Ancient Perge, Aspendos Amphitheater & Manavgat Waterfalls Tour

Introduction

This review covers the Ancient Perge, Aspendos Amphitheater & Manavgat Waterfalls Tour, a well-rated day trip that promises a mix of history, nature, and local flavor around Side, Turkey. We appreciate how this tour combines ease of logistics—thanks to hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport—with a thoughtfully curated itinerary that takes travelers from ancient ruins to breathtaking waterfalls.

Two aspects that stand out are the expert guidance that brings the sites alive and the value for price—at just $41.50 per person, it packs in a full day of sightseeing. However, one thing to consider is the bus’s air conditioning, which some reviews found a bit subpar—worth keeping in mind if you’re sensitive to heat.

This tour seems ideal for travelers interested in history and scenery, especially those who prefer a comfortable, guided experience with an authentic feel. If you’re keen on exploring ancient cities with a knowledgeable guide and ending your day with a peaceful waterfall visit, this tour should fit the bill.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering ancient ruins, a Roman theatre, and natural waterfalls.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with engaging and informative commentary.
• Great value for the price, including lunch and entrance fees (if you opt for the package).
• Convenient logistics with hotel pickup, drop-off, and air-conditioned transportation.
• Suitable for moderate physical fitness—expect some walking and uneven terrain.
• Small group size (maximum 15 travelers), ensuring a more personal experience.

Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Perge

Our journey begins with a visit to Perge Antik Kenti, just 17 kilometers from Side. This city, known historically as “Parha,” boasts roots dating back to the Hittite period, and it blossomed during the Roman era. As we walk through the well-preserved remains, it’s easy to imagine the hustle and bustle of ancient life.

The theatre, capable of holding 15,000 spectators, is particularly impressive. Built in the 2nd century, it’s still remarkably intact, and you’ll love climbing its tiered seats to get a sense of what entertainment must have been like here. The Roman stadium and city gates give a sense of scale and grandeur that is hard to match.

The main street, stretching about 500 meters, offers a glimpse of ancient urban planning, with columns, fountains, and an acropolis that dates back to the Bronze Age. The sculptures unearthed here are housed in the Antalya Museum, showcasing the skill of Perge’s artisans.

A reviewer, Henric_W, appreciated the guide’s humor and knowledge: “Ozzy was fantastic, funny, and very informative,” making the history come alive. The only downside was some found the bus’s air conditioning less than ideal, so pack a fan or dress in layers if you’re sensitive to heat.

The Marvel of Aspendos

Next, we travel to Aspendos, roughly a 30-minute drive from Perge. This city was once a key hub of Pamphylia and is now famous worldwide for its spectacular Roman amphitheater. Built in 155 AD, it’s one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world, capable of seating around 15,000 spectators.

Walking into the amphitheater, it’s easy to appreciate the craftsmanship. The stage and galleries, still functional and accessible, provide a tangible connection to the past. The theatre’s excellent preservation means you can imagine what performances or gladiatorial contests might have looked like.

Beyond the theatre, the site includes Roman gates, city walls, and baths, giving us multiple layers of history to explore. Our guide will point out details that highlight the engineering ingenuity of ancient Rome—something we always find fascinating.

The lunch stop at a local restaurant offers a break with a view, giving everyone a chance to relax and soak in the surroundings. With the meal included in the tour price, it provides good value. The food is described as simple but tasty, with a nice setting—perfect for recharging for the afternoon.

The Charm of Manavgat Waterfalls

After a morning full of ancient wonders, we head back towards Side, stopping at the Manavgat Waterfalls. These cascading waters offer a beautiful scene with lush greenery and a cooling atmosphere. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind after a busy morning of walking and exploration.

The waterfalls are accessible and provide excellent photo opportunities. The fresh pine scent and the sound of rushing water make it a natural highlight of the trip, especially if you’re looking for a soothing end to your day.

One reviewer found this stop to be a “relaxing soak,” appreciating the natural beauty and the opportunity for a brief escape into nature. It’s a good spot for those wanting a little refreshment away from the ruins.

Practical Details and Value

This tour operates around 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am with hotel pickup—making it easy for visitors staying in Side. Small group size, with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensures a more intimate experience and personalized attention from guides.

The cost, at $41.50, includes lunch and entrance fees if you choose the add-on option, which is a significant value considering the sites visited. Entrance fees are an extra €30, so if you’re on a budget, it’s worth factoring this in.

Transportation is in an air-conditioned bus, though some reviews mention that the AC might not be the strongest—something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to heat. The guide, often praised for their knowledge and humor, plays a key role in making the day engaging and informative.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who enjoy a mix of cultural sights and natural scenery. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free day with a small group, ensuring they get personal attention and insider insights.

It’s also a solid option for first-time visitors to Side wanting to see the highlights without the stress of organizing transportation or tickets themselves. Those looking for a value-priced experience that covers multiple significant sites will find this tour particularly appealing.

Final Thoughts

The Ancient Perge, Aspendos Amphitheater & Manavgat Waterfalls Tour offers a balanced blend of history, scenery, and comfort. You’ll visit some of the most impressive ruins in the region, walk through remarkably preserved Roman architecture, and enjoy the tranquility of a scenic waterfall. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide makes a big difference, bringing history to life and making the day enjoyable.

While the bus’s AC might not be perfect, the overall experience is worthy of consideration for anyone eager to explore the highlights of inland Antalya in a structured and convenient way. The small group size and excellent reviews suggest this tour is reliable, engaging, and good value for money.

This tour fits travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in a single day without sacrificing depth or authenticity. Whether you’re into archaeology, scenic landscapes, or just a break from beach lounging, it’s a solid choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from Side hotels, making it very convenient for travelers staying locally.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am, including travel, visits, and breaks.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 15, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance fees are extra, costing around €30 per person, or you can opt to include them in your booking for convenience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since there’s a fair bit of exploring on uneven surfaces. Light clothing and sun protection are also advisable.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a simple but tasty lunch is included at a local restaurant during the Aspendos stop.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Moderate physical fitness is expected, so it’s suitable for most adults and older children comfortable with walking and temperature exposure.

Will I get enough time at each site?
The schedule provides about an hour at Perge, an hour at Aspendos, and an hour at the waterfalls, enough to appreciate the sites without rushing.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and refunds are issued accordingly.

Is it worth the price?
Considering the sites visited, included lunch, and guide expertise, this tour offers excellent value for a full day guided experience.

In summary, if you’re after a well-rounded, authentic look at ancient ruins and beautiful scenery with the convenience of guided touring, this Side day trip is hard to beat. It’s perfect for those who want to learn, explore, and relax without fuss.