Antalya: Perge, Aspendos & City of Side Day Trip with Lunch

Antalya: Perge, Aspendos & City of Side Day Trip with Lunch

If you’re visiting Antalya and eager to explore some of Turkey’s most impressive ancient sites without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this day trip offers a practical and engaging way to do so. For around $59, you’ll get a full day of sightseeing, guided commentary, and a taste of local life, all packed into about nine hours that fly by in the company of a knowledgeable guide.

The tour covers notable highlights like Perge, often called the “Pompeii of Asia Minor,” the Aspendos Theatre, renowned for its astonishing preservation, and the bustling Side ruins. It’s a well-rounded introduction to the region’s Roman and Hellenistic past, with the chance to enjoy a scenic lunch along the Euromedon River — a peaceful break amid your busy day.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the expert guides who bring history alive with interesting stories, and the accessible schedule that balances sightseeing with comfort. The focus on authentic sites means you’ll avoid overly commercialized stops, and instead, experience sites that speak for themselves.

One consideration to keep in mind: it’s a long day, so comfortable shoes and some patience for waiting in lines (if busy) will make your experience smoother. This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy history, are comfortable with walking, and want a rundown of the ancient treasures near Antalya without the need for extensive self-guiding.

Key Points

• Expert-guided tours enhance your understanding of the sites’ history and significance.
• Authentic archaeological ruins like Perge and Aspendos are well-preserved and still used for performances.
• Convenient hotel pickup makes travel logistics stress-free.
• Balanced itinerary includes major ruins, a waterfall, and scenic lunch break for variety.
• Value for money considering transportation, guide, and lunch included.
• Limited time at each site means a brisk visit—good for history buffs but might feel rushed for some.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Comprehensive Look at the Tour Experience

The day starts with pickup from your hotel or designated location, a seamless way to avoid the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads or trying to find meeting points. Once onboard, the journey to the ancient sites is comfortable, and the guide’s engaging narration begins immediately, setting the stage for what you’re about to see.

Perge: The Roman Capital of Pamphylia

Our first stop is Perge, once the administrative center of the Pamphylia region. It’s a sprawling site with a remarkable collection of ruins that tell stories of prosperity and Roman influence. We loved the way our guide detailed the significance of each feature — from the Roman Stadium, which once hosted athletic events, to the Column Street, lined with towering pillars that evoke a sense of grandeur.

What makes Perge special is the way its remains are still so visible and accessible. You can walk along the ancient streets, imagining life in Roman Anatolia. The Roman Gate and the Hellenistic Gate mark the transition between eras, giving a tangible sense of history. The Nymphaeum and Roman Bath evoke the leisure and public life of ancient inhabitants.

Aspendos: The Theatre That Has Survived Millennia

Next, we head to Aspendos, home to arguably Turkey’s best-preserved Roman theatre. It’s so complete that performances are still held here today, a rare occurrence for ancient theatres. The grandeur of the theatre’s architecture, with its perfect acoustics and massive stage, makes it clear why it’s considered one of the world’s top ancient theatres.

Our guide explained how Aspendos’ theatre was built in the 2nd century AD and still hosts concerts and festivals, which adds a lively dimension to its historical significance. Standing in the stands, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient crowds. It’s a powerful reminder of how well-built Roman engineering was.

Adjacent to the theatre, we visited the aqueduct, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient water systems. The aqueduct’s impressive arches still stretch across the landscape, offering great photo opportunities and insight into the scale of Roman infrastructure.

Lunch on the Euromedon River

After exploring Aspendos, we took a well-deserved break for lunch at a riverside restaurant overlooking the Euromedon River. It’s a relaxing spot that offers a break from walking, with views that allow you to appreciate the scenic surroundings. The menu features local specialties, and those who tried the fish said it was especially delicious — a hint that the food quality matched the beautiful setting.

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Side and Manavgat Waterfall

Post-lunch, the bus takes you to the ancient city of Side, a lively place with ruins dating back to the 17th century B.C. You’ll see the Agora, the theatre, and temples, all nestled along a charming coastal town. Visitors have noted the authenticity of these ruins — a stark contrast to overly commercialized tourist spots.

A highlight for many is the Manavgat Waterfall, a natural marvel where the river cascades over rocky cliffs. The sight and sound of rushing water offer a peaceful finish to the day. It’s worth noting that access to the waterfall is included, making it a convenient and refreshing stop before heading back.

Return to Your Hotel

After a fulfilling day of sightseeing, the tour concludes with a drop-off back at your hotel. The timing is generally flexible, but it’s good to confirm your pickup time the day before to ensure smooth logistics.

The Value and Who Will Appreciate This Tour

Considering the price of $59, this tour offers solid value when you factor in transportation, a knowledgeable guide, lunch, and entry to the Manavgat Waterfall. While you’ll need to purchase your entry tickets for Perge and Aspendos separately, the overall package still provides a good deal for those interested in history and authentic site visits.

The guided aspect is a major plus. We loved the way the guides, like Ozzie and Ciil, brought stories to life, making the ruins feel more tangible and memorable. Their local expertise turns a simple sightseeing trip into an educational experience.

This tour suits those who enjoy history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, and who prefer a structured day that maximizes sightseeing without the stress of planning. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who don’t mind walking and appreciate a well-balanced itinerary that mixes ruins, natural beauty, and local culture.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking an accessible, guided overview of some key ancient sites near Antalya, this day trip hits the mark. It’s ideal for first-timers eager to see Perge, Aspendos, and Side without the complexity of independent planning. The inclusion of a scenic lunch and the opportunity to see a functioning Roman theatre make this experience both educational and enjoyable.

The knowledgeable guides and scenic stops ensure you leave with a solid understanding of the region’s history — and enough photos and memories to last. If you’re interested in history, appreciate well-preserved ruins, or simply want a hassle-free way to explore the area, this tour is a smart choice.

Just be prepared for a full day of walking and a schedule that moves along briskly. Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, and some water — and you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy all the sights this tour offers.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or other designated locations, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, from pickup to drop-off, giving plenty of time to explore each site at a comfortable pace.

Are entry tickets to Perge and Aspendos included?
No, you’ll need to purchase tickets separately for Perge and Aspendos, but the guide will provide information on how to do so easily.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, comfortable clothes, and an umbrella are recommended — the day involves a lot of walking and exposure to the sun.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While it’s generally suitable for most travelers, it’s not recommended for those over 95 years old or over 140 kg (309 lbs), due to the physical activity involved.

Will I be able to see the sites at my own pace?
The schedule is structured to fit all the highlights, so while there’s some flexibility, it’s designed for group pacing rather than individual exploration time.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the ancient world near Antalya. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone eager to see Turkey’s impressive archaeological sites without the fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: