Full-Day Tour of Kursunlu Waterfalls, Aspendos, and Ancient Ruins of Side From Alanya

This full-day tour from Alanya immerses visitors in the captivating history and natural beauty of the region. Highlights include the well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins of Aspendos, the scenic Kursunlu Waterfalls, and the ancient city of Side. The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, Turkish lunch, and a professional guide to provide insights. While the Aspendos amphitheater entrance fee is extra, the tour provides a comprehensive experience exploring these remarkable historical and natural wonders. For those looking to delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of this area, this tour offers an exceptional opportunity.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Alanya.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Alanya explores the Roman amphitheater in Aspendos, the scenic Kursunlu Waterfalls, and the ancient ruins of Side.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a Turkish lunch, and a visit to a local leather/jewelry shop.
• Highlights of the tour include the well-preserved Aspendos amphitheater, the tranquil Kursunlu Waterfalls, and the ruins of the ancient city of Side.
• The tour is led by a professional guide who provides informative insights throughout the day.
• The entrance fee for the Aspendos Ancient Theater (15€) is not included in the tour price.

Tour Overview

The tour offers a full-day exploration from Alanya to the renowned ancient city of Aspendos, the captivating Kursunlu Waterfalls, and the historical town of Side.

Guests will enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off in Antalya, a Turkish lunch, and entrance fees to all locations. With 32 reviews averaging 4.0 stars, the tour promises an enriching experience.

Highlights include the well-preserved Roman amphitheater, temples, and aqueducts of Aspendos, as well as the serene beauty of Kursunlu Waterfalls nestled in a pine forest.

The itinerary also includes a visit to a leather/jewelry shop. Lunch options range from fish and chicken to Turkish pizza and salad, accompanied by a professional guide to provide informative insights along the way.

Itinerary Highlights

Key highlights of the tour include visits to Aspendos, a Greco-Roman city renowned for its well-preserved Roman amphitheater, temples, and aqueducts.

Travelers will also explore the Kursunlu Waterfalls, surrounded by a picturesque pine forest.

The tour includes a visit to a leather/jewelry shop, providing an opportunity to shop for local crafts.

Throughout the day, a professional guide offers informative insights, enhancing the overall experience.

While the Kursunlu Waterfalls admission is included, the Aspendos Ancient Theater entrance fee of 15€ isn’t covered in the tour price.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes a variety of lunch options, such as fish, chicken, Turkish pizza (pide), and salad.

A professional guide accompanies the group, providing informative insights throughout the day.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are complimentary, ensuring a seamless start and end to the tour.

Admission to the Kursunlu Waterfalls is included, allowing visitors to fully explore the picturesque pine forest setting.

However, the entrance fee for the Aspendos Ancient Theater isn’t covered, requiring an additional 15€ per person.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup from various hotels in Alanya and surrounding areas, including Kargicak, Mahmutlar, and Avsallar, is provided for this tour.

The tour starts at 8:15 am, with the duration of transfers varying based on traffic conditions.

The tour includes:

1. Pickup from hotels in Alanya and nearby areas.
2. Prompt start time of 8:15 am.
3. Transfer times that may fluctuate due to traffic.
4. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off for a seamless experience.

This comprehensive full-day tour allows you to explore the stunning Kursunlu Waterfalls, the well-preserved Greco-Roman city of Aspendos, and the ancient ruins of Side, all while enjoying the comfort of hotel transportation.

Customer Feedback

Mixed reviews from customers paint a nuanced picture of this tour experience.

While 17 reviewers gave the tour 5 stars, 9 others rated it 4 stars. A few customers were less enthusiastic, with 2 three-star, 3 two-star, and 1 one-star review.

Positive comments praise the beauty of Aspendos and the helpfulness of the staff. However, some customers complained about unexpected changes to the itinerary and language barriers with the guides.

The reviews suggest this tour provides a mixed experience, with stunning scenery balanced by some organizational issues.

Travelers should consider these factors when deciding if this tour aligns with their interests and expectations.

Aspendos: Greco-Roman Grandeur

Aspendos’s Greco-Roman amphitheater stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Constructed in the 2nd century AD, this remarkably well-preserved structure boasts an impressive capacity of 20,000 spectators.

Visitors can explore the intricate architectural details, including:

1. The stage, which features a backdrop of ornate columns and reliefs.
2. The orchestra, where performers would have entertained the audience.
3. The auditorium, with its tiered seating arrangement.
4. The vaulted entrances, allowing for efficient crowd management.

Today, the Aspendos amphitheater continues to captivate visitors with its enduring beauty and the echoes of its illustrious past.

Kursunlu Waterfalls: Nature’s Oasis

Nestled within a lush pine forest, the Kursunlu Waterfalls captivate visitors with their cascading beauty. This natural wonder features a series of cascades that tumble over limestone rocks, creating a serene and picturesque setting.

Visitors can explore the surrounding paths and bridges, offering ample opportunities to admire the falls from various vantage points. The cool, refreshing waters and the shady, verdant environment provide a welcome respite from the warm Mediterranean climate.

The Kursunlu Waterfalls are a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to take in the tranquility of nature before continuing the exploration of the ancient wonders of the region.

Side: Ancient Ruins and Treasures

After exploring the enchanting Kursunlu Waterfalls, the tour continues to the ancient city of Side, which offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

As the group arrives in Side, they’ll be captivated by the well-preserved ruins that once formed the heart of this Greco-Roman city.

The highlights include:

1. The magnificent Temple of Apollo, with its towering columns and stunning sea views.
2. The impressively large Roman-era theater, which could seat up to 15,000 spectators.
3. The ancient city walls and gates, which provide a glimpse into the city’s fortifications.
4. The archaeological museum, housing an impressive collection of artifacts from the region.

The tour allows visitors to enjoy the legacy of this significant ancient settlement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Explore the Sites at Our Own Pace?

The tour doesn’t provide an option to explore the sites at your own pace. It’s a guided tour with a set itinerary and schedule. If you’d like more flexibility, you may want to consider arranging a private tour or exploring the sites independently.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks for the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks for the tour. The package includes a Turkish lunch, but travelers are welcome to bring additional snacks or beverages if they prefer.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour as a Group?

Unfortunately, the tour details don’t mention any group discounts. The tour price is fixed, regardless of the group size. However, you can check with the tour operator to see if they offer any special rates for larger groups.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to visit additional sites. The tour operator offers flexibility in tailoring the tour to your preferences, though additional fees may apply for any changes or additions to the standard itinerary.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if We Need to Change or Cancel the Tour?

The cancellation policy allows full refunds for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance. There may be partial refunds for last-minute cancellations, but it’s best to check with the tour operator for their specific policy.

Sum Up

This full-day tour offers a captivating journey through Turkey’s ancient wonders. Explore the well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins of Aspendos, learn about the serene beauty of Kursunlu Waterfalls, and uncover the captivating history of the ancient city of Side. With hassle-free transportation, a delicious Turkish lunch, and an expert guide, this comprehensive tour is the perfect way to discover the region’s cultural and natural treasures.