Private/Shared Side, Aspendos, Perge and Manavgat Fall tour

Exploring East Antalya: A Deep Dive into the Side, Aspendos, Perge, and Manavgat Fall Tour

Traveling through Turkey’s Antalya Province offers a chance to step back into ancient times while soaking up some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery. This 8-hour tour covers a curated selection of East Antalya’s highlights, from Roman ruins to cascading waterfalls and lively local markets. It’s a perfect way to get an authentic taste of history, nature, and culture in one day, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see the core sights.

What makes this experience stand out? We love how it combines historical exploration with stunning natural beauty, all wrapped in a comfortable, well-organized package. The inclusion of a delicious local lunch and expert guides ensures you get more than just a surface-level visit. On the downside, the duration means a fairly packed schedule, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, some stops might feel a bit rushed. Still, this tour is ideal for travelers craving a mix of history, scenery, and cultural insight without going over budget.

If you’re keen on uncovering antiquity’s treasures while enjoying scenic stops and local flavors, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suited for first-timers to the region, history buffs, and anyone who wants a comprehensive day with everything included. Let’s break down what you can expect along the way.

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Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major ancient sites and natural wonders.
• Expert local guides provide insightful commentary, making history come alive.
• All-inclusive pricing with museum tickets, lunch, and transportation.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vans, with hotel pickups.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later plans.
• Suitable for private groups or shared experiences, accommodating different preferences.

What You Can Expect from This Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of history, nature, and local culture. Starting from your hotel in Antalya, the journey begins with a scenic 1.5-hour drive on a comfortable van. You’ll enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you the hassle of navigating public transport or haggling with taxis.

Perge — The Roman Gem

Perge is the first major stop, where your guide will lead you through the ruins of what was once a thriving city of the ancient Pamphylia region. Expect to walk around for about two hours, exploring the well-preserved Roman theater, stadium, baths, and colonnaded streets. Visitors have noted how the guide’s detailed explanations bring the site to life, emphasizing the historical importance of the architecture and layout.

One reviewer mentioned, “The guide’s commentary made the ruins feel tangible, connecting the stones to stories of the past.” Expect to spend roughly two hours here, soaking up the atmosphere and snapping photos of impressive mosaics and arches.

Aspendos — The Legendary Theater

After a short break, you’ll head to Aspendos, renowned for its beautifully preserved Roman theater. Here, you’ll have about 1.5 hours for sightseeing, photos, and a bit of leisure. The theater’s acoustics are legendary, and standing inside it one can almost hear the applause of ancient audiences.

Guests often find this site a highlight. One reviewer shared, “The theater’s size and preservation are incredible. It’s a must-see for history lovers and architecture fans.” You’ll also have time for a quick walk around the aqueducts and the surrounding area.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Manavgat Waterfalls — Nature’s Refreshing Touch

A 40-minute drive takes you to the Manavgat Waterfalls, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved break and a delicious lunch at a local restaurant nestled near the falls. The natural beauty and the soothing sound of cascading water create a perfect moment of relaxation. The waterfall area is lively, with small shops offering souvenirs, and the atmosphere is vibrant yet calming.

The included lunch is a highlight, often praised for its quality and local flavor. Guests have complimented the “simple but tasty Turkish dishes and tapas,” which provide a satisfying boost before heading to Side.

Side — The Ancient Seaside Town

Your final major stop is Side, known for its ancient ruins and lively marina. You’ll have about two hours here, combining a guided tour of the archaeological sites—like the Temple of Apollo and the ancient theater—with free time to explore shops, cafes, or simply relax by the waterfront. Reviewers like to stroll along the promenade and take in views of the sea, making this a lovely end to the day.

You’ll also get a safety briefing before free time, ensuring everyone feels comfortable exploring. The guide’s local insights help you appreciate the blend of ancient ruins and modern-day life.

Returning to Antalya

After a full day, the comfortable van whisks you back to your hotel, usually arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. The journey offers a chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries and snap last-minute photos.

What’s Included and What to Budget For

Pricing at $125 per person offers good value considering the inclusions: museum tickets, lunch, seat insurance, and hotel pickup/drop. The convenience of having everything taken care of is a major plus, especially if you’re visiting Turkey for the first time.

However, keep in mind that drinks at lunch are not included, so if you prefer specific beverages, bring some cash. The tour operates with both private groups and shared experiences, giving you flexibility depending on your comfort level and budget.

The tour is quite comprehensive, packing in long sightseeing periods with minimal downtime, so dress comfortably and wear sturdy shoes. Early mornings or late afternoons can be hot, particularly in summer, so hats and water are recommended.

The Experience of Travel with Paphlagonia

According to reviews, the tour is well-organized and led by knowledgeable guides who aim to make history engaging. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide’s stories about Perge and Aspendos made the ruins come alive, making it feel like a storybook adventure.” The group size tends to be small, which allows for personalized attention and easier navigation through crowded sites.

The transportation in air-conditioned vans is a relief during warmer months, and the pickup service means no stress about reaching meeting points. The 8-hour duration is packed but manageable, especially if you’re eager to maximize sightseeing.

Some travelers appreciated the flexibility of reserve now and pay later, which adds peace of mind when planning your trip. The option for private groups means you can customize the experience if you prefer a more personalized touch.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?

This tour offers a practical way to see some of Turkey’s most iconic ancient sites along with natural beauty, all in one day. It’s especially great for those who want a guided experience that’s both educational and scenic, with the convenience of all-included pricing and hotel transfers.

If you’re interested in Roman and Hellenistic ruins, love waterfalls and nature, or simply want a full-day tour that takes the hassle out of planning, this experience delivers good value. It’s ideal for first-time visitors to Antalya, history buffs, and anyone eager to explore without the complications of organizing transport or tickets.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend more time at each site, be aware that the schedule is quite full. Still, for a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local flavor, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, making the day easier and more comfortable.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages including English, German, French, Russian, Italian, Chinese, Indonesian, and Spanish.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How long are the stops at each site?
You’ll have approximately 2 hours at Perge, 1.5 hours at Aspendos, 1.5 hours at Manavgat Falls (including lunch), and 2 hours at Side.

Are drinks included with lunch?
No, drinks are not included, so consider bringing some cash if you want beverages with your meal.

Is there a private group option?
Yes, private groups are available, allowing for a more tailored experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended, as you’ll be walking around archaeological sites and waterfalls.

How long is the drive between stops?
The longest drive is roughly 1.5 hours between Antalya and Perge, with shorter drives to Aspendos, Manavgat, and Side.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families can enjoy this tour, but keep in mind the walking involved and the full schedule.

This Side, Aspendos, Perge, and Manavgat Falls tour offers a balanced glimpse into Turkey’s ancient and natural wonders, all wrapped in a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re a history lover, nature enthusiast, or travel photographer, you’ll find plenty to love in this full-day adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: