Full-Day Tour of Kursunlu Waterfalls, Aspendos, and Ancient Ruins of Side From Alanya

Experience the Charm of Ancient Ruins and Waterfalls: A Full-Day Tour from Alanya

This well-priced tour from Alanya offers a blend of history, nature, and local culture. It covers three major stops: the remarkably preserved Roman theater at Aspendos, the picturesque Kursunlu Waterfalls, and the sprawling ancient city of Side. With hotel pickup included, it’s a convenient way to see a slice of Turkey’s fascinating past and natural beauty in one day.

One standout feature is the expert guide who narrates the story behind each site, adding depth to the scenery and ruins. The inclusion of a Turkish lunch and entrance fees makes it a straightforward, no-hassle option for travelers seeking value.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind; for example, the tour is quite full with up to 27 travelers, which might mean some busy moments or less flexibility. Also, the itinerary’s flexibility can be limited — some reviews mention changes in plans or unexpected surprises.

This tour is best suited for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a comprehensive day trip that combines cultural exploration with scenic views without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Historical grandeur at Aspendos with its well-preserved Roman theater and ruins.
• Stunning nature at Kursunlu Waterfalls wrapped in pine forests.
• Authentic Turkish cuisine included with options for different tastes.
• Convenience with hotel pickup and drop-off, plus all entrance fees covered.
• Group size maxes out at 27, balancing social atmosphere with personal space.
• Authentic shopping opportunity at a leather and jewelry shop after lunch.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: Hotel Pickup and Transportation

Arriving at your centrally located hotel in Alanya, you’ll be greeted by a friendly guide, likely someone like Osman or Mehmet, known for their knowledge and good humor. The bus is air-conditioned, which is a relief given Turkey’s warm climate, especially during summer months. The 94-km journey to Aspendos takes just under two hours, giving you time to settle in, maybe chat with fellow travelers or enjoy the scenic views.

Traveling in a climate-controlled coach with a maximum of 27 travelers means a relatively intimate experience compared to larger tours. This setup allows for smoother transitions between stops and better chances to hear your guide’s stories.

Aspendos: A Roman Theater Like No Other

Aspendos is the star of the day for many. The Roman amphitheater here is considered one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world. Built under Marcus Aurelius, it still hosts occasional performances, a testament to its impressive acoustics and construction.

One reviewer, Jeanette, described it as “a beautiful trip with many interesting ruins,” and noted how the team was “very nice and helpful.” The theater alone is worth the visit — imagine standing in a structure thousands of years old, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Turkish countryside.

While admission isn’t included (costing about 15 TRY), it’s well worth the small extra fee. The ruins also include aqueducts and temples, giving a glimpse into the advanced engineering skills of the Romans.

Kursunlu Waterfalls: Nature’s Refreshing Escape

Next stop is the Kursunlu Waterfalls, about a two-hour visit. The waterfalls are surrounded by a pine forest, creating a peaceful backdrop perfect for photos and relaxing strolls. Reviewers mention that the waterfalls are picturesque, especially with the chance to see turtles and trout swimming near the surface — a little extra charm that makes the visit special.

One traveler, Wailing C., noted the bus transfer was busy, and the group was somewhat large, which could make some moments feel rushed. Still, most agree that the scenery here is beautiful and worth the visit, particularly for nature lovers who enjoy scenic spots with photo opportunities.

You can photograph the historic mill near the waterfalls and descend a staircase to get closer to the water, soaking in the fresh forest air. Entrance fees are minimal (around 2 TRY), making this stop an affordable highlight.

Lunch and Shopping: A Taste of Turkish Flavors

After the waterfalls, it’s time for a Turkish-style lunch. The tour typically offers a choice of fish, chicken, or pide — a kind of Turkish flatbread. Reviewers generally say the meal is straightforward but flavorful, with salads accompanying the main dishes. It’s a good chance to relax and chat before heading to the next site.

Post-lunch, visitors often visit a leather and jewelry shop, which is part of the tour package. While some find these shops touristy, others appreciate the opportunity to browse for unique souvenirs like leather belts or handcrafted jewelry. One reviewer mentioned that the shop is the “perfect place to pick up souvenirs from the area,” which adds a little extra value.

The Ancient City of Side: A Walk Through History

The final stop is Side, a sprawling archaeological site that has preserved Roman temples, an agora, baths, and a nymphaeum spring. With four hours here, there’s plenty of time to wander through the ruins, soak in the history, and appreciate the impressive architecture.

Visitors can see the ancient Roman theater, which offers great photo ops, and explore the well-preserved walls and temples. One traveler described it as “a great stop with many interesting ruins,” and appreciated the opportunity to stroll around at their own pace.

While admission to Side is free, many of the site’s highlights are accessible without extra fees. The guide will likely point out key landmarks like the Temple of Apollo and the Nymphaeum, which are particularly photogenic and atmospheric.

The Return Trip: Reflecting on a Day Well Spent

After a full day of exploring, the journey back to Alanya takes roughly two hours. Expect to arrive at your hotel around 6 or 7 pm, depending on traffic. The tour concludes with hotel drop-off, making it a hassle-free experience, especially after a busy day.

Practicalities and Tips

• Timing: The tour starts early at 8:15 am, so plan your morning accordingly.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces and layers to adapt to weather changes.
• Meal Options: Vegetarian options are available if you specify in advance.
• Entrance Fees: Expect to pay around 15 TRY for Aspendos and 2 TRY for Kursunlu Waterfalls if you wish to go inside the ruins.
• Group Size: With a maximum of 27 travelers, expect a lively but manageable atmosphere.
• Booking: Most travelers book about two weeks in advance, indicating steady demand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to those interested in mixing history with nature, especially if you enjoy seeing well-preserved ruins and scenic waterfalls in a single day. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guided insight but also enjoy some independent exploring. Family groups, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike will find plenty to enjoy.

However, if you prefer a more flexible, less crowded experience or are looking for in-depth archaeological insights, you might find the larger group setting a little limiting. Also, those seeking a luxurious or bespoke experience may want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Alanya offers a comprehensive visit to some of Turkey’s most iconic sights, blending Roman history with stunning natural scenery. The convenience of hotel pickup, included lunch, and entrance fees makes it a solid value for travelers looking to maximize their sightseeing without fuss.

While the group size can feel a bit busy at times, the sites themselves are undeniably impressive, especially Aspendos’s theater and the tranquil Kursunlu Waterfalls. The walk through Side’s ruins provides a captivating glimpse into ancient life, perfect for history lovers.

This tour strikes a good balance between structured exploration and personal time, making it an excellent choice for those new to the area or visitors eager to see a lot in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

How long is the drive from Alanya to Aspendos?
The trip is approximately 94 kilometers, or about an hour and a half, in a climate-controlled bus.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Aspendos (around 15 TRY) and Kursunlu Waterfalls (around 2 TRY) are paid separately, but they’re quite affordable.

What’s the meal like?
Lunch typically includes fish, chicken, or pide with salad. Vegetarian options are available if you request in advance.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 27 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable and social.

Can I skip any stops?
The itinerary is fairly structured, so flexibility is limited. It’s best to plan based on your interest in each site.

This tour is a solid choice for those wanting a full-day adventure filled with history, nature, and Turkish culture, all wrapped into one seamless package.