Antalya Tour To Perge Aspendos And Side With Manavgat Waterfall

If you’re after a well-rounded day that combines history, natural beauty, and some good Turkish eats, the Antalya Tour to Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfall might just hit the spot. Priced at $70 per person, this full-day experience promises around 7 to 8 hours of sightseeing, with hotel pickup included. The tour is highly recommended—garnering a solid 5-star rating from 26 reviews—and it’s clear many travelers leave feeling they’ve truly seen the highlights of this part of Turkey. I appreciate how this trip balances exploring ancient ruins with relaxing natural scenery, all wrapped up in one day.

What I particularly like about this tour is its focus on authentic experiences. First, the visit to Perge offers a window into Roman architecture that’s both impressive and historically significant, especially since most of the statues discovered here now reside in the Antalya Museum. The guide’s commentary really brings the site to life, making it more than just a bunch of old stones. Second, Aspendos stands out not only for its remarkably preserved Roman theater, still used today for festivals, but also for how accessible and atmospheric the site feels—imagine sitting in an amphitheater that’s nearly 2,000 years old while enjoying a summer’s evening event.

One thing to keep in mind is that, while the tour offers great value and in-depth stops, entrance fees are not included for the archaeological sites. If you’re a history buff, that’s worth budget planning for. Plus, some reviews mention the overall cost being a bit higher than booking independently through other providers, so it’s good to compare prices if you’re looking to save. The tour’s small group size (up to 25 travelers) makes it more intimate, and the professional guide, often praised for their clear English and knowledge, helps make each stop engaging.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Combines ancient sites and natural highlights in a single day.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like the one praised for clear explanations enhance the experience.
• Natural beauty: Manavgat Waterfall provides a serene contrast to the historic ruins.
• Value for price: Includes hotel pickup and lunch, delivering a lot for $70.
• Timing and group size: Small groups and well-paced schedule make for a comfortable day.
• Entrance fees: Not included, so budget for those if you plan to go inside the sites.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

If I were to describe this experience, I’d say it’s a beautifully curated snapshot of Antalya’s most treasured sights, balanced with some leisure moments. From start to finish, the luxury of hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport makes it easier to settle into the day. A charismatic guide accompanies you, often praised for their clarity and deep knowledge, making even the most ancient ruins feel lively and accessible.

The Journey Begins in Antalya

Your day kicks off at 8:00 am from a convenient meeting point near McDonald’s in Antalya. Once you’re on the bus, the scenic drive to the first stop, Perge, begins. The comfortable, climate-controlled transport means you can sit back and relax while getting your first glimpses of the region’s landscape. The small group setting (up to 25 travelers) ensures you don’t feel rushed or lost in the crowd.

Perge Ancient City: Roman Grandeur

Perge is where the tour truly shines for history fans. This city, built after the Trojan War, showcases impressive Roman architecture—think majestic city walls, a theatre capable of seating thousands, a gladiatorial stadium, and a Bronze Age acropolis. The guide explains how Perge played a central role in the region’s ancient past, and many statues uncovered here now adorn the Antalya Museum.

One reviewer, Linda, highlights the guide’s skill, saying, “Guide was very knowledgeable. Spoke English very clearly, easy to follow and understand. Left us enough time on our own to really enjoy the time.” That’s a valuable trait, especially when exploring such expansive and meaningful sites. Be prepared for some walking—moderate physical fitness is recommended—but the experience of standing amidst ancient stones and imagining life thousands of years ago is well worth it.

Aspendos: The Roman Theatre Marvel

Next, you’re whisked away to Aspendos, located beside the Köprüçay River. The highlight here is the ancient Roman theatre, still used today for festivals. With a capacity of 15,000, it’s one of the best-preserved theaters in Anatolia, and its acoustics are legendary. Walking into this ancient site, you’ll appreciate how the Romans engineered their entertainment venues to last millennia.

The site was once a thriving trading hub, and your guide sheds light on its importance during Roman times. While entrance fees are not included, many visitors find that the $70 price point offers good overall value considering the guide, transportation, and the chance to see two incredible ancient sites.

Lunch and Relaxation at Side

Midday, a well-deserved break for a local lunch. The included hour at a nearby restaurant allows you to enjoy freshly made Turkish dishes and rest your feet. I recommend trying some local specialties if the opportunity arises; it’s a chance to relax and savor authentic flavors.

Side: A Seaside Walk Through History

Post-lunch, it’s time to explore Side, a lively seaside town rich with archaeological treasures. The marble columns, Roman theatre (which once hosted gladiators), and the temple of Apollo make this a site filled with drama and scenic beauty. You’ll also enjoy scenic views over the Mediterranean—if weather permits, it’s a striking backdrop for photos or just soaking in the Mediterranean breeze.

One traveler noted, “During your time there, you may also enjoy some views over the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea,” which sums up how memorable this part of the tour can be. The site has a lively atmosphere, and the guide helps bring the ancient stones into context.

Manavgat Waterfall: Nature’s Quiet Showstopper

After Side, the journey heads to Manavgat Waterfall. This isn’t just a cascade of water—it’s a peaceful spot where emerald waters splash into a tranquil lake, and the surrounding greenery makes for perfect photo opportunities. The waterfall is a relaxing stop, offering a pleasant contrast to the ruins.

The reviews mention the “stunning views” here, and many guests leave with great photos and a sense of calm. Note that entrance fees are not included, but the waterfall’s scenery alone makes it worth a quick visit.

Return to Antalya & Reflect

Finally, the bus makes its way back to Antalya around 4 pm, ending your day with a sense of accomplishment and a head full of memories. Many travelers mention feeling “full of memories and a sense of sweet tiredness,” which is a good sign you’ve experienced a fulfilling day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, scenic landscapes, and social comfort. If you appreciate learning about ancient civilizations while also enjoying natural stops like waterfalls, you’ll find this itinerary engaging. The small group size and professional guide make it ideal for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience rather than large, crowded tours.

It’s also a good option for travelers with moderate physical fitness—there’s some walking involved, but it’s manageable for most. Since entrance fees are not included, budget-conscious travelers should consider this when planning, but the overall value—considering transportation, guide, and lunch—makes it a compelling choice.

Final Thoughts

This Antalya day tour offers a balanced glimpse of Turkey’s archaeological wonders alongside relaxing moments in nature. The guide’s knowledge, especially the commentary on sites like Perge and Aspendos, elevates the experience, making ancient history accessible and engaging. The scenic drive, combined with stops at iconic and well-preserved sites, ensures you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the region’s past and present.

While the cost is reasonable, travelers should plan to pay for entrance fees separately if they want to explore inside the ruins. The inclusion of hotel pickup and lunch simplifies the day, allowing you to focus on the sights and sounds.

This tour provides excellent value for those looking to see the highlights of Antalya without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, natural beauty lovers, and anyone wanting a reliable and informative day out in Turkey.

FAQs

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 7 to 8 hours, with most of the day spent exploring different sites and enjoying a lunch break.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees?
Yes, entrance fees for places like Perge, Aspendos, and Side are not included and should be budgeted separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific information on children isn’t provided, the moderate physical activity and historical sites suggest it’s suitable for older kids with some stamina.

What’s the capacity of the group?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and less hectic.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a camera, and clothing suitable for walking and outdoor sightseeing are recommended.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a guided group tour, customization isn’t typically offered. But arriving with specific questions about history or taking photos during free time is encouraged.

This tour offers a fulfilling day of culture, scenery, and history—an excellent way to see the best of Antalya’s ancient and natural treasures with ease.