Full Day Perge Aspendos Apollo Temple Tour in Antalya

Exploring Antalya’s Ancient Treasures: The Full Day Perge, Aspendos, and Side Tour

This tour offers a fantastic way to step into the layers of history that make Antalya such a captivating destination. Designed for those eager to learn about Roman, Greek, Hellenistic, and Ottoman influences, the experience combines visits to some of the region’s most iconic archaeological sites with natural scenery that’s equally impressive. For a balanced mix of education, scenery, and cultural insight, this tour hits the mark.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly it’s organized—thanks to a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and a well-paced itinerary. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious lunch and the chance to snap memorable photos at Manavgat Waterfall make it a well-rounded day out.

A possible consideration? The admission fees for some sites aren’t included, so budget a little extra for entry tickets. Also, given the itinerary’s packed schedule, you’ll want to be prepared for some walking and sightseeing in the heat. This tour suits travelers who love history, enjoy comfortably paced excursions, and want a rundown of Antalya’s ancient highlights in one day.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combines history, natural beauty, and local culture.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Comfortable transportation and group size around 17 make for a relaxed day.
• Additional costs for entry tickets should be considered in your planning.
• Ideal for history buffs and those wanting to see multiple sites in one trip.
• Excellent reviews highlight the quality of guides and overall enjoyment.

In-Depth Review of the Full Day Perge Aspendos Apollo Temple Tour

The Convenience of Booking and What’s Included

Starting with the practical: at just over $63 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the guided service, air-conditioned vehicle, and hotel pickup and drop-off are all included. The small group size—about 17 people—ensures a more personal experience compared to large tour buses. You’ll also get a mobile ticket, making it easy to manage your reservation.

The tour lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, with most of that time spent exploring fascinating sites and enjoying a hearty lunch. Most travelers book this experience about 10 days in advance, which indicates strong interest and confidence in the itinerary.

The First Stop: Perge Ancient City

Our journey begins at Perge, an archaeological site packed with remnants from the Roman, Greek, and Hellenistic periods. Here, you’ll walk among Roman baths, temples, aqueducts, a theater, and a lively market area. The guide will point out details that reveal how ancient Romans and Greeks went about their daily lives—what their homes were like, how they celebrated, and their social structure.

Reviewers mention that guides like the one from this tour are very knowledgeable and cultured, bringing history vividly to life. One traveler noted, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and cultured,” which helps make the experience memorable. Note that entry to Perge isn’t included, with tickets costing around 11 euros.

Aspendos: The Magnificent Roman Theater

Next up is Aspendos, renowned for its remarkably preserved theater with exceptional acoustics. This is a highlight for many visitors because it’s a real testament to Roman engineering prowess. The theater’s design is so precise that even today, it’s used for performances. The site’s reputation for excellent sound makes it a favorite for visitors interested in ancient architecture and performance history.

The theater is so impressive that one reviewer called it “a magnificent work,” praising its well-preserved state and the opportunity to imagine gladiator battles and ancient performances. Again, the admission here isn’t included, with tickets around 15 euros.

Side: A Blend of Myth and Architecture

The third stop takes you to Side, where the ancient city’s ruins are a visual feast. Key sites include the Temple of Apollo, the old port, and the Temple of Athena. These structures aren’t just old stones—they’re symbols of mythology, commerce, and religious life that once thrived here.

One reviewer described this part of the tour as “magical,” emphasizing the unique historical beauty of the temples and ruins. The guide will share stories about the region’s mythological roots and its role as a bustling port in antiquity. The sightseeing here lasts around 1 hour and 20 minutes, with entrance fees for the sites not included.

Manavgat Waterfall: A Refreshing End

To cap off the day, you’ll visit Manavgat Waterfall, which offers a peaceful spot for photos and relaxation. Many travelers appreciate this stop for its scenic views and the chance to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. It’s also a good opportunity to take some memorable photos and purchase local souvenirs.

This part of the tour is included in the price, and visitors often comment on how it’s the perfect way to end the day. The waterfall’s setting is both lush and photogenic, providing a sense of tranquility after exploring ancient ruins.

The Practicalities: Logistics and Tips

Transportation is air-conditioned, and the group size keeps things intimate and manageable. The tour runs on a flexible schedule that takes into account travel time between sites, which helps keep the day comfortable. The provided lunch is generally well-received, with travelers praising the food quality.

However, some costs—like drinks and entry tickets—are extra. Expect to spend around 5 euros for beverages, with entrance fees totaling approximately 26 euros for Perge and Aspendos combined, depending on current rates.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

What stands out from reviews is how much travelers appreciated their guides, describing them as “very knowledgeable and cultured.” One reviewer even mentioned that their vehicle was “very comfortable,” which makes a big difference when spending a full day on the road and exploring.

The comments also reflect satisfaction with the natural scenery, delicious food, and the overall value. Travelers say they’d happily join similar tours again, citing the smooth organization, excellent guide commentary, and well-chosen sites as key strengths.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history lovers eager to see Antalya’s archaeological highlights in one day. It’s also suited for travelers who prefer small group tours with personalized attention. If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of outdoor exploration, culture, and scenic stops, this tour offers all of that.

It’s less ideal if you’re on a tight budget due to the additional entrance ticket costs or if you’re not comfortable with walking or heat—though the tour provides plenty of shade and breaks. Overall, it’s a well-rounded option for those wanting a comprehensive and engaging day out.

The Sum Up

For travelers looking to get a broad yet detailed view of Antalya’s ancient past, this tour offers significant value. The carefully curated stops at Perge, Aspendos, and Side, combined with the natural beauty of Manavgat Waterfall, create a memorable journey through history and scenery. The guides’ expertise and the small group size make it an intimate, engaging experience that feels both educational and relaxed.

The tour’s price, considering the transportation, guiding, and included lunch, is reasonable—especially for those who want to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of planning every detail. The extra costs for entrance tickets are a minor consideration, but they’re clearly manageable within the overall experience.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who love history, enjoy exploring ruins, and prefer a comfortable, well-organized day. Whether you’re visiting Antalya for the first time or seeking a comprehensive cultural experience, this trip promises a well-balanced and enriching outing.

FAQ

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your hotel or specified address, making it convenient to start and end your day.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel time between sites and breaks.

What’s the group size?
The tour typically groups around 17 travelers, which helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention.

Are entrance tickets to the sites included?
No, the entrance fees for Perge (around 11 euros) and Aspendos (around 15 euros) are not included and need to be paid separately.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a meal, which is generally well-received and helps keep you energized for the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended, especially during warmer months.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

This detailed, balanced review should help you decide if this Antalya day tour fits your travel style. With its mix of history, scenery, and comfort, it’s an excellent way to make the most of a day in this captivating region.