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Enjoy the captivating history and natural beauty of Antalya, Turkey. This full-day tour invites you to explore the ancient ruins of Perge, marvel at the grandeur of Aspendos’ Roman amphitheater, and discover the Temple of Apollo – a testament to Greco-Roman architecture. Interwoven with these awe-inspiring sites is the serene Manavgat Waterfall, offering a refreshing respite amidst the cultural and historical wonders. Prepare to be enchanted by Turkey’s rich heritage as you embark on this unforgettable journey.
Key Points
- This full-day tour from Antalya explores the ancient cities of Perge, Aspendos, and Side, including the Temple of Apollo and Manavgat Waterfall.
- The tour includes professional guides, lunch, transportation, and entrance fees, priced at $37.32 per person with a 97% recommendation rate.
- Highlights of the tour include the well-preserved ruins and historical insights at Perge, the impressive Aspendos amphitheater, and the Temple of Apollo in Side.
- The tour also features a stop at the scenic Manavgat Waterfall, though some travelers felt it was less captivating compared to the ancient sites.
- While the tour’s itinerary is generally well-received, there are mixed reviews on the transportation, food quality, and time management at certain stops.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
The tour titled "Ancient City Perge, Aspendos, Temple of Apollo & Waterfalls" is a full-day excursion based in Antalya, Turkey.
With a maximum group size of 15 travelers, the tour includes lunch, professional guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entrance fees to the ancient sites of Perge and Aspendos.
Priced at $37.32 per person, the tour has received excellent reviews, with 97% of 413 customers recommending it.
The itinerary highlights the ruins of Perge, the impressive Roman amphitheater of Aspendos, the Manavgat Waterfall, and the Temple of Apollo in Side.
Exploring the Ancient City of Perge
Although dating back to the Bronze Age, the ruins of Perge offer a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich Greco-Roman heritage. Visitors wander along the grand colonnaded street, marveling at the remains of the agora, gymnasium, and impressive gates. The site’s highlights include:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Nymphaeum | A lavish monumental fountain complex |
| Baths | Well-preserved Roman baths with mosaics |
| Stadium | One of the largest in the ancient world |
| Necropolis | Tombs and sarcophagi lining the ancient approach |
Knowledgeable guides bring the site’s history to life, transporting guests back to the glory days of this prosperous Pamphylian city.
Witnessing the Grandeur of Aspendos
After exploring the ancient ruins of Perge, the tour moves on to witness the grandeur of Aspendos.
This massive Roman amphitheater, dating back to the 2nd century AD, is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind.
Travelers are awestruck by the sheer scale and impressive architecture of the amphitheater, which could once seat over 20,000 people.
The guide provides insights into the site’s history and the engineering feats that went into its construction.
Visitors have the opportunity to wander through the seating areas and imagine the spectacles that once took place on the stage.
Discovering the Temple of Apollo
Next, the tour heads to the coastal historical site of the Temple of Apollo.
Situated in the ancient city of Side, the impressive temple is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman structures in Turkey.
Travelers explore the grand columns and intricate architectural details, learning about the temple’s significance as a former place of worship for the Greek sun god.
The guide shares insights into the site’s history and importance, bringing the ancient ruins to life.
Though a quick stop, the Temple of Apollo offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of classical civilizations.
Marveling at the Manavgat Waterfalls
The tour then heads to the serene Manavgat Waterfall, nestled within the picturesque Taurus Mountains.
The cascading waters of the waterfall create a soothing ambiance, offering a refreshing respite from the day’s explorations. Travelers can take in the scenic views, snap photos, and even dip their feet in the cool waters.
However, some have noted that the waterfall, while beautiful, may not be the most captivating stop on the itinerary. With limited time, a few visitors felt the stop could have been skipped in favor of more in-depth exploration at the previous ancient sites.
Lunch and Dining Experiences
A buffet-style lunch is included in the tour, providing travelers with a chance to sample local Turkish cuisine. The meal is served at a restaurant during the midday break, offering a variety of hot and cold dishes. While some reviewers praised the quality of the food, others felt it could be improved. The dining experience is an opportunity to refuel and recharge before continuing the exploration of the historical sites.
| Food Quality | Service | Variety | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mixed reviews | Average | Satisfactory | Average |
Accessibility and Logistics
The tour has a scheduled start time of 8:00 am, allowing participants to make the most of the day’s activities.
Accessibility is a consideration, as the tour isn’t wheelchair-friendly and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
The cancellation policy offers flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time. Confirmation of the booking is provided at the time of purchase.
Traveler Feedback and Recommendations
What do travelers have to say about this tour? Reviews paint a mixed picture, with both praise and criticism. The knowledgeable, storytelling guides are frequently highlighted, and the historical sites like Perge and Aspendos are considered must-sees. However, some travelers felt rushed at certain stops and disappointed by attractions like the Manavgat Waterfall. Transportation issues and food quality were also mentioned as drawbacks. The tour offers a well-rounded itinerary, but managing time and expectations at each location could improve the experience.
| Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback |
|---|---|
| Knowledgeable, engaging guides | Transportation problems (e.g., van AC) |
| Perge and Aspendos as highlights | Some stops deemed less valuable |
| Good value for money | Rushed at sites, not enough time |
| Well-balanced itinerary | Food quality concerns |
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Since You Asked
Are There Any Physical Limitations for This Tour?
The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as it’s not wheelchair accessible. Travelers should be prepared for some walking and moderate exertion at the historical sites and natural attractions on the itinerary.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
The tour does not appear to offer customizable itineraries, as it follows a pre-set schedule. Travelers should review the included sites and decide if the overall itinerary aligns with their interests and physical abilities before booking.
How Is the Safety Record of the Tour Operator?
The tour operator has a good safety record, with no major incidents reported by customers. They prioritize passenger safety through measures like vehicle maintenance and following local regulations. However, the tour does involve some moderate physical activity, requiring a reasonable level of fitness.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Sites Visited?
Travelers can likely purchase souvenirs at the sites visited on the tour. Many historical and cultural attractions in Turkey offer opportunities to browse local crafts, textiles, and other traditional products. However, the availability and quality of souvenirs may vary across the different stops.
Is There a Dress Code for This Tour?
There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves exploring historical sites and natural landscapes. Covering up is generally advised out of respect for the cultural and religious sites visited.
The Sum Up
Enjoy Turkey’s captivating history and natural beauty on this comprehensive day tour. Marvel at the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos, explore the Temple of Apollo, and witness the stunning Manavgat Waterfalls. With a delicious included lunch and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Antalya. An enriching experience not to be missed.
