From City of Side: Perge, Aspendos & Kurunlu Waterfall Trip

Travelers looking to combine history, nature, and a bit of Turkish charm will find this full-day excursion from Side to Aspendos, Perge, and Kurunlu Waterfall a compelling choice. The tour, rated an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from over 110 reviews, offers an efficient way to see some of Antalya’s most iconic sights in one well-organized day.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides really bring the sites to life, sharing insights in both English and German. Second, the stunning natural scenery at Kurunlu Waterfall provides a peaceful contrast to the historical ruins. Lastly, the delicious included lunch offers a satisfying break, especially after a busy morning of sightseeing.

On the flip side, some travelers mention that ticket purchases at sites can be slightly cumbersome, and the bus air-conditioning may not always keep the interior cool enough on hot days. Still, for most, the well-paced itinerary, comfort, and expert guidance make it a worthwhile day out. This tour tends to suit those who appreciate a mix of history, scenic landscapes, and convenience, especially if you’re staying in Side or nearby.

Key Points

• Expert guides in English and German enhance the experience with storytelling and insights.
• All-inclusive comfort with hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and a tasty Turkish lunch.
• A well-paced itinerary covering major archaeological sites and scenic waterfalls.
• Affordable price point considering entrance fees, guided tours, and included meals.
• Limited free time at each site, so if you love to explore every nook, plan for quick walks.
• No swimming break available during the day, so pack accordingly if you want to cool off.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This full-day journey offers a practical guide to some of the Antalya region’s most captivating sights. It begins early with hotel pickups around Side, Sorgun, Kumköy, Evrenseki, and neighboring areas. The comfortable, air-conditioned bus sets the tone for a smooth ride, with a bilingual (English and German) guide providing insights along the way.

The first major stop is Aspendos Amphitheater, one of the most famous Roman relics in Turkey. Known for its remarkably good preservation and exceptional acoustics, this amphitheater continues to amaze visitors. Its stage and seating are almost intact, giving you the sense of what performances might have looked like almost two millennia ago. Besides the theatre itself, the nearby Aspendos Bridge showcases Roman engineering prowess, spanning the Eurymedon River with graceful stonework.

Traveling onward, the tour takes you to Perge Ancient City, where you’ll wander through the ruins of a city that once thrived as a major hub in antiquity. It’s easy to lose track of time here, exploring the columns of ancient temples, the remains of baths, and the stadium. According to reviews, the site is especially impressive when it’s quiet—some visitors have remarked that visiting in the morning makes a difference, allowing for more contemplative exploration. A highlight is the mosaics and the well-preserved theater, which served as a center of entertainment in ancient times.

The tour then pauses for a midday lunch at a local restaurant. The included meal features Turkish favorites like fish, chicken, or Adana kebap, along with rice, salads, and buffet-style starters. Reviewers have praised the quality of the food, noting that it exceeded expectations and was more than just a quick bite. However, they also mention that having cash on hand for drinks or extra snacks can streamline the experience—some found it a bit of a hassle to buy additional refreshments, as tickets and cash are required separately.

After lunch, the adventure continues with a scenic drive to Kurunlu Waterfalls. This natural sanctuary is a delightful change of pace. Surrounded by lush greenery, the waterfalls cascade into tranquil pools, perfect for a peaceful walk or just soaking in the scenery. Visitors rave about the beautiful views and the soothing sounds of water, with some mentioning the paths can be a little muddy or steep, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The waterfall visit ends with some free time to take photos, enjoy the serenity, or explore the trails.

The final leg of the trip takes about an hour back to Side, giving you time to relax during the ride and reflect on a busy day filled with history and nature.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Departure

The tour kicks off early, with pickups from hotels in the Side area starting at around 8:15 am. The buses are modern and comfortable, though some reviews note that air-conditioning might not always perform at its best on warmer days. The group remains small enough for a personal touch but large enough to keep the schedule efficient.

Aspendos Amphitheater

Your first stop, Aspendos, offers about an hour to explore both the amphitheater and adjacent Roman structures. The theatre’s spectacular acoustics are the star here—test it out by whispering or clapping, and you’ll witness history in action. The site’s preservation is impressive, with many original features intact, making it a must-see for theater lovers or history buffs alike.

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Perge Ancient City

Next, a 30-minute drive brings you to Perge. Here, you’ll get two hours to stroll through ancient streets, columns, and ruins. The guide will point out unique mosaics and structures, bringing the place to life with stories of its former grandeur. Reviewers appreciated the timed free exploration, which allowed some flexibility to take photos or sit and absorb the view.

Lunch Break

The restaurant offers a break of about 45 minutes, where you can enjoy Turkish dishes that are prepared in advance. Many reviewers highlight the quality of the food and the well-organized service, making it a good rest in the middle of the day. Remember to bring cash if you want drinks or additional snacks, as they aren’t included.

Kurunlu Waterfalls

Post-lunch, the scenic drive to Kurunlu Waterfalls takes around 20 minutes. The natural beauty here is often described as a peaceful oasis. The trails and viewpoints allow for some fantastic photos, and many find the sound of rushing water incredibly relaxing. The 45-minute stop isn’t lengthy, but it’s enough to enjoy the landscape and take some memorable pictures.

Return to Side

The last hour of the tour involves the journey back, giving you a chance to unwind. Most travelers leave feeling satisfied with the mix of ancient ruins and nature, along with the comfort of air-conditioned transportation and the expertise of the guides.

Why This Tour Works

Value for money is a major selling point, considering the entrance fees to Perge and Aspendos are not included and cost around 11 and 15 Euros per person respectively. The guided tours, transport, and lunch make it a convenient all-in-one package.

The guides are consistently praised. One reviewer mentions Murat as a “very professional” guide who shares interesting notes about landscape, culture, and history, which enhances the experience significantly. Their ability to speak both English and German ensures that a wide audience can enjoy the commentary.

The natural scenery at Kurunlu Waterfall is often highlighted as a real highlight, providing a peaceful, scenic break from the bustling archaeological sites. Many appreciate the well-organized schedule that lets them see the main sights without feeling rushed.

However, some critiques are worth noting. The bus’s air-conditioning may not always be sufficient, especially during hotter months. Also, because tickets for sites like Perge and Aspendos must be purchased separately, some find that managing cash or pre-booking tickets could streamline the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided day that covers both historic ruins and natural beauty. It’s perfect if you prefer to see top sights without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets. The small group setting and professional guides ensure personalized attention, especially if you’re interested in history or archaeology.

If you enjoy learning stories and facts along the way, this trip’s guides excel at storytelling. It’s also suited to those who don’t mind a busy day, as the schedule is full and there’s limited free time. Nature lovers will enjoy the waterfalls, while history enthusiasts will find the ancient sites fascinating.

However, if you’re someone who prefers to explore at a more leisurely pace or wants to swim, this tour might feel a bit hurried, and you’d need to plan for additional activities.

FAQs

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, pickups are available from all hotels in Side, Titreyengöl, Sorgun, Kumköy, Evrenseki, Çolakl, and Gündodu areas, starting as early as 8:15 am.

How long is the tour?
The entire day lasts around 8 hours, from pickup to return, with various stops and breaks included.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and some cash for extra drinks or souvenirs.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Perge (11 Euro), Aspendos (15 Euro), and Kurunlu Waterfall (75 TL) are paid separately, either at the site or in advance.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Turkish meal with options like fish, chicken, or Adana kebap is included. Be aware that drinks are extra.

Can I buy tickets at the sites?
Yes, but reviews suggest it can be slightly cumbersome, so pre-booking or having cash ready is advisable.

Is there an option for a private group?
Yes, private group tours are available, providing a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It might not be ideal, as some sites involve walking on uneven terrain and stairs.

Final Thought

This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Turkey’s ancient and natural wonders, with a focus on comfort, value, and expert guidance. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

History buffs, nature lovers, and those eager to see iconic Roman sites will all find plenty to love here. Although the schedule is packed and some logistical aspects could be smoother, the overall experience—highlighted by passionate guides and stunning scenery—makes it a worthwhile addition to your Side itinerary.

If you’re after a day that combines learning, relaxing, and enjoying beautiful landscapes, this trip delivers. Just remember to come prepared for a full day and perhaps bring some cash for those extra drinks or souvenirs.

You can check availability for your dates here: