Antalya: Ancient Perge, Aspendos Theater & City of Side Tour

Antalya: Ancient Perge, Aspendos Theater & City of Side Tour
Location: Antalya Province, Turkey
Country: Turkey
Rating: 4.8 (932 reviews)
Price: $33 per person
Supplier: TOURMANIA

Quick Overview: What You’ll Experience

If you’re visiting Antalya and craving a taste of history, this full-day guided tour hits some of the most impressive ancient sites in the region. For around $33, you get a comprehensive trip that includes visits to the sprawling ruins of Perge, the magnificent Aspendos Theater, and the charming old town of Side. Expect to walk among ancient columns, imagine gladiatorial spectacles in a 2,000-year-old amphitheater, and enjoy a seaside temple that’s been greeting travelers for centuries.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour: the expert guides who bring the sites alive with stories and insights, and the comfortable transportation that makes covering three major spots in one day feasible. A good balance of structured sightseeing and free time makes this trip appealing for those who want a meaningful overview without feeling rushed.

One thing to consider: the tour is long and can be quite warm, especially in summer. Some reviews mention the heat and the bus’s limited air conditioning, so pack sun protection and water.

This tour suits history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking to see the highlights of Antalya’s ancient past without DIY stress. If you’re keen on Roman, Hellenistic, or Ottoman ruins, you’ll find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Rich archaeological sites in Perge, Aspendos, and Side provide a comprehensive glimpse into Turkey’s ancient civilizations
• Expert guides make history accessible and engaging, with detailed explanations and stories
• Well-organized route with enough free time to explore and take photos at each site
• Comfortable transportation and hotel pickup make logistics simple
• Valuable investment for just $33, including lunch and entry fees (if selected)
• Ideal for history lovers seeking a full immersion in Turkey’s ancient culture

Exploring the Details: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

This tour carefully balances ancient ruins, impressive theaters, and seaside charm. Starting from your hotel in Antalya, you’ll hop onto a comfortable, air-conditioned coach — a necessity when the weather heats up. Your guide, often praised for their knowledgeable and friendly demeanor, will introduce you to the region’s layered past, where Persians, Romans, and Byzantines all left their mark.

Perge is your first stop — an archaeological site that was once a thriving Roman city. You’ll walk through monumental gates and along a colonnaded street that once bustled with markets and parades. The remains of Roman baths, a stadium capable of hosting thousands, and an acropolis from Bronze Age origins paint a picture of grandeur. Many reviewers mention how walking through Perge helps bring ancient daily life vividly back. One reviewer reflects, “We loved the way the ruins opened a window into history.”

Next is Aspendos, home to what many consider the world’s best-preserved Roman theater. Built in 155 AD, this amphitheater’s acoustics are legendary; even today, it hosts performances. Climbing the stone tiers offers panoramic views, and standing in the orchestra pit makes you feel like a part of the past. As one traveler noted, “The theater is stunning — you can imagine the crowds here 2,000 years ago.” Many reviews praise Aspendos for the structure’s preservation and awe-inspiring size.

After a traditional Turkish lunch (included in many options), your journey continues to Side, a seaside town filled with ancient ruins and charming streets. Here, you’ll see fountains, marble columns, and an agora, but the real highlight is the Temple of Apollo. Set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, it’s a moment that sticks with many visitors. The sea breeze and historic ruins combine to make a memorable scene. Several reviews mention how special it is to stand at the edge of the sea, looking back at millennia of history.

Transportation and Logistics

The coach is generally comfortable and air-conditioned, though a few reviewers note A/C limitations on very hot days. The hotel pickup and drop-off remove the hassle of arranging transportation, allowing you to relax and focus on the sights. The route’s sequence — starting with Perge, then Aspendos, and ending in Side — is designed to maximize time at each site while avoiding the worst of the heat, as some travelers mention.

Entry fees are often included if you select the appropriate option, but travelers should be aware there is a 30 TRY fee payable on the day if you opt for the no-entry-fee package. The tour is paced to offer enough free time for exploring each site’s nooks and crannies, which reviewers say enhances the experience rather than just ticking off boxes.

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Food and Local Touches

Lunch is praised for being delicious and plentiful, with many mentioning fresh salads and main courses. Several reviews remark on the quality of the food, describing it as authentic Turkish cuisine, which adds value beyond just sightseeing. There’s also a stop at a local shop to browse souvenirs, giving you a chance to support local artisans and bring home a piece of your journey.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Reviewers often highlight Ozzy, Recep, or other guides as the highlight of the tour. Their depth of knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to answer questions make the experience far more engaging. “Ozzy explained everything with humor and clarity,” one traveler notes. Many appreciate the balance of detailed info and storytelling, which makes history accessible and fun rather than dry.

What’s Not So Perfect

While the tour is widely praised, some mention the length of the day — it can be tiring, especially in hot weather. A few reviewers note A/C issues in the coach during particularly warm days, so bringing water, hats, and sunscreen is wise. Also, limited time at some sites, like Side, might leave you wishing for a little more exploration, but this is a common trade-off for covering three locations in one day.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This full-day experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and first-time visitors to Antalya who want a structured overview of the region’s ancient sites. If you’re interested in Roman architecture, ancient theaters, or seaside temples, this trip delivers. It’s also good for travelers who prefer organized transportation and guides over self-driving or DIY arrangements.

However, if you’re sensitive to heat or dislike long days, you might find it a bit exhausting. The walks involve some uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are a must. Families with kids might enjoy the stunning sights, but the duration and heat could be a consideration.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $33, this tour offers exceptional value — covering three major ancient sites with expert guidance, a filling lunch, and transport that makes logistics simple. From the monumental gates of Perge to the acoustic marvel of Aspendos, and the breezy seaside of Side, it’s a journey through time that many reviewers find both educational and inspiring.

If you want a comprehensive snapshot of the region’s history, enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine, and appreciate professional guides who make the stories come alive, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who don’t want to spend days on multiple trips but still crave a meaningful glimpse into Turkey’s ancient past.

FAQ

• How long is the tour?
  It’s a full day, generally lasting around 8 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off.

• Is lunch included?
  Many reviews mention a traditional Turkish lunch that’s included, with a variety of tasty options.

• Are entry fees included?
  Entry fees are included if you choose the option that covers them; otherwise, you’ll pay 30 TRY on the day.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  While many enjoy the sites, the long day and walking in the heat might be tiring for very young children.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable shoes, sun hat, and clothing suitable for warm weather are recommended.

• Does the tour operate in multiple languages?
  It’s conducted in English, which most reviews confirm is well spoken by guides.

• Is the coach air-conditioned?
  Yes, but some reviews suggest the A/C could be stronger on very hot days, so bring water.

• Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
  Yes, there is a stop at a local shop where you can browse regional products and souvenirs.

• How much free time do I get at each site?
  The schedule allows for enough exploration and photo-taking at each location, with some reviews mentioning around 45 minutes at Side.

• Would you recommend this tour?
  Absolutely, especially if you’re interested in Turkey’s ancient civilizations and want a well-organized, affordable day trip with plenty of storytelling.

This tour hits a perfect note for those seeking an affordable, educational, and scenic glimpse into Turkey’s marvelous past, all wrapped into a comfortably paced day. Just remember to bring your curiosity, a hat, and a sense of adventure!

You can check availability for your dates here: