From Antalya: Day Tour of Ancient Roman Sites

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the ancient Roman past across Turkey’s southern coast, starting from Antalya. For just $85 per person, you’ll spend around nine hours exploring Perge, one of the largest ancient cities in the region; marveling at the Aspendos amphitheater, still used for performances today; wandering Side’s historic streets and ruins; and ending with a peaceful stop at the Manavgat Waterfalls. It’s a package that balances impressive sights with some relaxed downtime, perfect for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

What I really appreciate about this experience is the knowledgeable guides—most reviews highlight guides like Cengis and Jill, who bring the sites alive with enthusiasm and depth. The inclusion of lunch at a riverside restaurant and all entry tickets makes it feel like good value, especially considering the busy itinerary. Another highlight is how many travelers mention the scenic beauty of the waterfalls and the well-preserved state of the Roman architecture, which helps you truly appreciate what’s been standing for almost 2,000 years.

One thing to keep in mind is the duration and timing—the tour lasts about nine hours, so a good pair of walking shoes and some patience with the heat are recommended. While many reviews praise the leisurely pace and ample free time at each stop, a few mention that some sites, like Perge and Side, could benefit from a little more exploration time. Still, the overall experience is highly rated, with an average of 4.7 out of 5 from 219 reviews, and plenty of positive feedback about the friendly guides, smooth logistics, and delicious meals.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert Guides Make a Difference: Guides like Cengis and Jill bring history to life, making each site more memorable.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Entry tickets and lunch are covered, which adds convenience and value.
• Comfortable Transportation: An air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup make the day stress-free.
• Diverse Sights: From grand ruins like Perge and Aspendos to charming Side and tranquil waterfalls, the tour covers a lot of ground.
• Ideal for History Lovers: The well-preserved sites and detailed explanations appeal to those interested in ancient culture.
• Good for All Seasons: Keep in mind the June-September heat, but the tour’s pace and shaded stops help mitigate this.

Walking the Roman Footsteps: An In-Depth Review

Starting with a Smooth Pickup and Transport

One of the first things most reviewers mention positively is how early and punctual the pickup from Antalya hotels is. The tour is operated by solymos travel, known for their professionalism. The transportation is air-conditioned, which is a blessing on a hot day—trust me, Turkey’s southern coast can get quite warm, especially in summer. The small group size, often around 16 people, keeps things intimate and manageable, allowing for friendly exchanges and personalized attention from guides.

Exploring Perge: The Heart of Pamphylia

Your first stop is Perge, the ancient capital of the Pamphylia region. Here, you’ll wander through massive ruins that stretch about 15 kilometers, with highlights like the Roman Baths, the Agora, Colonnaded Street, and the Nympharium. Many reviews comment on how impressive and well-preserved Perge is—it’s clear why it’s a favorite among visitors. One reviewer noted that Perge was more impressive than expected, and others appreciated the ample free exploration time, though some wished for even longer to soak it all in.

Your guide, often praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, will point out interesting details—like the engineering marvels of the aqueduct or the significance of the stadium where ancient games were held. Some mention the guide offering to take photos, which helps you stay in the moment instead of fiddling with your camera.

Marveling at Aspendos: Still Performing Today

Next, you’ll visit Aspendos, home to what many call the best-preserved Roman theater. Built in the 2nd century AD, it boasts a capacity of 15,000 spectators and is still used for concerts and festivals. Its scale and acoustics make it a highlight of the trip. Several reviews mention being awed by the theater’s condition, with some noting that it’s still in active use, which is pretty extraordinary considering its age.

The guide will share stories about how Aspendos’s theater has survived over centuries, including recent performances. You’ll want to snap photos and imagine the crowds from Roman times filling the seats. Many travelers say they could easily spend more time here, but the tour provides a solid 45-minute stop.

Discovering Side’s Rich Roman Past

After a scenic drive, your next destination is Side, a town that was once a thriving port and the region’s biggest slave market during Roman times. You’ll see theater ruins, Roman Baths, and the Temple of Apollo, all set against a picturesque coastline. Expect to have about an hour of free time to walk around, enjoy the sea, or grab a quick snack. Some reviews mention that Side can feel a bit touristy, with higher prices and crowded streets, but the heritage is undeniable.

One reviewer observed that Side looked beautiful and full of history, but also described it as a tourist trap with pricey shops. Still, the crystal-clear water and the lively atmosphere make it worth a visit. If you love history combined with seaside scenery, you’ll find this stop a highlight.

Relaxing at Manavgat Waterfalls

On the way back to Antalya, the tour makes a scenic stop at Manavgat Waterfalls, a peaceful spot to admire the power of nature. Many reviews describe it as beautiful and tranquil, perfect for a quick photo op. The waterfalls aren’t massive, but the surrounding area and sound of rushing water create a calming atmosphere. Some mention that it’s a short stop—around 20 minutes—but enough to enjoy the view before heading back.

Overall Value and Experience

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Tuly, Jill, and Omar, who infuse the day with personality and insight. The lunch, often described as delicious and plentiful, is an appreciated added touch, especially since it’s included in the cost. Many mention that the food served at the riverside restaurant helps recharge after a morning of walking.

The cost of $85 per person is seen as reasonable considering the full-day itinerary, all entrance fees, and included meals. Some reviews note that the theater at Aspendos and the large ruins at Perge justify the price, especially when compared to the hassle of doing these sites independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs or anyone curious about ancient civilizations. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy organized trips that cover multiple sites efficiently, without the stress of planning individual visits. The small group size, professional guides, and comfortable transportation make it ideal for those who want a relaxed yet enriching day.

If you’re someone who values authentic, well-preserved ruins and great local food, this tour will satisfy. However, if you prefer exploring sites at your own pace or dislike busy tourist spots, you might find the schedule a little tight—though most reviews indicate the balance is quite good.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, including pickup, travel, site visits, and return to your hotel in Antalya.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a tasty lunch at a riverside restaurant is part of the package, with options that include buffet and main courses like chicken, beef, or fish.

Are all entrance tickets included?
All entry fees for the sites visited—Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfalls—are covered in the ticket price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to lots of walking on uneven terrain. Lightweight clothing and sun protection are also advisable.

Can I customize this tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but guides are usually flexible with free exploration time at key sites. If you want to spend extra time at a particular stop, it’s worth mentioning to your guide.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, but some sites with uneven surfaces might require assistance.

Final Thoughts

This day tour from Antalya offers a thoughtful balance of ancient ruins, scenic landscapes, and local culture. For around $85, you get a well-organized, insightful journey that covers some of Turkey’s most important Roman sites, all with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and the guidance of passionate, knowledgeable guides. It’s a great option for those who want a comprehensive look at the region’s history without the hassle of navigating alone.

If you’re eager to see well-preserved Roman architecture and enjoy a scenic, educational, and well-paced day, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, good food, and professional service. Just bring your walking shoes, a sense of curiosity, and perhaps a camera or two—there’s plenty worth capturing.

Whether you’re a history lover or simply looking to add some cultural depth to your trip, this excursion is a dependable, rewarding choice.

Note: For more similar experiences, check out links like Roman Sites & Waterfalls Tour or Full-Day Perge, Aspendos & Side Tour.