Alanya: Perge, Aspendos Theater & City of Side Private Tour

Exploring Turkey’s history-rich landscape is a highlight for many travelers, and a private tour from Alanya to the nearby ancient cities of Perge, Aspendos, and Side offers a deeply rewarding day. This 8.5-hour trip provides intimate access to some of the most well-preserved ruins from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, all while enjoying the comfort of a private vehicle and guides who bring the sites to life with their stories.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on quality over quantity. You won’t be rushed from site to site; instead, you’ll have time to soak in the atmosphere, ask questions, and appreciate the craftsmanship of structures like Aspendos Theater, famed for its superb acoustics. On the downside, the day’s schedule is quite packed, and if you’re not a fan of walking on uneven surfaces, it might require a bit of stamina.

This experience is ideal for history lovers, cultural enthusiasts, or anyone interested in seeing Turkey’s ancient past beyond the typical tourist crowds. It suits travelers who value learning from knowledgeable guides and prefer a flexible, private group setting to explore at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience tailored for up to 14 people, ensuring personalized attention.
• Comprehensive visit to Perge, Aspendos, and Side, including key ruins, theater, and temples.
• Expert guides who share detailed insights and answer questions throughout the day.
• Relaxing lunch of traditional Turkish dishes included, often served in scenic locations.
• Stunning views and photo opportunities, especially at sunset from Side’s Apollo Temple.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics effortless.

A Journey Back in Time: The Itinerary

This tour begins with pickup from your hotel in the Antalya region, where a modern, comfortable vehicle awaits. The first stop is Perge, a city that once bustled with Roman life. Walking through its ruins, you’ll see the stadium where ancient athletes competed, the Roman gate, baths, and the Hellenistic gate. These remnants give a vivid picture of urban life in antiquity, and guides often point out smaller details like inscriptions or architectural styles that reveal the city’s history.

According to a review, “the guide was very experienced and could tell a lot,” which makes a significant difference when walking through ruins. You’ll get a feel for the scale of Roman engineering and the importance of Perge during its time. Notably, many visitors mention the well-preserved state of the site, making it easy to imagine its former glory.

Next, you’ll move on to Aspendos, home to one of the most remarkably preserved Roman theaters. Aspendos is renowned for its perfect acoustics—talking softly from the stage, you can hear whispers from the back rows. Guides often highlight how the theater has survived for nearly 2,000 years, and you might get a chance to stand on the stage and test the acoustics yourself. Local aqueducts and other ruins nearby add to the experience, offering insight into the city’s ancient water systems.

After exploring Aspendos, a Turkish lunch is included, often served in a scenic spot—sometimes right beside a river, as one reviewer notes. This break gives you a chance to refuel and savor local flavors, adding a delicious dimension to the day.

The final leg of the tour takes you to Side, a port city that Alexander the Great once visited. Here, you’ll explore the old agora, where marketplace remains evoke the hustle and bustle of ancient trading. The Apollo Temple, perched on the seafront, offers panoramic views and a perfect sunset backdrop, ideal for unwinding after a day of discovery. It’s a peaceful moment to reflect on the impressive history you’ve just experienced.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

At $624 for a group of up to 14, the cost might seem steep at first glance, but considering the all-inclusive nature—hotel transfers, entrance fees, and a traditional Turkish lunch—it’s a solid value. Private tours tend to be pricier, but the personalized attention, flexibility, and in-depth guide commentary make it worthwhile.

The tour’s pacing means you get more meaningful time at each site than you would on a large bus tour, and your guide can tailor the experience slightly to suit your interests. The reviews highlight the high quality of guides and the comfort of the transportation, emphasizing how smoothly the day runs even with a packed schedule.

The Experience of the Sites

Perge is a highlight for many visitors. Its ruins tell stories of Roman grandeur, with the stadium still imposing and the gates giving a sense of scale. The Roman baths are a favorite for those interested in ancient architecture. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide was very experienced and could tell a lot,” making the visit both educational and engaging.

At Aspendos, the theater’s acoustics are simply unforgettable. Standing on the stage, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient performances. The site is well-preserved, with some reviewers pointing out that the theater’s resilience allows visitors to imagine it full of spectators centuries ago.

Side offers a blend of history and leisure. Walking through the old agora, you feel like you’re stepping into a marketplace from thousands of years ago. The Apollo Temple, with its dramatic location overlooking the sea, provides a moment of calm with spectacular views—especially at sunset, which the tour includes.

Practical Details for Travelers

The tour lasts about 8.5 hours, with start times varying based on availability. The group size is limited to create a more intimate experience, and guides speak multiple languages, including English, German, Russian, and others.

What to bring? Comfortable shoes are essential since walking on uneven ruins is inevitable. Sunglasses, a hat, and water are recommended for comfort and hydration. The tour doesn’t include drinks, so bringing your own is a good idea, especially in the warmer months.

It’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for those with back problems, heart issues, or wheelchair users—given the walking and uneven terrain involved.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Many guests comment on the knowledgeable guides who bring history alive. One mentioned that the guide “could tell a lot,” which elevates the experience from simply viewing ruins to understanding their significance.

The comfort of modern transportation is another recurring theme. A reviewer praised the “very pleasant ride” in a new vehicle, which makes the long day more enjoyable. Plus, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, logistics are painless, allowing you to focus on the sights.

Lunch receives praise for being delicious, often served in scenic settings close to the water. This adds a relaxing element to the busy day, and it’s a great chance to enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Alanya to Perge, Aspendos, and Side offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances history, comfort, and scenic beauty. With expert guides providing in-depth commentary, you’ll come away with a much richer understanding of Turkey’s ancient civilization. The combination of well-preserved ruins, impressive theaters, and picturesque coastlines makes this a memorable day for history buffs, culture seekers, and anyone eager to see Turkey beyond its beaches.

While the price might seem high, the personalized service, quality transportation, and carefully selected sites justify the investment for those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free exploration of the region’s archaeological gems. If you prefer flexibility, expert guides, and meaningful encounters with history, this tour is an excellent choice.

Ideal for travelers who enjoy learning in depth, value comfort, and want a private, tailored experience. It’s especially suitable for those with a keen interest in Roman architecture and ancient civilizations, looking for a day that’s both educational and visually stunning.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, starting at a time based on availability and including hotel pickup and drop-off.

What sites are visited on this tour?
The main sites are Perge, Aspendos Theater, and Side, including the Roman stadium, gates, baths, Aspendos Theater, the old agora, and the Apollo Temple.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Turkish lunch is included, often served in scenic locations, giving you a chance to try authentic local dishes.

Are beverages included?
No, drinks are not included in the price. It’s recommended to bring water and perhaps some additional refreshments for the day.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
The tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems, heart issues, or wheelchair users due to walking and uneven surfaces.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages including English, German, Russian, Danish, Dutch, and Arabic, among others.

Do I need to prepare anything for the day?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunglasses, a hat, and water. Be prepared for some walking on uneven ruins and bring your camera for photos.

This detailed, balanced look at the Alanya: Perge, Aspendos Theater & Side Private Tour reveals it as a well-rounded, enriching experience. Perfect for those who want to explore Turkey’s ancient sites comfortably and in-depth—an excellent choice for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.