From Side: Perge, Aspendos and Kursunlu Trip

Traveling through Turkey often means balancing ancient ruins with stunning natural scenery. This full-day tour from Side promises just that, taking you on a journey through some of Antalya’s most captivating sites. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers an engaging mix of history, culture, and relaxation.

What stands out most about this experience are three key aspects: the opportunity to explore well-preserved Roman ruins at Perge, marvel at the extraordinary Aspendos Theater, and unwind at the serene Kursunlu Waterfall. Plus, having a knowledgeable guide makes the experience both educational and enjoyable.

However, one potential consideration is the tour’s duration—about 7 hours—which means a fair amount of time on the road and walking. This might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

This tour suits history lovers eager to see ancient sites up close, nature enthusiasts wanting a peaceful retreat, and families looking for a structured yet comprehensive day out from Side.

Good To Know

• Historical insights provided by a professional guide enhance the experience of each site.
• Well-preserved ruins at Perge and Aspendos offer a glimpse into ancient Roman grandeur.
• Natural beauty at Kursunlu Waterfall provides a relaxing break from sightseeing.
• Comfortable transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off simplify logistics.
• Affordable price at $47 per person delivers good value for a full-day guided tour.
• Limited access for travelers with mobility challenges, so plan accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Perge: Stepping into Roman Antiquity

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Side, followed by a scenic drive to Perge, an ancient city that dates back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. We loved the way the ruins are spread out across a large area, allowing plenty of space for exploration and imagination. The guide, Murat, was praised for his extensive knowledge—”he knows everything about the area,” one reviewer from Hungary mentioned.

At Perge, expect to see remnants of grand stadiums, baths, and the agora, all hinting at the city’s former importance. The ruins of the Roman theater, with its impressive columns and stage area, give a vivid sense of what entertainment and civic life might have looked like almost 2,000 years ago. For history buffs, walking among these ancient stones provides a tangible connection to the past.

Travelers appreciate the manageable size of Perge, which makes it easy to see everything without rushing. Its well-preserved state, along with informative commentary, makes it a highlight of the day. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the uneven terrain calls for good footing.

Aspendos: The Marvel of the Ancient Theater

After Perge, the trip continues to Aspendos, home to the world’s best-preserved Roman theater. It’s often called a highlight of Turkey’s archaeological sites, and for good reason. The theater’s excellent condition allows visitors to imagine the grandeur of ancient performances, with its seating capacity historically accommodating thousands.

The theater was built during the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, and it remains an architectural masterpiece. From the top of the seating area, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding landscape—an ideal spot for photos. Besides the theater, the site features other ruins such as aqueducts and basilicas, giving a broader sense of the ancient city.

One reviewer noted, “The guide was engaging and informative,” which helped bring the site’s history alive. Visiting Aspendos offers an incredible peek into Roman engineering and artistry, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts.

Kursunlu Waterfall: Nature’s Relaxing Finale

After immersing ourselves in history, the last stop is Kursunlu Waterfall, a peaceful spot perfect for unwinding. The cool waters and lush surroundings provide a refreshing contrast to the ancient ruins. You can take a leisurely walk along the paths, snap photos, or just sit back and listen to the soothing sound of the cascading water.

According to reviews, the natural scenery here is a highlight—“Enjoy the view in the peaceful atmosphere of nature,” one visitor mentioned. It’s an ideal place for a break, especially if you want to escape the heat or simply enjoy some quiet time amid nature.

Be sure to bring your camera; the waterfall and surrounding greenery make for beautiful photos. The area’s tranquil environment offers a nice pause before heading back to Side.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

This tour, priced at $47 per person, offers good value considering it includes transportation, guide service, and lunch. You’ll be picked up from your Side hotel, making logistics straightforward—no need to worry about arranging separate transport. The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, giving enough time to explore each site thoroughly without feeling rushed.

The guided aspect is a real plus—your English-speaking guide, Murat, alongside audio guides in multiple languages, ensures you won’t miss any key details. The group size isn’t specified, but tours like these tend to be comfortably sized, fostering interaction and personalized attention.

Keep in mind that entrance tickets are not included, so budget extra for that. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as some walking and uneven surfaces are involved.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

What to Bring and Tips for the Day

To make the most of your trip, pack comfortable shoes and a hat for sun protection. A camera is a must for capturing the scenic views and ruins, while sunscreen and water will keep you comfortable throughout the day. The weather can be warm, especially in summer, so staying hydrated is key.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those interested in ancient history and architecture, as well as nature lovers seeking a peaceful waterfall escape. Families can find it engaging, especially with a knowledgeable guide making the history accessible for all ages. However, travelers with mobility issues may want to consider alternative options, as the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces.

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Trip from Side to Perge, Aspendos, and Kursunlu offers a well-rounded experience for travelers wanting to see the highlights of Antalya’s ancient and natural sites. The combination of well-preserved Roman ruins, an impressive ancient theater, and a calming waterfall ensures a diverse and rewarding day out.

At a reasonable price, the tour provides good value, especially with the convenience of hotel pickup and a guided experience. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of Turkey’s history while also enjoying some tranquil moments in nature.

For those eager to combine educational sightseeing with a touch of relaxation, this trip ticks many boxes. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and bring your camera—you’ll want to remember this day for years to come.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Side, making travel hassle-free.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes approximately 7 hours, with enough time at each site to explore comfortably.

Are entrance tickets included? No, entrance fees are not included, so you should budget extra for tickets at Perge, Aspendos, and Kursunlu Waterfall.

What languages are available for guides and audio? Guides speak English, Czech, German, and Slovak, with audio guides also available in these languages.

Is lunch provided? Yes, lunch is included as part of the tour package.

Can children participate? Yes, families find this tour suitable, provided children can handle about 7 hours of sightseeing and walking.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? No, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking on uneven surfaces.

What should I bring on the tour? Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended.

Do I need to book in advance? It’s advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and confirm availability.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This full-day adventure from Side promises a fantastic balance of history, culture, and nature—and with the right preparation, it can be a highlight of your trip to Turkey.

You can check if your dates are available here: