From City of Side: Perge, Aspendos & Kurunlu Waterfall Trip

Planning a day trip through the Antalya region? This guided tour takes you to some of the most celebrated archaeological sites and natural wonders around Side. It’s ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone eager to see a side of Turkey that combines centuries of history with lush landscapes. From well-preserved ruins to a stunning waterfall, there’s plenty to keep you engaged.

What we love about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with comfort. The air-conditioned bus makes long drives more pleasant, the guides are fluent in both English and German, and the sites are genuinely impressive. Plus, the included lunch means you won’t go hungry while exploring. The only potential downside? The entrance fees aren’t included, so be prepared to buy tickets at each site and carry some cash.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. If you’re interested in uncovering Turkey’s ancient past, enjoying nature’s serenity, and doing it all comfortably, this trip is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Historical Highlights: Visit the remarkably well-preserved Aspendos Amphitheater and Perge Ancient City.
• Natural Beauty: Relax at the Kurunlu Waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and hotel pickup make it hassle-free.
• Guided Experience: Bilingual guides provide insightful commentary, enhancing your understanding.
• Value & Flexibility: Included lunch and optional private groups add to the appeal.
• Additional Costs: Entrance fees are extra, so budget around 11-15 Euros for sites and some cash for drinks.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: Comfort and Convenience

The journey begins early in the morning, with hotel pickups arranged from various locations around Side, including Titreyengöl, Sorgun, and Kumköy. The bus is air-conditioned and modern enough to make the long hours of travel comfortable. The guides are both friendly and knowledgeable, fluent in English and German, which helps cater to a diverse group.

Many reviewers mention how smooth the coordination is, with some noting the promptness of pickup and the easy check-in process — often skipping long lines with express security checks. This makes the experience feel well-organized from the outset.

Aspendos Amphitheater: A Roman Masterpiece

The first major stop is the Aspendos Amphitheater, one of Turkey’s most famous ancient sites. This Roman-era marvel is celebrated for its stunning preservation and legendary acoustics, still impressive enough for modern performances. Expect about an hour here, which includes a guided tour and time for photos.

Visitors comment on feeling a genuine sense of awe walking through the giant stone tiers. The amphitheater’s acoustics are so good that a whisper can be heard from the top to the bottom — a feat of engineering that still captivates modern visitors. Nearby, the Aspendos Bridge is a beautiful example of Roman engineering, spanning the Eurymedon River.

A common theme in reviews is how unforgettable Aspendos is. One guest described it as “truly amazing” and appreciated the opportunity to learn about its storied past from the guide.

Perge Ancient City: Stepping Back in Time

Next up is Perge, a must-visit for archaeology lovers. This huge site, with its well-preserved streets, temples, and theater, offers a glimpse into how life was in ancient Anatolia. You’ll spend around two hours here, exploring mosaics, ruins, and the remains of a Roman stadium.

Travelers frequently mention how quiet and uncrowded Perge was during their visit, which enhances the experience. One reviewer highlighted the “impressive” ruins, especially the stadium and market area, which tell stories of bustling commerce and entertainment centuries ago.

Guides bring the site alive with stories, making it easier to imagine the ancient city’s lively streets and bustling markets. The tour includes plenty of photo opportunities, and some guests appreciate the free time at each stop to take their own photos and soak in the atmosphere.

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Lunch Break: A Taste of Local Flavors

After the historical immersion, it’s time to recharge. The included buffet lunch offers a choice between fish, chicken, or Adana kebap, served with rice, salads, and a variety of appetizers. Reviewers often praise the quality of the food, calling it “better than expected,” especially given how efficiently the dining is organized.

Many note that the lunch setup is prearranged, so your meal is ready when you arrive, which is a thoughtful touch. However, some mention that cash is required if you want drinks or extra snacks, so it’s worth carrying some small bills.

Aspendos Theater & Bridge: The Highlight

After lunch, the tour moves to the Aspendos Theater, arguably the star of the day. This amphitheater is the best-preserved in Turkey, creating an almost surreal experience for visitors. It’s easy to imagine ancient performances echoing through its stone walls.

Visitors describe the theater as “spectacular” and “truly breathtaking.” The guided commentary provides context about its Roman origins and how it was used in ancient times — details that elevate the visit beyond just taking photos.

The nearby Aspendos Bridge adds a picturesque element, providing a perfect photo backdrop and a chance to appreciate Roman engineering ingenuity.

Kurunlu Waterfall: Natural Serenity

The final stop is the Kurunlu Waterfall, a peaceful setting where you can stretch your legs and take in the natural beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery, the waterfall offers a calming contrast to the ancient ruins. The site is suitable for enjoying some quiet time or taking a walk along the trails.

Expect around 45 minutes here. Reviews highlight how beautiful and tranquil Kurunlu is, with many visitors describing it as “like an Indiana Jones adventure” due to the small paths leading through thick foliage and the stunning water views.

Though swimming isn’t part of the itinerary, the cool, fresh air and sounds of cascading water make it well worth the visit.

Returning to Side

The day wraps up with a bus ride back to Side, usually lasting about an hour. Passengers often comment on how relaxing the return trip is, especially after a busy day of sightseeing. The guides often share additional stories or answer last-minute questions during the journey, making it feel like a relaxed wind-down after a full day.

Pricing and Value

The tour offers good value considering the included transportation, guided commentary, and lunch. Entrance fees for Perge (around 11 Euros), Aspendos (about 15 Euros), and Kurunlu Waterfall (75 TL) are additional costs but are generally considered reasonable for such well-preserved sites.

Many reviews emphasize how the tour is a practical way to see a lot without the hassle of planning individual tickets or transportation. The guides’ expertise and the comfortable bus make the long day feel more manageable, especially in warm weather.

Who would love this tour?

Travelers interested in ancient civilizations, historic architecture, and natural scenery will find this trip rewarding. It’s perfect if you prefer a guided experience that takes care of logistics, so you can focus on soaking in the sights. It’s also suitable for those who want a full-day adventure that balances history and nature, with time to relax and enjoy local food.

FAQs

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Perge, Aspendos, and Kurunlu Waterfall are not included. You should budget around 11 Euros for Perge, 15 Euros for Aspendos, and 75 TL for Kurunlu.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is included from all hotels in Side and nearby areas like Titreyengöl, Sorgun, Kumköy, Evrenseki, Çolakl, and Gündodu.

How long is the tour?
The entire day lasts around 8 hours, with the starting times depending on your pickup location. The tour includes travel time, sightseeing, lunch, and free time at each site.

Can I customize this tour?
Private groups are available if you want a more tailored experience, but the standard tour follows the set itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to walking on uneven ancient sites and natural terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunhat, camera, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash for drinks or extras.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s ancient past and natural beauty, making it a favorite among travelers who prioritize comfort and cultural enrichment. The guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, which makes exploring ruins and waterfalls even more engaging. Plus, the included lunch and hotel pickup add convenience, making it a value-packed day out.

It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid the hassle of planning each visit individually or prefer a structured itinerary. If you’re after an immersive yet manageable experience that combines history, scenery, and local flavors, this trip likely won’t disappoint.

Travelers rave about the memorable sites, good organization, and the friendly guides, making this a dependable choice for your Antalya adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: