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

Step into the footsteps of ancient civilizations with this carefully curated private tour from Antalya. For around $624 per group (up to 14 travelers), you’ll spend roughly 7 hours exploring some of Turkey’s most impressive archaeological sites—Perge, Aspendos, and Side. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this trip offers a balanced mix of history, architecture, and local flavor. Expect to marvel at the acoustics of Aspendos’s Roman theater, walk through the well-preserved ruins of Perge, and soak in the sunset views over Side’s ancient harbor.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines expert guidance with authentic experiences—you’ll learn about the sites’ significance from someone who genuinely knows their stuff, making the ruins come alive. Plus, the included traditional Turkish lunch adds an extra layer of culture.

One possible consideration is the physical aspect—while most sites are accessible, visitors with significant mobility issues should note that walking and uneven terrain are involved. Still, the tour is ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and local cuisine, and who want a well-organized, private experience.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, culture seekers, and anyone who appreciates a comfortable, guided day to explore Turkey’s ancient past without the hassle of self-planning or crowded group tours.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Perge, Aspendos, and Side in one day
• Expert guide offers detailed insights into each site
• Authentic Turkish lunch enhances cultural experience
• Private group setting ensures personalized attention
• Includes entrance fees and hotel pickup/drop-off for convenience
• Ideal for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience an In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary: A Day Full of History and Culture

This tour begins with hotel pickup in the Antalya region, ensuring a hassle-free start. Comfort is key, and your transportation is likely a well-maintained vehicle that makes the roughly 7-hour journey smooth and relaxed. The first stop is Perge, an ancient Greek city that dates back to the Hellenistic period. As you walk through its remains, you’ll see fascinating structures like the stadium, Roman gate, Nymphaeum, Roman baths, and the columned street. The site’s extensive ruins give a real sense of how bustling and sophisticated this city was.

Next on the agenda is Aspendos, famed for its remarkably preserved Roman theater. With a capacity of approximately 7,500 spectators, this theater is still used today for performances, thanks to its outstanding acoustics and stable structure. Standing on the stage, you might find yourself whispering and hearing your voice echo back, a testament to the engineering brilliance of Roman architects. The decorative facade and two-storied stage are impressive enough, but the real marvel is how well-preserved it is—allowing you to imagine the grandeur of ancient shows and gatherings.

From there, you’ll visit the Aspendos aqueducts, which stretch across a wide valley for 1.7 km. These aqueducts, some reaching 30 meters high, are a feat of Roman engineering and still a striking sight. They once carried water from the mountains 15 km to the north, and today, they serve as a reminder of the ingenuity that supported Roman city life.

A Taste of Local Flavors

After a morning of exploring ruins, you’ll sit down for a traditional Turkish lunch. Your guide will likely introduce you to local dishes, giving you insight into Turkey’s culinary culture. Many reviews mention the delicious food and attentive service, making this meal a highlight rather than just a break. It’s a chance to relax, rehydrate, and enjoy authentic flavors that are often a favorite part of the day.

The Ancient City of Side: A Glimpse into Myth and Commerce

In the afternoon, your journey continues to Side, a historic city famous for its Hellenistic and Roman ruins. The Agora theater and Temple of Apollo, built around the 2nd century AD, stand majestically near the harbor, with white marble columns that shimmer under the sun. Walking through Side’s narrow streets and ruins, you’ll sense the city’s vibrancy, once a hub of commerce and culture.

One of the favorite spots among travelers is the Hellenistic Temple of Athena, which offers stunning sunset views after a day of exploration. Watching the sun dip behind ancient stones, you get a sense of how this site has witnessed thousands of years of history.

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Practical Details and Comfort

The tour’s inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, especially in a busy tourist area like Antalya. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get tailored insights. The entrance fees are included, saving you the hassle of buying tickets separately, and the guide’s explanations enhance your understanding of what you’re seeing.

The duration of 7 hours is well-balanced—enough to see significant sites without feeling rushed. The tour is conducted in multiple languages including English, German, Dutch, Danish, and Russian, making it accessible for many travelers.

Considerations

While the experience offers great value, it’s worth noting that it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, mainly due to uneven terrain and walking involved at each site. Plus, the temperature can soar in summer, so packing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a hat is recommended.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Beyond the obvious attractions, this experience is praised for the knowledgeable guides who bring history to life and the delicious, authentic Turkish cuisine that leaves a lasting impression. Several reviews highlight how guides “really knew their stuff” and how the lunch was more than just a meal—it’s a chance to connect with local flavors and stories.

The private nature of the tour means you won’t be squeezed into a large bus with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate exploration. Travelers also appreciate the flexibility of the schedule and the chance to ask questions freely.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re passionate about history, archaeology, and architecture, this tour provides a comprehensive look at some of Turkey’s most important ancient sites. It’s suitable for those who want a structured, informative day with the comfort of private transport and guide attention. It’s particularly good for travelers who enjoy walking through ruins and learning stories behind the stones.

However, if you prefer a leisurely pace with gentle walking or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider other options. Also, those looking for a more adventurous or physically demanding experience might find this tour a bit limited.

The Sum Up

This From Antalya: Perge, Aspendos & Side Private Tour offers significant value for travelers eager to step back into history with a knowledgeable guide guiding the way. It’s a well-rounded day that balances archaeological exploration, cultural insights, and authentic Turkish cuisine. The private setting means you can tailor questions and enjoy a more personalized experience—perfect for history enthusiasts or couples seeking a more intimate tour.

The sites visited are among the most significant in the region, and their preservation allows you to imagine their former glory vividly. The inclusion of the lunch and transportation makes this a convenient choice for those wanting to see the highlights without the stress of independent planning.

While not for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues—the tour appeals to travelers who value expert guidance, authentic experiences, and historic grandeur. If that sounds like your kind of day, this tour will likely leave you with memorable stories and a deeper appreciation of Turkey’s ancient past.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel within the Antalya region, making logistics easy and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving ample time to explore all the major sites comfortably.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the cost covers all entrance fees, so you won’t need to worry about additional ticket purchases on the day.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and lightweight clothing are recommended, especially during warmer months.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s mainly suitable for those who can handle walking over uneven terrain; it’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments or wheelchairs.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: