Perge, Aspendos & Side: Ancient Ruins Tour with Lunch

Summary

Ancient streets, riverside lunch and the sound of falling water

You’ll walk ancient roads in Perge with stories echoing from stone seats, test the acoustics in Aspendos’ grand theatre, snack by a riverside after lunch, explore Side’s temples with sea breezes on your skin, and pause beside Manavgat Waterfall before heading back—each stop feels like its own little world.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the quiet crunch of gravel as we stepped out at Perge — those old stones still holding the morning chill. Our guide, Zeynep, waved us over to a carved column and started telling stories about gladiators and merchants, her voice bouncing off the empty stadium seats. I tried to picture the crowds she described, but honestly, I was more distracted by the wildflowers poking up through cracks in the marble. Someone’s phone went off with a pop song and we all laughed — kind of broke the spell for a second.

Driving to Aspendos didn’t take long; you can actually see its theatre from the road if you squint past olive trees. The place is huge — you stand in the middle and even a whisper bounces back at you. Zeynep asked if anyone wanted to try singing (nobody did), so she hummed a line herself. It was oddly moving, hearing her voice echo where Romans once cheered. After that we had lunch by a slow river — grilled fish, warm bread, tomatoes that tasted like sunshine. There were ducks paddling around and an old man fishing nearby who nodded at us but didn’t say much.

Side felt different — brighter maybe? The sea was right there beyond the Temple of Apollo’s columns, sunlight flashing on broken marble. We wandered off for free time; I bought pomegranate juice from a woman who pressed it right there while her son played with pebbles underfoot. The main keyword here is day trip Perge Aspendos Side — it really does feel like three worlds in one afternoon.

We ended at Manavgat Waterfall. Not big or dramatic, but cool air and green everywhere — people just standing quietly or snapping photos. There was this moment where nobody talked; just spray on your face and that rushing sound mixing with birds somewhere overhead. I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore ancient sites and waterfall

• Pickup from accommodation
• Visit Perge ruins and amphitheater
• Explore Aspendos ancient theater
• Enjoy lunch break
• Visit Temple of Apollo in Side
• See Manavgat Waterfall
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long is the Perge Aspendos Side tour?

The tour lasts about one full day including pickup and drop-off from your hotel.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, lunch by the river is included as part of the tour experience.

Are entrance fees for Manavgat Waterfall included?

Yes, entry to Manavgat Waterfall is covered in your booking.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for most Antalya city center hotels.

Can infants join this tour?

Yes, infants can join—prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available if needed.

Is there free time during the tour?

You’ll have some free time to explore Side on your own before heading to Manavgat Waterfall.

What should I bring for personal expenses?

A bit of cash is recommended for snacks or souvenirs along the way.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels according to organizers.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off (city center), entry fees for ancient sites plus Manavgat Waterfall, a relaxed riverside lunch (with options for dietary needs if you mention them), air-conditioned transport throughout—and a local guide who knows how to bring history alive without making it feel like homework.