Private Antalyas Ancient Excursion: Perge, Aspendos, Side

This full-day private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s remarkable past, blending archaeological wonders with natural beauty. It’s designed for travelers eager to see the most famous ancient sites around Antalya without the crowds and with personalized attention. We like that the tour is flexible and private, ensuring a more intimate experience — ideal for history buffs, culture seekers, or anyone looking for a meaningful day away from hotel pools and beaches.

However, it’s a long day packed with sightseeing, which might be a bit much if you prefer relaxed mornings or have limited mobility. Still, for those wanting a comprehensive taste of ancient Turkey with a touch of natural scenery, this trip hits the spot.

This tour suits travelers who want a detailed, curated journey through history, enjoy comfortable transportation, and appreciate authentic experiences. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who prefer exploring with a knowledgeable guide at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private and Flexible: Experience the sites with a dedicated guide and custom timing.
• Rich Archaeology: Visit Perge, Aspendos, and Side, which showcase Turkish and Roman history firsthand.
• Stunning Architecture: See the remarkably preserved Aspendos Theater, a highlight for lovers of ancient engineering.
• Natural Beauty: End the day at Kursunlu Waterfalls for some scenic relaxation.
• Cultural Insight: Enjoy a delicious local lunch at a riverside restaurant.
• Value for Price: For $887 per group of up to four, this full day offers a lot of sights and expert guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to Your Antalya Ancient Sites Tour

Starting from Antalya: A Convenient Pickup

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Antalya, making the whole experience seamless and stress-free. The tour lasts about 9 hours, which is enough time to visit all the major sites without feeling rushed. Departure times vary, so check availability to find a slot that suits your schedule.

First Stop: The Ruins of Perge

Perge is often described as the archaeological jewel of the region. This sprawling site was once the capital of Pamphylia and is famous for its well-preserved Roman ruins. You’ll explore notable features like the Roman Baths, Agora, Nympharium, and the hundreds-of-years-old stadium. The guided tour here helps you understand the scale and purpose of each structure, offering a window into ancient urban planning.

A reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide explained the significance of each ruin — you really get a sense of how vibrant this city was.” Be prepared for a fair amount of walking over uneven terrain, but the expansive layout means you’ll see much more than a quick glance.

Aspendos: The Theater That Defies Time

Next up is Aspendos, home to one of the most impressive surviving Roman theaters in the world. Built in the 2nd century AD, this theater is still used today for festivals and concerts, a testament to its remarkable conservation. It’s easy to imagine how this space hosted thousands during ancient performances, and you’ll likely be struck by its sound-perfect acoustics and careful stonework.

A common comment from visitors is, “The Aspendos theater is stunning — you can almost hear the applause from centuries ago.” The guided visit typically lasts around three hours, giving you enough time to explore, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

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Lunch by the River: A Taste of Local Flavors

After Aspendos, the tour pauses for a lunch break at a riverside restaurant. This is a good opportunity to enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine in a tranquil setting. The included meal is a nice touch, especially after a morning of walking and exploring.

Side: Ancient Theater and Temples

In the afternoon, the tour moves to Side, a charming seaside town packed with history. The highlight here is the ancient theater, which once hosted gladiatorial games and performances. The nearby Roman Baths and the Temple of Apollo, set dramatically against the sea, are also included.

One reviewer noted, “Side’s ruins are spectacular, especially with the sea in the background. It feels like stepping back in time.” You’ll have about two hours to wander, take photos, and learn about the town’s significance as a bustling port.

Kursunlu Waterfalls: A Natural Pause

The final stop is at Kursunlu Waterfalls, a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the natural scenery. This brief visit (around two hours) allows you to stretch your legs, admire the cascading water, and reflect on the day’s discoveries. It’s a nice contrast to the archaeological sites and provides a refreshing end to your sightseeing.

Return to Antalya

After a full day of exploring, your guide will take you back to your hotel, usually arriving in the early evening. The private nature of the tour ensures you can tailor your experience and ask questions along the way.

Is It Worth The Price?

At $887 for a group of up to four, this tour offers a comprehensive, personalized experience. When you consider entrance fees, professional guiding, transportation, and lunch, the value becomes clearer. Visiting multiple major sites in a single day without worrying about logistics makes it a convenient choice.

Some travelers appreciated the flexibility and detailed explanations provided by the guide, which enhanced their understanding of the sites. Plus, the private setting means you won’t be competing with large crowds, allowing for more meaningful engagement and photo opportunities.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the stunning views and the impressive preservation of Aspendos Theater. One person said, “The theater is extraordinary, and the guide brought history alive with stories and context.” Others appreciated the seamless transportation and the comfortable pace.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the long duration — 9 hours can be a bit tiring, especially for those with limited mobility or young children. Also, since the tour is quite structured, it may not suit travelers looking for spontaneity or more off-the-beaten-path sites.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to see Turkey’s Roman and ancient sites up close. It also suits travelers who value expert guides, comfortable transport, and a curated experience that covers the essentials efficiently. Families, couples, and small groups will appreciate the private format, which offers flexibility and personal attention.

If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded tour that combines archaeology, natural scenery, and local flavors, this is a smart choice. However, if you prefer very relaxed, slow-paced sightseeing or are prone to fatigue, consider whether a shorter or more flexible option might suit you better.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of Perge, Aspendos, and Side offers a rich, detailed look at Turkey’s ancient past, complemented by stunning views and a taste of local life. It provides a practical balance of guided discovery and personal space, making it a good pick for those who want to learn and explore without the hassle of arranging individual tickets and transportation.

The combination of archaeological grandeur, natural beauty, and cultural authenticity makes this experience memorable. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling by knowledgeable guides and want a deeper understanding of the sites they visit.

While it’s a full day, the careful planning and private setup make it worthwhile. If you’re seeking an authentic, value-packed way to connect with Turkey’s past and enjoy beautiful scenery along the way, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

Q: Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is included from your hotel in Antalya, making it easy to focus on the sights rather than logistics.

Q: How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with a flexible start time based on availability.

Q: Is lunch included?
Yes, a local, riverside restaurant lunch is part of the package, offering Turkish cuisine in a relaxing setting.

Q: Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in planning.

Q: Is it a group or private experience?
This is a private tour for your group, providing personalized attention and a flexible schedule.

Q: What languages are the guides available in?
Guides are available in English and Turkish, ensuring clear explanations and local insights.

Q: Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to the sites are included in the price, so you don’t need to worry about additional costs.

This private excursion blends history, culture, and natural beauty into a well-organized day. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, it offers a thorough and engaging way to see some of Turkey’s most iconic ancient sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: