From City of Side: Perge, Aspendos & Kurunlu Waterfall Trip

Discovering Side, Aspendos, and Kurunlu Waterfall on a Guided Day Trip

This tour from Side offers a well-rounded look at some of Antalya’s best historical sites and natural scenery, all packed into roughly eight hours. You’ll visit the remarkably well-preserved Aspendos Amphitheater, wander the ancient streets of Perge, and relax amidst lush greenery at the Kurunlu Waterfall. A friendly guide, comfortable transport, and a tasty included lunch make this an accessible and engaging way to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

What I appreciate most about this experience is the expert guidance—many reviews highlight guides like Murat who bring history to life with stories and explanations. The timing is well-structured, offering enough time at each site without feeling rushed, and the scenic waterfall provides a peaceful natural end to a day filled with ruins and storytelling.

One potential hiccup is the extra cost for entrance fees—Perge and Aspendos each charge around 11 and 15 Euros respectively, and Kurunlu Waterfall has an entry fee of 75 TL. While the tour price covers transportation and lunch, paying separately for these sites might surprise some travelers expecting all-inclusive pricing. Also, note that there’s no swimming during the waterfall stop, so if you’re dreaming of a dip, this isn’t the trip for you.

This tour offers more than just sightseeing; it’s an authentic experience that combines history, nature, and local flavor, making it a smart choice for those eager to see some of Antalya’s most celebrated attractions with ease and insight.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert guides like Murat bring history to life with engaging stories and clear explanations.
• Well-organized itinerary ensures you see major highlights without long waits or rushes.
• Entrance fees are not included, so budget around €11 for Perge and Aspendos, plus TL75 for Kurunlu.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning helps keep you relaxed through long travel stretches.
• Natural beauty at Kurunlu Waterfall offers a peaceful contrast to the ruins.
• Good value for money considering the guided tours, transport, and included lunch.

Starting the Day in Side: Seamless Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with hotel pickups from several locations in Side, Sorgun, Titreyengöl, Kumköy, Evrenseki, Çolakl, and Gündoğdu. Expect to be picked up around 8:30 am, with some variation based on your hotel. The buses are air-conditioned, which is crucial in the warm Turkish climate, especially on busy days.

Many reviews praise the smooth logistics, with one reviewer noting, “prompt pick-up and a very comfortable ride,” while others appreciate the convenience of hotel-to-hotel transport. The group size often feels intimate enough for good interaction, yet large enough to foster a lively atmosphere. The bus is a bit dated according to some, but generally reliable.

Aspendos Amphitheater: A Masterpiece of Roman Engineering

Your first major stop is Aspendos, home to what many claim is the best-preserved Roman theater in Turkey. Built in the 2nd century AD, this amphitheater is renowned for its spectacular acoustics, allowing even soft whispers to be heard without amplification. As one reviewer put it, “Feel the echoes of history as you wander through this marvel.”

Expect about an hour here, including a guided walk that explains how it was used for performances and public gatherings. Some visitors highlight the adjacent Aspendos Bridge as a beautiful example of Roman engineering. When I’ve visited, I loved the feeling of standing amid such ancient grandeur and imagining the crowds that once filled this space.

While entrance fees are not included (around €15), the cost is justified by the remarkably intact structure, which often feels like stepping back into a historical film set.

Perge Ancient City: Walking Through a Roman Metropolis

Next, the journey takes you to Perge, a site often described as “a city of mosaics and impressive ruins.” You’ll spend about two hours wandering through well-preserved streets, theaters, and baths. The guide usually points out intricate mosaics and tells stories of the city’s past as a bustling hub of commerce and culture.

Reviewers frequently mention the size and scope of Perge—the stadium, the agora, and the theater are standout features. One reviewer remarked, “The ruins are impressive, and it felt like walking through a history book.” Be prepared for uneven terrain and some walking; sturdy shoes are recommended.

The entrance fee (about €11) is extra, but many feel it’s a small price for such a glimpse into ancient life. The guide adds context that makes the stones and columns come alive, turning a simple stroll into a fascinating history lesson.

Lunch Break: Tasty Turkish Cuisine Made Easy

After exploring Perge, the tour stops at a local restaurant for about 45 minutes. The included lunch offers a choice of fish, chicken, or Adana kebap, served with rice, salads, and a buffet-style appetizer. Several reviews praise the quality and flavor of the meal, mentioning that it exceeds expectations for a tour lunch.

Note that drinks are not included, so bringing cash for water or soft drinks is advised. Some reviewers mention that pre-ordering the meal helps keep everything running smoothly, as Murat, the guide, takes care of the arrangements.

Aspendos Theater: A Cultural Highlight

Post-lunch, you’ll head to the Aspendos Amphitheater, known for its remarkable preservation and capacity to seat approximately 15,000 spectators. The theater’s exceptional acoustics still allow sound to carry to the upper levels, making it a favorite for performers even today.

The visit here lasts around an hour, giving you time to explore the tiered seating, stage, and surrounding structures. Many visitors find the theater breathtaking, and some quote guides who passionately explain its history and architecture.

The entrance fee (around €15) isn’t included, but the experience of walking through such an intact Roman theater is worth the extra cost.

Kurunlu Waterfall: Nature’s Quiet Escape

The last stop of the day is the Kursunlu Waterfall, a lush area where the water cascades down rocks amid greenery. It’s a peaceful spot for a leisurely walk and some photos. You’ll have about 45 minutes here, enough for a quick hike and to enjoy the fresh air.

Reviewers love this natural stop, describing it as “a calming finish to a busy day” or “a little piece of paradise.” It’s a great opportunity to relax, take photos, or just listen to the soothing sounds of water.

While you won’t be swimming—no swim break is included—the scenery alone makes it worth the visit.

Practicalities and What to Know

The tour lasts roughly eight hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening. Entrance fees are paid separately—about €11 for Perge, €15 for Aspendos, and TL75 for Kurunlu—so plan accordingly. The guide often makes clear that passing a Museum Card can help skip some security checks at the sites, though not at Kurunlu.

The transportation is comfortable but not luxurious; expect a bus that’s functional but may not have the latest amenities. The guide, often praised for their knowledge and passion, usually speaks both English and German fluently.

Remember to bring sunglasses, sunhat, camera, sunscreen, and cash for extras. No pets are allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues. If you’re a history lover or looking for a balanced mix of culture and nature, this trip hits the mark.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers interested in history, archaeology, and natural beauty without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It’s especially good if you want a guided experience that’s both educational and relaxing. The included lunch and transportation add value, making it accessible for most budgets.

If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive glimpse of the region’s highlights, this tour offers a manageable day packed with memorable sites. However, if you’re looking to swim or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to consider other options or extend your stay to visit these spots independently.

FAQs

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fees for Perge (€11), Aspendos (€15), and Kurunlu Waterfall (75 TL) are paid separately by travelers.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, cash for extras, and comfortable clothes. Since there’s no swimming, swimwear isn’t necessary.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about eight hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the evening.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to walking on uneven terrain and the nature of some sites.

Can I pass through the entrance security with a Museum Card?
Yes, if you have a Museum Card, you can use it to skip security checks at the entrance, but not at Kurunlu Waterfall.

Is lunch included, and what are the options?
Yes, a Turkish lunch with options like fish, chicken, or Adana kebap is included, served with rice, salads, and a buffet appetizer.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Side offers a well-balanced day of ancient ruins, cultural storytelling, and natural scenery. Guides like Murat make history engaging, and the sites visited are some of Turkey’s most impressive. It’s a good pick for anyone wanting a full, guided experience without the stress of planning each detail. The cost is reasonable given the transportation, guiding, and lunch, though travelers should budget extra for entrance fees.

If you love exploring archaeological sites, enjoy scenic waterfalls, and appreciate knowledgeable guides who make history fun, this trip delivers. It’s particularly strong if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of the region’s highlights. Just keep an eye on additional costs and prepare for a full but rewarding day.

Enjoy your trip and the stories these ancient sites will tell you—long after you’ve left their stones behind.