Discover the Hidden Gems of Antalya: A Full-Day Tour of Ancient Cities, Temples, and Waterfalls
If you’re looking for a way to connect with Turkey’s past while enjoying some stunning scenery, this all-in Perge Aspedos Anc City Temple of Apollo Waterfalls Tour offers a well-balanced mix. Designed for small groups, it promises an intimate experience free from the usual crowds, with knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and plenty of fascinating sights.
What we love about this tour? First, the chance to wander through well-preserved ruins like Perge and Side, which are packed with history and character. Second, the beautiful waterfalls at Manavgat provide a relaxing break and perfect photo opportunities. Third, the included local lunch helps you savor authentic flavors without extra fuss. The only caveat? The day can be quite full, so travelers should be comfortable with several hours on their feet.
This tour is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and those wanting a comprehensive day out—especially if you prefer a small-group setting for a more personalized touch. If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and scenic experience with good value, this trip will likely tick many boxes.
Good To Know
- Comprehensive itinerary covering major ancient sites and natural attractions in one day
- Small group size (max 15 travelers) for a more personalized experience
- Comfortable transportation with air-conditioning, making long drives pleasant
- Authentic local lunch included, perfect for tasting regional cuisine without extra planning
- Knowledgeable guides who enrich your understanding of the sites
- Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
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Starting in Antalya: Convenient Pickup
The day begins early, around 7:00 am, with hotel pickups in Antalya. This sets the tone for a hassle-free journey, avoiding the stress of arranging transport on your own. The use of an air-conditioned minivan ensures you stay comfortable during the roughly 8-9 hour trip, which is especially appreciated on warmer days. Having a professional guide along means you’ll learn intriguing facts and get insider tips as you go — a step beyond just sightseeing.
First Stop: Perge Ancient City
Just 20 km from Antalya, Perge is the first major highlight. This site, once a hub of Pamphylia, offers spectacular Roman and Hellenistic ruins. We loved the way the site’s layout reveals how people lived, shopped, and worshipped hundreds of years ago. The extensive remains include a stadium, a basilica, and impressive colonnades. With around two hours here, you’ll have enough time to wander freely and soak in the history.
One reviewer highlighted the quality of the guide, noting how “they enjoy teaching you about their culture,” making the visit more engaging. The free admission to the ruins means the main cost is your time and curiosity.
Next Stop: Aspendos Theatre
Not far from Perge, Aspendos is famed for its spectacular Roman theatre, still in remarkably good shape. Built in the 2nd century AD, it’s capable of holding up to 15,000 spectators, and the acoustics are reportedly so good that even a whisper can be heard from the top row. The theatre’s preservation status and impressive architecture make it a must-see.
The guided commentary here adds context: “The tour guide was very knowledgeable about the sites,” a sentiment echoed by many who appreciated the depth of insight shared. Expect about an hour to explore, take photos, and imagine the crowds of ancient times.
Lunch and Side Antik Kenti
After a morning filled with history, a delicious local lunch is included, giving you a taste of regional Turkish cuisine. This is a great chance to relax and refuel before heading to Side, an ancient seaside city that once thrived as a trading hub.
Side’s ruins are a mixture of marble columns, city walls, and a small amphitheatre. It’s a scenic spot, perfect for wandering and photography. One traveler appreciated the stop, saying, “The ruins are a testament to the past, and the seaside views are stunning.” You get about an hour to explore, so plan your photos and soak up the atmosphere.
No visit to Antalya is complete without experiencing the Manavgat Waterfalls. The emerald waters cascading into pools create an idyllic backdrop for photos and relaxation. The soothing sound of rushing water and lush greenery around makes this a peaceful end to the sightseeing.
An authentic experience, the waterfalls provide a break from the ruins and a chance to enjoy nature’s calming power. Travelers mentioned this as a highlight: “Take in the soothing sounds of the waterfall, capture in beautiful photos, and enjoy the fresh air.”
Return to Antalya
After a full day of exploration, the journey concludes with a comfortable ride back to your hotel. You’ll arrive with a wealth of stories, photos, and a deeper appreciation of Turkey’s rich cultural tapestry.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Value for Money: At just $38.31 per person, including hotel transfers, guided commentary, and lunch, this tour offers a lot in terms of content and comfort. The free cancellation policy adds a layer of flexibility, especially for travelers with unpredictable plans.
Authenticity and Comfort: Small group sizes (up to 15) mean a more relaxed and personalized experience. The air-conditioned transport ensures comfort, even during the warmest months.
Expert Guidance: From the review, it’s clear the guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights, making the history come alive. Their enthusiasm enhances the visit, especially at sites like Perge and Aspendos.
Diverse Sights: Combining ancient ruins, a Roman theatre, seaside ruins, and waterfalls means you get a well-rounded view of the region’s natural beauty and historical wealth.
Hassle-Free Planning: With hotel pickup and drop-off included, you don’t need to worry about transport logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying each site.
The Practicalities: What to Expect
Timing: The tour kicks off early at 7:00 am, giving you a full day of discovery. Expect to return around 4-5 pm, perfect for those wanting an immersive experience without rushing.
Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring you get enough attention from your guide and the chance to ask questions.
Inclusions: The price covers lunch, round-trip transport, and a professional guide. Drinks and personal expenses are not included, so bringing some water and small snacks is advisable.
Physical Activity: Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as exploring ruins and walking around sites is involved. The sites are well-preserved but may involve uneven terrain.
Booking: The trip is booked on average 6 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Be sure to reserve early to secure your spot.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip suits travelers interested in history, architecture, and scenic natural spots. It’s especially good for those who prefer small-group tours for a more intimate feel. If you enjoy authentic regional cuisine, the included lunch is a bonus, offering a taste of Turkey’s flavors.
Families with children, or anyone with mobility issues, should consider the physical demands of walking around ancient sites. However, for active travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed day out, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
FAQs
What is included in the tour?
Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, and a local lunch.
How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.
Is the tour suitable for everyone?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness as exploring ruins involves walking and some uneven terrain. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.
Are there any additional costs?
Drinks and personal expenses are not included. You might also want to bring some cash for souvenirs or optional extras.
What sites will we visit?
You’ll visit Perge, Aspendos Theatre, Side Antique City, and Manavgat Waterfalls, each offering unique insights into the region’s history and natural beauty.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, for a full refund.
How many people typically book this tour?
On average, it’s booked 6 days in advance, with a maximum of 15 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a local meal is part of the package, providing a nice break and a chance to sample local flavors.
What transport is used?
Comfortable, air-conditioned minivans or minibuses are used for the entire trip.
To sum up, this Perge Aspedos Anc City Temple of Apollo Waterfalls Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s ancient and natural wonders at an accessible price. Perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, it combines ease of logistics with a chance to learn from expert guides in a small-group setting. Whether you’re keen on exploring ruins, enjoying waterfalls, or tasting regional cuisine, this tour makes for a full and satisfying day out in Antalya.
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