From Antalya: Perge, Aspendos & city of Side Private Tour

Exploring Ancient Cities and Theater Marvels: A Detailed Look at the From Antalya: Perge, Aspendos & Side Private Tour

If you’re visiting Antalya and craving a deep dive into Turkey’s fascinating past, this private tour promises an immersive experience of some of the region’s most iconic archaeological sites. Covering Perge, Aspendos, and Side, it hits all the highlights of Roman and Hellenistic history while offering a glimpse into local Turkish cuisine. The fact that it’s a private group means you’ll be able to enjoy a more personalized, flexible experience, guided by knowledgeable experts.

One thing we particularly like about this tour is how it balances history with comfort. From the convenient hotel pickups and drop-offs to the well-preserved sites and delicious traditional lunch, everything is designed to make your day both enriching and hassle-free. However, the full-day itinerary demands a good level of energy and comfort with walking and outdoor exposure—so it’s less suitable if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed pace. It’s perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive look at the ancient sites around Antalya.

Key Points

Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers Perge, Aspendos, and Side in one day, providing a rounded view of ancient civilizations.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides with insights that go beyond the basics, enriching your understanding of each site.
Authentic Experiences: Includes a traditional Turkish lunch, adding local flavor and culinary insight to the archaeological exploration.
High-Quality Preservation: Highlights like the Aspendos theater’s exceptional acoustics and the aqueducts’ impressive engineering showcase Turkey’s Roman ingenuity.
Flexible Private Tours: Tailored for small groups, offering a more intimate experience with fewer crowds and more interaction.
Value for Money: For $624, the tour provides entrance fees, lunch, and transportation, making it a practical way to see major sites without the hassle of planning individual tickets.

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A Close Look at the Itinerary and Attractions

Starting with Perge – A Glimpse into Greek and Roman Beginnings

We loved the way the tour kicks off at Perge, a site that radiates the echoes of ancient life. As you stroll through the ruins, you’ll see the Roman stadium, Roman gate, Nymphaeum, and Roman baths—each telling stories of a thriving city. Something that stood out from reviews was the guide’s detailed explanations, which helped bring the ruins to life. One guest mentioned, “Our guide was fantastic, explaining everything clearly and answering all our questions. It made the site much more meaningful.”

Perge’s columned streets and state agora reveal the city’s prominence in antiquity, and walking through them is like stepping back in time. The site’s expansive layout provides plenty of space for exploration, and the well-preserved structures make it a rewarding first stop.

Aspendos – The Roman Theatre That Echoes with History

Next, the journey takes us to Aspendos, famed for its spectacular Roman theater. With capacity for around 7,500 spectators, it’s one of the best-preserved theaters from antiquity, and the fact that it can still boast excellent acoustics is remarkable. We “listened to a whisper from across the stage,” as one reviewer fondly recalls, marveling at how a simple sound could carry across the entire seating area.

The theater’s architecture is breathtaking, with elaborate decorations and a two-storied stage. Visitors often comment on how well-preserved the site is, and the guide’s stories about its construction and historical uses add a layer of appreciation. The Aspendos aqueducts, crossing a 1.7 km wide valley and standing up to 30 meters high, are another highlight—an impressive testament to Roman engineering.

Lunch – Tasting Authentic Turkish Flavors

After Aspendos, you’ll sit down for a traditional Turkish lunch—a highlight for many guests who appreciate authentic flavors. The meal is usually a mix of local dishes that showcase regional ingredients and cooking styles. Several reviewers mention how the lunch complements the day’s sightseeing, giving a true taste of Turkish hospitality.

Side – The Ancient City of Alexander the Great

The last major stop is Side, a city that once welcomed Alexander the Great himself. Here, you’ll see the Hellenistic Agora, the theatre, and the Apollo temple by the harbor—each piece adding to the city’s storied past. The white marble columns from the Hellenistic temple and the stunning views from the harbor are often highlighted as memorable moments.

Guests frequently mention the beautiful sunset views from the temple, which provide a perfect ending to the day. The mix of ancient ruins and seaside scenery makes Side a fitting finale.

What We Loved and What to Consider

What we loved: The tour’s expert guides are a big plus—engaging, knowledgeable, and eager to share detailed stories that bring each site to life. The lunch offers a genuine taste of Turkish cuisine, making the experience both cultural and culinary. The well-preserved sites, especially Aspendos, make the history tangible, and the private group format ensures a more relaxed, customizable experience.

What to consider: The tour is quite full-day, around 7 hours, which involves a fair amount of walking and outdoor exposure. Some guests with mobility concerns or those who prefer a leisurely pace might find it a bit demanding. Also, the tour focuses on major highlights, so if you’re after off-the-beaten-path sites, this might not satisfy that craving.

The Practical Side: Value, Transportation, and Tips

The cost of $624 per group for up to 14 people offers good value when you consider that entrance fees, lunch, and transport are included. Booking a private tour means fewer distractions, more personalized attention, and a flexible itinerary—perfect for those who dislike large group crowds or rigid schedules.

Transportation is comfortable, and the pickup/drop-off service in Antalya makes logistics easier. The tour runs for about 7 hours, with starting times varying based on availability, so it’s best to check ahead and plan your day accordingly.

Tips for travelers: Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—since you’ll be exploring outdoor sites. This trip isn’t suited for those with mobility problems or heart issues, as it involves quite a bit of walking and outdoor exposure. Remember to bring a camera to capture the impressive ruins and scenic views.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those wanting to see a broad swath of Antalya’s ancient past in one day. Its focus on well-preserved sites like Aspendos and thoughtful inclusion of local cuisine makes it perfect for travelers who value authenticity and in-depth storytelling.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, immersive day that combines educational content with scenic beauty, this tour delivers. It’s especially ideal for small groups or couples seeking a personalized experience away from the crowds.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility challenges, this might feel a bit intense. It’s best suited for active travelers who are eager to walk, explore, and absorb history firsthand.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a licensed guide, entrance fees to all sites, and a traditional Turkish lunch.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s not explicitly designed for children, families with older kids who enjoy walking and history will find it engaging. Be aware that it involves outdoor exploration and some walking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and clothes suitable for outdoor weather are recommended.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as it involves considerable walking and uneven surfaces.

Is there a particular time the tour starts?
Start times vary based on availability; it’s best to check with the booking provider.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring sun protection and a camera. It’s a good idea to have some cash for small personal expenses, although the essentials are covered.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so you might want to bring water along.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language does the guide speak?
Guides are available in Danish, Dutch, English, German, and Russian.

In essence, this private tour from Antalya offers a rich, well-organized journey through some of Turkey’s most treasured ancient sites. Combining history, culture, and local flavors, it’s an excellent choice for visitors wanting a comprehensive, personalized experience – especially if they’re keen on exploring beyond the city’s modern streets.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby