Antalya: Perge, Aspendos & City of Side Day Trip with Lunch

Travelers planning a trip to Antalya often seek a full-day journey that combines history, culture, and natural beauty. This Antalya: Perge, Aspendos & City of Side Day Trip with Lunch offers just that—an immersive experience that covers some of Turkey’s most treasured archaeological sites, scenic waterfalls, and charming old towns. With a solid 5-star rating from satisfied travelers, this tour promises a rewarding day filled with fascinating ruins, impressive theaters, and authentic Turkish cuisine.

Three standout aspects make this tour appealing: the chance to walk through well-preserved ancient cities, marvel at the world’s best-preserved Roman theater, and enjoy a traditional lunch beside a river. Plus, the inclusion of knowledgeable guides ensures you get meaningful insights at each stop. That said, the tour does require some walking and is not suitable for those over 95 years old or over 140 kg, so it’s best suited for active, curious travelers eager to explore history firsthand.

One potential drawback? Since entry tickets to Perge and Aspendos are not included, you’ll want to budget extra for these. This tour suits visitors looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day out that delivers serious value while avoiding the hassle of planning each visit independently.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covering ancient cities, a Roman theater, and waterfalls.
• Expert guides who offer informative and friendly commentary.
• Excellent value at $59, including lunch and transportation.
• Ideal for active travelers with an interest in history and archaeology.
• Not suitable for individuals with mobility restrictions or over specific age/weight limits.
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This full-day trip from Antalya is designed to take you through layers of history, stunning scenery, and local culture. Starting with a convenient hotel pickup, the experience kicks off early in the morning, with a drive that’s comfortable and well-coordinated. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personal interaction with guides and ample time to explore each site at a relaxed pace.

Visiting Perge: The Ancient Capital of Pamphylia

Your first stop is Perge, once the capital of the Pamphylia region. This ancient city is a treasure trove of ruins that vividly tell the story of Roman and Hellenistic civilizations. We loved the way the guide described the Column Street, giving us a visual sense of what life was like centuries ago. Highlights include the Roman Stadium, the Roman Gate, the Nymphaeum, the Roman Bath, and the Hellenistic Gate.

Reviewers like Andrea praised their guide, Ozzie, for being “very friendly and informative,” which made wandering through the ruins even more engaging. One of the best parts? Seeing the State Agora, which provides a tangible connection to the city’s bustling past. The site is expansive, but the guided commentary ensures you won’t get lost or overwhelmed by the ruins’ scale.

Aspendos: Home to the World’s Best Preserved Roman Theater

Next, the tour takes you to the Aspendos Antique Theater, renowned as the best-preserved and most complete Roman theater in Turkey. It’s easy to see why travelers describe it as the highlight. With its incredible acoustics and impressive structure, the theater is still used for performances, which underscores its pristine condition.

Saket S shared how the timing and organization made the visit smooth, and the pictures speak for themselves—this theater is a marvel. The guide points out details about how the theater was built for maximum sound clarity, which remains impressive today. You’ll love the chance to stand on the stage or sit in the seats once used by ancient audiences, imagining the lively performances from centuries ago.

The Aqueduct and Lunch: A Pause in Natural Beauty

After exploring Aspendos, you’ll visit the nearby ancient aqueduct, an impressive water canal that showcases Roman engineering prowess. Walking along this structure offers both a scenic and educational experience, giving insight into how ancient civilizations supplied water to their cities.

Then, the tour includes a well-deserved lunch break beside the Euromedon River. The restaurant’s riverside location provides a peaceful setting and a chance to sample authentic Turkish cuisine. Many guests recommend the fish dish, which is often praised for its freshness and flavor. The meal is included in the price, adding great value to the overall experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Side and Manavgat: Ancient Ruins and Waterfalls

The afternoon is reserved for Side and Manavgat. In Side, you’ll encounter an ancient city with a history dating back to 17th century B.C. Featuring an amphitheater, temples, and the Agora, the site feels like an open-air museum. One review mentioned that the splendid ruins and the vibrant atmosphere of Side made it a highlight of the day.

Following this, you’ll visit the Manavgat Waterfall, a picturesque spot perfect for photos and relaxing moments. Reviewers like Renato appreciated the knowledgeable guides, as they shared interesting stories about the waterfall and surrounding area, making the stop more than just a photo opportunity.

Practicalities and Tips

The entire tour lasts about 9 hours, with transportation included from your hotel or designated pickup points. The group size is typically manageable, and the guides conduct the commentary in English, ensuring everyone follows along comfortably. The price of $59 per person offers a well-rounded experience that combines entry to major sites (though tickets are not included) with a delicious lunch and the convenience of door-to-door pickup.

Since the tour involves some walking over uneven terrain, comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended. The weather can vary, so packing a hat, umbrella, and water is wise. As the reviews highlight, the guides—like Ozzie—are friendly, approachable, and eager to share their knowledge, making the visit more enriching.

A Balanced Look at What You’re Getting

This tour offers excellent value considering the number of sites visited and included amenities. The main expense—entry tickets to Perge and Aspendos—is not included, but the overall package compensates with the convenience, the guide’s expertise, and the included lunch. We found the pace to be just right—active enough to see a lot without feeling rushed.

What really stands out is the clarity of explanations from guides like Ozzie and Cil, who made history come alive. Their friendly manner and local insights transform a typical sightseeing day into a memorable learning experience. Plus, the scenic stops like Manavgat Waterfall add a refreshing natural element to the ancient sites.

Travelers should note that the tour is most suitable for those comfortable with walking and outdoor activity. It’s not designed for people with mobility issues or very young children, as some sites involve uneven surfaces and considerable walking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to explore Turkey’s classical past without the hassle of planning each visit and want a guide who makes history engaging, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for history buffs, couples, or small groups wanting a comprehensive day out with all logistics sorted. The inclusion of a traditional Turkish lunch makes it perfect for those wanting to experience a bit of local flavor as well.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, less active sightseeing or have specific accessibility needs, you might want to consider other options. Still, for most travelers looking for a balanced blend of history, scenery, and comfort, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

This Antalya day trip from GrefgroupTravelAgency delivers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances ancient ruins, scenic natural sights, and culture. The price point reflects great value, considering the diverse highlights and guided expertise.

You’ll love the way guides bring sites like Perge and Aspendos to life with detailed stories, making history more tangible. The scenic waterfalls and riverside lunch add a relaxing touch to a day filled with exploration. And with flexible cancellation policies, it’s a low-risk way to deepen your understanding of Turkey’s fascinating past.

This tour is best suited for active travelers with a curiosity for history and culture who want an organized, fun-filled day away from the city hustle. It’s a perfect way to make the most of your time in Antalya, especially if you’re eager for a well-rounded and enriching experience.

FAQ

Are hotel pick-ups included? Yes, the tour includes transfers from hotels or designated locations, making it convenient to start your day stress-free.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, with starting times available based on your booking.

Is lunch included? Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is part of the tour, served at a riverside restaurant. Many guests recommend the fish dish.

Are entry tickets to Perge and Aspendos included? No, the tour price does not include the entry tickets; travelers should budget extra for these sites.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, and an umbrella are recommended, especially if the weather is sunny or rainy.

Is the tour suitable for all ages? It’s not recommended for those over 95 years old or over 140 kg due to walking and site conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your trip planning.

You can check if your dates are available here: