From Side: Perge, Aspendos and Kursunlu Trip

Traveling through Turkey’s Antalya Province, especially from the charming town of Side, offers a fascinating blend of history and nature. The Perge, Aspendos, and Kursunlu Waterfall tour promises a day filled with archaeological wonders and scenic relaxation—all for just $47 per person. With a duration of around 7 hours, this trip is designed to be comprehensive without feeling rushed, making it a popular choice for travelers eager to soak up the area’s rich past and lush landscapes.

What we particularly like about this tour is its balanced itinerary—covering ancient Roman sites and natural scenery in one go. The highlight for many is the Aspendos theater, often praised as one of the best-preserved Roman theaters worldwide, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient architecture. The tour also appeals to those who enjoy a bit of leisurely downtime, thanks to the peaceful setting of Kursunlu Waterfall. However, a possible drawback is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and outdoor exposure, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and families looking for an educational yet relaxing day out. It offers good value through its inclusions—like lunch, a guide, and transportation—making it a practical choice for many visitors. Now, let’s explore what makes this experience worthwhile—and what to keep in mind before booking.

Key Points

• Historical treasures: Visit ancient Perge and Aspendos, learning about Roman architecture and culture.
• Natural beauty: Relax at Kursunlu Waterfall, capturing stunning photos and enjoying a peaceful environment.
• Expert guidance: Led by knowledgeable guides, with engaging insights into the sites’ history.
• Value for money: At $47, the tour includes lunch, transportation, and insurance.
• Time-efficient: A well-structured 7-hour trip that balances sightseeing and relaxation.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for travelers with mobility challenges due to walking and uneven terrain.

Exploring the Day in Detail

Starting with the Ancient City of Perge

We loved the way the tour kicks off at Perge, an archaeological site that once thrived during the Roman period. The ruins, which include stadiums, baths, and a agora, offer a glimpse into daily life centuries ago. Your guide will walk you through the history, explaining how Perge was a major city for the Hellenistic and Roman civilizations. Expect to see well-preserved columns and mosaics, and if you’re lucky, your guide might share fascinating stories about ancient inhabitants.

One reviewer praised the guide Murat, saying, “He knows everything about the area,” which makes the experience even more engaging. The ruins are sprawling, so comfortable shoes are recommended, and you’ll want your camera ready for those ancient stone details.

The Marvel of Aspendos

Next, you’ll head to Aspendos, home to arguably the best-preserved Roman theater in the world. This is a highlight for many, not only for its architectural beauty but also because it’s still used today for performances, a testament to its incredible preservation. As you stand in the semi-circular seating, you’ll appreciate how advanced Roman engineering was, with excellent acoustics that still impress visitors.

Beyond the theater, there are other ruins to explore, giving you a sense of the entire ancient city. One traveler noted, “Touching the past in Aspendos was amazing,” highlighting how tangible the history feels here. The site’s preservation allows for excellent photo opportunities, with the theater providing a dramatic backdrop.

The Natural Serenity at Kursunlu Waterfall

The last stop is Kursunlu Waterfall, a perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. Surrounded by lush greenery and cooled by the cascading water, this spot offers a calming contrast to the archaeological sites. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the area, snap photos of the waterfall, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Reviewers have mentioned how peaceful and beautiful this location is. One noted, “The waterfall is a peaceful oasis after a busy day of sightseeing,” which many find to be the ideal way to end the tour. Be sure to bring your camera and maybe a hat and sunscreen, especially if visiting during warmer months.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Group Size: The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free. While the exact group size isn’t specified, tours of this nature typically keep groups manageable, ensuring personal attention from guides.

Pricing and Value: At $47, the cost covers transportation, guided insights, lunch, and insurance. Entrance tickets are not included, so expect to purchase them separately on-site. Considering the inclusions and the breadth of sites visited, this is a reasonable price—especially when you factor in the hassle-free logistics.

What to Bring: Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera. The sites involve walking on uneven surfaces, so being prepared will help you enjoy the experience fully.

Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, given the outdoor terrain and walking involved.

Authentic Experience from Previous Travelers

One traveler from Hungary shared, “Murat is a great guide, he knows everything about the area,” emphasizing the value of a knowledgeable guide. Another from the UK appreciated the guide’s engaging style, saying, “He was engaging and informative. Excellent trip for the entire family.” These insights highlight the importance of a good guide in making the experience memorable and educational.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day combining history and nature. It’s especially suited for those with an interest in ancient civilizations, as the sites are both accessible and rich in story. The inclusion of Kursunlu Waterfall makes it attractive for those seeking a break from archaeological exploration and a chance to relax in a natural setting.

Families, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a practical, engaging day trip will find this tour offers solid value. However, if you have mobility concerns or prefer indoor, less physically demanding experiences, you might find part of this trip challenging.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour from Side to Perge, Aspendos, and Kursunlu Waterfall provides a balanced mix of archaeological exploration and natural beauty at a reasonable price. It offers a chance to walk through history in ancient Roman cities, admire one of the most pristine theaters still in use today, and unwind beside a tranquil waterfall.

The tour’s success largely depends on the guide’s knowledge—something travelers have praised—making it a reliable choice for those wanting an educational and memorable day out. The included lunch and transportation add convenience, making it suitable for visitors looking to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of planning every detail.

In summary, if you’re after a comprehensive, value-packed day trip that hits the highlights of Antalya’s past and present, this tour will serve you well. Just be prepared for some walking, bring your curiosity and camera, and enjoy everything this part of Turkey has to offer.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics straightforward and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes about 7 hours, offering a well-paced day with enough time at each site.

What’s the price of the tour?
It costs $47 per person, which covers guiding, transportation, and lunch. Entrance fees are not included.

Are there any language options for guides?
Yes, live guides are available in Czech, English, German, and Slovak, with audio guides in those languages as well.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention it being a good trip for the whole family, though it involves some walking and outdoor exposure.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and your camera are recommended to enjoy the day fully.