Aspendos Theatre, Perge & Side Antique City

Traversing the ancient ruins of Aspendos, Perge, and Side transports visitors to the grandeur of bygone eras. From the remarkably well-preserved Roman theater at Aspendos to the captivating remnants of Perge’s bustling port city, these sites offer a glimpse into the thriving civilizations that once occupied this region of Turkey. Enjoy the rich history and architectural marvels that continue to captivate travelers from around the world.

Key Points

• This full-day small-group tour from Antalya showcases three ancient sites: Perge, Side, and the renowned Aspendos Theatre.
• Visitors can explore the remarkably well-preserved ruins of Perge, including an impressive Hellenistic-Roman theater.
• The ancient coastal city of Side offers a glimpse into its prosperous past, with a well-preserved Roman-era theater and other ruins.
• Aspendos Theatre, one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world, impresses with its scale and architectural prowess.
• Comfortable round-trip transportation, a provided lunch, and a personalized experience with a maximum of 15 travelers are included in the tour.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day small-group excursion from Antalya, Turkey takes visitors to three ancient sites: Perge, Side, and the renowned Aspendos theatre.

The tour includes guided visits and free time to explore these impressive ruins. Travelers can also stop at either Manavgat or Kurşunlu waterfall.

Lunch is provided at Belkis village. Comfortable round-trip transportation is included, with hotel pickup from select Antalya accommodations.

The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Bottled water is provided, though additional drinks incur an extra charge.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour offers comfortable round-trip transportation, with hotel pickup from select accommodations in Antalya.

The start time is 8:00 am, ensuring an early start to maximize the day’s activities. Groups are limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, providing an intimate and personalized experience.

Flexibility is built-in, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Perge: Uncovering the Ruins of an Ancient City

Perge, one of the ancient cities visited on this tour, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Pamphylian civilization.

Guests will explore the remarkably well-preserved ruins, including the agora, baths, and stadium. The highlight is the magnificent Hellenistic-Roman theater, which could seat up to 15,000 people.

Visitors can wander through the colonnaded streets, admiring the architectural details and imagining the vibrant past of this once-thriving metropolis. The guide shares insights into Perge’s history and significance, enriching the experience.

With ample time to explore, travelers can enjoy the captivating ancient world.

Side: Exploring the Legacy of a Coastal Metropolis

After exploring the ruins of Perge, the tour continues to Side, another captivating ancient city along the Mediterranean coast. Founded in the 7th century BCE, Side was an important port and trade hub.

Visitors can wander through the well-preserved ruins, including the impressive Roman-era theater that could seat up to 15,000 people. The ancient agora, temples, and city walls provide a glimpse into Side’s prosperous past.

Strolling along the seaside promenade, one can envision the bustling commercial activity that once filled these streets. With its idyllic coastal setting, Side offers a window into the enduring legacy of Mediterranean antiquity.

Aspendos Theatre: Marveling at the Architectural Masterpiece

From Side, the tour now heads inland to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world.

Visitors marvel at the impressive scale and remarkable state of conservation of this 2nd century Roman amphitheater. The grand design, with its towering columns and seating capacity of over 20,000, showcases the architectural prowess of the Romans.

Guests explore the ancient stage, orchestra, and upper seating areas, imagining the grand performances that once took place here.

Touring the Aspendos Theater offers a unique window into the region’s rich history and the legacy of classical antiquity.

Manavgat or Kurşunlu Waterfall: Discovering the Natural Beauty

After exploring the grand Aspendos Theater, the tour takes visitors to discover the natural beauty of either Manavgat or Kurşunlu waterfall.

These picturesque waterfalls offer a refreshing respite from the ancient sites.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the cascading waters and lush, verdant surroundings.
2. Stroll along the walking trails and take in the serene ambiance.
3. Snap photos of the stunning natural landscapes.

The inclusion of this natural wonder complements the historical focus of the tour, providing a well-rounded experience.

Guests can enjoy the contrast between the man-made marvels and the untamed beauty of the waterfalls.

Lunch at Belkis Village: Taking in Local Culinary Traditions

Capping off the day’s exploration, the tour stops at Belkis village, where visitors enjoy the local culinary traditions. At a traditional Turkish restaurant, guests savor a lunch featuring regional specialties. The menu showcases the diverse flavors of Antalya, with dishes like:

Dish	Description
Meze Platter	Assortment of small appetizers
Köfte	Flavorful grilled meatballs
Baklava	Decadent layered pastry with nuts

The meal is accompanied by fresh bread, salad, and Turkish tea or coffee. This intimate dining experience allows visitors to appreciate the rich culinary heritage of the region and connect with the local culture.

Traveler Feedback and Recommendations

Travelers have generally praised the Aspendos Theatre and Antique Cities tour, awarding it an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars across 15 reviews.

While the tour received a high recommendation rate of 93%, travelers offered some constructive feedback:

1. Better communication from the tour provider regarding logistics and inclusions.
2. Consideration of weather conditions, especially during summer tours, to ensure a more comfortable experience.
3. Inclusion of entrance tickets to the historical sites, for a more seamless experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

There are no strict dress code requirements for this tour. Comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the historical sites and outdoor activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not allow you to bring your own food and drinks. However, it includes a provided lunch and bottled water. Any extra drinks outside of the included items would incur an additional charge.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Ancient Site Visit?

The tour allocates approximately 1-2 hours for each ancient site visit, allowing visitors ample time to explore the ruins and learn about their history from the knowledgeable guide. Specific durations may vary depending on the group’s pace and interests.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour has a fixed itinerary, but there’s no option to customize it. Travelers can’t modify the sites visited or the duration spent at each location. The tour follows a standardized schedule arranged by the operator.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Tour?

No special equipment or gear is required for the tour. Just bring comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. The tour provides bottled water, and lunch is included at Belkis village.

The Sum Up

Aspendos Theatre, Perge, and Side Antique City offer a remarkable journey through Turkey’s ancient past. Visitors can marvel at the architectural grandeur of Aspendos, explore the well-preserved ruins of Perge, and uncover the legacy of Side’s coastal metropolis. These archaeological sites, complemented by natural wonders and local culinary experiences, provide a comprehensive glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of this captivating region.