Selge Ancient City Antalya
Discover Selge Ancient City, a remarkably preserved Pisidian gem high in the Taurus Mountains, boasting a stunning Roman theatre and aqueducts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, blooming nature
Selge Ancient City Antalya
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, blooming nature

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Selge Ancient City, a remarkably preserved Pisidian gem high in the Taurus Mountains, boasting a stunning Roman theatre and aqueducts.
"A hidden ancient city with breathtaking mountain views and impressive Roman ruins."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Navigating to Selge is easiest with a rental car. Public transport is limited, and tours can be pricey.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water!
The mountain sun is strong and there are few facilities. Stay hydrated!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Theatre
Main Acropolis
A remarkably preserved Roman theatre offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Imagine performances echoing through history.

The Aqueduct System
Valley entrance
Impressive Roman engineering that supplied water to the city. A testament to ancient ingenuity amidst a stunning natural landscape.

Kral Suyu (King's Water)
Near the village
A unique ancient water channel, believed to have been built for royalty. Discover its historical significance and engineering marvel.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Selge: Plan Your Journey
What to Pack for Selge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Navigating to Selge is easiest with a rental car. Public transport is limited, and tours can be pricey.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water!
The mountain sun is strong and there are few facilities. Stay hydrated!
👟 Sturdy Shoes are Key
You'll be walking on uneven, ancient terrain. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential.
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must for this exposed site.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Navigating to Selge is easiest with a rental car. Public transport is limited, and tours can be pricey.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water!
The mountain sun is strong and there are few facilities. Stay hydrated!
👟 Sturdy Shoes are Key
You'll be walking on uneven, ancient terrain. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential.
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must for this exposed site.
📸 Drone Photography
Capture breathtaking aerial views of the ruins and landscape. Check local regulations first.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Selge Ancient City is praised for its stunning mountain location, well-preserved Roman theatre, and impressive aqueducts, offering a glimpse into ancient Pisidian history. Visitors appreciate the sense of discovery and the dramatic landscapes. However, the remote location and limited facilities require careful planning, with many recommending a car or guided tour.
"Fantastic experience (if Archeology interests you). Excellent value for the money (10 euros). The Amphitheatre is closed for work right now, but the Museum admittance is included in the ticket price.
It's Fantastic that they are actively carrying out so much investigative work ans sympathetic restoration lately, which you are welcome to wander around."
Simon Davenport
"A couple of hours from side visited this site on a day trip from there including adler canyon.
It's near a village walk thru to get into it a number of villagers offer limited guided tours. Some of the ruins are a little precarious to climb but offers fabulous views of countryside around. No charge to enter these ruins."
Steve Dodsworth
"It’s a long and hard drive. We took off from Alanya, and it’s 2.5hrs, including 1hour zigzag mountain road. This site is a proper ruin, sit on the top of a mountain, some really spectacular view along the 1hr drive. At the end, u drive thru a small local village, road is quite narrow. no ticket’s needed, only one local toilet, view is again spectacular!"
Sherry Zhang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to Selge Ancient City from Antalya typically involves a scenic drive through the Taurus Mountains. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility, as public transport options are limited and can be time-consuming. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, many guided tours from Antalya include Selge as part of a package, often combined with Tazı Canyon and Adam Kayalar.
Direct public transport to Selge Ancient City is very limited. While you can reach nearby towns like Manavgat by bus, you would then need to arrange local transport or a taxi to reach the site itself. This can be challenging and time-consuming compared to driving.
The most common route is via the D600 highway towards Alanya, then taking the turn-off for Manavgat and heading inland towards the Taurus Mountains. Follow signs for the Köprülü Canyon National Park and then for Selge. The roads can be winding and steep in places, so drive cautiously.
Yes, numerous guided tours operate from Antalya and Side that include Selge Ancient City, often combined with other natural attractions like Tazı Canyon and Adam Kayalar. These tours offer a convenient way to visit without the hassle of driving and navigating.
Selge Ancient City is approximately 60-70 kilometers inland from the coastal town of Side. The drive takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Selge Ancient City. It's advisable to check the current ticket prices and opening hours before your visit, as these can change. Purchasing tickets upon arrival is usually possible.
Selge Ancient City is generally open daily during daylight hours. However, it's best to confirm the exact opening and closing times, especially during off-peak seasons or public holidays, to avoid disappointment.
There is an admission fee to enter Selge Ancient City. The cost is typically modest, but it's always a good idea to have some Turkish Lira on hand for entry and any small purchases.
Absolutely! You can visit Selge Ancient City independently, especially if you have a rental car. This allows you to explore at your own pace and spend as much time as you like at each point of interest.
Information on specific discounts for Selge Ancient City is not widely publicized. However, if you are a student or have a museum pass that covers archaeological sites in Turkey, it might be worth inquiring at the ticket office.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions include the remarkably well-preserved Roman theatre, the ancient aqueduct system, the city walls, temples, and the agora. The surrounding natural landscape of the Taurus Mountains also adds to the site's appeal.
To fully explore Selge Ancient City and appreciate its ruins and views, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to hike in the surrounding area or have a leisurely picnic, you might want to set aside half a day.
Yes, Selge Ancient City is excellent for walking and light hiking. The terrain within the site is uneven, with ancient stone paths. The surrounding mountains offer more challenging hiking opportunities for those interested.
Facilities at Selge Ancient City are minimal. You may find basic restrooms, but don't expect cafes or extensive services. It's best to bring your own snacks and drinks.
The best way to explore is on foot, wearing comfortable shoes. Start by visiting the theatre and aqueducts, then wander through the remnants of the city. Take your time to soak in the history and the stunning mountain vistas.
📸 📸 Photography
The Roman theatre offers incredible panoramic shots, especially with the valley backdrop. The aqueducts provide dramatic architectural photos. Don't miss the views from the higher points of the city walls and the unique 'Kral Suyu' channel.
Drone photography is often permitted at Selge Ancient City, offering spectacular aerial views. However, it's crucial to check current regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying your drone to avoid issues.
The golden hours – early morning and late afternoon – provide the most beautiful light for photography. The soft light enhances the textures of the ancient stones and creates dramatic shadows.
For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to contact the local authorities or the site management in advance to inquire about permits and any associated fees. This ensures you comply with regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive theatre and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on distant ruins. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions during golden hours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for kids, focus on the most visually impressive parts like the theatre and the aqueducts. Turn it into a treasure hunt for ancient artifacts (imaginary, of course!) or tell stories about the people who lived there. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes and has plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Combine Selge with other nearby natural wonders like Tazı Canyon and Adam Kayalar for a multi-day road trip. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the ancient ruins or at a scenic mountain spot. This route is perfect for travelers looking to escape the typical tourist trails and discover the authentic beauty of Antalya's interior.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Selge
The most prominent surviving structures, like the Roman theatre and aqueducts, date back to the Roman period (2nd and 3rd centuries AD). These impressive feats of engineering highlight the city's prosperity and the advanced capabilities of Roman architects. Despite its historical significance, Selge was eventually abandoned, leaving behind a fascinating archaeological site for modern explorers.
Today, Selge Ancient City is a testament to the resilience of ancient civilizations and the enduring beauty of its mountain setting. Exploring its ruins offers a glimpse into a rich past, far from the bustling coastal resorts, providing a more authentic historical experience.
Exploring the Natural Surroundings
Nearby attractions like Tazı Canyon offer dramatic gorges and hiking opportunities, while Adam Kayalar presents unique rock formations. The drive to Selge itself is an experience, winding through pine forests and offering glimpses of rural Turkish life. The combination of ancient history and wild landscapes makes this region a unique destination.
For adventurous travelers, the surrounding mountains provide excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring. The air is fresh, and the scenery is spectacular, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Remember to pack appropriate gear and plenty of water if you plan to venture further into the natural surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit