Antalya: Perge, Aspendos & City of Side Day Trip with Lunch

If you’re visiting Antalya and craving a full day of ancient ruins, stunning scenery, and a taste of local life, this tour offers a well-balanced way to see some of Turkey’s most iconic archaeological sites. For $59, you’ll spend approximately nine hours exploring Roman theaters, aqueducts, waterfalls, and ancient cities—all with the comfort of hotel pickup and a guide who knows their stuff.

One of the standout features of this trip is how smoothly everything flows, with a professional guide leading the way through a packed itinerary. We particularly love the combination of historical sites with scenic stops like Manavgat Waterfall and the opportunity to enjoy a delicious riverside lunch.

That said, a possible consideration is the need for comfortable footwear, as many of the sites involve walking on uneven surfaces. This tour suits history enthusiasts, travelers wanting a comprehensive day without the hassle of planning, and those eager to see a wide swath of Antalya’s ancient landscape in one go.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides like Ozzie and Cill enhance the visit with engaging commentary.
• Diverse highlights: From ancient theaters and ruins to waterfalls and riverside lunch, there’s a good mix for varied interests.
• Value-packed: For $59, the tour includes transfers, lunch, and entrance to Manavgat Waterfall, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation and pay later options add peace of mind.
• Longer days: Expect a full nine-hour adventure, so be prepared for an early start.
• Limited for some may be: Not suitable for travelers over 95 years or 140 kg, and not ideal for those seeking a leisurely pace.

An In-Depth Review of the Antalya Day Trip

Seamless Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickups, which is a huge plus for convenience. The operator promises door-to-door service, picking you up from your hotel or designated location, making early mornings less stressful. During the drive, you can relax in a comfortable vehicle and get a briefing on what’s ahead.

This setup means you skip the stress of figuring out transportation, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Antalya’s bus routes or taxis. Plus, the group size tends to be manageable based on reviews, which keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

Exploring Perge – The Heart of Pamphylia

Your first stop is Perge, once the capital of the Pamphylia region. This archaeological site is sprawling and offers a chance to see well-preserved Roman ruins firsthand. You’ll get an insightful commentary from your guide, who explains features like the Stadium, Roman Gate, Nymphaeum, Roman Bath, Hellenistic Gate, Column Street, and the State Agora.

Travelers like Andrea noted that guides such as Ozzie make all the difference, sharing interesting facts and making the site come alive. The ruins here, especially the Roman Stadium, are impressive in their scale and state of preservation, giving you a real sense of the grandeur of ancient Anatolia.

The Marvel of Aspendos Theatre

Next, the tour takes you to Aspendos, home to arguably the world’s best-preserved Roman theater. This site is often praised for its stunning acoustics and architecture, with many reviewers calling it the highlight. The theater remains in excellent condition, with seating that continues to host events even today.

You’ll appreciate how the guide describes Aspendos as the most complete example of Roman theater in Turkey. Many visitors comment on how this site feels like stepping into history, with its impressive size and craftsmanship. The recent use of the theater for concerts and festivals highlights its ongoing importance and the skill of ancient engineers.

The Aqueduct and Riverside Lunch

After Aspendos, you’ll see the antique aqueduct, an impressive example of ancient water engineering. It’s a reminder of how these advanced civilizations managed infrastructure, and the guide’s insights bring this history to life.

Lunchtime is at a riverside restaurant on the Euromedon River, offering a chance to relax and enjoy local flavors. Reviewers rave about the fish dish—one suggests it’s a must-try. The setting is tranquil, with views that make the meal more enjoyable. The riverside location not only offers a scenic backdrop but also provides an authentic taste of Turkish dining.

Discovering Side and Manavgat Waterfall

Post-lunch, the tour moves to Side, an ancient city famous for its ruins and lively Old Town. Highlights include the Agora, the Amphitheater, and temples dating back to the 17th century BC. While some visitors wish for more time here, most appreciate the chance to see these UNESCO-worthy relics without having to organize separate tickets or tours.

Your last stop is Manavgat Waterfall, a popular natural site. The waterfall is not overwhelming but offers a peaceful spot for photos and a quick break before heading back. Some reviewers mention that the waterfall entry is included, which adds extra value.

Return to Your Accommodation

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to your hotel or designated location. Expect to arrive in the late afternoon or early evening, tired but enriched with stories and sights from a full day.

The Value Proposition

For just $59, this tour delivers a lot. Included are hotel transfers, guide service, lunch, and entry to Manavgat Waterfall. While tickets for Perge and Aspendos aren’t included, many find the overall cost reasonable, especially considering the convenience and expert guidance.

The guides, like Cill or Ozzie, are repeatedly praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Their ability to bring history to life makes the experience both educational and engaging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing without the stress of planning. It’s well-suited for history buffs, families, and anyone eager to see the highlights of Antalya’s ancient sites. It’s best for those able to walk on uneven terrain and prepared for a busy schedule.

Final Thoughts

In summary, this Antalya day trip strikes a good balance of history, scenery, and local flavor. Its well-organized structure, combined with expert guides and scenic stops, makes it a great value for those wanting to maximize their time in the region.

While it’s a full day, the variety of sites ensures you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for Turkey’s ancient civilizations. For travelers craving an active, educational, and scenic experience, this tour ticks many boxes.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see some of Turkey’s most iconic ruins along with natural beauty, this trip is hard to beat. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, and keep your camera ready.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from your chosen location or hotel. You’ll be contacted a day before to confirm the exact time and location.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for about 9 hours, so be prepared for an early start and a full day of sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, and an umbrella are recommended.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You might want to bring water or purchase beverages at the lunch stop.

Is there an entry fee for Perge and Aspendos?
Entry tickets for these sites are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to explore these sites more extensively.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for elderly travelers?
It’s not recommended for people over 95 years or over 140 kg (309 lbs) due to walking and site conditions.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most definitely, especially if your family enjoys history and outdoor exploration.

Will I have enough time at each site?
The schedule is designed to allow sufficient time for viewing and photography, but some reviewers wish for more time at Side.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, the tour is likely available year-round, but spring and fall offer more temperate weather for walking.

In the end, this tour offers a comprehensive, informative, and enjoyable way to experience some of Turkey’s most impressive ancient sites while enjoying scenic spots and local cuisine. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting to see a lot without the hassle, especially with guides who truly know their stuff.