Perge, Aspendos and Waterfalls Sightseeing Tour

Antalya’s Perge, Aspendos, and Waterfalls Tour offers a full day exploring some of Turkey’s most remarkable archaeological sites and scenic waterfalls. For $115 per person, you’ll spend roughly 8 hours with a guide and air-conditioned transport, visiting Perge’s ancient ruins, the well-preserved Roman theater in Aspendos, the stunning Manavgat Waterfalls, and the historic town of Side.

What we particularly love about this tour is how accessible it makes some of Turkey’s most impressive sites. First, Perge, where many of the statues now in Antalya Museum were uncovered, is a treasure trove of Roman architecture and Hittite history. Second, Aspendos’ theater is among the best-preserved Roman theaters in Anatolia, offering a glimpse into ancient entertainment.

One thing to consider is that the tour can be a bit rushed—some reviews mention delays at pickup and a shorter-than-expected schedule. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy quick, guided overviews of historic sites and don’t mind a busy day. This tour is ideal if you want a taste of Turkey’s ruins, combined with some relaxing waterfalls and a lively resort town.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Perge, Aspendos, Side, and waterfalls in one day
• Knowledgeable guides who share detailed insights into each site
• Good value for money, considering the entrance fees and included transport
• Flexible free time in Side to explore independently
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning, despite some mixed reviews
• Authentic experiences in ancient ruins and scenic nature spots

A Deep Dive into the Tour: What You Can Expect

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Transportation

We love that the tour begins early at 9:00 am with pickup from your Antalya hotel. The comfort of an air-conditioned coach makes the long day more pleasant, especially during hot Turkish summers. According to reviews, the group size is limited to around 20 travelers, which helps keep things personal and manageable.

However, some reviews mention delays—one noted being picked up an hour late. This is common in busy travel operations, so it’s wise to allow a little extra time and confirm your pickup. The vehicles are generally comfortable, but a few guests noted that the minivan they traveled in was not as clean or spacious as a coach bus.

First Stop: Perge Ancient City

We find Perge to be a highlight for anyone interested in archaeology. This ancient city, once the capital of Pamphylia, dates back to around 1500 BC. Here, you’ll wander past the large agora, the public baths, the gymnasium, and the impressive stadium—all mighty reminders of the grandeur of Roman urban planning.

What makes Perge special is the connection to the statues now housed in the Antalya Museum—most of which were discovered here. We loved the way the guide explained how these artifacts relate to the local history. The city’s gate, with its massive towers and arcade, is a photo-worthy spot that every history buff will appreciate.

Next Stop: Aspendos and Its Roman Theater

A favorite among many travelers, Aspendos is home to one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in Anatolia. Its excellent state of preservation allows you to imagine performances and gatherings as they once happened nearly 2000 years ago.

Guests praise the site for its grandeur, though one review mentioned it was closed for renovation at the time of visit. Even if that’s the case, the theater’s scale and craftsmanship still impress. Our guide’s storytelling helped us visualize how this theater was part of a lively city life.

Lunch and Scenic Views

After Aspendos, you’ll stop for lunch along the river. A well-timed break that offers a chance to relax and enjoy local cuisine. Many reviewers mention that the food was satisfying—the value of a included meal in a tour like this can’t be overstated.

Afternoon: Manavgat Waterfalls and Side

The waterfalls are a peaceful interlude in the tour, with many describing them as beautiful and refreshing. One guest called it a “relaxing and refreshing” stop after a morning full of walking and exploring.

Following the waterfalls, you’ll head to Side, a lively resort town with a well-preserved Roman theater, Temple of Apollo, and other ruins. You’ll get a sense of how this harbor city was once a vital trade and cultural hub. Several reviews highlight the optional free time here, which lets you stroll the streets, browse shops, or relax on the sandy beaches.

The Wrap-Up: Return to Antalya

The tour concludes with a ride back to your hotel, typically around 5-6 pm. We appreciate the flexibility to explore Side at your own pace, and most travelers find the overall experience to be well-organized, despite a few hiccups like delays or crowded transport in some reviews.

The Practical Side: Transport, Timing, and Value

The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a major convenience. The use of an air-conditioned vehicle makes the long day more comfortable, although some reviews mention that the minivan was less than spotless. The duration, about 8 hours, strikes a good balance—allowing enough time at each site without feeling overly rushed.

At $115 per person, the price includes entrance fees for Perge and Aspendos, plus guided commentary. Other options on the market might charge more, especially if they include fewer sites or less guided insight. While some reviews note that there is optional shopping or visits to jewelry stores, the main focus remains on the archaeological sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits those with an interest in ancient history, Roman architecture, and scenic waterfalls. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer guided tours to maximize sightseeing in a short time. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and moderate walking, you’ll find this a rewarding day. However, if you seek a more relaxed pace or a private, customizable experience, you might prefer exploring independently or booking smaller tours.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many guests expressed enthusiasm for the guides—calling them “very enthusiastic” and “full of energy,” which helps keep everyone engaged during the long day. One reviewer noted that their guide’s explanations were “very detailed,” adding depth to the ruins they visited.

There’s also praise for the scenic waterfalls and the town of Side, which many found charming and worth the visit. The combination of ancient ruins and natural beauty gives a well-rounded picture of what makes Antalya such a diverse destination.

On the flip side, some guests encountered minor frustrations—delays, crowded transport, or a shorter stay in Side than hoped. One review pointed out that the tour did not visit the waterfalls as expected but instead went to a different one, so it’s good to clarify the itinerary before booking.

A Final Word: Is This Tour Right for You?

For travelers eager to get a solid overview of Turkey’s ancient sites alongside some beautiful nature, this tour packs a lot into a day. It offers excellent value, especially if you appreciate guided commentary and the convenience of transport included. You’ll love the chance to walk through Perge’s ruins, sit in Aspendos’ theater, and relax at Manavgat Waterfalls—all on one well-organized trip.

However, keep in mind that it’s a busy schedule, and some sites may be crowded or partially under renovation. If you’re after a leisurely exploration or have mobility issues, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, if history, scenery, and cultural highlights are your priorities, this tour hits many of the right notes.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 8 hours, from around 9:00 am until late afternoon, with time allocated for each site.

What sites do we visit? You’ll explore Perge’s ancient ruins, Aspendos’ Roman theater, the waterfalls near Manavgat, and the historic town of Side.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, the entrance tickets for Perge and Aspendos are included in the price. The waterfalls and Side are free to explore.

Is the transportation comfortable? The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, although some reviews mention that the minivan might be a bit cramped or not as clean as hoped.

Can I explore Side independently? Yes, the tour provides some free time in Side, allowing you to wander, shop, or relax on the beaches.

What’s not included? Food and drinks are not included unless specified, so consider bringing snacks or planning for meals.

In essence, this tour offers a practical, well-rounded snapshot of Antalya’s historical and natural highlights. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, value-packed day that blends archaeology with scenery, leaving you with lasting memories of Turkey’s timeless charm.