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Why Visit Side
Side's history dates back to the 7th century BC. Its ancient peninsula hosts the Roman Theater, Agora, and the majestic Temple of Apollo. Explore the Vespasian Gate and the well-preserved Roman Baths. These are among the top attractions in Side, showcasing millennia of Hellenistic and Roman heritage.
Beyond its ancient ruins, what is Side famous for includes its golden beaches stretching kilometers. The Manavgat River offers boat trips to the falls. Many enjoy a serene evening stroll along the harbor, watching local fishing boats, a glimpse into daily life after the daytime crowds disperse.
For a true Side travel guide experience, sample the local cuisine. Try 'testi kebabı', a slow-cooked pottery kebab, often served tableside with a flourish. Look for smaller, family-run establishments away from the main promenade for authentic flavors and a genuine local atmosphere.
- SideTurkey
- SideTurkey
- SideTurkey
- SideTurkey
Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octpleasant weather, fewer tourists
- Jul-Aughot weather, peak crowds
- Wintermild temperatures, occasional rain
- #LightClothing
- #Sunscreen
- #ComfortableShoes
- #SwimGear
- #PowerAdapterTypeC
- #BeachTowel
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 6-7 with beaches & day trips
- Turkish Lira (₺)
- Turkish
- Basic English often understood in tourist areas
- #AncientTheater
- #TempleOfApollo
- #SideMuseum
- #Aspendos
- #ManavgatWaterfall
- #PirinçliBeach
- Explore the ancient ruins
- Relax at Side beaches
- Visit the Side Harbor
- Taste local Turkish cuisine
- Shopping at local bazaars
- Attend a boat tour
Recommended Hotels in Side by Experience
Things to do in Side
Discover
Delve into things to do in Side, including the Temple of Apollo, the bustling Old Town, and gorgeous sandy beaches. Discover captivating Side attractions like the antique theater and historical ruins while soaking in coastal beauty.
Experience
Experience activities like hiking in the stunning Taurus Mountains or joining Side cultural activities such as music festivals and dance performances. You can also explore local markets for traditional crafts and unique finds.
Temple of Apollo
Ancient ruins with stunning coastal views.
Side Theater
Well-preserved Roman theater with rich history.
Old Town
Charming streets lined with historic buildings.
Antique Side Museum
Displays artifacts from Side's rich past.
Manavgat Waterfall
Beautiful natural waterfall with scenic views.
Hiking in the Taurus Mountains
Scenic trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
To get to Side, fly into Antalya Airport (AYT), about 65 km away. The Side airport to city center journey takes 60-75 minutes. A pre-booked Side shuttle bus costs €10-15. Taxis are faster but pricier, about €60-80.
Getting Around
For public transport in Side, shared minibuses (dolmuş) connect the old town to modern areas cheaply. Walking is ideal for the ancient city. Consider car rental in Side for exploring nearby attractions like Manavgat Waterfall.
Local Essentials
For Side travel tips for first-timers, always agree taxi fares beforehand. Driving in Side means navigating narrow streets in the old town; parking can be challenging. Carry small Turkish Lira notes for local shops. Haggle politely at markets.
Where to Stay in Side
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Side with kebab, meze, baklava, fresh pide, and grilled Mediterranean fish, often paired with ayran or Turkish tea. The coastal town favors relaxed seaside dinners and café terraces near the harbor.
Enjoy
For dining and drinks, try Q Beach Restaurant & Lounge for seafood and sunset views, and Side House Cafe & Bar for cocktails. The old harbor area hosts some of the best bars in Side with live music during peak season.
Q Beach Restaurant & Lounge
Renowned seafood spot with beautiful beach views.
Sky Safran restaurant bar
Rooftop spot serving Turkish dishes, seafood & cocktails with views.
Serenade Restaurant & Bar
Mediterranean steakhouse with stunning décor.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Side cultural activities include observing Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, important religious festivals. Explore ancient traditions during local commemorations of historical events, offering a glimpse into the region's enduring heritage.
Enjoy
Exploring Side, experience contemporary music festivals and captivating art exhibitions. Local venues host classical concerts and modern theater. Must-see performances highlight local and international talent.
Ramadan & Eid al-Fitr
Religious celebrations with family gatherings and local customs.
Antalya Film Festival
Annual international event showcasing cinema.
International Culture and Art Festival
Celebration of spring with music, food stalls, and craft markets.
Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival
World-class performances at the ancient Aspendos Theatre.
Turkish Paradise Festival
Reenactment of historical events and traditions from the Ottoman era.
Ancient ruins right on the beach - seriously cool
The Temple of Apollo at sunset is something else. You've got these old columns standing right by the sea and it just looks unreal. The old town is easy to walk around and the seafood along the harbor is fresh and cheap.
Best beach holiday we've had in years
Side Beach is long, clean and the water is that perfect blue-green color. Not too crowded in early September either. The local gözleme we tried from a small stall near the old town was so good - flaky, warm, stuffed with cheese and spinach. Loved it.
Great spot for history lovers
Didn't think a beach town would have this much history packed into it. The Side Museum in the old Roman bath is genuinely impressive - beautiful statues and really well laid out. Compact enough to see everything on foot without feeling rushed.
Perfect mix of relaxing and exploring
We stayed for a week and never got bored. The main street through the old peninsula has tons of little shops and good places to eat. Sea is warm, the ruins are right there to explore, and evenings are really pleasant. Exactly what we needed.
Side totally won me over
Came for the beach, stayed for everything else. The old town peninsula feels like stepping back in time - cobblestones, ancient walls, cats everywhere. Fresh grilled fish at one of the harbour restaurants was simple but absolutely delicious. Really good value too.
Quiet and lovely in December
Off season but still warm enough to enjoy. Way fewer tourists, prices were lower and locals were super welcoming. The Temple of Apollo with almost no one around was a proper highlight. Side has a lot going for it even outside summer.