Antalya: Perge, Aspendos & City of Side Day Trip with Lunch

History

The Pamphylia region, where Perge, Aspendos, and Side are located, was a prosperous area in antiquity, flourishing under Greek, Roman, and Byzantine rule. Perge, the capital of Pamphylia, was founded around 1000 BCE and became a key Roman city with grand structures like the Hellenistic Gate and Roman Baths. Aspendos, renowned for its remarkably preserved Roman theater from the 2nd century CE, was a cultural hub, while Side, established in the 7th century BCE, was a major port city with temples and an agora reflecting its Greek and Roman heritage. The Euromedon River and ancient aqueducts highlight the region’s advanced engineering.

Highlights

• Explore Perge, the ancient capital of Pamphylia, with its Roman Gate and Agora.
• Visit Aspendos, home to the world’s best-preserved Roman theater.
• Discover Side’s ancient ruins, including temples and the Manavgat Waterfall.
• Enjoy a scenic lunch by the Euromedon River.
• Marvel at the ancient aqueduct systems of Perge and Aspendos.

Full Description

Embark on a 10-hour guided day trip from Antalya, starting with a pickup from your hotel’s security gate in an air-conditioned vehicle. Your professional English-speaking guide will lead you through the historical treasures of Pamphylia, beginning with Perge, the region’s ancient capital. Explore the Stadium, Roman Gate, Nymphaeum, Roman Bath, Hellenistic Gate, Column Street, and State Agora, with your guide sharing fascinating insights into this 3,000-year-old city.

Next, visit Aspendos, renowned for its exceptionally preserved 2nd-century CE Roman theater, once used for concerts and festivals. Admire the nearby ancient aqueduct, a testament to Roman engineering. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a riverside restaurant along the Euromedon River, soaking in the scenic views.

Continue to the ancient city of Side, exploring its 7th-century BCE ruins, including the splendid Agora, theater, and temples. Conclude with a visit to the Manavgat Waterfall, a refreshing natural highlight, before returning to your hotel in Antalya.

Why Choose This Experience?

This day trip offers a deep dive into Pamphylia’s ancient history, showcasing three iconic archaeological sites in a single, well-organized tour. With a knowledgeable guide, included lunch, and comfortable transport, it’s an ideal way to explore Antalya’s rich heritage without logistical hassle.

Perfect for history enthusiasts, archaeology buffs, and travelers seeking a mix of culture and nature, the tour balances guided exploration with scenic stops. Its comprehensive itinerary and affordable price make it a must-do for discovering Turkey’s ancient wonders.

What’s Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (Antalya hotels)
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Lunch at a riverside restaurant
• Entry to Manavgat Waterfall
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Insurance

Itinerary

• Hotel Pickup: Morning transfer from Antalya hotels (time confirmed via WhatsApp).
• Perge: Guided tour of the Stadium, Roman Gate, Nymphaeum, and more (1.5 hours).
• Aspendos: Visit the Roman theater and aqueduct (1 hour).
• Lunch: Riverside meal by the Euromedon River (45 minutes).
• Side: Explore the ancient Agora, theater, and temples (1.5 hours).
• Manavgat Waterfall: Scenic visit and photo stop (30 minutes).
• Hotel Drop-off: Return to Antalya hotels.

Pricing

From $64 per person

Meeting Point

Pickup from all Antalya hotels at the security gates. Confirm exact pickup time and location with the operator via WhatsApp one day before the tour. Be ready 10 minutes early.

How to Get There

• Arrange pickup from your Antalya hotel’s security gate.
• Contact the operator via WhatsApp one day prior for exact pickup time.
• Use local taxis or shuttles to reach central Antalya if staying outside the pickup area.
• Verify the pickup location on Google Maps to avoid confusion.
• Allow extra time for morning traffic to ensure timely arrival.

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ancient ruins.
• Hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
• Camera for capturing historical sites and the waterfall.
• Umbrella for potential rain or shade.
• Comfortable clothes suitable for a full-day tour.

Know Before You Go

• The tour involves moderate walking on uneven surfaces; not suitable for electric wheelchairs or scooters.
• Drones, bikes, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed.
• Contact the operator by WhatsApp one day before to confirm pickup details.
• Entry fees for Perge and Aspendos may be extra; confirm when booking.
• The tour operates rain or shine; bring appropriate clothing.

Reviews

• I really enjoyed the stories that the guide shared with us! Thanks a lot! The sites were fascinating, and the lunch by the river was a great touch. Highly recommend this tour!
• Thanks to Oğuzhan, the travel guide. Everything was really nice, from the historical insights at Perge to the stunning theater at Aspendos. The organization was flawless.
• Our guide, Ozzie, was very friendly and informative! We had such a fun day and saw so much—I only wish there would have been more time to spend in Side. A fantastic experience overall!