Antalya Perge Aspendos Side 1 Day Tours with lunch

If you’re a history enthusiast or just love exploring ancient sites, the Antalya Perge Aspendos Side day tour offers a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s Roman past. Priced at just over $18, this guided excursion packs in several iconic ruins, a stunning theater, and even a waterfall—all in a comfortable 9-hour window. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of expert guides, scenic stops, and the chance to stroll through some of the most well-preserved ancient sites near Antalya.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the balance between sightseeing and comfort. The air-conditioned transportation, included lunch, and water at the waterfall help keep things enjoyable, especially on a long day. The slight caveat is that, since entrance fees to Perge and Aspendos aren’t included, you’ll need some extra cash for those. Still, for the price, this is a fantastic way to learn about history with a guide who, as reviews tell us, is clearly very knowledgeable—even if a bit opinionated at times.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to cover multiple historical sites without the hassle of planning, and those interested in seeing Antalya’s archaeological highlights in one go. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and a group size limited to 25 people, this will suit you well. Let’s take a detailed look at what this day has in store.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfall.
• Expert guides share detailed insights, although some reviews mention a very opinionated style.
• Affordable price point offers great value, especially with included lunch and waterfall ticket.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation makes it a low-risk choice.
• Accessible for most travelers since it starts early and is near public transportation.
• Limited entrance fees mean you should budget for site tickets separately.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Out: Pickup and Early Morning Start

The tour kicks off promptly at 8:00 am with pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride, and with a maximum group size of 25 travelers, it feels personal without being crowded. Being picked up early means you beat some of the crowds at the sites, especially at Perge, which is a real plus according to reviews. One traveler mentioned arriving ahead of the holiday crowds, giving them a more intimate experience at the ruins.

Stop 1: Perge Antik Kenti

Perge is often considered the second-best ancient city in the region, after nearby Aspendos. We loved the way the tour highlights its extensive remains, including a stadium, Roman baths, and an agora (marketplace). The site is vast, and exploring it allows you to imagine what life was like in Roman times. The tour allocates around 1.5 hours here, which is enough to see the main highlights, but note that admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.

A reviewer shared, “The ruins at Perge are wonderful,” and the early visit meant the site was largely empty, adding to the magic. The guide’s detailed explanations help breathe life into the stones, making history feel very real.

Stop 2: Aspendos Ruins

Next up is Aspendos, famous worldwide for its ancient theater, often heralded as the best preserved Roman theater. The theater’s acoustic quality is legendary—standing at the top row and whispering will make you believe in its supernatural sound properties. Beyond the theater, you’ll see a Roman aqueduct and other structures, all built with impressive craftsmanship.

The tour allocates an hour here, but many visitors find this sufficient to appreciate the grandeur. One reviewer called the theater “magnificent,” and many felt that standing in it gave a genuine sense of history.

Stop 3: Apollon Temple

This site is a quick, yet intriguing stop at the Temple of Apollo. While the site is free to visit and doesn’t require an entrance fee, it offers a fascinating glimpse into religious architecture. It’s a place where you can wander and reflect, and some might find it less crowded than other stops.

Stop 4: Manavgat Waterfall

The waterfall provides a scenic break and a perfect photo opportunity. The 30-minute stop is enough to snap some pictures and enjoy the natural beauty. Entrance tickets are included, and reviews mention this as a peaceful, visually enjoyable part of the day. One traveler noted, “It was a nice photo break,” which adds a relaxing touch to the otherwise archaeological-heavy itinerary.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour covers air-conditioned transport, guided commentary, lunch, and the waterfall ticket. This makes it a good value, especially considering the cost. However, entrance fees for Perge and Aspendos are not included, so budget around 20-25 TL per site. Reviewers advise to bring some cash for this purpose.

The provided lunch is typically a Turkish meal, adding a local flavor to the experience. The guides are praised for their helpfulness, though one critic mentioned the guide being somewhat opinionated—still, their knowledge is undeniable.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The positives are clear: expert guides, access to some of the most remarkable ancient sites, and the scenic diversity of ruins and waterfalls. The group size of 25 feels just right to enjoy a personal experience without feeling lost in a crowd. The early start helps beat the heat and the crowds, which many travelers appreciate.

Potential drawbacks include the need for separate payments for site entrance fees. Also, some reviews mention the guide’s personality—while very knowledgeable, he can be opinionated, which might not suit everyone. Still, most found his insights enriching and appreciated his enthusiasm.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for history buffs, first-time visitors eager to see Antalya’s highlights, and travelers who enjoy guided storytelling. It’s also suitable for those who want a balanced mix of culture and natural scenery—from ancient ruins to waterfalls. If you’re on a budget and want a rundown without the hassle of planning, this tour offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re craving a full day immersed in ancient history, combined with scenic stops and an easy, organized experience, this tour hits the mark. The knowledgeable guides and scenic ruins will leave you with lasting impressions, whether you’re marveling at the acoustics of Aspendos or wandering through the ruins of Perge.

The inclusion of lunch and waterfall tickets, along with the comfortable transport, makes this a practical choice. Do keep in mind you’ll need to budget separately for entrance fees, but this keeps the initial price very attractive. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the early start helps avoid the crowds, especially at Perge.

In summary, this tour offers a cost-effective, well-organized way to connect with Turkey’s Roman past, making it especially appealing for history lovers and those looking for a hassle-free day of exploration. With expert guides, scenic stops, and the flexibility of free cancellation, it’s a solid choice for a day trip out of Antalya.

FAQ

Are transportation and guides included in the tour price?
Yes, the price covers air-conditioned transportation and guided services, making it a comfortable and informative experience.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees separately?
Yes, entrance fees to Perge and Aspendos are not included, so you should budget around 20-25 TL for those sites.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, with a group limited to 25 people. It starts early at 8:00 am, which is good for avoiding crowds, and is accessible for many.

What’s included in the lunch?
The tour offers a provided lunch, typically a Turkish meal, which adds local flavor and helps keep you energized throughout the day.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind for your planning.

This tour combines history, scenery, and convenience into an affordable package—perfect for making the most of your Antalya visit without the stress of organizing everything independently.