Visit Perge, an ancient city near Antalya, known for its well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins. The stadium, theatre, and towering Hellenistic gate showcase its historical grandeur. Stroll the collonaded streets and see ancient baths here. Learn about Perge's thriving past as a significant cultural and religious centre.
Perge, located around 22 kilometres east of Antalya in Turkey, is an ancient city with a rich history. It was established by the Hittites around 1500 BCE and thrived through the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Its strategic location between the rivers Catarrhactes and Cestrus made it an important cultural hub. Notably, St. Paul preached here during his first missionary journey, and the city became a significant Christian centre. Explore this historical gem, notable for its connection to Saint Paul, as part of your Turkey holiday packages, delving into its rich past that played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural tapestry of the region.
Among Perge's impressive ruins are a 12,000-seat stadium and a 15,000-seat theatre that reveal the grandeur of the Roman era. The Hellenistic-Roman gate towers and the intricately carved marble nymphaeum offer glimpses into the city's artistic heritage. The collonaded boulevard with its water canal and the well-preserved Roman baths speak to the city's advanced urban planning. A visit to Perge is a journey through centuries of history, from its Bronze Age origins to its rise as a vibrant Roman metropolis.
Highlights
• Discover Perge's historical importance as Saint Paul's first preaching site in 46 A.D.
• Marvel at the Greco-Roman Theatre, boasting intricately carved reliefs and grand seating.
• Explore the Perge Stadium, which once held 12,000 spectators for thrilling athletic events.
• Stroll through the Hellenistic Gate's massive towers, the ancient city's iconic entrance.
• See Hadrian’s Nymphaeum, a stunning Roman-era fountain nestled at the base of the Acropolis.
How To Reach
1. By Road: The ancient city of Perge is located 22.6 kilometres east of Antalya.
2. By Bus: From Antalya's city centre, you can reach Perge by taking a minibus from the Antalya Bus Terminal. Look for buses going towards Aksu, as they often stop near Perge. The trip should take around 30 minutes.
3. By Car: If driving from the city centre, head east on D400 or Mersin - Antalya Yolu road towards Aksu and follow the signs to Perge. The drive usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes without much traffic.
4. By Tram: You can also take the T1B tram from Antalya, which heads towards Expo, and get off at the Aksu stop. From there, take a taxi to reach Perge, which will take around 15 minutes.
Best Time To Visit
The ancient city of Perge in Antalya can be visited all year round for its beauty. To make your exploration comfortable, plan your visit around temperature changes.
1) Best Season: Spring, from March to May, is the best season to visit Perge. You will have long days and mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the ruins.
2) Best Day of the Week: Plan your visit to Perge during the weekdays, which offer longer hours and fewer crowds. This is when you can enjoy peaceful, relaxed exploration with enough time to cover the vast city.
3) Best Time of the Day: Early morning or late afternoon is perfect for visiting Perge. You will find fewer crowds and better light for photography in cooler temperatures.
Other Essential Information
Visitor Tips:
1. Secure a private car or guided tour to make your visit smoother and more efficient.
2. Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the rugged paths of Perge with ease.
3. In summer, apply sunscreen and carry water to stay safe under the intense heat.
4. Plan your visit for early morning or evening light to capture stunning photos.
5. After your tour, stop by the local bazaar for unique souvenirs and local treats.
6. Visit the Antalya Archaeological Museum to see statues and other finds excavated from Perge.
7. Keep your ticket handy for the entire visit to re-enter different areas without hassle.
