Ancient Pamphylia: Perge, Aspendos & Side (4 Days)

Overview

Discover the ancient land of Pamphylia on Turkey's sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, where Greco-Roman cities sit beside golden beaches. Over four days from Istanbul we explore Perge, the spectacular Roman theatre of Aspendos, the seaside Temple of Apollo at Side and the atmospheric old town of Antalya. It is an ideal blend of history and relaxation for families and culture lovers alike. Round-trip flights from Istanbul, 3-4 star hotels, transfers and a licensed guide are included.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Istanbul to Antalya and Perge

We fly from Istanbul to Antalya and visit Perge, one of the grandest cities of ancient Pamphylia, with its Hellenistic gate, colonnaded street, stadium and theatre. The apostle Paul is said to have preached here. Check in to a 3-4 star hotel for dinner and overnight.

Day 2 - Aspendos and Side

We visit Aspendos, home to the best-preserved Roman theatre in the world, still used today for the international opera and ballet festival, and its remarkable aqueduct. In the afternoon we continue to Side, a charming port town where the columns of the Temple of Apollo stand right beside the sea, magical at sunset.

Day 3 - Antalya city

A day in Antalya: the old town of Kaleici, Hadrian's Gate, the Antalya Museum with its superb statues from Perge, and the Duden Waterfalls. Free time to enjoy the coast.

Day 4 - Return to Istanbul

After a relaxed morning we transfer to Antalya Airport for our flight back to Istanbul.

Tour highlights

Stand in the world's best-preserved Roman theatre at Aspendos
Watch the sun set behind the seaside Temple of Apollo at Side
Explore the grand ancient city of Perge
Discover old Antalya, its museum and the Duden Waterfalls
Flights from Istanbul, 3-4 star hotels, transfers and a guide included

Frequently Asked Questions

The Roman theatre of Aspendos, built in the 2nd century AD, is considered the best-preserved ancient theatre in the world. Its stage building still stands almost intact, and it hosts the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival each year.

Side is a seaside resort built among ancient ruins. Its highlight is the Temple of Apollo, whose white marble columns stand right at the water's edge and are especially beautiful at sunset, along with the ancient theatre and agora.

Yes. It combines impressive but easy-to-visit ancient cities with beach time and relaxed evenings in Antalya, making it a great choice for families and first-time visitors to the region.

Round-trip domestic flights from Istanbul, 3-4 star hotels, all transfers, site and museum entrance fees, and a professional guide. Lunches, festival tickets and personal expenses are not included.