Perge Aspendos Kursunlu Waterfall Tour from SDE , MANAVGAT

Discover the Best of Antalya’s Heritage and Nature in One Day

If you’re looking to combine history, natural beauty, and a bit of relaxation on your trip to Side, Turkey, this Perge Aspendos Kursunlu Waterfall Tour offers a well-rounded experience. For $46.26 per person, you get a full-day guided journey that covers some of the most iconic ancient sites and scenic spots around Antalya. The tour lasts roughly 5 to 7 hours, includes pickup from your hotel, and features a tasty BBQ lunch.

What we love most about this trip is how well-organized it is—each stop is timed carefully to give you ample exploration without feeling rushed. Plus, the knowledgeable guides will bring the stories behind the ruins to life, making history both engaging and easy to understand. The highlight, undoubtedly, is the Aspendos Theater, which remains almost perfectly preserved and allows you to step directly into Roman grandeur. The natural pause at Kursunlu Waterfall offers a peaceful break away from the busy ruins, letting you soak in the calming sights and sounds of flowing water.

One thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees for Perge and Aspendos are not included, so you’ll need to budget a few extra dollars on site. Also, the tour is suitable for most travelers, but it involves a fair amount of walking and historical sightseeing, so comfortable shoes are a must. If you enjoy uncovering ancient stories and relaxing in scenic spots, this trip is perfect for you.

Key Points

• Historic Highlights: Visit the well-preserved Roman theater in Aspendos and the ruins of ancient Perge, both rich in history and stunning in their preservation.
• Natural Beauty: Relax at Kursunlu Waterfall, one of Antalya’s favorite natural spots, with cool waters and tranquil surroundings.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides like Murat and Aydin enrich the tour with engaging stories and plenty of time for personal exploration.
• Value for Money: With transportation, a good lunch, and insurance included, the cost offers great value for a comprehensive day trip.
• Flexibility & Comfort: Pickup from your hotel and a group size capped at 46 travelers make the experience comfortable and convenient.
• Authentic Atmosphere: You’ll get a taste of genuine Turkish hospitality and history, away from overly commercialized tours.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting at 8:00 am, this tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a welcome convenience in a region where public transport isn’t always traveler-friendly. You’ll travel in a comfortable vehicle, often with a group of fellow history enthusiasts, as your guide shares snippets of local lore, historical context, and funny anecdotes throughout the day.

Visiting Aspendos: A Marvel of Roman Engineering

Your first stop is Aspendos, renowned for its amphitheater, which is practically a poster child for Roman architecture. The theater is nearly intact, with a capacity of approximately 15,000 spectators, and it continues to host performances today. We loved the way our guide explained how the Romans engineered such durable structures, using advanced acoustics and materials. As one reviewer noted, “The ruins at Aspendos are very well maintained and intact,” giving us a true sense of the Roman Empire’s grandeur.

While the entrance fee isn’t included, the experience of standing on the stone seats and imagining ancient performances is priceless. The theater’s preservation is a testament to the engineering skills of the Romans, and it’s a highlight that makes for great photos and even better stories to tell back home.

Exploring Perge: An Ancient City with a 3000-Year History

Next, we head to Perge, a site that feels like walking through a living museum. As one traveler put it, “We transported back 3000 years,” which is no exaggeration. You’ll see ancient ruins from the Roman era, including baths, stadiums, and city walls, all set against a backdrop of lush greenery.

Our guide was excellent at weaving stories about the city’s heyday as the capital of Pamphylia. One reviewer appreciated how Murat “gave us many background details,” making the ruins come alive. The site isn’t just a collection of stones; it’s a storybook of Turkey’s ancient past. Be prepared for some walking, but most find it manageable with good footwear.

Relaxing at Kursunlu Waterfall

The day wraps up with a visit to Kursunlu Waterfall, where the atmosphere shifts from ancient history to natural tranquility. Surrounded by the Taurus Mountains, this spot offers a refreshing break and stunning views. The waterfall is accessible and well-maintained, with a short walk leading to scenic photo points.

One guest shared, “The waterfall and its surroundings were very beautiful,” highlighting how this natural stop balances the cultural sightseeing. You’re encouraged to relax, take photos, and enjoy the cool breeze – a perfect way to end a packed day of exploration.

The Practicalities

Included in the tour are hotel transfers, a BBQ lunch with rice and salad, guiding, and insurance, making it a convenient all-in-one package. Entrance fees to Perge and Aspendos are not included, so budget an extra few dollars on site. The tour’s duration may vary between 5 and 7 hours, depending on group pace and traffic, but it’s generally well-paced.

Reviews consistently praise the tour’s organization and the guides’ expertise. They’re friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic, making the history accessible and engaging. Travelers also appreciate the small group size—capped at 46—ensuring everyone has space to explore and ask questions.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history buffs and nature lovers. If you’re curious about Roman engineering, want to see well-preserved ruins, and enjoy relaxing in scenic natural spots, you’ll find plenty to love. It also suits travelers who prefer a stress-free day with transportation and lunch taken care of, allowing you to focus on the sights.

Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of history and outdoor scenery will find this full-day experience both fun and educational. Keep in mind, it involves some walking, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

The Sum Up

This Perge Aspendos Kursunlu Waterfall Tour offers an authentic and thoughtfully curated taste of Antalya’s history and natural beauty. With expert guides, convenient logistics, and a balanced itinerary, it provides great value for those eager to explore Turkey’s rich past without feeling rushed. The stops at Aspendos and Perge bring ancient civilizations vividly to life, while the waterfall provides a peaceful counterpoint to the day’s adventures.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging day that combines archaeology, natural scenery, and a touch of local flavor, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good storytelling, stunning views, and a chance to learn about Turkey’s deep-rooted history in a relaxed environment.

FAQs

Are hotel transfers included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Side are included, making the experience hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 7 hours, depending on group pace, traffic, and how much time is spent at each site.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Perge and Aspendos are not included. You will need to pay these on-site, usually a small additional cost.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there is some walking involved at each site. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if it’s hot.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers and families enjoy it, especially those interested in history and natural scenery. Keep in mind the walking and outdoor elements.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What language is the guide’s commentary in?
Guides like Murat and Aydin provide insightful commentary, generally in English and sometimes in other languages, depending on the group.

This tour blends history, nature, and convenience into one memorable day, perfect for travelers who want to see the best of Antalya without the hassle. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just love scenic natural spots, it’s a journey worth taking.