transportation included, but do remember to account for some extra for entrance fees.

Final Thoughts on the Antalya Perge, Aspendos, and Side Tour

This experience offers an authentic glimpse into ancient civilizations with the convenience of a guided day trip. The sites are stunning and well-preserved, especially Aspendos’ theatre, which remains one of the most impressive in the world. The inclusion of lunch and transportation makes it excellent value, removing much of the logistical stress.

The guides are a highlight, with many travelers mentioning their knowledge and helpfulness, though a few noted their guides’ opinions could be a bit strong. The waterfall stop adds a natural break and lovely scenery, perfect for a quick photo or just enjoying Turkey’s outdoors.

If you’re passionate about history, want to learn from engaging guides, and prefer an organized, hassle-free day, this tour will serve you well. Keep in mind the extra costs for entrance tickets, and plan your day around enjoying each site at your own pace.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Tour

Are pickup services available?
Yes, pickup is offered, making your start in the morning straightforward and easy.

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, from 8:00 am to around 5:00 pm.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, entry to Perge and Aspendos is extra, so budget for that if you want to explore the sites fully.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and groups are limited to 25 for a more personal experience.

What language does the guide speak?
The guides are fluent in English and provide detailed explanations of each site.

Is water provided during the tour?
Yes, water is available, and the vehicle is air-conditioned for comfort.

Can I buy souvenirs at the sites?
Yes, there are shopping opportunities, possibly along the way, but this isn’t a major focus of the tour.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, comfortable shoes, some extra cash for entrance fees and souvenirs, and a camera for photos.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional lunch is provided, which is a nice break during the busy day.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 16 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure their spot.

This tour is a practical and engaging way to see some of the most remarkable ancient sites near Antalya without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for history lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to understand Turkey’s deep past while enjoying scenic and cultural highlights.