Apollo Temple, Perge Ancient City, and Waterfalls Tour with Lunch

If you’re eyeing a day trip that combines history, nature, and local flavor while keeping things hassle-free, this tour from Kemer offers a compelling option. It’s built for travelers who want to see the key archaeological sites and scenic spots of the Antalya region without the stress of independent planning or renting a car.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this trip are the expert guidance—your guide is praised as knowledgeable and friendly—and the value for money. For just $45, you get not only transport, admission to some of Turkey’s most impressive ancient sites, but also a satisfying lunch and a scenic waterfall finale.

One potential consideration is that you’ll spend around ten hours on the go, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a full day of sightseeing. Also, some sites’ entrance fees aren’t included in the ticket price, meaning you might want to carry a little extra cash.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, photography lovers, and those eager to experience authentic Turkish scenery without the hassle of self-driving. It’s also a smart pick for travelers with moderate physical mobility who enjoy guided walks through historic ruins and scenic spots alike.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Perge, Aspendos, Side, Manavgat Waterfall, and the Apollo Temple.
• Professional guides receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
• All-in-one experience with hotel pickup, transport, lunch, and all the logistics handled.
• Balanced pace, allowing time to explore each site and enjoy some free moments.
• Affordable price point offers good value given the number of sites visited.
• Authentic experiences with scenic views, ancient ruins, and local atmosphere.

A Well-Rounded Day of Historical and Natural Wonders

This tour from Kemer is a well-organized way to see some of the most captivating archaeological sites and scenic landscapes in the Antalya region. It’s especially attractive because it combines guided storytelling—most reviews highlight how knowledgeable and entertaining the guides are—with easy logistics. You won’t need to worry about transportation, parking, or timing—your pickup and drop-off are included, and the itinerary is designed to maximize your experience.

What’s on the Itinerary?

The trip kicks off early at around 8:00 am, with a hotel pickup that sets a comfortable tone for the day. Your first stop is the Aspendos Ruins, famous for its remarkably preserved Roman theater, where you’ll get roughly three hours to soak in the history and snap photos of the stone grandeur. While the admission tickets are not included—costing around $15—the site’s scale and preservation make it a highlight for architecture buffs and history lovers alike.

Next, you’ll visit Perge, an ancient city that was a major hub during the Hittite and Roman periods. Here, you’ll find a well-organized city plan, a theater that could seat 15,000, and beautifully preserved sculptures, many of which are displayed in the Antalya Museum. The approximately two hours allocated make for an immersive experience. Again, entrance fees ($11) are separate, but the site’s extensive ruins and informative guide make it worth the extra cost.

From ancient stones to water’s roar, your journey continues to Manavgat Waterfall. Sitting about 80 km from Antalya, this waterfall offers a refreshing break and a chance to take in nature’s power. The included admission—free—means no extra expense, and the two-hour stop provides plenty of time for photos and relaxing strolls.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a visit to the Apollo Temple in Side. This waterfront site features striking columns and ancient stone structures, perfect for history enthusiasts and photographers alike. You’ll spend around three hours here, enjoying the scenic views and learning about the temple’s significance. Entrance fees are included, adding to the overall value.

What Are the Benefits of This Tour?

The main advantage is its comprehensive coverage. In just one day, you see ancient cities, a theater, a waterfall, and a temple—a rich mix that offers a broad sense of the region’s past and present. The guided explanations are consistently praised—guides share engaging stories and details that bring the ruins to life, making history tangible and interesting rather than just old stones.

Another highlight is the lunch. The included buffet-style meal is described as satisfying and a good way to fuel the rest of the day. It’s a practical perk that helps keep costs down and ensures you’re not hunting for food after a busy morning.

The small group size—max 15 travelers—means a more personal experience, with room for questions and interaction. Many reviews mention how friendly and accommodating the guides are, often adding entertaining anecdotes to their explanations.

What Could Be Better?

Some visitors note that entrance fees are not included for Perge and Aspendos, so budgeting a little extra can be wise. Others mention that lunch locations might be improved, as a few felt the meal could be more authentic or better situated. Given the full-day schedule, you’ll want to be prepared for a long, energetic day—comfortable shoes, water, and a camera are essentials.

A Deep Dive Into Each Stop

Aspendos Ruins

Known globally for its well-preserved Roman theater, Aspendos stands as a testament to ancient engineering. The theater’s design has allowed it to survive centuries, and it still hosts performances today, a rare feature that signifies its state of preservation. Visiting Aspendos offers a tangible connection to the Roman influence in Turkey. You’ll love the way the guide explains how the theater’s acoustics work so well—standing in the orchestra pit, it’s easy to imagine a performance echoing through history.

Perge Ancient City

Perge is a highlight for history lovers. Its layout is laid out on a grid, with a theater that could seat 15,000, a stadium—one of Turkey’s best-preserved—and intricate sculptures. The artifacts and sculptures, many on display in Antalya Museum, shed light on the craftsmanship and artistic styles of the Roman era. One reviewer describes it as a place where “the sculptures reflect the style of Perge sculpting very well,” adding depth to the visual experience.

Manavgat Waterfall

This spot offers a welcome break from the intense archaeological exploration. Sourcing from the Taurus Mountains, Manavgat Waterfall provides a scenic and calming view. It’s a popular spot for photos and just soaking in the natural power of cascading water. The included admission means you can relax and enjoy the surroundings without worrying about extra costs.

Apollo Temple in Side

Perched by the waterfront, the Apollo Temple combines history with picture-perfect scenery. Its iconic columns and stone structures evoke a sense of the ancient gods and traders that once thrived here. It’s a lovely ending to the day, especially as the setting sun casts a golden glow on the ruins. Many reviews highlight how the site’s scenic waterfront makes it a memorable photo stop and a peaceful spot to reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Transportation and Practical Details

The tour’s pickup and drop-off are included, which is a big plus for visitors unfamiliar with local transportation options. The group size is capped at 15, ensuring personalized attention and reducing the feeling of being just one of many. The 10-hour duration might seem long but is packed with diverse and engaging experiences, making the most of your day.

Good physical condition is recommended, as exploring ruins involves walking on uneven surfaces. However, the pace is moderate, and guides often allow some free time for personal exploration.

The price point of $45 per person offers good value considering the multiple sites, the guided explanations, transportation, and included lunch. Entrance fees for Aspendos and Perge are extra, but many visitors find the overall experience to be worth the investment.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts and curious travelers eager to see key ancient sites without the hassle of driving or organizing multiple visits. It’s perfect if you want a balanced day with plenty of sights, good food, and friendly guides.

It’s also a good choice for those who appreciate scenic natural spots like waterfalls as a refreshing break from archaeological exploration. If your time in Antalya is limited but you want a meaningful glimpse into the region’s past and scenery, this can be an excellent pick.

On the downside, if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed, less packed day or sole focus on one site, you might find it a bit hurried. Yet, for most, the variety and knowledgeable guides make it a worthwhile adventure.

FAQs About the Tour

Are entrance fees included in the ticket price?
No, the entrance fees for Perge ($11) and Aspendos theater ($15) are not included, so you should budget extra if you want full access to the ruins.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, this tour offers hassle-free pickup and drop-off from central Antalya hotels, making logistics simple.

How long is the total tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 10 hours, giving plenty of time to explore each site and enjoy the scenery.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as exploring ruin sites involves walking on uneven surfaces and some standing.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet-style lunch is included, providing sustenance for the long day ahead.

This guided tour from Kemer packs a punch for those eager to understand the area’s ancient past, enjoy natural beauty, and experience local hospitality—all in one affordable, well-organized package. Whether you’re a history devotee, a scenic lover, or simply seeking a memorable day out, this trip offers a balanced taste of what makes the Antalya region so special.