Best Day Trips from Antalya
Exploring Ancient Cities: Aspendos, Perge, Side & Beyond
Why Explore Ancient Cities from Antalya?
Antalya, Turkey's stunning Mediterranean gateway, sits at the heart of one of the world's richest concentrations of ancient Greco-Roman cities. Within easy day-trip distance, you can explore remarkably preserved theatres, temples, and urban centers that once thrived over two thousand years ago.
Whether you're a dedicated history enthusiast or simply curious about the ancient world, these sites offer unforgettable experiences. This guide covers the essential ancient cities accessible from Antalya and how to plan your visits.
Must-Visit Ancient Cities
These three sites represent the best of ancient civilization near Antalya, each offering unique experiences and remarkable preservation.
EssentialAspendos
Best-preserved Roman theatre in the world
Home to the legendary Roman theatre that still hosts performances today. The exceptional acoustics and nearly complete stage building make this a must-visit for any history enthusiast.
Highly RecommendedPerge
Vast Hellenistic and Roman metropolis
One of the most extensive ancient cities in Anatolia, featuring a massive stadium, colonnaded streets, Roman baths, and impressive city gates. The birthplace of the mathematician Apollonius.
Highly RecommendedSide
Coastal charm meets Greco-Roman history
A picturesque coastal town where ancient ruins blend with modern resort life. The Temple of Apollo at sunset is one of Turkey's most iconic images.
Perge: A Vast Hellenistic and Roman Metropolis
Perge was one of the most important cities of ancient Pamphylia. Located just 17 km from Antalya, it's the closest major ancient site and offers some of the most extensive urban ruins in the region.
The site features a remarkably well-preserved stadium that could seat 12,000 spectators, an impressive colonnaded street lined with shops, elaborate Roman baths, and monumental city gates. The agora (marketplace) gives insight into daily commercial life.
Unlike the focused experience at Aspendos, Perge allows you to walk through an entire ancient urban landscape, imagining life in a prosperous Roman provincial city.
Notable Structures at Perge
- - Stadium (one of the best preserved in Anatolia)
- - Hellenistic and Roman Gates
- - Colonnaded Street with water channel
- - Roman Baths and Gymnasium
- - Agora (marketplace)
- - Theatre (partially excavated)
Other Nearby Ancient Sites
For those with more time, these additional sites offer unique experiences and are worth considering for a longer stay in the region.
The 'Eagle's Nest' - a dramatically situated mountain city that even Alexander the Great chose not to attack. Set within a national park with stunning views.
Moderate hiking requiredThree ancient harbours set among pine forests on the coast. Perfect for combining ancient ruins with swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Easy walkingBooking Ancient City Tours from Antalya
Popular Combined Tours
The most popular combination is the Perge-Aspendos-Waterfalls Tour, which visits Perge in the morning, Aspendos midday, and ends at Manavgat or Kursunlu Waterfalls. This full-day tour efficiently covers major highlights.
Self-Guided vs. Organized Tours
Self-Guided (Rental Car)
- + Maximum flexibility
- + Visit at your own pace
- + Explore lesser-known sites
- - Navigation required
- - No guide commentary
Organized Tours
- + Expert guide included
- + Transportation handled
- + Efficient itineraries
- - Fixed schedule
- - Group experience
Suggested Itineraries
One Day: The Classics
Morning: Perge (2 hours) → Midday: Aspendos (2 hours) → Afternoon: Waterfalls or return
One Day: Architecture Focus
Morning: Aspendos (thorough exploration) → Afternoon: Side (theatre and temples)
Two Days: Comprehensive
Day 1: Perge + Aspendos | Day 2: Side + Manavgat (or Termessos for hikers)
Start Your Ancient City Adventure
Begin with Aspendos, home to the world's best-preserved Roman theatre, then expand your exploration to Perge, Side, and beyond.