Antalya: Perge, Aspendos & City of Side Day Trip with Lunch

Exploring Turkey’s southern coast offers a treasure trove of ancient ruins, and this day trip from Antalya packs some of the best into a manageable 9-hour itinerary. For around $59, you’ll get a well-rounded look at the Roman, Hellenistic, and early cityscapes that make this region so fascinating—plus the chance to see some of Turkey’s best-preserved ancient theaters and aqueducts.

What really makes this tour stand out are the detailed, knowledgeable guides—one reviewer raved about Ozzie, who brought history alive with friendly explanations—and the seamless logistics that make it a stress-free way to see multiple sites in one day. That said, it’s a busy day, and if you’re hoping to linger long at each stop, you might find the schedule a little tight. Still, the combination of scenic ruins and local flavor creates a solid value for history lovers and curious travelers alike.

One small consideration: entry tickets to Perge and Aspendos are not included, so plan for a modest extra expense. And if you’re not a fan of early mornings or long days on your feet, it’s worth noting this is a full, active tour. But for those who want a comprehensive taste of southern Turkey’s ancient past without the hassle of self-planning, it’s a solid choice.

Key points and takeaways

Knowledgeable guides make a difference. Reviewers praised guides like Ozzie and Cill for their friendliness and engaging storytelling, making history accessible and fun.

The sites are well-chosen for maximum impact. From Perge’s Roman stadium and colonnaded streets to Aspendos’s world-renowned theater, each stop offers a snapshot of ancient grandeur.

Lunch with a view adds local flavor. The restaurant on the Euromedon River provides a relaxing break amid scenic surroundings, and the fish comes highly recommended.

Entry fees are extra. Be prepared for additional costs at Perge and Aspendos, which are not included in the ticket price.

The tour is best suited for active, historically curious travelers. Expect a busy day with lots of walking and site exploration.

Small group size ensures personalized attention. The tour group is intimate enough for questions and tailored experiences, according to reviews.

Discovering Ancient Pamphylia and Roman Splendor

I love the way this tour begins with a visit to Perge, the ancient capital of Pamphylia. Walking through the ruins of what was once a bustling city, you’ll see features like the Roman Gate, Stadium, and Roman Baths—testaments to how advanced and organized these cities were. What makes Perge especially interesting is the way it stands as a snapshot of Roman urban planning, with wide colonnaded streets and public spaces that still evoke the hustle of ancient life.

Our guide, like Ozzie, seems to understand that a good story makes ruins come alive. You’ll learn about the city’s strategic importance and its role in regional trade, all delivered with friendly enthusiasm. The Tour’s focus on key features like the Nymphaeum, Hellenistic Gate, and Column Street helps you visualize life in ancient times without drowning in details.

Next, you’ll drive to Aspendos, where the star of the show is the antique theater—widely regarded as the best-preserved Roman theater in the world. Its astonishing acoustics and elaborate design mean it’s still used for performances today. Just imagine sitting here during a concert, feeling the history echo around you. The theater’s completeness and preservation are impressive, and guides often share fun tidbits about how the Romans built such durable structures.

Not far from Aspendos, the antique aqueduct spans the landscape, a testament to ancient engineering. It’s not just a pretty ruin—this was a crucial water supply system for the region, showing how advanced these early engineers were. You’ll want your camera ready for the sweeping views of the countryside and the aqueduct’s arches.

Having soaked up history, a river-side lunch offers a well-earned break. The restaurant’s setting on the Euromedon River provides a peaceful backdrop, especially if you opt for the fish dish that many reviewers rave about. It’s a good chance to chat with fellow travelers or just enjoy the view.

The afternoon takes you to the ancient city of Side, with its sprawling Agora, impressive theater, and ancient temples. Here, the ruins of a city that dates back to the 17th century B.C. remind you that this coast has been a hub of civilization for thousands of years. It’s a lively spot, and many say it’s a highlight to stand in the midst of these stones and imagine the bustling marketplaces of days gone by.

Finally, the Manavgat Waterfall provides a scenic, refreshing finish to the day. The falls are a lovely spot to relax before heading back to your hotel. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s friendly explanations and the smooth logistics make the entire experience enjoyable.

Price, logistics, and overall value

At $59 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck—transport, guided commentary, and lunch included. While entry fees to Perge and Aspendos are extra, most travelers agree the experience is worth the small additional expense. The tour’s duration of 9 hours means you’ll cover significant ground without feeling rushed, thanks to the efficient pickup and drop-off at your hotel.

The group size is small enough for personal attention, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and depth of knowledge. The pickup from your hotel means avoiding the hassle of navigating public transport or hiring a car, making it an excellent option for those who want to relax and focus on the sites.

The only real trade-off is the pace—if you like lingering longer at each site, you might find the schedule a little tight. But for most, it’s a good balance of sightseeing and comfort. Plus, the chance to see the best preserved Roman theater in Turkey and walk through the ruins of Perge makes the price worthwhile.

Who should consider this tour?

This trip is ideal for history enthusiasts and travelers who appreciate a guided experience that combines expert storytelling with practical logistics. It’s also well-suited for those with limited time in Antalya but eager to see key ancient sites. Active travelers will enjoy the amount of walking and exploring, while those interested in Roman and Hellenistic architecture will find plenty to marvel at.

Keep in mind it involves a fairly full day, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility challenges, you might want to consider a different option. Also, it’s best for travelers under 95 years old and under 140 kg (309 lbs), as specified in the restrictions.

Final thoughts

This day trip from Antalya offers a compelling blend of ancient history, scenic landscapes, and local flavor—all at an accessible price point. The expertly led commentary turns what could be just another archaeological tour into an engaging storytelling experience. The stops at Perge, Aspendos, and Side are highlights not just for their archaeological significance but for the palpable sense of history they impart.

The inclusion of a riverside lunch adds a relaxing break and a taste of local life, while the scenic waterfall leaves you with a refreshing memory. With small group sizes and friendly guides, it’s a tour that feels personal without sacrificing the richness of the experience.

For anyone eager to explore Turkey’s ancient past without the stress of planning, this tour strikes a good balance of value, convenience, and authenticity—making it a worthwhile adventure for history lovers, cultural explorers, and curious travelers alike.

FAQ

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or location within Antalya, making the start of your day smooth and convenient.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and walking.

Do I need to buy entry tickets?
Entry to Perge and Aspendos is not included, so there will be an additional small fee at each site.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, and an umbrella are recommended. Drones, bikes, and alcohol are not allowed.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best for people under 95 years old and weighing less than 140 kg (309 lbs). Active walking is involved, so consider your mobility.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for changing plans.

Is there a maximum group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a small group size that allows for personal interaction and attentive guides.

What language is the tour guide speaking?
English is the primary language, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling throughout the day.