Perge, Aspendos, Side and Waterfall Full Day Tour

Exploring Antalya’s Treasures: A Detailed Look at the Perge, Aspendos, Side & Waterfall Tour

If history, architecture, and natural beauty are your idea of a perfect day out, then the Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfall tour is likely to tick all your boxes. Offered by Everytours and highly rated with a perfect 5.0/5 from 61 reviews, this full-day experience promises a deep dive into Turkey’s rich past blended with some gorgeous scenic spots. It’s a carefully curated trip that balances culture with moments of relaxation, all for a very reasonable price of about $77 per person.

One thing we love about this tour is how it manages to pack four major stops into just about 9 to 10 hours, making it ideal for travelers who want to see a lot without feeling rushed. The inclusion of entrance fees, lunch, and transportation, plus the assurance of hotel pickup and drop-off, makes it surprisingly convenient and good value. However, a possible consideration is that the day can be quite full, so it’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a packed schedule and moderate walking.

This tour appeals especially to history enthusiasts, those interested in Roman architecture, and travelers craving a taste of both ancient ruins and pristine nature. If you’re looking for a well-organized, informative, and scenic trip that covers some of the most iconic sites near Antalya, this experience will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfall in one full day.
• Expert guidance with knowledgeable guides like Genghis, who bring history alive with humor and insight.
• All-inclusive pricing includes entrance fees, lunch, transportation, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
• Efficient schedule allowing visitors to explore multiple major sites without feeling rushed.
• Authentic experiences with detailed explanations, especially at archaeological sites and theaters.
• Ideal for history lovers and those seeking a mix of cultural and natural attractions.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This tour offers deep insights into Roman architecture and history, with sites that have been remarkably preserved. We loved the way our guide, Genghis, was able to inject humor and storytelling into every stop—making history accessible and fun. The sites are truly impressive, from the stunning Aspendos Theater with its nearly intact structure to the sprawling ruins of Perge, which give a real sense of Roman urban planning.

The value for money is notable, given that the tour fee covers entrance fees for all three archaeological sites, a guided commentary, and a delicious included lunch. This makes it a great option for travelers who want to avoid extra expenses and enjoy a seamless day out. The small group size—capped at 18 travelers—also ensures a more personalized experience, where questions are welcomed and the guide can give attention to individual interests.

However, the full-day schedule does require some stamina. Expect to spend about two hours at Perge, an hour at Aspendos, and two hours at Side, with the scenery of Manavgat Waterfall as a relaxing, free finale. The timing, starting at 8:00am, means early mornings but allows you to pack a lot into one day.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Perge Ancient City

Perge is where our journey begins, and it’s a fantastic site for history buffs. Situated in the Mediterranean region, Perge’s ruins tell stories of Roman urban life with their colonnaded streets, agora, baths, waterways, and a theatre. One of the highlights is walking along the preserved colonnades and imagining the hustle and bustle of ancient commerce and social life. Reviewers mention how Edel, the guide, made the history come alive, sharing stories about the social dynamics of Roman Perge and its significance.

What makes Perge special is how much has survived—it’s not just a collection of stones but a vivid snapshot of the past. Visitors can even picture walking in the footsteps of early Christians and Roman citizens, with some noting that they visualized social activities from the Roman era as they strolled through.

Stop 2: Aspendos Ruins

Aspendos is famed for its spectacular theater, which is one of the best-preserved and most famous in Turkey. Known for its incredible acoustics, the theater still hosts performances today, and standing at the top offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

Many reviewers commented on the awe-inspiring acoustics—“You can whisper on stage, and it can be heard at the back,” one commented. Standing in the theater, you’ll get a sense of how this architectural marvel was built nearly 2000 years ago with remarkable precision. The site’s location on a hilltop, accessible via ancient paved roads, adds to its charm. Some noted that entering through the main gate felt like stepping back in time as they listened to the whispers of Zenon, the architect, as the guide often explains.

Stop 3: Side and Its Modern Charm

Side is a lively town blending the ancient with the modern. The Roman ruins, including the famous Apollo Temple, sit right beside bustling cafes and shops. It’s interesting to see how the town has preserved its historical structures while evolving into a vibrant holiday destination.

Visitors often appreciate the chance to explore Side’s narrow streets, browse local markets, and take in the lively seaside ambiance. Many remark that the town’s charm lies in this blend of old and new—perfect for those who want a snapshot of both history and contemporary Turkish coastal life.

Final Stop: Manavgat Waterfall

The tour winds down at Manavgat Waterfall, a stunning natural feature where rushing water cascades over rocks, creating a cool, refreshing atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for photos and a well-deserved break after a busy day exploring archaeological sites. Reviewers love the peacefulness of this stop, mentioning how it’s a perfect place to relax and take in the scenery.

While the waterfall is free to enjoy, visitors can buy drinks and snacks from local vendors—some have noted that the small stalls add a lively, authentic touch, even if the prices can be a bit inflated. Overall, it’s a scenic ending that provides a little breathing space before heading back.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The entire day is spent traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the transfers between sites. The small group size, limited to 18 travelers, means more personalized attention and less feeling like just another face in a crowd. The tour begins early at 8:00am, which allows for a full day of exploration but also means you’ll need to be ready for an active schedule.

Guides and Commentary

Based on reviews, guides like Genghis and Ömer are praised for their knowledgeability, humor, and storytelling skills. Travelers consistently mention how these guides made the sites engaging and accessible, often sharing interesting anecdotes that bring history to life. Such interaction enriches the experience, especially when exploring ancient ruins.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there’s quite a bit of wandering on uneven terrain.
• Bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, sunglasses—as you’ll be outdoors most of the day.
• The included lunch is well-received, often described as delicious, making it a great chance to refuel.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but some reviews suggest it’s best for those who can handle a full day of activity.

What We Think About the Price and Overall Value

At just over $76, this tour offers excellent value for the depth and variety of experiences. Covering three major archaeological sites, a scenic waterfall, and a traditional Turkish lunch, it simplifies logistics and maximizes sightseeing. The included entrance fees and transportation remove the hassle of planning each stop independently, and the small group size adds a personalized feel.

Travelers have noted that the sites themselves are truly impressive—especially Aspendos’ theater and Perge’s ruins—and that the guides do a good job of making history engaging. With the addition of a scenic waterfall finale, this tour balances cultural discovery with natural beauty, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day tour is particularly suited for history enthusiasts and culturally curious travelers who want to see the most significant Roman sites near Antalya without the stress of planning multiple excursions. It’s perfect for those who appreciate storytelling and authentic guided experiences, as guides seem to excel at sharing detailed insights and local anecdotes.

If you’re a lover of scenic landscapes and natural attractions, the stop at Manavgat Waterfall provides a delightful break from archaeology, making the day well-rounded. The included lunch and transportation make it a fuss-free way to explore, especially for first-timers or visitors with limited time.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are less interested in historical sites, this might feel a bit packed. It’s also best suited for active travelers comfortable walking on uneven terrain and standing for periods.

In essence, this tour offers a rich, well-organized, and authentic experience of Turkey’s ancient past and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile addition to any Antalya itinerary, especially for those who want to combine culture, scenery, and good value in one day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting at 8:00am and finishing in the late afternoon.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour price covers entrance fees for Perge, Aspendos, and Manavgat Waterfall.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a local lunch is included in the tour, and reviews describe it as delicious.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended due to outdoor sites and walking on uneven terrain.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is the group size small?
Yes, the maximum group size is 18 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Who are the guides?
Guides like Genghis and Ömer are praised for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge, greatly enhancing the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the active nature and outdoor focus suggest it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with walking and outdoor exploration.

Ultimately, this tour offers a comprehensive and engaging way to uncover the historical and natural treasures of Antalya’s surroundings. For those eager to learn, explore, and relax in scenic spots, it’s an investment in a memorable day that balances culture and leisure beautifully.