Aspendos, Side and Manavgat Waterfalls Tour from Alanya

Introduction: A Well-Rounded Day Trip from Alanya

If you’re staying in Alanya and craving a taste of the region’s ancient ruins, stunning waterfalls, and charming coastal towns, this Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfalls tour offers an enticing package. We haven’t personally joined this exact trip, but based on detailed descriptions and traveler reviews, it clearly delivers a solid mix of Turkey’s top sights in a single day.

What we particularly like about this tour is its balanced itinerary—visiting both iconic Roman ruins and natural attractions—and the inclusive approach, with lunch, transportation, and entrance fees all covered. That simplifies planning and provides peace of mind. On the flip side, one potential consideration is that the time spent in each stop is limited, especially in Side, which some travelers felt could be longer if you’re keen to explore more at your own pace.

This tour seems well-suited for those who want a rundown of Antalya’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transportation. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with group travel, moderate walking, and want a snapshot of history, nature, and local charm in one convenient package.

Key Points

• Ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad taste of Antalya’s top sites
• Includes transportation, guide, and entrance fees, offering good value
• Limited time at each stop, so be prepared for a busy day
• Balanced mix of history, nature, and coastal scenery
• Small group size (up to 30 travelers), allowing for more personal attention
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value through the all-inclusive pricing—you pay $66 per person, and that covers hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, a professional guide, and a lunch. The convenience of door-to-door service from Alanya means less fuss, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or don’t want to rent a car.

However, note that alcoholic beverages and sodas are not included**, so if you want to toast your sightseeing with a cold drink, you’ll need to pay extra. Also, while the tour is packed with highlights, some travelers have noted that more time in Side would enhance their experience—there’s more to see and do in that historic town than what the allotted two hours typically allow.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Aspendos Ruins and Theater

The day kicks off with a visit to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. We loved the way this ancient structure still hosts performances, a testament to its enduring craftsmanship. Standing in this 2,000-year-old theater, you can almost hear the echoes of Roman crowds cheering.

The tour includes the Aspendos Theater, where you’ll be able to admire its impressive acoustics and architecture. The fact that it still functions as a venue today makes it particularly special—imagine the thousands of spectators who once watched gladiators or plays right where you stand. The admission ticket is included, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs here.

Manavgat Waterfalls

Next, the group heads to the Manavgat Waterfalls, a favorite for many travelers seeking a natural escape. The turquoise waters crashing over rocks create a relaxing yet invigorating scene. You’ll have about an hour here to enjoy the views, snap photos, and relax at a nearby café, perhaps sipping traditional Turkish tea.

Multiple viewpoints make for great photo opportunities, and the sounds of rushing water provide a soothing backdrop. Some reviews highlight the beauty of this spot, emphasizing the refreshing and photogenic nature of the falls. The admission fee is included, so you get to enjoy this natural wonder without extra expenses.

Side Ancient City and Temple of Apollo

After the waterfalls, the tour continues to Side, a charming coastal town with a lively mix of ruins and seaside beauty. The Temple of Apollo, perched right beside the sea, is a highlight for its dramatic waterfront setting. It’s a perfect spot for photos, with the temple’s columns framing the azure backdrop.

The two hours allotted here might feel a bit rushed if you’re eager to explore every inch, but it’s enough to get a sense of the town’s ancient charm. We found the old streets and sea views particularly captivating, making it a favorite stop for many.

Other notable sites in Side include the ancient amphitheater and monumental fountain, both free to visit and rich in history. The mix of ruins and lively cafes makes Side a truly engaging spot, even if you only have limited time.

The Experience: What Travelers Can Expect

Transportation: Modern, comfortable buses are typical, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel, making logistics hassle-free. The group size is capped at 30, fostering a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Guides: The guide’s role is crucial—they’ll share insights into the history, architecture, and stories behind each site. Many travelers commend knowledgeable guides who keep things interesting and answer questions along the way.

Timing: Starting early at 8:30am, the day is tightly scheduled. Expect a full eight-hour experience, including travel time between sites. The busy timetable means you should be prepared for some walking and standing, especially at Aspendos and Side.

Value: For $66, you’re getting a well-organized day covering key highlights. The inclusion of lunch adds extra convenience, although the specifics of the meal aren’t detailed. The overall expense is reasonable considering transportation, entrance fees, and guided commentary.

Traveler feedback: From reviews, we see that most travelers appreciate the stunning views and expert guidance. One note was that more time in Side would have been preferable, indicating that photography and wandering are somewhat limited.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and those wanting a convenient, all-in-one experience. If you enjoy seeing ancient ruins, relaxing by waterfalls, and exploring charming towns without the hassle of planning each detail, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and standing are involved.

If you’re traveling with a family or group looking for a well-rounded day trip that balances cultural sights with natural beauty, you’ll find this tour satisfying. Conversely, if you prefer more time to explore each location independently or are looking for a leisurely pace, you might want to consider spending more time in Side on your own.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

The Aspendos, Side, and Manavgat Waterfalls Tour from Alanya offers a solid introduction to Turkey’s diverse landscape, ancient history, and scenic beauty. The convenience of hotel pickup, guided insights, and included entrance fees make it a practical choice for many travelers.

You’ll love the stunning Roman theater at Aspendos, which still echoes with performances today, and the natural serenity of Manavgat Waterfalls. The charming streets and sea views of Side provide a taste of coastal life and ancient grandeur.

While the schedule is packed, and time in each location is limited, the value for money is good, especially for those eager to see the highlights without extra planning. This tour suits travelers who want a rundown and don’t mind a busy day. If you’re after a deeper dive into each site or more leisurely exploration, consider extending your time or exploring some locations independently.

FAQ

How long is the tour from start to finish?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time between sites, with a start time of 8:30am.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is part of the package, and it’s included in the price. Specific details of the lunch aren’t provided, but it’s generally considered good quality.

Are entrance fees covered?
All entrance fees are included, such as Aspendos theater and Manavgat Waterfalls, removing any additional costs during the day.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 30, helping to keep the experience somewhat intimate and manageable.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be exploring ruins and natural sites. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if visiting during warmer months.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a guided group tour with a set itinerary, so customization isn’t typically an option. However, you can always discuss specific interests with your guide.

This tour makes for an engaging, manageable way to see some of Turkey’s most celebrated sights in one day. Whether it’s your first trip or a quick revisit, it’s a solid choice to add variety to your holiday.