While Turkey’s popular region of Antalya is probably best known for its picturesque beaches and stunning natural beauty, the area is also home to a number of famous ancient cities — including Aspendos.

Aspendos Theater day trips from Alanya provide the perfect way to head out of the busy city for the day, and step back into the time when Roman Emporers ruled the land.

Aspendos Theater is one of the best preserved Ancient Roman sites in Turkey, and despite being close to 2,000 years old, the arena is still very much intact. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit one of the region’s most incredible historic attractions.

Here's all you need to know about Aspendos Theater, one of the most exciting day trips from Alanya.

How to get to Aspendos Theater from Alanya?

Aspendos Theater can be found in the ancient city of Aspendos, roughly 100 kilometers northwest of the resort town of Alanya, in Turkey’s Antalya region.

From Alanya to Aspendos Theater by car

Driving from Alanya to Aspendos Theater is relatively straightforward.

All you need to do is drive in a northwesterly direction on the D400 towards Serik for about 90 kilometers and then take the Aspendos exit and follow the signs to the theater.

The car journey should take you around 1.5 hours in total.

From Alanya to Aspendos Theater by bus

It is possible to take a bus from Alanya to the Serik bus station, which is the closest bus stop to Aspendos.

From Serik, you’ll need to take a taxi to the Aspendos Theater, but as the distance from Serik is only around 10 kilometers, the taxi should not be too expensive.

This is a relatively affordable option and it should take less than 2 hours for you to reach your destination.

Guided tour to Aspendos Theater from Alanya

Enjoy the convenience that comes with booking a guided tour and allowing your tour guide to handle all of the travel arrangements on your behalf.

You’ll be driven to Aspendos in a comfortable vehicle and you won’t need to worry about navigating public transport.

Most Aspendos day tours from Alanya last around 8 hours as other nearby attractions are also visited.

How much does the entrance ticket to Aspendos Theater cost?

Aspendos Theater entrance tickets cost TRY200 (US$10) per person. This price is inclusive of a complimentary audio guide.

What is the typical itinerary?

Aspendos day trips from Alanya typically begin with a pickup from your Alanya accommodation. You’ll meet your guide and other tour participants and make your way toward the ancient city of Aspendos in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Once at Aspendos, your guide will show you around the ancient theater and provide fascinating information about the theater’s links to the Roman Empire. You’ll also be given plenty of time to explore on your own, take photos and relax.

Most Aspendos Theater excursions also visit additional nearby attractions, such as the Manavgat Waterfalls, the Temple of Apollo and Perge, among others. At the end of an exciting day in the Turkish countryside, you’ll be taken back to your hotel.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Aspendos Theater?

When looking for an Aspendos Theater day trip from Alanya, you have a few different options to choose from, including private tours, group tours and tours that include additional attractions. Most day trips to Aspendos Theater include visits to another attractions in the region.

Day trip to Aspendos Theater plus Temple of Apollo and Manavgat Waterfalls from Alanya

Guided Aspendos Theater day trips from Alanya, which include visits to the Temple of Apollo and the Manavgat Waterfalls, are the most popular option available. These group excursions, which include hotel transfers, provide an affordable and convenient way to see famous sites.

Day trip to Aspendos Theater plus Temple of Apollo and Duden Waterfalls from Alanya

Embark on this day trip to Aspendos where you'll visit not just the Aspendos Theater, but also the Temple of Apollo in Side and the stunning Duden Waterfalls. This tour is designed for a small group and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, along with the services of a professional guide.

Private tour to Aspendos Theater, Perge and Side from Alanya

Make the most of your time in southern Turkey by opting for a private excursion that visits the most popular attractions — Aspendos Theater, Perge and Side, home to the Temple of Apollo. As you and your travel companions will be the only participants, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience.

How much does a day trip to Aspendos Theater from Alanya cost?

Group excursions to Aspendos Theater from Alanya that include the Temple of Apollo and Manavgat Waterfalls can cost anywhere between US$40 and US$70 per person depending on the length of the excursion and which additional attractions are visited during the trip.

A day trip to Aspendos Theater that includes Duden Waterfalls and the Temple of Apollo costs around US$60 per person for a group of 15 people and includes the cost of entrance fees as well as lunch.

Private tours to Aspendos Theater, including a visit to Perge and Side, typically cost around US$600 for a private group of up to five people. This includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch and entrance fees to the sites.

What will you see and do?

The Aspendos Theater is one of the architectural marvels of the Roman Empire and is still in near-perfect condition. A visit to the amphitheater is sure to provide you with a renewed appreciation of Ancient Roman engineering.

The theater was built during the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius between 160 and 180 AD and it was built to seat upwards of 7,000 people, making it one of the largest theaters of its time. The stage is richly decorated with flawless finishes and was once used for various forms of entertainment.

Today, the Aspendos Theater still hosts many events throughout the year. But simply visiting the Aspendos Theater is an experience in itself and you are sure to be amazed by its grand scale and sheer majesty.

When you visit the theater, you’ll see the ancient aqueducts as well as the acropolis across the way. These features give you a glimpse of what life may have been like in the ancient city of Aspendos 2,000 years ago.

What are the opening times?

Aspendos Theater is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM during the summer months and from 10 AM to 4 PM during the winter months. The ticket offices stop selling tickets 30 minutes before closing time.

When is the best time to visit Aspendos Theater?

The best time to visit Aspendos Theater would be in the spring (April and May) or fall (September and October). During these months, the weather is pleasant and mild, making it ideal for exploring this historic outdoor site.

Aspendos Theater is popular tourist attraction, and to avoid the crowds it's best to visit on a weekday or in the early morning or late afternoon or evening.

Are there any tours to Aspendos from other cities in Turkey?

Yes, there are tours departing from another city in Turkey:

Day trips to Aspendos from Antalya

Travel tips

You'll be doing a lot of walking at Aspendos Theater, including up and down the steep steps. It's a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
Especially if you're visiting during the warmer months, bring water to stay hydrated. Don't forget to bring a hat and sunscreen for protection against the sun, as you'll be outdoors.
As with all historical sites, it's important to be respectful. Follow all posted rules and stay within designated areas to help preserve this monument.

Aspendos Theater: Day Trips and Tours from Alanya