Private/Shared Side, Aspendos, Perge and Manavgat Fall tour

Experience the Ancient and Natural Wonders of East Antalya

This full-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the historic treasures and stunning landscapes of Turkey’s Antalya Province. For $125 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring Perge, Aspendos, Side, and the Manavgat Waterfalls, all with a knowledgeable guide and comfortable air-conditioned transportation. What makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to walk through remarkably preserved Roman ruins at Perge and Side, and second, the opportunity to relax and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Manavgat Waterfalls — all in one seamless itinerary.

Two features we particularly appreciated are the local guide’s insights that bring each site to life and the included delicious lunch at a local restaurant near the waterfalls. The guide’s storytelling makes ancient ruins more than just stones – they become stories of civilizations and bygone eras. The lunch, with its relaxed setting, offers a chance to savor authentic Turkish flavors away from tourist crowds.

A potential consideration is the day’s pace, which can be quite full, especially if you prefer a more leisurely exploration. The itinerary includes several stops, some of which involve walking and sightseeing in hot weather, so be prepared for a busy day.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, cultural travelers, or those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of East Antalya’s ancient sites and natural beauty. If you enjoy combining history with scenic landscapes and don’t mind a packed schedule, this experience will suit you well.

Key Points

Comprehensive Tour: Covers major ancient sites, waterfalls, and scenic ruins in one day.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides bring history to life.
All-Inclusive: Museum tickets, lunch, and hotel transfers included for ease.
Flexible Options: Available as private or shared groups, with multilingual guides.
Ideal for History and Nature Lovers: Combines archaeological exploration with natural scenery.
Time Management: A busy schedule, so prepare for a full day of sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the East Antalya Experience

If you’re visiting Antalya and want to see some of the region’s most remarkable sights, this tour offers a balanced package. The day begins with hotel pickup, ensuring a smooth start, and the first stop is a 1.5-hour drive through the scenic landscapes of eastern Antalya. This initial transit sets the tone, giving you a chance to relax while your guide prepares to unveil the layers of history awaiting you.

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Visiting Perge: A Roman Gem

Your first major stop is Perge, an ancient city that dates back to Hittite times but flourished during the Roman era. With a guided tour lasting about two hours, you’ll walk through well-preserved ruins, including a vast agora, a stadium, and impressive columns that evoke the grandeur of Roman urban planning. Walking through Perge, you can almost hear the footsteps of ancient citizens. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide explained the significance of each ruin, making history tangible.” This site is especially valuable for those who appreciate archaeological ruins that vividly reflect a past civilization.

Aspendos: Theatre of Gladiators and Aqueducts

Next, you’ll visit Aspendos, famous for its incredible Roman theater, which still hosts performances today. The 1.5-hour stop includes photo opportunities, a visit to the ancient theater, and a chance to admire the remnants of aqueducts. Here, you might find yourself pausing to soak in the acoustics and architecture. Some travelers mention “free time to explore on our own,” which is perfect for snapping photos or just wandering around. The guide’s insights help you appreciate Aspendos’ role as a Roman entertainment hub.

Scenic Break at Manavgat Waterfalls

After Aspendos, a short 40-minute drive brings you to Manavgat Waterfalls, a tranquil spot offering a nice break from the ruins. Here, you’ll enjoy about 1.5 hours, including a delicious lunch at a local restaurant near the waterfalls. The meal is a highlight for many, with reviews praising the “delicious local food and tapas” that give you a taste of Turkish cuisine in a relaxed setting. The waterfalls themselves are picturesque, with the flowing water providing a soothing backdrop for a short walk or photos.

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Discovering Side: Ancient City and Harbor

The last major stop is Side, a town steeped in history and seaside charm. The guided tour here lasts about two hours, allowing for a walk along the ancient streets, a visit to the harbor, and plenty of photo opportunities. Travelers often mention the “beautiful ruins” and appreciate the free time built into the itinerary to explore independently. The guide also provides a safety briefing before you proceed, ensuring a confident visit.

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Return Journey and Reflection

Finally, a 1.5-hour van ride takes you back to your hotel, giving you time to reflect on a day packed with sights, stories, and scenic views. Many guests find the combination of natural beauty and historical significance well worth the early start and full schedule.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Cost, and Comfort

Transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned van makes the long drives manageable. The tour offers the flexibility of private groups, which can cater to your pace and specific interests, or shared groups for a more social experience. The cost of $125 per person includes museum tickets, a traditional Turkish lunch, and the essential seat insurance, making it a transparent and simple way to budget for your day.

The tour’s duration of 8 hours is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive experience without rushing. The guide’s multilingual abilities mean language won’t be a barrier, whether you speak English, German, French, or Spanish.

What’s Not Included?

Keep in mind, drinks at lunch are extra, and any personal expenses or optional souvenirs are not covered. The tour explicitly prohibits bringing alcohol or drugs on board, which is standard for this type of outing but worth noting if you’re planning to carry beverages.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who want a full, enriching day of historical exploration combined with natural beauty. It’s ideal if you appreciate guided tours that cover multiple sites efficiently, and if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule. The inclusion of delicious Turkish food makes it appealing for food lovers eager to sample local flavors in a relaxed environment.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to see East Antalya’s highlights without the hassle of planning individual visits, this tour delivers a well-organized, value-packed day. It balances archaeological wonders with scenic natural spots, adding the bonus of local cuisine. The knowledgeable guides ensure you get context and stories behind each site, enriching your understanding of Turkey’s layered past.

While the day is busy, it’s perfect for those who want to maximize their sightseeing time and enjoy a mix of history, nature, and authentic food. The flexibility of private groups and multilingual guides makes it accessible and comfortable for a variety of travelers.

If you’re looking for a reliable, rundown of some of the most iconic sites around Antalya — from Roman theaters to waterfalls — this tour is hard to beat for its blend of convenience, cultural richness, and scenic beauty.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and hassle-free for travelers staying in Antalya.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive from Antalya to Perge is about 1.5 hours. Other drives are shorter, such as the 40-minute trip to Manavgat Waterfalls and around 1.5 hours back to Antalya.

Are museum tickets included?
Yes, museum tickets for sites like Perge and Aspendos are included in the price, so you won’t have to worry about separate entrance fees.

Can I customize this tour?
The tour offers private group options, which may allow some customization depending on your preferences, but the standard itinerary is as described.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and enough water. A camera for photos and some local cash for optional extras or drinks are also advisable.

Is there enough time for sightseeing at each location?
Yes, the schedule is designed to give you a meaningful experience at each site, with some free time for photos, exploring on your own, or relaxing.

This tour offers a practical, engaging way to uncover the highlights of East Antalya, combining history, scenic waterfalls, and delicious local fare. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see a lot in one day without feeling rushed, all while enjoying expert guidance and comfortable transportation.