The Ancient Trio: Perge, Aspendos & Side | A Journey Through Roman Grandeur

Uncover the secrets of the Mediterranean’s most iconic archaeological sites in a single day. From the world’s best-preserved Roman theater to the sun-kissed columns of the Temple of Apollo, this Perge, Aspendos, and Side tour is a masterclass in ancient engineering and coastal beauty.

Tour Highlights

Perge’s Grandeur: Walk the colonnaded streets of the city of "Parha," featuring ancient stadiums and monumental Roman baths.

Aspendos Theater: Witness the architectural perfection of Zenon, the architect of the world’s most intact Roman theater.

Engineering Marvels: See the rare 30-meter-high Roman aqueducts, a feat of ancient siphoning technology.

Sunset in Side: Visit the Temple of Apollo on the edge of the turquoise sea in the "City of Pomegranates."

The Itinerary

Morning: Perge – The City of Water and Statues

Our day begins at Perge, a powerhouse of antiquity. We trace the history of this city back to the Hittites and the Trojan War heroes. You will explore one of Turkey’s best-preserved Stadiums and enter the city through the majestic Hellenistic Gate, dedicated to the legendary female benefactor Plancia Magna. Walk along the Cardo Maximus, a splendid colonnaded street where artificial waterfalls once flowed through a central water channel, leading you straight to the foot of the Acropolis.

Midday: Aspendos – The Masterpiece of Acoustics

Next, we head to Aspendos, home to the most famous Roman Theater in existence. Built in the 2nd century AD by the architect Zenon, its acoustics are so perfect that it still hosts world-class operas and concerts today. After feeling the atmosphere of the 15,000-seat arena, we will visit the Aspendos Aqueducts. These are a rare feat of engineering, featuring massive stone piping and 30-meter towers designed to bring water from the mountains across a kilometer of marshland.

Afternoon: Side – Where History Meets the Sea

Our final stop is Side, a unique peninsula town whose name translates to "Pomegranate" in its ancient local tongue. Side is a true open-air museum where you can find a Roman theater built on massive arches rather than a hillside—a rarity in Pamphylia. We will explore the Agora, the ancient public toilets, and the Roman baths (now a museum). We conclude the tour at the harbor, where the white marble columns of the Temple of Apollo and Athena stand as the timeless symbol of the Turkish Riviera.

Why Book This Tour?

The Perfect Mix: A balanced blend of massive Roman ruins and a relaxing seaside atmosphere.

Deep Historical Insight: Learn about the female pioneers of archaeology, from Plancia Magna to Prof. Jale İnan