Antalya: Ancient Perge, Aspendos Theater & City of Side Tour

Travelers curious about Turkey’s deep past or craving a full-day adventure will find this guided tour a worthwhile experience. For just $33 per person, you’ll visit some of the most iconic ancient ruins, including the remarkably well-preserved Aspendos Theater, and stroll through Side’s charming streets. Expect a journey filled with history, scenic views, and a taste of local culture, all wrapped up in a comfortable, organized day.

What we really love about this tour is how smoothly it’s run, with knowledgeable guides and a well-thought-out itinerary. The sightseeing feels relaxed rather than rushed, and the combination of ruins, theater, and seaside temples offers a well-rounded picture of the region’s past.

One thing to keep in mind is the length of the day—at 9 hours, it’s on the long side, so it’s best suited for energetic travelers who enjoy a full schedule. Also, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so if mobility is a concern, it’s worth considering.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, and those who want to tick off multiple ancient sites in one go without the hassle of organizing transport and entry tickets. It’s also perfect for anyone who appreciates expert guides and good value, making it a popular choice among travelers visiting Antalya.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Ancient Sites: Visit Perge, Aspendos, and Side, three key locations highlighting Turkey’s Roman and ancient history.
• Expert Guides & Comfortable Transport: Guided by knowledgeable professionals and traveling in air-conditioned coaches.
• Authentic Experiences: Walk through ruins, admire the theater’s acoustics, and explore seaside temples.
• Tasty Local Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Turkish meal at a local restaurant.
• Good Value for Money: All-inclusive price covers guide, lunch, transportation, and entry fees (if selected).
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect a full nine hours of sightseeing, stories, and photo opportunities.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

The Convenience of Pickup and Transport

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Antalya, which many reviewers appreciate as it saves the hassle of finding meeting points. From there, the journey in an air-conditioned bus takes about 50 minutes to reach the first stop, Perge. Having a comfortable coach with reliable air conditioning—especially in Turkey’s hot summer months—is a major plus, though some reviews mention the AC could be better on particularly scorching days.

Perge: A Roman Marvel

Perge is your first stop, and it doesn’t disappoint. This sprawling archaeological site was once a flourishing Roman city, and today, it’s a treasure trove of ruins. Walk through monumental gates, stroll along a 500-meter colonnaded street, and imagine bustling markets and processions of thousands of years ago. The remains of the stadium, Roman baths, and an acropolis give you a vivid sense of daily life in antiquity.

Reviewers frequently highlight how much time they got to explore. Neil from the UK called it “a perfect balance of information and history,” and many appreciated the opportunity to wander freely and take photos. Guides like Oguzhan make the stories come alive, explaining the significance of each ruin with a good dose of humor and passion.

Aspendos Theater: An Architectural Wonder

Next, you’ll head to Aspendos, famed for having one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Built in 155 AD, this structure once seated 15,000 spectators and still hosts performances today because of its superb acoustics. Climbing the stone steps offers sweeping views across the landscape, and you can easily spend some time soaking in the atmosphere or imagining the grand events held here millennia ago.

Reviewers rave about the theater’s beauty and historical significance. Reuben from the US said, “It’s an extraordinary structure that still echoes with the sounds of ancient performances.” The theater’s perfect state of preservation makes it a highlight for photography and history enthusiasts alike.

Lunch: Tasting Turkish Flavors

After the theater, a traditional Turkish lunch awaits at a local restaurant. Many mention the variety of flavorful salads, fresh bread, and main courses—including options like trout from the Sacred River, as one reviewer highlighted. The lunch is included in the tour price, adding excellent value, and is often deemed delicious and plentiful.

Side: A Seaside Gem

The afternoon focuses on Side, a charming coastal town blending historic ruins with seaside relaxation. You’ll wander through marble columns, fountains, and the agora, but the real star is the Temple of Apollo, perched right at the water’s edge. Standing here, with the Mediterranean shimmering beside you, is a moment many find unforgettable.

Visitors love the balance of free time and guided exploration. Some mention that an extra 15 minutes in Side would be ideal, but overall, the time allocated is enough to soak in the atmosphere and snap some photos. The shop stop in Side also offers a chance to pick up souvenirs and regional products, supporting local artisans.

Return Journey & Reflection

After a scenic 50-minute bus ride back to Antalya, travelers often reflect on the sights, stories, and scenery of the day. Several reviews praise the guides—Aykut, Oguzhan, Recep, and Ozzy—who are repeatedly described as knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This tour’s main strength lies in its well-curated itinerary and value for money. For just $33, you get entrance fees (if you choose the option with entry), a tasty lunch, and transport—all led by guides with impressive knowledge and humor.

The small group size makes for a more personal experience, allowing you to ask questions freely and enjoy a more relaxed pace. The timing is generally praised for being well organized, with reviews mentioning that stops are timed to avoid excessive heat or rush, although August heat can still be intense.

Many reviewers have pointed out the quality of the guides—they are not just informative but also engaging and personable. Ozzy, in particular, is often singled out for his humor and storytelling ability, making the history fun and accessible.

Practicalities & Considerations

• Duration: Expect a full 9-hour day, so wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection.
• Transport: Air-conditioned coach with some reviewers noting that AC could be improved on very hot days.
• Group Size: Usually small (about 12-15 people), which enhances the experience.
• Price: Excellent value, especially considering the inclusions like lunch and entry fees.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users; the terrain at archaeological sites involves walking on uneven surfaces.
• Food & Drinks: Lunch is tasty and plentiful, but drinks are not included, so bring cash for purchases.

Final Thoughts

For anyone interested in history, architecture, and local culture, this tour offers a perfect mix of all three. It’s especially good value if you’re keen to see multiple sites in one day without the stress of planning logistics or navigating transport. The guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, which makes a significant difference.

The day is long, but the variety of sights and the quality of storytelling more than make up for it. If you’re staying in Antalya and want to explore the region’s ancient past with ease and comfort, this trip deserves serious consideration.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for history lovers who want a comprehensive look at the Roman and ancient sites around Antalya. It suits travelers who enjoy guided tours and appreciate good value—especially with included meals and entry fees.

It’s also perfect for those who prefer organized transportation and small group sizes, making the day more intimate and engaging. However, those with mobility issues should consider other options, as the sites involve walking on uneven ground.

If you’re traveling in the peak summer months, pack plenty of water and sun protection, and be prepared for a full, active day. This tour offers a rich, entertaining, and educational experience that brings Turkey’s ancient past vividly to life.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire tour lasts around 9 hours, including pickup, travel, sightseeing, and return to Antalya.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided tour, lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entrance fees if the option with entry is selected. Drinks are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While the tour is generally manageable for most, it involves walking on uneven surfaces and a full day’s activity, so it might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility concerns.

Do I need to pay extra for entry fees?
If you select the option with entry fees, they are included; otherwise, you’ll need to pay approximately 30 Turkish lira on the day.

Are there options for vegetarian or special dietary preferences?
The provided information doesn’t specify, but standard Turkish lunches often include salads and vegetarian options. It’s best to request dietary preferences in advance when booking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, along with sun protection like hats and sunscreen. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for the heat.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, there’s typically a stop at a local shop in Side where you can browse regional products and souvenirs.

In summary, this tour offers a well-organized, affordable way to explore some of Turkey’s most famous ancient sites. Expect engaging guides, scenic views, and plenty of history, making it an enriching addition to any Antalya itinerary.