Antalya: Perge Aspendos Side 1 Day Private Tours

Exploring Antalya’s Ancient Treasures: Perge, Aspendos, and Side in One Day

If you’re after a day packed with history, stunning architecture, and a touch of nature, this private tour from Antalya hits the mark. For just $94 per group (up to one person, but it’s ideal for small groups or families), you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring some of Turkey’s most significant ancient sites. Guided by friendly professionals, you’ll visit Perge, home to Roman ruins; the Aspendos Theater, arguably the best-preserved Roman theater in the world; and Side, a charming coastal town with a famous temple. Along the way, there’s a refreshing stop at Manavgat Waterfall and a scenic lunch by the Euromedon River.

What we especially like about this tour is how efficiently it combines major historical sites with natural beauty. The Aspendos Theatre stands out for its remarkable preservation—still used for performances today—making it a highlight for anyone interested in Roman architecture. Plus, the stop at Manavgat Waterfall offers a peaceful break away from the ruins and some great photo opportunities.

One thing to consider is that the tour’s pace can be quite full, and you’ll need to be comfortable with a packed schedule. Also, entry fees for Perge and Aspendos aren’t included in the price, so budget extra for these if you want to access everything fully. This tour is perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, and travelers who appreciate a well-organized day with plenty of sights packed into one trip.

If you enjoy learning about ancient civilizations while soaking in some scenic views, this experience will suit you best. It’s especially good for those who want a guided, hassle-free way to see some of Turkey’s most famed archaeological sites without the worry of navigation or planning.

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Key Points

All-in-One Day: Combines Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfall for a comprehensive experience.
Historical Significance: Highlights Roman architecture and ancient urban planning.
Scenic Breaks: Includes a relaxing lunch by the river and a beautiful waterfall stop.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide insight into each site’s history.
Value for Money: At $94, it offers a full day of sightseeing with transportation, lunch, and waterfall entry included.
Additional Costs: Entry fees for Perge and Aspendos are not included, so plan for extra expenses.

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The Detailed Experience: What to Expect

When we booked this tour, we appreciated that the pickup from hotels or designated locations was straightforward, removing the hassle of organizing transport ourselves. The small-group setting (private tour) meant we received personalized attention, and our guide, whose name I wish I remembered, was both knowledgeable and friendly, eager to share stories behind the ruins.

Perge: The Ancient Capital of Pamphylia

Our first stop was Perge, a city that once served as a hub for the Pamphylian region. Walking through the ruins, we could clearly see how the Romans built their cities to last—mighty Stadiums, grand Roman Gates, intricate Nymphaeum fountains, and the expansive Roman Bath complex. The Column Street showcased impressive stone pillars, and the State Agora provided a glimpse into daily life and commerce.

The highlight here was how well-preserved the site is, allowing us to imagine the bustling life of ancient citizens. Our guide explained the significance of each structure, making it easier to picture Roman life. While the entry fee isn’t included, the $94 price comfortably covers the transportation, guide, and a detailed look at these ruins, which are often less crowded than other sites.

Aspendos: The Roman Theater Marvel

Next up was Aspendos, famed for having the best-preserved Roman theater in the world. This massive structure is a marvel of engineering, capable of seating around 15,000 spectators, and it’s still used for concerts and festivals. We loved the way the theater’s acoustics allow whispers from the stage to reach the furthest seats—proof that Roman engineering was truly advanced.

The theater’s continual use until recently gives it a lively history, and the guide’s storytelling made it vivid. We also visited the Aqueduct nearby, an impressive water canal still standing as a testament to ancient ingenuity. Entry fees here again are separate, but the quality of the theater makes it worth the extra expense.

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Lunch by the Euromedon River

After Aspendos, we took a break for lunch at a riverside restaurant overlooking the Euromedon River. The setting was peaceful, and the food was tasty—simple Turkish fare that hit the spot after a morning of exploration. The location’s serenity contrasted nicely with the grandeur of the ruins, giving us a chance to relax and chat about what we’d seen so far.

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Side Antique City & the Apollon Temple

Post-lunch, we headed to Side, a lively town with a relaxed vibe. The main attraction was the Temple of Apollo, perched right by the coast. Its towering columns make for a great photo backdrop and are a reminder of the town’s importance as a cultural and religious center in antiquity. We enjoyed wandering through the ruins, imagining the ancient worship and festivities that once took place here.

Manavgat Waterfall: Nature’s Refreshing Ending

Our day concluded with a visit to Manavgat Waterfall, a scenic spot where the river cascades through a narrow gorge. It’s a refreshing contrast to the ancient stones, offering a chance to enjoy some fresh air and snap photos of the rushing water. Entry was included, and many travelers reported feeling that this peaceful stop was a delightful way to end the day.

Drop-Off and Final Thoughts

After a full day of exploring, our guide kindly dropped us back at our hotel or preferred location. The entire experience was seamless, and the small-group dynamic felt personalized without feeling overly crowded.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the tour’s price doesn’t include entry fees for Perge and Aspendos, the overall package offers excellent value considering transportation, expert guiding, and a well-planned itinerary. The quality of the sites, especially Aspendos’s theater, justifies the cost for those interested in authentic, historical sights. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickups and drops saves time and effort.

It’s important to note that this tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a full day of sightseeing and are comfortable with walking and a packed schedule. The group size is private, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience without the chaos of large tours.

FAQs

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes transfers from your hotel or specified locations, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, with specific starting times available based on your booking. Check the schedule when reserving.

Are entry fees for Perge and Aspendos included?
No, these are not included in the $94 price. You will need to pay separate entrance fees at each site.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s generally suitable for most ages, but it’s not recommended for people over 70 years old due to the walking involved and the full-day schedule.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID (children need one as well), some cash for extra expenses, and comfortable shoes. Note that umbrellas, hats, and sportswear are not allowed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—perfect for flexible travelers.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Antalya offers a thoughtfully curated look at some of Turkey’s most impressive ancient sites, combined with scenic stops that refresh and inspire. It strikes a good balance between history, architecture, and natural beauty, all within a manageable day. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just eager to see the highlights without the hassle of independent planning, you’ll find this trip both enjoyable and informative.

Ideal for those who appreciate well-guided excursions, the tour provides professional narration and a comfortable pace, making it easier to absorb the stories behind each ruin. The inclusion of lunch and entry to natural attractions enhances the experience, ensuring you get a full day’s worth of memorable sights.

If you’re visiting Antalya and want a practical, engaging way to understand the region’s significance, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially great if you value having a guide to bring these ancient stones to life and enjoy a mix of history and nature in a single day.

Remember: this tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a full, guided day with active exploration and scenic breaks. Book ahead to secure your spot and prepare for a day filled with stories, ruins, and waterfalls.