Perge Aspendos Side Waterfall Tour

If you’re visiting Antalya and craving a full day of exploring some of the region’s most impressive historical sites along with natural beauty, the Perge Aspendos Side Waterfall Tour might just be your perfect choice. Based on numerous glowing reviews, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines ancient ruins, stunning waterfalls, and delightful Turkish cuisine—all in one seamless day.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances historical intrigue with natural scenery. The guides are praised for their vast knowledge and engaging storytelling, making every stop feel alive and meaningful. The comfort of the transportation and the well-organized itinerary mean you won’t feel rushed or lost in the crowd. Plus, the included lunch of fresh, local dishes makes the day even more satisfying.

One possible consideration is the duration and pace—with the tour covering multiple sites in one day, some may wish for more time to linger, particularly at Side. Also, drinks are extra, so if you’re partial to beverages during sightseeing, plan to budget accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who love history, scenic landscapes, and authentic local food—especially those keen on a structured, informative experience without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re a history buff or just eager to see a slice of Turkey’s stunning coastline and ruins, this trip hits many marks.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary combining history, nature, and coastlines.
• Knowledgeable guides with rave reviews for their storytelling and expertise.
• Good value for money with all entry tickets, lunch, and transfers included.
• Comfortable transportation suited for groups up to 16 travelers.
• Flexible options and pickup for most Antalya-area hotels.
• Authentic Turkish lunch with a choice of chicken, lamb, or fish, complementing the day’s sightseeing.

What to Expect from the Tour

Early Morning Pickup and First Stop: Perge

The day kicks off around 8:00 am with hotel pickups, which are quite punctual. After a short drive of about 30 minutes, you’ll arrive at Perge, a sprawling ancient city whose ruins showcase the sophistication of ancient Anatolian civilizations. Guests consistently praise the guide’s extensive knowledge, with one reviewer mentioning that they received “a complete and detailed explanation” of the site’s significance. Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here wandering between well-preserved columns, Roman baths, and an impressive stadium.

Aspendos: The Theatre That Still Wow’s

Next, you’ll head to Aspendos, renowned for its spectacular Roman theatre, often hailed as one of the best-preserved amphitheatres from antiquity. Reviewers frequently highlight how breathtaking the theatre remains, with its size and acoustics still impressing visitors today. The guide often shares fascinating insights, making history come alive. Around 1 hour is allocated to fully appreciate this site, and many mention that this was a major highlight of the trip.

Lunch Break: Turkish Flavors

Around 1 pm, it’s time for a well-deserved lunch break. The included meal features options like tender lamb, grilled chicken, or fresh fish—catering to different tastes. Expect a hearty Turkish meal, often served with local bread and salads, giving you a taste of regional cuisine. Reviewers frequently mention the delicious food, describing it as a perfect complement after a morning of walking around ancient sites.

Side: A Roman City’s Charm

Post-lunch, the tour takes you to Side, the largest ancient city in the Mediterranean region. Here, you’ll have about an hour of free time to wander the streets, explore the harbor, or simply soak in the views of the coastline. Many travelers appreciate the balance of guided insights and free exploration, as some wish they had more time to visit the Agora or the ancient theatre. The overall group size and well-paced schedule mean you won’t be rushing through.

Manavgat Waterfall and Scenic Return

The final natural stop is the Manavgat Waterfall, where you’ll get about an hour to enjoy the cascading waters and snap photos of the lush, green surroundings. Several reviewers mention that this spot offers great photo opportunities and a peaceful end to the day’s busy sightseeing. Afterward, the driver will take you back, with an expected arrival back at your hotel around 5 pm.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $87.22 per person, this tour packs in a full day’s worth of sightseeing, expert guiding, and meals. The price covers all entry tickets, transportation, guiding, and lunch, making it a good deal considering what’s included. The only extras are drinks, so you can budget for those if needed.

The small group size (maximum 16 travelers) helps ensure a more personalized experience, with many reviews praising the friendly, knowledgeable guides, especially one named Genghis, who “made the tour special” with his passion and expertise.

Transportation and Timing

The comfortable, air-conditioned transport is a major plus, especially considering the early start and the long day. The schedule is designed to maximize site visits without feeling rushed—each stop is allocated enough time for sightseeing and photos, according to reviews. The slightly longer stops at Perge and Aspendos allow for meaningful exploration, while the free time in Side gives some space for personal discovery.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the expert guides, with one noting that Gil provided “a complete and detailed explanation” of the sites, and another raving about Genghis, describing him as “the guide to make all others irrelevant.” Such knowledgeable guides elevate the experience from a simple sightseeing trip to an engaging storytelling journey.

Many appreciate the well-organized logistics—the tour even accommodated high interest by arranging a second vehicle, which means no one missed out on the adventure. The delicious Turkish lunch often comes up as a highlight, with travelers saying it’s a satisfying and tasty meal that perfectly caps the morning’s walking.

Practical Notes

• The tour starts at 8:00 am, so early risers will appreciate the smooth pickup.
• For hotels in Belek, Kemer, and Side Manavgat, an extra transfer fee applies, so plan accordingly.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most able to participate, but check your hotel pickup times if in Kundu or Konyaaltı.
• Drinks are extra, so bring some cash if you want beverages during or after the meal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts who enjoy learning about Roman and Greco civilizations. It’s also a fantastic choice for nature lovers keen to see Manavgat Waterfall and coastal scenery. The delicious lunch and comfortable transport make it perfect for those looking for a hassle-free, well-rounded day with minimal planning.

Couples, families, and solo travelers who appreciate organized tours with small groups will find this a rewarding way to see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed. It’s especially beneficial if you want a balanced mix of guided education and free time to explore at your own pace.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 8:00 am, so you’ll need to be ready for collection at your hotel around that time.

Are transfers included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off. However, for hotels in Belek, Kemer, and Side Manavgat, an extra transfer fee is applied.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and exploring ancient sites. Bring sun protection such as hats and sunscreen, especially during summer.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Turkish lunch featuring chicken, lamb, or fish is included. Drinks are not included and will incur extra charges.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with return to your hotel around 5 pm.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Final Thoughts

The Perge Aspendos Side Waterfall Tour offers a thoughtfully curated way to experience Antalya’s historical and natural sights in one day. The mix of ancient ruins, scenic waterfalls, and coastal views provides a well-balanced itinerary that’s as enriching as it is comfortable. With knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and seamless logistics, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see the best of the region without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

This tour truly delivers value—an immersive, engaging day out that highlights the best of what Antalya has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply in search of a memorable adventure, this experience is likely to leave you with plenty of stories—and photos—to tell.