Antalya: Perge, Aspendos, City of Side, and Waterfalls Tour

Exploring Antalya without visiting its ancient ruins and natural wonders would be like skipping the best part of a Turkish kebab — you miss out on some real flavor. This tour, offered by TOURMANIA, takes you on a well-paced nine-hour journey into the past, highlighting three incredible archaeological sites—Perge, Aspendos, and Side—plus a refreshing stop at Manavgat Waterfalls. It’s a classic day-trip package that blends history, scenery, and a splash of nature, all wrapped up in a comfortable, organized experience.

What I particularly like about this tour is how smoothly it’s set up — hotel pickup means no fuss about finding your way, and the language is in English, which keeps things clear. The guides seem to be a hit, based on rave reviews, especially the lively, knowledgeable Ozzy and Ibrahim, who make the history come alive without sounding like walking encyclopedias. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and a stop at the waterfalls makes the whole day feel balanced — not just a museum crawl but a chance to enjoy some of Antalya’s scenic beauty.

A possible hitch? The day is packed, and some travelers have wished for more time at specific sites, especially Aspendos, which is famous for its theater. If you’re a big history buff or love exploring at your own pace, you might find the schedule a little tight. Also, the man-made waterfall at the end gets mixed reviews — it’s lovely but perhaps not as wild or natural as some would hope. Still, the overall value, especially at only $37, makes this a solid choice for most visitors.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert Guides Make It Engaging: Guides like Ozzy and Ibrahim earn high praise for their knowledge and humor, making history accessible.
• Well-Organized Schedule: The itinerary balances guided tours with free exploration, giving you time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.
• Stunning Ancient Ruins: Perge’s sprawling Roman ruins and Aspendos’ well-preserved theater showcase impressive architecture and engineering.
• Affordable Price for Full-Day Experience: At $37 per person, including lunch and hotel pickup, it’s a cost-effective way to see much of Antalya’s historical highlights.
• Natural Beauty and Refreshing Breaks: Manavgat Waterfalls offer a welcome cooling-off and a chance to enjoy Turkey’s lush environment.
• Some Tips on Comfort & Timing: The bus is air-conditioned, but reviews mention limited legroom, and the day’s long, so comfort depends on your patience and trip expectations.

Exploring Antalya’s Ancient Gems and Natural Beauty

Antalya’s landscape is a tapestry of history and nature, and this tour aims to showcase both. If you’re craving an efficient way to visit key archaeological sites and enjoy some scenic relaxation, this trip hits the mark. I’ll walk through what you can expect at each stop, highlight what makes it special, and share insights from fellow travelers.

Comfortable Transportation and Convenient Pickup

First off, the logistics are nicely handled. The tour includes hotel pickup from either Antalya or Side, so you don’t need to worry about transportation. The bus itself is air-conditioned, which is a godsend given Antalya’s hot summers, though some reviewers note the legroom can be tight. Still, the comfort of having everything organized and the driver getting you from one site to the next on time makes a difference.

An Impressive Introduction at Perge

Your first stop is Perge, often called the “mother of all ancient sites” in the region. It’s a sprawling Roman city with ruins dating back to the Bronze Age, so you’ll see a mix of old and older. Walking along the main street, you’re surrounded by tall columns, fountains, and remnants of city walls. A visit to the Roman baths and stadium offers a real sense of scale and sophistication.

What I love here is how guides like Ibrahim explain the significance of each ruin — you get a sense of daily life in Roman times. One reviewer mentions, “The ancient city of Perge was very well preserved and the guide was very knowledgeable,” which makes a big difference in appreciating what you’re walking through.

Aspendos — The Masterpiece of Roman Theater

Next, the focus shifts to Aspendos, home of arguably the best-preserved Roman theater in the world. Built in 155 AD, it’s still used today for performances, which speaks to its durability. Climbing the tiered seats offers views down into the orchestra and the sheer scale of Roman craftsmanship.

Many visitors remark that Aspendos is a must-see, with one saying, “Aspendos is breathtaking,” and another noting they wished for more time to explore it. The theater’s excellent condition makes it feel almost modern, yet centuries old. Guides frequently point out the galleries still in use, adding a lively touch to the visit.

Lunch Break and the Charm of Side

After Aspendos, you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant — simple, rustic, but tasty, as many reviews confirm. It’s a chance to recharge before heading into Side’s ruins. Side is a town that has grown around its impressive ancient theater, agora, and the Temple of Apollo, which offers spectacular views over the Mediterranean.

Walking among the marble columns and ancient fountains, you get a real sense of how this was once a thriving Hellenistic and Roman city. Some reviews mention that Side feels over-restored, but most agree it’s still worth the visit. The view from the temple is truly postcard-worthy.

Manavgat Waterfalls — The Refreshing Finale

The last highlight is the Manavgat Waterfalls, a popular spot to cool off and relax after a day of walking around ruins. The waterfalls aren’t huge, but they are lively enough to provide a refreshing end. The environment is lush and green, with pine scents that add to the relaxing vibe.

A couple of reviewers mention the waterfalls are “more curated than natural,” but most appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to take photos. It’s a lovely way to unwind before heading back to Antalya or Side.

Overall Value and Personal Recommendations

At just $37, this tour offers a lot. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided explanations, and a decent lunch. Given the entrance fees for Perge (€11), Aspendos (€15), and the waterfall (€2), the value is clear. You’re paying mainly for transportation, guides, and convenience — which most travelers find worthwhile.

That said, the tour is quite full, and some reviews suggest that more time at Aspendos or the ruins in Side would improve the experience. If you’re eager to explore at your own pace, you might find yourself wishing for longer at each site. Also, the waterfall’s small size and somewhat “curated” feel may not satisfy those seeking untouched nature.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history lovers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning individual visits. It’s perfect if you prefer having a guide to fill in the blanks and keep things moving. Families with kids seem to enjoy it, especially with the lively guides and scenic stops.

If you’re a solo traveler or a couple looking for a relaxed, informative day with a good mix of ruins and scenery, this tour can be a great value. On the other hand, if you’re craving more time at each location or a more natural, unspoiled waterfall experience, you might want to consider customizing your day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Antalya or Side, making it easy to start your day without logistical worries.

How long is the total tour duration?
It lasts about 9 hours, from pickup to drop-off, with a detailed itinerary that balances guided visits and free exploration.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Perge (€11), Aspendos (€15), and the waterfall (€2) are paid separately. The tour price focuses on transportation, guides, and lunch.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and perhaps a hat or water bottle. The bus is air-conditioned but the sites can be hot.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that kids enjoyed it, especially with knowledgeable guides like Ozzy who make history fun.

Can I buy souvenirs during the stops?
Yes, there are visitor centers and shopping stops where you can pick up local souvenirs, jewelry, or snacks.

Final thoughts

This Antalya day trip from TOURMANIA provides a practical, well-organized way to explore some of Turkey’s most significant ancient sites paired with scenic natural stops. If you’re interested in Roman architecture, Hellenistic ruins, or just want a taste of Antalya’s history without the hassle of planning, this tour offers excellent value. Expect knowledgeable guides who make history approachable, a comfortable ride, and plenty of photo opportunities.

While the schedule is tight and some might wish for more time at each stop, the overall experience is engaging and rewarding — especially for those eager to walk through history and enjoy Turkey’s lush landscapes. This tour suits travelers who want a full, satisfying day with a good mix of culture, scenery, and local flavor. It’s a solid choice for making the most of your time in the Antalya region without breaking the bank.