Private Antalyas Ancient Excursion: Perge, Aspendos, Side

Exploring the Depths of Antalya’s Ancient Treasures: Perge, Aspendos, and Side

Imagine spending a full day wandering through some of Turkey’s most impressive relics, comfortably transported in a private vehicle with a knowledgeable guide. For around $887 per group of up to four, this full-day private tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, spectacular scenery, and culture. It’s designed for those eager to see Turkey’s ancient Roman and Greek sites without the fuss of large tour groups or noisy crowds.

What we love about this experience? First, the personalized attention of a private guide means you can tailor your visit and ask plenty of questions — a real plus when trying to understand the significance of these ruins. Second, the diverse stops, from sprawling ruins to a boutique riverside restaurant and a peaceful waterfall, give you a taste of both history and natural beauty.

One consideration? The full-day schedule means a lot of time on the move — if you’re someone who prefers a relaxed pace or isn’t keen on long bus rides, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you love history and want a comprehensive look at the area’s highlights, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits history buffs, photographers, and travelers who value private, flexible tours that focus on meaningful encounters with Turkey’s ancient past. It’s especially appealing if you want a well-organized day with a blend of cultural exploration and scenic stops.

Key Points

• Private Group: Personalized attention with a dedicated guide.
• Historical Highlights: Visit Perge, Aspendos, and Side, each offering unique ancient marvels.
• Natural Beauty: Stop at Kusunlu Waterfalls for a peaceful nature break.
• Delicious Lunch: Enjoy a riverside meal that complements your cultural journey.
• Flexible Schedule: Pick-up and drop-off from Antalya, with a starting time to suit your plans.
• Value for Money: Includes entrance fees, transportation, lunch, and taxes, making it a hassle-free experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour: What to Expect

When you sign up for this full-day private tour, you’re signing up for more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s an invitation to step into the past while enjoying modern comforts. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel in Antalya, the day is carefully planned to maximize your time and minimize hassle.

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

Your tour starts with a flexible pickup, which means your guide, perhaps someone like Ahmet or Leyla, will coordinate a convenient time and location. The transportation is private, comfortable, and air-conditioned, making those long drives between sites more pleasant. We appreciated the timely pickups and smooth transfers, so we could focus on the experience instead of logistics.

First Stop: Perge — The Capital of Pamphylia

Perge’s sprawling ruins are a fantastic place to start. Once the capital of Pamphylia, it offers a sprawling complex of Roman and Hellenistic ruins. Expect to walk along the Colonnaded Street, where ancient stones tell stories of commerce and daily life. The Roman Baths, Agora, Nympharium, and Stadium are all within easy reach and offer plenty of photo opportunities.

Travelers often mention the impressive scale of the ruins and the well-preserved features. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the ruins are laid out, making it easy to imagine what life was like thousands of years ago.” The guide will provide context about the history, arches, and ancient architecture, making the visit both educational and inspiring.

Next Up: Aspendos Theatre — One of the Best Preserved

Aspendos is a highlight with its spectacular Roman theater, dating back to the 2nd century AD. What makes Aspendos stand out is its remarkable state of preservation. It’s still used today for festivals and concerts, a testament to its enduring design. The theater’s acoustics are legendary; standing on stage, you can almost hear whispers from the audience.

A reviewer commented, “The theater’s still in incredible shape, and the guide explained how it’s used for events even now — it really connects the ancient and modern worlds.” You’ll love the panoramic views from the top tier and the sense of standing in a space that has hosted thousands of spectators over centuries.

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Lunch Break: Riverside Restaurant

Midway through the day, you’ll stop at a riverside restaurant for a delicious local lunch. This is a relaxing chance to sample Turkish cuisine and reflect on what you’ve seen so far. The riverside setting offers a calming view of flowing water amid lush greenery, providing a nice contrast to ancient stones and ruins.

The Final Stop: Side — Ancient City and Its Wonders

After lunch, you’ll visit Side, a charming seaside town famous for its amphitheater, Roman baths, and the Temple of Apollo. The ruins here are smaller but equally evocative, with plenty of opportunities to stroll through narrow streets and imagine the bustling port city of centuries past.

One traveler pointed out, “Side’s ruins are very atmospheric — especially the theater overlooking the sea, which makes for a stunning photo.” The guide will help you understand the stories behind each site and point out details you might otherwise overlook.

Ending with Peace: Kusunlu Waterfalls

Before heading back to Antalya, you’ll pause at the Kusunlu Waterfalls. This is a lovely spot for a quiet moment, a brief walk, and some photos of the cascading water and lush surroundings. It’s a refreshing break after a day of exploring.

Returning to Antalya

All good things come to an end, and your private vehicle will take you back to your hotel with plenty of time to relax or enjoy your evening. The smooth transportation and personalized service ensure you’ll finish the day feeling satisfied and enriched.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $887 for a group of up to four, this tour offers considerable value if you’re looking for an intimate, full-immersion experience. The included entrance fees, lunch, transportation, and guided commentary eliminate a lot of planning and extra costs. Compared to larger bus tours, the private setting means you get more flexibility, quieter sites, and personalized attention.

Reviewers often mention the excellent guide service, with one noting, “Our guide was very knowledgeable, making the ruins come alive with stories and historical insights.” The comfortable transport and well-paced itinerary allow you to focus on enjoying each site without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour appeals most to travelers who value history and culture but also appreciate comfort and flexibility. If you’re traveling with a small group or family, the private nature ensures a more personalized experience. It’s particularly suited for those who want a rundown of the region’s highlights without fussing over tickets or logistics.

It’s also ideal if you love photography, as the stops offer stunning views and atmospheric ruins. Conversely, if you prefer a very relaxed, slow-paced day or are on a tight budget, you might find this tour less ideal. It’s best suited for those who want to see a lot in one day and are happy to invest a bit more for a curated experience.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable walking through historic sites. The pace is manageable, but be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, a meal at a riverside restaurant is part of the package, offering local Turkish cuisine in a lovely setting.

Are entrance fees included?
Absolutely, all entrance fees for the sites visited are covered, so there are no surprises.

Can I customize the start time?
The start time is flexible based on your hotel pickup, so you can coordinate with the guide for your preferred schedule.

How long is the drive between sites?
The tour involves some driving between sites, but the private vehicle ensures comfort and efficiency.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking on ruins and uneven terrain. Bring sun protection and water.

Is this tour good for photography?
Yes, the sites offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially the Aspendos theater and the seaside views at Side.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible choice for uncertain plans.

Final Thoughts

This private tour through Antalya’s ancient sites strikes a good balance of historical richness, natural beauty, and personalized service. You’ll love the way each stop offers something unique — from the grandeur of Aspendos to the quaint charm of Side, all capped by the peaceful Kusunlu Waterfalls. The inclusion of lunch and entrance fees makes it a smooth, hassle-free day for those eager to learn and explore without the crowds.

It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who want a tailored experience and don’t mind a full day on the road. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone eager to see Turkey’s ancient marvels in comfort, this tour offers excellent value and memorable sights.

In summary, if you’re looking for an intimate, well-organized journey into Turkey’s ancient past, with the added bonus of natural scenery and local cuisine, this tour is well worth considering. Just be prepared for a full-day adventure — it’s packed with sights, stories, and scenic moments you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: