Two of the finest ancient sites in Türkiye lie just off the main road between Antalya and Side. Perge was a great Greco-Roman city on the Pamphylian plain; Aspendos has a Roman theatre so complete that it is still used for performances. Together they make an easy half day, and between October and April, when the sun is gentle, they are at their best.
Perge: a city of columns
Perge is only about 15 minutes from Antalya Airport. You enter through the Hellenistic gate with its two round towers and walk down a long colonnaded street, with a water channel running down its centre, to the agora, baths and the acropolis hill. Just outside the walls are a large theatre and one of the best-preserved stadiums of antiquity. Many of Perge's statues are displayed in the Antalya Museum. Allow about one and a half to two hours.
Aspendos: the theatre that survived
Aspendos, near Serik, is famous for its Roman theatre from the 2nd century AD, which held many thousands of spectators and still has its stage building, galleries and excellent acoustics. Behind it, a path climbs to the upper city and to the arches of a Roman aqueduct stretching across the plain. A short drive away, the Seljuk bridge over the Köprüçay river is worth a stop. Allow about one to one and a half hours.
The best season for the ruins
- October and November: warm, dry days and soft light for photographs.
- December to February: quiet sites and mild weather between rainy days - bring a waterproof layer.
- March and April: green grass and wild flowers between the stones, arguably the most beautiful time.
- June to September: both sites have little shade and the midday heat is intense; go early in the morning if you visit in summer.
Combining the two in half a day
| Starting point | To Perge | Perge to Aspendos | Aspendos to base |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antalya city / Lara | about 25 minutes | about 35 minutes | about 45 minutes |
| Belek | about 30 minutes | about 35 minutes | about 20 minutes |
| Side / Manavgat | about 55 minutes | about 35 minutes | about 35 minutes |
Drive times are approximate. Starting at Perge in the morning and ending at Aspendos works from any of these bases. Both sites charge an entrance fee and accept the Museum Pass. Wear good shoes: the ground is uneven marble and stone, and there are steps everywhere.
On the way to or from the airport
Because Perge is so close to Antalya Airport and Aspendos lies near the road to Belek and Side, the two sites fit well into an arrival or departure day with a late flight. A private transfer can stop at one or both on the way, with your luggage safely in the vehicle. Ask for a quote with stops when you book: the price stays fixed per vehicle.