Aspendos
The best-preserved Roman theatre in the ancient world, still used for performances today.
The theatre of Aspendos was built in the 2nd century AD under Marcus Aurelius and designed by the architect Zenon. Its stage building, seating and upper gallery survive almost complete, giving visitors a rare sense of how a Roman theatre looked and sounded.
Above the theatre lie the remains of the acropolis and a long Roman aqueduct across the plain. The theatre hosts the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival in some years, and nearby the Köprüpazarı bridge over the Köprüçay is a Seljuk-era landmark.
- →Guides demonstrate the acoustics from the stage — leave time for this; it is a highlight for groups.
- →Only 25 minutes from Belek; pair with Perge and Side for the classic heritage day.
Tours visiting this place
Hotels nearby
A family resort built around one of the largest hotel water parks in the region.
A large luxury resort with its own Cornelia golf course, an aquapark and extensive conference space.
A large Belek resort with an aquapark and good capacity for families and groups.
Places nearby
- The Land of Legends17.2 km
A large theme park and entertainment complex in Belek, with a water park, rides, shopping and an evening show.
- Side Ancient Theatre27.2 km
The large Roman theatre at the heart of ancient Side, surrounded by the modern old town.
- Temple of Apollo, Side27.4 km
The columns of the Temple of Apollo on the tip of the Side peninsula — Antalya’s classic sunset image.
- Köprülü Canyon28.4 km
A national park with a deep river canyon, Roman bridges and the region’s best-known rafting route.
- Perge28.4 km
An ancient Pamphylian city with Hellenistic towers, a colonnaded street, a theatre and one of the best-preserved stadiums of the Roman world.
- Manavgat Waterfall28.8 km
A wide, low waterfall on the Manavgat river, set in a riverside park with cafés.