Perge Aspendos Side and Manavgat Waterfall Tour

Imagine spending a day wandering through some of Turkey’s most impressive ancient sites, all with the comfort of guided insights and hotel pickup included. For about $66 per person, this 8 to 9-hour tour takes you from the ruins of ancient cities to a breathtaking waterfall, with plenty of opportunities to learn, snap photos, and sit down for a good meal. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the consistently high rating—5.0 out of 5 from 352 reviews—speaks volumes about its popularity.

What we love about this tour is how seamlessly it combines history, scenery, and convenience. You’ll explore well-preserved ruins in Perge, marvel at the acoustics in Aspendos’s Roman theater, and admire the sprawling Temple of Apollo in Side. Plus, the visit to Manavgat Waterfall offers a peaceful break in nature. The included lunch and hotel pickup make it an easy, stress-free way to see some of Antalya’s highlights.

A couple of things to keep in mind: the entrance fees for Perge (€11) and Aspendos (€15) are not included in the price. While most travelers find the timing generous and the sites awe-inspiring, some reviews note that the shorter visit durations at certain sites may leave you wanting more time to explore. This tour suits history buffs, photographers, and anyone wanting a well-organized day out without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering four major sites plus a waterfall stop.
• Professional guides known for their knowledge, humor, and engaging storytelling.
• Hassle-free logistics with hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and included water/food options.
• Good value for money considering the sites visited, guided insights, and included lunch.
• Limited private time at each site, so be prepared for a structured schedule.
• Small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience.

Discovering the Ancient Sites of Antalya

This tour is a fantastic way to cover a lot of ground in one day, especially if you’re staying in Antalya and don’t have your own transport. The experience kicks off with a hotel pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, usually around 8 am, depending on your hotel location. Since pickup times are determined a day in advance based on your hotel, it’s helpful to communicate any special needs or specific timing requests then.

Perge Ancient City: Walking Through the Past

Our first stop is Perge, one of Antalya’s most impressive archaeological sites. We loved the way the ruins are so well-preserved—beyond just the crumbled stones, you can walk down what once were grand colonnaded streets, stand beside the amphitheater, and imagine the bustling life that once thrived here. The remains of baths and temples scattered across the site reveal how sophisticated and bustling this city was.

Several reviewers highlight the guide’s storytelling skills here, with Nadine mentioning that Gengis, her guide, was both well-informed and funny, making history engaging. You do have to pay an €11 entrance fee, which is not included in the tour price, so budget accordingly. The two-hour visit provides ample opportunity to absorb the grandeur, but if you’re a history enthusiast, you might wish for a bit more time.

Aspendos: Roman Theater and Architectural Brilliance

Next, we head to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Built during Roman times, the acoustics and architecture are nothing short of astonishing. It’s still used today for performances, which speaks to its outstanding preservation. Visitors love the chance to walk inside this giant structure, taking in the size and imagining the crowds that once gathered here.

According to reviews, the guide’s explanations about the theater’s construction and use are engaging, with Ibrahim being praised for his passion. While the €15 entrance fee is separate, many find the visit worthwhile, especially since Aspendos continues to host events, giving a real sense of its ongoing importance.

Side and the Temple of Apollo: A Waterfront Wonder

The tour then moves to Side, a lively town that blends history with modern tourism. The highlight here is the Temple of Apollo, perched dramatically above the sea. The columns and ruins evoke a sense of majesty, and the views are stunning—ideal for photos or just soaking in the atmosphere. This stop is free to enter, and many reviews note how the site’s scenic charm makes it a memorable highlight.

Manavgat Waterfall: Nature’s Pause Button

No trip is complete without a splash of nature, and the Manavgat Waterfall offers that perfectly. Surrounded by greenery, the cascading waters provide a peaceful contrast to the ruins. Visitors love stopping here for photos and a moment to breathe, especially since the waterfall is included in the tour cost. The 45-minute visit is enough for a quick walk or some souvenir shopping at the nearby stalls. Many reviewers say this is a lovely, relaxing way to end the day.

Return to Antalya

After soaking in history and nature, the return journey begins in the early afternoon. The group is usually back at your hotel about an hour after the waterfall visit, making it easy to relax or enjoy dinner afterward.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The real strength of this experience lies in its guides and value. Multiple reviewers point out that guides like Gengis and Ibrahim are knowledgeable, engaging, and humorous, making the history come alive. Their storytelling turns what could be a rushed day into a series of captivating stories and insights.

The small group size (capped at 15) ensures you don’t feel lost or rushed. You’ll have plenty of chances to ask questions and get personalized attention, especially at the sites. Plus, the included lunch—which reviewers say is good—takes the hassle out of finding somewhere to eat. While the restaurants are modest, the food quality is appreciated.

The cost is quite reasonable when you consider the entrance fees (roughly €26 for Perge and Aspendos combined), guided commentary, transport, and food. Some reviews mention that the value for money is excellent, especially since it covers multiple locations with minimal planning on your part.

Potential Drawbacks

One common concern is the short durations at each site, with some visitors feeling they didn’t have enough time to explore thoroughly. Also, since entrance fees are not included in the base price, travelers should budget an additional €26 for tickets. The schedule is fairly packed, so if you prefer to linger longer in one place, this might feel a bit rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history buffs and photographers eager to see well-preserved ancient sites without the hassle of organizing transportation. It’s also ideal for small groups looking for a more intimate experience and those who value guides with local expertise. If you enjoy stories and explanations that bring ruins to life, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or dislike tight schedules, you might find the short site visits limiting. Also, travelers who want to avoid additional entrance fees should prepare for the €11 and €15 costs.

Final Thoughts

This tour packs a lot into a single day, giving you a comprehensive look at some of Antalya’s most iconic sites. The combination of expert guides, scenic locations, and convenient logistics offers excellent value, especially for those keen to learn about Turkey’s ancient past without the stress of planning.

Whether you’re a history lover, a photographer eager for stunning images, or simply someone eager to tick off significant landmarks, this trip offers a well-rounded experience. Many travelers have praised the engaging guides and the chance to visit sites that still impress today—proof that a well-organized tour can bring Turkey’s history to life.

If you’re looking for a day that balances education, scenery, and comfort, this tour is a hit. Just remember, some sites may feel a bit rushed, so be ready to soak in as much as you can during your time at each stop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the day hassle-free. Just be sure your pickup time is confirmed a day before.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Perge (€11) and Aspendos (€15) are not included in the tour price, so plan to have some cash on hand.

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is approximately 8 to 9 hours, covering multiple sites with breaks for lunch and photos.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes (avoid sandals, as gravel can be tricky), some cash for entrance fees and personal expenses, and a camera for all those photo opportunities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate if accompanied by an adult, but keep in mind the walking involved and the structured schedule.

What is the group size?
The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour begins for a full refund.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Please advise at the time of booking so the tour provider can accommodate your needs during lunch.

This tour offers a balanced, insightful, and comfortable way to explore some of Antalya’s most fascinating archaeological and natural sites. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a guided experience that highlights the best of Turkey’s ancient and scenic treasures.