From City of Side/Alanya: Perge, Aspendos and Kursunlu Trip

Discovering the Heritage and Nature of Antalya: A Day Trip from Side

This tour of Antalya’s highlights offers an engaging mix of archaeology and natural beauty—all for just $45. It’s a well-rounded way to see some of Turkey’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning individual visits. The journey takes you through ancient Roman sites like Perge and Aspendos, before winding down at the peaceful Kursunlu Waterfall.

What I particularly like about this experience is how accessible it makes Turkey’s rich history—your guide, often fluent in multiple languages, helps bring the ruins to life with stories about their past. Plus, the stop at Kursunlu Waterfall provides a relaxing break from the archaeological immersion; it’s a chance to breathe in the fresh air and snap some scenic photos. The inclusion of lunch, insurance, and hotel pickup adds to the overall value, making it a convenient package.

One potential drawback is that this tour isn’t suited for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users. The walking around ancient sites can be uneven, and the natural terrain around the waterfall might be a bit tricky for some. Also, entrance fees are not included in the $45, so it’s wise to bring some extra cash, especially for Aspendos, which is renowned for its remarkably preserved Roman theater.

This trip offers a balanced mix of cultural insight and natural relaxation—perfect for first-timers wanting a comprehensive taste of Antalya’s treasures without overloading a single day.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic ruins: Get a close look at the Roman city of Perge, with its impressive columns and structures still standing after thousands of years.
• Architectural marvel: Aspendos hosts one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world, showcasing Roman engineering at its finest.
• Natural serenity: Kursunlu Waterfall provides a peaceful setting and a chance to connect with Turkey’s lush landscape.
• Guided expertise: Your guide offers engaging stories about Roman history and local culture, enhancing the experience.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off, along with lunch included, make this a hassle-free outing.
• Extra costs: Entrance tickets are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly for sites like Aspendos.

Exploring the Tour in Detail: A Full Day of History and Nature

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup in Side

Your adventure begins early with hotel pickup in Side, which is generally smooth and well-organized, according to reviews. The bus ride to Perge takes about an hour, giving you a chance to relax and get oriented. This portion of the journey often features a friendly guide, sometimes named, who shares tidbits about the region’s history and local scenery.

Visiting Perge: An Ancient Roman City

Perge is arguably the most fascinating stop for history lovers. As you step onto the site, you’ll immediately notice the well-preserved ruins that date back to the Roman period. I love the way Perge’s expansive agora and stadium give you a real sense of how bustling and organized this ancient city was—it’s like walking through a living map of antiquity.

Your tour guide, often fluent in English, Czech, German, or Slovak, will explain the significance of each site—such as the city’s role as a major hub in the Roman Empire and its impressive stadium, which could seat thousands. Expect to see columns, mosaics, and even remnants of ancient baths. Many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling, which makes the ruins feel accessible and interesting, even for those unfamiliar with Roman history.

Aspendos: The Roman Theater

Next, you’ll head to Aspendos, renowned for its extraordinarily well-preserved Roman theater. Built almost 2,000 years ago, it still hosts performances today, a testament to the engineering prowess of its creators. Standing in the theater, I couldn’t help but marvel at how the acoustics work perfectly, allowing a whisper from the stage to reach the entire amphitheater, a fact appreciated by many visitors.

Beyond the theater, other ruins like aqueduct remains and ancient baths add context to the site’s grandeur. The guide will detail how Aspendos was a significant cultural and commercial center in its heyday. It’s easy to spend extra time exploring, and many reviews mention that this site alone is worth the trip for architecture buffs.

Kursunlu Waterfall: A Natural Finale

The last stop is Kursunlu Waterfall, set in a lush, tranquil environment. As you stroll around, you’ll notice the cool mist from the falls and the vibrant greenery, offering a contrast to the ancient stones. Many visitors say that this peaceful setting is perfect for relaxing after a busy morning of sightseeing.

You’ll have time to wander, take photos, or just sit and enjoy the natural serenity. The waterfall is also a great spot for a quick picnic or to simply reflect on the day’s discoveries. For nature lovers, it’s a perfect winding down.

Return to Side

The return trip is usually around an hour, giving you a chance to relax and review what you’ve seen. The day’s pacing feels manageable, balancing structured touring with moments for personal exploration.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price and Value: For $45, the tour covers transportation, guide services, lunch, and insurance—on paper, quite a deal for a full-day experience. Entrance fees for Aspendos (and potentially Perge, if not included) aren’t covered, so bring a few extra Turkish Lira.
• Timing: Check the availability and start times, which typically run in the morning. Confirm your pickup time with the local operator to avoid waiting.
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes are essential—think sturdy sandals or sneakers. Sunscreen, a hat, camera, and water will make your day more comfortable.
• Accessibility: Be aware that this tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and walking distances around ruins and the waterfall.
• Languages: Guides and audio guides are available in English, German, Czech, and Slovak, so you can choose the language you’re most comfortable with.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to explore well-preserved Roman sites without the hassle of navigating on their own. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of historical immersion and natural beauty—especially if you enjoy scenic spots like waterfalls. If you’re traveling light and don’t mind a full day on a bus, this tour offers good value and rich insights.

However, if you have mobility challenges or prefer more leisurely, less structured sightseeing, you might want to consider alternatives. Also, if you’re keen on visiting other sites like the nearby Antalya Museum or exploring Side’s own historic streets, this tour complements but doesn’t replace those experiences.

Summary: Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This trip provides a straightforward way to access some of the most iconic sights near Side—Perge’s ancient ruins, Aspendos’ legendary theater, and Kursunlu Waterfall’s calming scenery—all in one day. The inclusion of lunch and hotel pickup makes it especially convenient, while the moderate price point ensures you’re not overpaying for a comprehensive cultural and natural experience.

While entrance fees are not included, the overall package offers solid value, especially for those interested in history, architecture, and scenic landscapes. It’s a good fit for travelers who want an engaging, informative, and well-organized day without the stress of planning each step.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Side are part of the package, making the experience hassle-free.

How long is the bus ride between Side and the sights?
The transfer to Perge takes about one hour, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance fees for sites like Aspendos are not included in the $45 price, so plan to bring some extra cash.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended for comfort and safety.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, no. The terrain around ruins and the waterfall may be challenging for those with mobility impairments.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides and audio guides are offered in English, German, Czech, and Slovak.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts around 7 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

What makes Aspendos special?
Its remarkably preserved theater, still used for performances today, is considered one of the best in the world.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
History lovers and nature seekers who want a full, balanced day of sightseeing and relaxation will find this trip ideal.

This guided tour from Side offers a smart way to see some of Turkey’s most impressive ruins and natural scenery in a single day. It’s a fine choice for those wanting a straightforward, informative, and scenic experience that balances history with a touch of tranquility.