Aspendos Theatre
An exceptionally well-preserved Roman theatre near Antalya, famed for its acoustics and annual opera festival.
Aspendos Theatre, built in the 2nd century AD under Roman rule, is one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world. Its stage building and seating remain largely intact, and its acoustics are so precise that a whisper on stage can be heard in the top rows. The theatre seats about 12,000 people and still hosts performances, most notably the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival every summer. The site also includes ruins of a Roman agora, an aqueduct, and a basilica, but the theatre is the main draw. Located 40 km east of Antalya, it's a popular day trip from Side or Antalya city center.
“Hear a whisper from the top row — the acoustics are legendary.”
Arrive by 9am to have the theatre almost to yourself; after 10am tour buses arrive.
The theatre has steep stone steps and no ramps; wheelchair access is not possible.
Good to know
- Is Aspendos Theatre free to visit?
- TL 340. Still hosts summer opera; acoustics are the draw.
- How long should you spend at Aspendos Theatre?
- ~1h 30m
- When is the best time to visit Aspendos Theatre?
- Morning
- Is Aspendos Theatre wheelchair accessible?
- The theatre has steep stone steps and no ramps; wheelchair access is not possible.
