Antalya: Ancient Perge, Aspendos Theater & City of Side Tour

Introduction

If you’re curious about the layers of history that make Antalya such a captivating destination, then this tour covering Perge, Aspendos, and Side might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews paint a picture of a well-organized, engaging journey through some of Turkey’s most iconic archaeological sites.

What we love about this experience is how it combines stunning ruins, expert guides, and local cuisine — all in just nine hours. It’s a great chance to step back into antiquity without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

One potential consideration is the hot weather, especially if you’re visiting in summer, which some reviewers mention. But overall, this tour appeals most to those who enjoy history, culture, and scenic coastal views — ideal for curious travelers eager to learn beyond the brochures.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covering three top archaeological sites in one day
• Expert guides who bring history alive with engaging stories
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Affordable price offering great value for a full-day experience
• Delicious local lunch included, with options to indulge in authentic Turkish flavors
• Limited time in each site means you’ll need to prioritize your interests

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with Comfort: Pickup and Transportation

Your day kicks off with hotel pickup in Antalya, which instantly adds convenience — no need to navigate or hunt for meeting points. The journey to the first site, Perge, takes about 50 minutes in a modern, air-conditioned van. This is especially appreciated during the hotter months, as some reviews pointed out that A/C quality can vary, but most found it adequate to escape the midday heat.

Exploring Perge: A Roman City in The Making

Perge is your first stop, and it’s a genuine highlight. This ancient city was once a major hub in Roman Pamphylia. You’ll walk through monumental gates, along a long colonnaded avenue, and imagine bustling markets and processions that once filled the streets. The ruins of the stadium and Roman baths showcase detailed stonework and give you a sense of daily life in antiquity.

Reviewers like Neil from the UK mention, “Our guide, Oguzhan, was thorough and brought the site alive with stories,” emphasizing how a knowledgeable guide can turn stone ruins into stories of past civilizations. While some felt they could have used a bit more time in Perge, the balance of sightseeing and explanation generally works well.

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Aspendos: The Roman Theater That Still Echoes

Next is Aspendos, famous worldwide for its remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater. Built around 155 AD, the theater could seat 15,000 spectators and is praised for its superior acoustics—even today, performances are held here. Climbing the stone steps offers sweeping views, and you can really picture the drama of ancient performances.

Multiple reviews, including those from Robyn in Australia and Oliver from Croatia, highlight the quality of the amphitheater and the pride locals take in its preservation. One review mentions that the theater is still used today for events, which adds a layer of authenticity and connection to the past.

Lunch: A Taste of Turkey

After exploring Aspendos, you’ll pause for a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant. Reviewers frequently praise the delicious salads and authentic flavors, saying it’s a good balance of taste and value. Some mention enjoying unlimited salads and locally pressed juices, elevating the meal from mere sustenance to an experience.

Side: Seaside Ruins and the Temple of Apollo

The last major stop is Side, a charming harbor town where history meets seaside leisure. As you stroll through its fountains, marble columns, and ancient agora, you’ll encounter the Temple of Apollo, dramatically perched at the water’s edge.

Here, the view of the sparkling Mediterranean combined with ancient columns creates a picture-perfect moment, one many reviewers describe as unforgettable. The seaside setting makes it easy to imagine the port’s importance in ancient times.

Supporting Stops & Souvenirs

During the day, there’s also a quick visit to a local shop, where you can browse regional products and souvenirs. Many guests appreciate this as an authentic touch, giving you the chance to support local artisans and take home a piece of Turkey.

Wrapping Up and Return

The journey back to Antalya takes about 50 minutes, giving you some time to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries. Reviewers like Jasmine and Wasan mention how convenient it was to be picked up and dropped off at their hotels — removing the stress of self-navigation.

What to Expect Throughout the Day

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Passionate

Multiple reviews consistently praise the guides, such as Oguzhan, Aykut, and Recep. They not only share historical facts but also sprinkle humor and local insights, making the stories more engaging. Guests note that guides actively answer questions and keep the atmosphere lively.

Transportation & Group Size

Most reviews mention a comfortable, air-conditioned coach with small group sizes (often around 12-15 people), which helps maintain an intimate and flexible experience. Some mention that cramped seats can be an issue, but overall, most felt the transport was comfortable — especially important given the long day.

Duration & Timing

Spanning about 9 hours, the tour is quite full but well-paced. The itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with enough free time for photos and exploring. Some guests wished for slightly longer in Side or Perge, but the overall flow was appreciated.

Cost & Value

At roughly $33 per person, this tour is a steal considering the sites visited, guided explanations, and lunch included. The reviews repeatedly highlight how well this price reflects the value — you’re getting a comprehensive tour without the hefty price tag of private excursions.

Authentic Experiences & Insider Tips

From the reviews, it’s clear that local guides like Oguzhan and Aykut are passionate about sharing stories that bring the ruins to life. Expect vivid descriptions of ancient life, gladiatorial games, and the significance of the sites.

Guests also appreciate the delicious, freshly prepared lunch, often noting the variety and quality of salads and local dishes. A few mention that water bottles could be provided on the bus, especially in the heat, which is a good tip to keep in mind.

Because the tour visits iconic sites in a single day, you’ll need to prioritize what excites you most. For example, if you’re a theater fanatic, Aspendos will be the highlight; if you’re more interested in ancient cities, Perge and Side will be your favorites.

The Sum Up

This tour from Antalya offers a well-organized, engaging journey through some of Turkey’s most significant ancient sites. With knowledgeable guides, comfy transport, and tasty local food, it represents excellent value for travelers wanting a full day of history, scenery, and culture.

It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone eager to see the ancient world come alive against a stunning coastal backdrop. Keep in mind that August heat can be intense, so pack sun protection and hydration essentials.

For those wanting to cover multiple major sites in one go, this trip delivers more than enough to satisfy your sense of wonder — all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your accommodation in Antalya, making it very convenient.

How long is the total tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, from pickup to return, making for a full but manageable day.

What sites will I visit?
You’ll visit Perge’s Roman ruins, the well-preserved Aspendos Theater, and the seaside Temple of Apollo in Side.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is provided, often praised for its taste and authenticity.

Are entry fees included?
Entry fees are included if you select that option; otherwise, they are payable on the day (~30 Turkish Lira).

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, lightweight clothes, and plenty of water are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s not wheelchair accessible and involves some walking, but most fit travelers will enjoy it.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, there is a stop at a local shop where you can browse regional products and souvenirs.

What’s the group size?
Most groups are small, around 12-15 people, to ensure a personalized experience.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you love history, want a good value, and appreciate expert guides who make history fun.

This detailed, balanced review reveals that the Antalya: Ancient Perge, Aspendos Theater & City of Side Tour offers a meaningful way to connect with Turkey’s ancient past while enjoying scenic coastal views. With excellent guides, top-notch sites, and comfort on your side, it’s a day worth every penny.

You can check if your dates are available here: