Side Travel Guide – Discover Ancient Wonders on the Turkish Riviera

Welcome to Side

Located on Turkey's beautiful Mediterranean coast, Side is one of the country's most captivating holiday destinations. Famous for its remarkably preserved Roman ruins, golden sandy beaches, picturesque harbor, luxury resorts, and vibrant atmosphere, Side offers a perfect blend of history, culture, relaxation, and adventure.

Once an important Roman port city, Side is now a favorite destination for travelers seeking crystal-clear waters, fascinating archaeological sites, world-class restaurants, and unforgettable Mediterranean sunsets.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled holiday, Side has something for everyone.

Why Visit Side?

• Beautiful Blue Flag beaches
• Spectacular Roman ruins
• Ancient Temple of Apollo
• Charming Old Town
• Luxury beachfront resorts
• Crystal-clear Mediterranean waters
• Boat trips and water sports
• Excellent restaurants and shopping
• Family-friendly attractions
• Easy access from Antalya Airport

Top Attractions in Side

Temple of Apollo

The iconic Temple of Apollo is the symbol of Side and one of the most photographed landmarks on Turkey's Mediterranean coast.

Standing proudly beside the sea, the remaining marble columns create an unforgettable setting, especially during sunset.

This ancient sanctuary dates back to the 2nd century AD and offers breathtaking views over the Mediterranean.

Ancient Theatre of Side

One of the largest Roman theatres in Anatolia, the Ancient Theatre once accommodated approximately 15,000 spectators.

Visitors can admire:

• Massive stone seating
• Roman architecture
• Ancient stage
• Panoramic city views
• Historic atmosphere

The theatre remains one of the best-preserved monuments in the region.

Side Ancient City

Walking through Side's ancient streets is like stepping back nearly 2,000 years.

Explore:

• Roman baths
• Agora (marketplace)
• Ancient roads
• City walls
• Byzantine basilicas
• Historic fountains
• Archaeological remains

The remarkable combination of history and modern cafés creates a unique atmosphere found nowhere else.

Side Museum

Housed inside the restored Roman Baths, the Side Museum displays an impressive collection of archaeological treasures discovered throughout the region.

Highlights include:

• Roman sculptures
• Sarcophagi
• Coins
• Mosaics
• Statues
• Ancient inscriptions

An excellent stop for history enthusiasts.

Side Harbour

The charming harbor is surrounded by restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, and excursion boats.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Boat tours
• Sunset cruises
• Waterfront dining
• Scenic walks
• Shopping
• Beautiful sea views

The harbor becomes especially magical during the evening as the Temple of Apollo is beautifully illuminated.

Beautiful Beaches Around Side

Side is famous for its long stretches of golden sandy beaches.

Popular beaches include:

• Side East Beach
• Side West Beach
• Kumköy Beach
• Evrenseki Beach
• Sorgun Beach
• Titreyengöl Beach
• Çolaklı Beach

These beaches are ideal for:

• Swimming
• Sunbathing
• Parasailing
• Jet skiing
• Paddleboarding
• Family beach days

Best Activities in Side

Boat Trips

• Side Boat Cruise
• Dolphin Watching Tour
• Green Canyon Boat Trip
• Pirate Boat Tour
• Sunset Cruise
• Private Yacht Charter

Adventure Tours

• Jeep Safari
• ATV Quad Safari
• Buggy Safari
• Rafting
• Zipline
• Horse Riding

Water Sports

• Scuba Diving
• Parasailing
• Jet Ski
• Banana Boat
• Snorkeling
• Paddleboarding

Nature Experiences

• Manavgat Waterfall
• Green Canyon
• Köprülü Canyon National Park
• Taurus Mountains
• Nature Trails

Family Activities

• Waterparks
• Dolphin Shows
• Aquarium Excursions
• Beach Clubs
• Family Boat Cruises

Nearby Attractions

Within a short drive from Side, visitors can discover some of southern Turkey's most famous attractions.

Popular excursions include:

• Manavgat Waterfall
• Green Canyon
• Aspendos Ancient Theatre
• Perge Ancient City
• Köprülü Canyon National Park
• Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi)

These day trips perfectly combine history, culture, and outdoor adventure.

Best Restaurants in Side

Side offers an outstanding selection of restaurants ranging from traditional Turkish cuisine to fine international dining.

Local favorites include:

• Fresh Mediterranean seafood
• Sea bass and sea bream
• Turkish mezes
• Grilled octopus
• Lamb kebabs
• Olive oil specialties
• Handmade desserts
• Turkish breakfast

Many seafront restaurants offer spectacular sunset views overlooking the Temple of Apollo and the Mediterranean.

Shopping in Side

Visitors can enjoy shopping throughout the Old Town and surrounding areas.

Popular purchases include:

• Handmade ceramics
• Turkish carpets
• Leather goods
• Jewelry
• Turkish delight
• Olive oil products
• Local spices
• Handmade souvenirs

The lively bazaars provide an authentic Turkish shopping experience.

Nightlife in Side

Side offers a relaxed yet lively evening atmosphere.

Enjoy:

• Rooftop bars
• Beach clubs
• Marina cafés
• Cocktail lounges
• Live music
• Sunset bars
• Open-air entertainment

Perfect for couples, families, and groups looking for enjoyable evenings by the sea.

3-Day Side Itinerary

Day 1 – Ancient Side

Morning

• Traditional Turkish breakfast
• Explore Side Ancient City
• Visit the Ancient Theatre

Afternoon

• Side Museum
• Walk through the Old Town
• Shopping in local boutiques

Evening

• Sunset at the Temple of Apollo
• Dinner overlooking the Mediterranean

Day 2 – Sea & Adventure

Morning

• Full-Day Boat Trip
• Swimming in hidden bays
• Snorkeling

Afternoon

• Lunch onboard
• Dolphin watching
• Relaxation on deck

Evening

• Cocktails by the harbor
• Live music

Day 3 – Nature & Exploration

Morning

Choose one:

• Jeep Safari
• ATV Safari
• Rafting Adventure
• Green Canyon Boat Tour

Afternoon

• Visit Manavgat Waterfall
• Relax at Side Beach

Evening

• Traditional Turkish dinner
• Evening stroll through the illuminated Old Town

Best Time to Visit Side

Spring (April – May)

Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes make spring ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Summer (June – August)

Perfect for beach holidays, boat trips, water sports, and enjoying the lively Mediterranean atmosphere.

Autumn (September – October)

Warm sea temperatures, sunny days, and fewer crowds provide excellent holiday conditions.

Winter (November – March)

Mild weather makes winter a great time to explore Side's archaeological treasures and natural surroundings.

Getting to Side

Side is conveniently located approximately:

• 65 km from Antalya Airport
• 15 minutes from Manavgat
• 1 hour from Antalya city centre
• 1 hour from Alanya

Private airport transfers, taxis, rental cars, and shuttle services are available throughout the year.

Why Travelers Love Side

✔ Remarkably preserved Roman ruins

✔ Iconic Temple of Apollo by the sea

✔ Beautiful sandy beaches

✔ Crystal-clear Mediterranean waters

✔ Excellent boat trips and water sports

✔ Delicious local cuisine

✔ Family-friendly atmosphere

✔ Easy access to nearby attractions

✔ Stunning sunsets over the harbor

✔ Warm Turkish hospitality

Experience the Magic of Side

Whether you're wandering through ancient Roman streets, watching the sunset behind the Temple of Apollo, relaxing on golden beaches, cruising along the Mediterranean coast, or discovering nearby natural wonders, Side offers an unforgettable holiday filled with history, culture, sunshine, and adventure.

Plan your Side holiday today and experience one of the Turkish Riviera's most enchanting destinations.