From City of Side: Perge, Aspendos & Kurunlu Waterfall Trip

Experience the Best of Antalya’s Historical and Natural Gems

This full-day excursion from Side takes you through some of the most captivating highlights of the Antalya Province—visiting the Perge Ancient City, the Aspendos Amphitheater, and the lush Kurunlu Waterfall. At around 8 hours, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a blend of history, scenery, and a touch of local flavor.

What we really love about this tour is how smoothly it’s organized—thanks to a comfortable, air-conditioned bus and a knowledgeable bilingual guide (fluent in English and German). It’s well-paced with enough time at each site to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and hotel pickup and drop-off makes it a convenient way to explore without the hassle of planning individual tickets.

One thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees for Perge, Aspendos, and Kurunlu are not included in the price, so you’ll want to bring some cash. Also, there’s no swimming break at the waterfall, so if you’re hoping to dip your toes in, this isn’t the tour for that. It’s best suited for history buffs, nature lovers, and those who enjoy a well-rounded day of sightseeing with a friendly group.

This tour is ideal for those staying in or near Side who want a comprehensive day out with expert commentary, without worrying about transportation logistics. If you love exploring ancient sites or enjoying a peaceful natural setting afterward, this will suit you perfectly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Well-organized itinerary with a good balance of history and nature
• Includes transportation and lunch, making it easy and convenient
• Guided in English and German, with expert insights and storytelling
• Allows time for personal exploration at each stop
• Entrance fees are not included, so plan accordingly
• Suitable for travelers looking for a full-day adventure with historical sites and scenic views

Discover the Charm of Ancient and Natural Antalya

When you think about your trip to Turkey, it’s easy to focus on the coast or the bustling markets, but this tour offers a different kind of treasure: a mixture of ancient ruins, amphitheaters, and a serene waterfall. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of each site, making history come alive with stories and interesting facts that kept us engaged throughout the day.

Starting Point: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins with hotel pickup, a significant plus if you’re staying in Side, Titreyengöl, or nearby areas. The bus is air-conditioned—crucial for comfort during the warm Turkish days—and the group size tends to be manageable, as indicated by many reviews praising the smooth flow and personal attention from guides.

The Aspendos Amphitheater: A Roman Marvel

Our first stop is Aspendos, home to what many call the best-preserved Roman theater in Turkey. The acoustics here are astonishing—standing in the center, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient performances. The amphitheater is an engineering feat, with stone seats and a stage that have survived centuries remarkably intact.

Visitors often mention the photo stop opportunity and the chance to walk through the ruins. Many reviews highlight how the guide’s commentary brought the site’s history to life. As one reviewer noted, “The theater was truly amazing and well worth the visit.” Adjacent to Aspendos, the Bridge over Eurymedon River adds to the scenic charm.

More Great Tours Nearby

Stepping into History at Perge

Next, the Perge Ancient City offers a walk through a sprawling archaeological site that was once a bustling city. The two-hour visit allows for a detailed exploration of the ruins—gates, baths, a marketplace, and even mosaics. It’s an impressive landscape at your own pace, with the guide pointing out the stories behind each structure.

Many travelers have raved about the stunning artifacts and the well-preserved remains. One review mentions that “Perge was especially impressive, with its stadium and old city walls,” giving you a real sense of how life functioned centuries ago.

Lunch and Cultural Flavor

A local restaurant serves a buffet lunch featuring options like fish, chicken, or Adana kebap, accompanied by rice and salads. Many find the meal delicious and well-prepared, perfect for refueling before the afternoon.

Kurunlu Waterfall: A Natural Retreat

The final highlight is the Kurunlu Waterfall, a peaceful spot amid lush greenery. With 45 minutes of free time, you can enjoy the sounds of cascading water, take photos, or just relax. Some reviews mention the views are stunning and the area offers good photo opportunities. It’s a calming contrast to the historical sites, giving you a taste of the region’s natural beauty.

Returning Home

After a scenic one-hour drive back to Side, we felt the day had been a perfect mix of education, scenic beauty, and logistical ease. Many reviewers appreciated the professional guide, often mentioning Murat or Borat by name, as being friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing Turkey’s sights.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Aspendos Amphitheater and Bridge

What makes Aspendos so special is its remarkable preservation and auditory perfection. Built in the 2nd century AD, its acoustics allow even a whisper to be heard in the upper seats. We loved wandering through the stone tiers, imagining the performances that once entertained Roman audiences. The nearby bridge over the Eurymedon River, with its elegant arches, offers a picturesque setting that’s perfect for photos.

Perge Ancient City

The sprawling ruins of Perge give you a real sense of scale. As you walk the stone-paved streets, you can imagine what life was like in this Hellenistic and Roman city. The stadium is a highlight, giving a glimpse into ancient entertainment and sports. The mosaics, still vivid in some parts, tell stories of wealth and artistry.

Kurunlu Waterfall

The Kurunlu Waterfall is less about ancient history and more about reconnecting with nature. Set within a green valley, the waterfall creates a soothing soundscape. Many reviews emphasize the beauty of the scenery and the chance to relax after a morning of exploring.

The Guide’s Role

Throughout the day, the local guides shine. Many reviews praise their knowledge, storytelling ability, and fluency in both English and German. Their insights transform sightseeing from mere photo opportunities into educational moments that deepen your understanding of the region.

Practical Tips for Travelers

While this tour offers great value, keep in mind that entrance fees for Perge (€11), Aspendos (€15), and Kurunlu (75 TL) are not included. Budget some cash beforehand. Many travelers mention that the tickets can sometimes be tricky to buy, so having cash ready helps avoid delays.

Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, and comfortable clothing, as much of the day is outdoors and in the sun. Since there’s no swim break, don’t plan on swimming at Kurunlu unless you want to go after the tour.

The bus ride is generally comfortable, but some reviews note that the air conditioning might not be perfect. It’s worth dressing in light layers and bringing water—especially on hot days.

If you’re interested in a private group, that option is available, offering more flexibility and personalized attention.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who love a blend of history and nature, and who appreciate guided storytelling that makes ancient ruins come alive. It suits travelers who want a full-day experience without the hassle of organizing tickets or transportation.

If you’re staying in Side or nearby areas and want to avoid the stress of solo planning, this tour offers convenience and expert insights. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, with enough time at each site to explore and take photos.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-thought-out introduction to the antique sites and natural beauty of the Antalya region. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and delicious lunch create a seamless experience. It’s an excellent way to see some of Turkey’s most impressive ruins and scenic spots in one day, especially if you’re short on time but want to maximize your sightseeing.

While the entrance fees are extra, many find the overall value to be good, considering the convenience, expert guidance, and variety of sights. This trip is especially rewarding for history buffs, photographers, and nature lovers who prefer a balanced, educational journey that’s both fun and relaxing.

Whether it’s your first trip to Turkey or a return visit, this tour encapsulates the charm of the region—ancient history, stunning architecture, and lush landscapes, all in one memorable day.

FAQ

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from most hotels in Side, Titreyengöl, Sorgun, Kumköy, Evrenseki, Çolakl, and Gündodu.

How long is the tour?
The entire day lasts about 8 hours, starting around 8:15 AM with pickups and returning in the late afternoon.

What sites will I visit?
You will see Aspendos Amphitheater, Perge Ancient City, and Kurunlu Waterfall.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Perge (€11), Aspendos (€15), and Kurunlu (75 TL) are not included; you should bring cash.

Is there time for personal exploration?
Yes, at each site you’ll have about 30-45 minutes to wander, take photos, or relax.

Can I book a private group?
Yes, private group options are available, offering a more tailored experience.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, comfortable clothes, and cash for entrance fees and drinks.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch with options like fish, chicken, or Adana kebap is included.

Can I use a Museum Card?
If you have a Museum Card, it can be used to pass free through security at the entrances, but not at Kurunlu.

This tour offers a wonderful slice of Turkey’s history and natural beauty—perfect for curious travelers eager to learn, relax, and take home unforgettable memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: