G Turkiye

Travel Side – known as Old Antalya

side antalya

Situated on a picturesque peninsula along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coastline, Side is one of the country’s most captivating holiday destinations. Located approximately 75 kilometers east of Antalya, this remarkable resort town combines over 2,500 years of history with beautiful sandy beaches, world-famous archaeological sites, luxury accommodations, and a lively marina.

Once the largest and most prosperous port city of ancient Pamphylia, Side today attracts millions of visitors each year who come to experience its magnificent Roman ruins, spectacular coastal scenery, vibrant shopping streets, and warm Mediterranean hospitality.

Unlike many archaeological sites that stand isolated from modern life, Side offers a unique experience where ancient temples, Roman streets, boutique hotels, cafés, restaurants, and golden beaches exist side by side. Whether you are a history enthusiast, beach lover, photographer, or family traveler, Side promises an unforgettable holiday on Turkey’s famous Turkish Riviera.

The History of Side

The history of Side stretches back to the 7th century BC, when Greek settlers from Kyme in western Anatolia established a colony on this naturally protected peninsula. Ancient historians Strabo and Arrian recorded that the settlers quickly adopted the language and customs of the local Anatolian population, creating a unique cultural identity unlike any other city in the region.

Excavations have uncovered inscriptions written in the ancient Sidean language, dating from the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC. Although these inscriptions remain undeciphered today, they provide fascinating evidence that the indigenous language survived for centuries after the arrival of the Greek colonists.

Archaeologists have also discovered a basalt column base dating from the 7th century BC, believed to be associated with the Neo-Hittite civilization, indicating that the site had already been inhabited long before the Greek settlement.

Interestingly, the name “Side” comes from an ancient Anatolian word meaning “pomegranate,” a fruit that symbolized fertility, prosperity, and abundance throughout the ancient world.

From Persian Rule to Alexander the Great

Although relatively little is known about Side during the periods of Lydian and Persian rule, archaeological discoveries demonstrate that the city retained considerable independence. During the 5th century BC, Side minted its own silver coins, a privilege generally reserved for prosperous and self-governing cities.

In 333 BC, Alexander the Great arrived in Pamphylia during his campaign against the Persian Empire. Despite possessing formidable defensive walls and a strategic harbor, Side surrendered peacefully without resistance, allowing Alexander to incorporate the city into his rapidly expanding empire.

Following Alexander’s death, Side came under the control of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt and later the Seleucid Empire, becoming an important commercial center in the eastern Mediterranean.

A Prosperous Mediterranean Port

During the 2nd century BC, Side developed into one of the wealthiest trading ports in the Mediterranean. Thanks to its excellent harbor, merchants from Egypt, Syria, Greece, Cyprus, and Anatolia exchanged luxury goods, wine, olive oil, textiles, spices, and precious metals within its bustling markets.

The city became famous not only for commerce but also as a center of education, philosophy, and culture. Historical sources indicate that Antiochus VII, who later became King of Syria, received part of his education in Side, highlighting the city’s growing reputation as a place of learning.

Its prosperity financed the construction of magnificent public buildings, grand temples, luxurious bathhouses, theaters, fountains, and impressive defensive walls, many of which can still be admired today.

The Age of Pirates

Despite its wealth, Side experienced a darker chapter during the 1st century BC, when Cilician pirates seized control of the city.

The pirates transformed Side into one of the Mediterranean’s largest naval bases and one of the ancient world’s most active slave markets. Thousands of captives captured during pirate raids were traded through the city’s harbor, bringing enormous wealth to local merchants.

Ancient writers even criticized the inhabitants for tolerating the pirates because of the prosperity they brought to the local economy.

This period ended in 67 BC, when the Roman general Pompey the Great defeated the pirate fleets in a decisive campaign. Grateful for their liberation, the citizens of Side erected monuments and statues in Pompey’s honor, marking the beginning of a new era under Roman rule.

The Golden Age Under Rome

Roman rule ushered in Side’s greatest period of prosperity during the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD.

As the capital of eastern Pamphylia, Side became one of the Roman Empire’s most important commercial ports. Ships carrying goods from Egypt, North Africa, Greece, and Syria regularly docked in its harbor before continuing inland toward central Anatolia.

The city’s thriving economy supported an ambitious program of urban development. Wealthy merchants financed the construction of monumental public buildings, elegant colonnaded streets, magnificent temples, public baths, fountains, libraries, marketplaces, and one of the largest Roman theaters in Asia Minor.

Many of these generous citizens donated money to sponsor festivals, athletic competitions, theatrical performances, public feasts, and charitable institutions, helping transform Side into one of the wealthiest and most sophisticated cities of the Roman Mediterranean.

Today, visitors walking through the ancient streets can still admire many of these remarkably preserved monuments, making Side one of Turkey’s finest open-air archaeological museums.

The Byzantine Period and Decline

Side continued to flourish during the Byzantine Empire, becoming the seat of the Bishopric of Eastern Pamphylia during the 5th and 6th centuries AD. New churches, basilicas, and public buildings were constructed, and the city expanded beyond its original walls.

However, prosperity gradually declined during the 7th century, when repeated Arab naval raids devastated much of the southern Anatolian coastline. Archaeological excavations have revealed extensive layers of ash and fire damage, confirming that Side suffered severe destruction during these attacks.

Over the following centuries, trade diminished, the harbor gradually silted up, and the population slowly abandoned the city. Many inhabitants relocated to nearby Antalya, leaving the once-great metropolis largely deserted.

For centuries, Side remained a forgotten city buried beneath drifting sand until archaeological excavations began in 1947. Since then, extensive restoration work has revealed one of the best-preserved collections of Roman monuments anywhere in the Mediterranean, allowing modern visitors to step back into the grandeur of the ancient world.

Explore the Ancient City of Side

The ancient city of Side is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. Unlike many ancient cities that survive only as isolated ruins, Side is a living destination where centuries-old monuments stand alongside modern cafés, boutique hotels, lively shopping streets, and beautiful beaches.

Walking through Side is like stepping into an open-air museum. Marble columns, Roman roads, monumental gates, temples, and ancient public buildings tell the story of a city that flourished for more than a thousand years.

Monumental City Walls and Main Gate

Side was protected by an impressive system of defensive walls built during the Hellenistic period and strengthened by the Romans and Byzantines.

Unlike the sea walls, which have been altered over the centuries by earthquakes and erosion, much of the land fortifications remain remarkably intact. Massive towers, thick stone walls, and fortified gateways still demonstrate the city’s military importance.

Visitors usually enter the ancient city through the magnificent Main Gate, one of the finest surviving examples of Hellenistic military architecture in Turkey.

The entrance originally consisted of:

  • Two imposing defensive towers
  • A large horseshoe-shaped courtyard
  • Ceremonial passages
  • Marble columns and decorative statues added during the Roman period

Passing through this monumental entrance gives visitors an unforgettable first impression of ancient Side.

Colonnaded Streets

Beyond the main gate begins Side’s impressive Colonnaded Street, once the city’s principal avenue.

During Roman times, this broad marble-paved boulevard stretched from the city gate to the harbor, connecting Side’s most important public buildings.

On either side stood:

  • Government buildings
  • Shops
  • Markets
  • Public baths
  • Temples
  • Fountains
  • Private residences

Beneath the street ran an advanced underground sewer system, demonstrating the remarkable engineering skills of Roman city planners.

Today, visitors can still walk along the original Roman pavement while imagining merchants, philosophers, soldiers, and travelers passing through the bustling streets nearly 2,000 years ago.

The Monumental Nymphaeum

Just outside the city walls stands one of Side’s most spectacular Roman monuments—the Nymphaeum, or monumental fountain.

Built during the 2nd century AD, this enormous decorative fountain welcomed visitors entering the city.

Originally, it featured:

  • Three impressive stories
  • Marble columns
  • Niches filled with statues
  • Decorative carvings
  • Cascading fountains
  • Fresh water supplied by the remarkable Roman aqueduct system

Water flowed continuously into large pools before being distributed throughout the city.

Although only part of the original structure survives today, it remains one of the largest Roman fountains in Anatolia.

The Commercial Agora

At the heart of ancient Side lay its bustling Commercial Agora, the city’s economic center.

Surrounded by elegant colonnades and hundreds of shops, this spacious square was the meeting place for merchants arriving from every corner of the Mediterranean.

Here visitors once bought and sold:

  • Olive oil
  • Wine
  • Grain
  • Spices
  • Jewelry
  • Fine textiles
  • Glassware
  • Ceramics
  • Precious metals
  • Imported luxury goods

At the center of the agora stood a circular temple dedicated to Tyche, the goddess of fortune and prosperity.

Although only the temple’s foundations remain today, archaeologists believe it was once crowned by twelve Corinthian columns supporting a magnificent pyramidal roof.

The State Agora

Adjacent to the Commercial Agora lies the State Agora, the political and administrative center of Roman Side.

Government officials met here to oversee civic affairs, collect taxes, conduct legal proceedings, and administer one of the busiest ports in the eastern Mediterranean.

Archaeologists believe a raised platform in the square may have been used for public announcements and official ceremonies.

Nearby stood an impressive two-story public building that scholars believe served as either:

  • A library
  • An imperial palace
  • An important administrative headquarters

Beautiful statues that once decorated this building are now displayed in the Side Museum.

The Roman Theatre

The magnificent Roman Theatre is undoubtedly Side’s most iconic monument.

Constructed during the 2nd century AD, it is considered one of the finest preserved Roman theaters in Turkey and one of the largest in ancient Pamphylia.

Unlike many classical theaters built into natural hillsides, Side’s theater was constructed almost entirely on a sophisticated system of vaulted arches because the surrounding terrain is relatively flat.

The theatre originally accommodated between 16,000 and 17,000 spectators.

Visitors are continually amazed by:

  • Its enormous seating area
  • Monumental stage building
  • Remarkable engineering
  • Excellent acoustics
  • Impressive panoramic views

During Roman times, the theatre hosted:

  • Dramatic performances
  • Musical concerts
  • Religious festivals
  • Political ceremonies
  • Gladiator contests
  • Wild animal combats

Later, during the Byzantine era, it was converted into an open-air church, and several areas were decorated with beautiful floor mosaics.

Today the theatre remains one of Turkey’s greatest archaeological treasures and a highlight of every visit to Side.

Public Baths

The Romans considered public bathing an essential part of daily life, and Side possessed several magnificent bath complexes.

The largest surviving baths date from the 3rd century AD and cover nearly 2,000 square meters.

Typical bath facilities included:

  • Cold rooms (Frigidarium)
  • Warm rooms (Tepidarium)
  • Hot rooms (Caldarium)
  • Steam rooms
  • Exercise courtyards
  • Massage rooms
  • Social gathering spaces

Sophisticated underground heating systems circulated hot air beneath marble floors and through hollow walls, providing luxurious bathing conditions.

Today these beautifully restored baths house the renowned Side Museum.

Side Museum

Housed inside the restored Roman baths, the Side Museum is one of Turkey’s finest archaeological museums.

Its remarkable collection includes:

  • Marble statues
  • Roman portraits
  • Sarcophagi
  • Ancient inscriptions
  • Coins
  • Jewelry
  • Relief sculptures
  • Bronze artifacts
  • Mosaics
  • Architectural fragments

Among the museum’s most impressive exhibits are statues of Apollo, Athena, Nike, Hermes, and numerous Roman emperors that once adorned Side’s public buildings.

The museum provides valuable insight into everyday life during the Roman and Byzantine periods.

The Ancient Harbour

The harbour was the heart of Side’s prosperity.

Protected naturally by the peninsula, it served as one of the Mediterranean’s busiest commercial ports.

Merchant ships regularly arrived carrying goods from:

  • Egypt
  • Greece
  • Cyprus
  • Syria
  • North Africa
  • Asia Minor

Exports included olive oil, wine, grain, timber, and luxury goods transported inland throughout Anatolia.

Today the ancient harbour has become one of Side’s most picturesque locations.

Luxury yachts, excursion boats, waterfront cafés, seafood restaurants, and spectacular sunset views make it one of the town’s favorite gathering places.

Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the promenade while admiring both the modern marina and the ancient ruins overlooking the sea.

Roman Aqueduct System

One of Side’s greatest engineering achievements was its remarkable 30-kilometer aqueduct.

Fresh water was transported from the Manavgat River through:

  • Stone channels
  • Massive arched bridges
  • Rock-cut tunnels
  • Underground conduits

The water supplied fountains, bathhouses, homes, and public buildings throughout the city.

Large sections of the aqueduct can still be seen in the surrounding countryside, illustrating the extraordinary engineering abilities of Roman architects.

The Temple of Apollo, Beaches & Modern Tourism

The timeless beauty of Side lies not only in its remarkable archaeological treasures but also in the seamless blend of history and modern Mediterranean life. Ancient temples stand just steps from lively cafés, luxury hotels overlook Roman ruins, and golden beaches stretch along a coastline that has welcomed travelers for thousands of years.

This unique combination makes Side one of Turkey’s most rewarding destinations for both cultural exploration and seaside relaxation.

The Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo is undoubtedly Side’s most recognizable landmark and one of the most photographed monuments on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.

Standing dramatically at the edge of the ancient harbor, the temple overlooks the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, creating one of the country’s most iconic coastal landscapes.

Constructed during the 2nd century AD, the temple was dedicated to Apollo, the Greek and Roman god of sunlight, music, prophecy, and the arts. As Side prospered under Roman rule, Apollo became one of the city’s principal deities.

Originally, the temple measured approximately 30 by 17 meters and featured:

  • Six Corinthian columns across the front
  • Eleven columns along each side
  • Finely carved marble capitals
  • Decorative friezes
  • Elegant white marble architecture

Although earthquakes caused much of the structure to collapse during the Byzantine period, several magnificent columns have been carefully restored.

Today these towering columns create one of Turkey’s most breathtaking sunset scenes as the evening light reflects across the Mediterranean.

For many visitors, watching the sunset beside the Temple of Apollo becomes the highlight of their holiday.

The Temple of Athena

Standing beside the Temple of Apollo once stood the magnificent Temple of Athena, dedicated to the city’s patron goddess.

Athena was regarded as the protector of Side and symbolized wisdom, strategy, justice, and prosperity.

Although fewer remains survive today, archaeological evidence suggests that the temple rivaled Apollo’s sanctuary in both beauty and importance.

Together, the twin temples formed an impressive ceremonial complex overlooking the ancient harbor and welcomed sailors arriving from across the Mediterranean.

The Ancient Harbour

The ancient harbor remains one of Side’s most atmospheric locations.

For centuries it served as one of the busiest commercial ports in the eastern Mediterranean, welcoming merchant ships from:

  • Egypt
  • Greece
  • Cyprus
  • Syria
  • North Africa
  • Asia Minor

Today the harbor has been transformed into a charming marina where traditional Turkish gulets, sailing yachts, excursion boats, and fishing vessels create a lively maritime atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Waterfront cafés
  • Seafood restaurants
  • Boutique shops
  • Boat excursions
  • Sunset cruises
  • Evening walks along the promenade

As darkness falls, the illuminated Temple of Apollo provides a spectacular backdrop for the marina.

The Necropolis

Outside the ancient city walls lies Side’s extensive Necropolis, one of the largest Roman cemeteries in southern Turkey.

The cemetery contains hundreds of burial monuments, including:

  • Marble sarcophagi
  • Family tombs
  • Monumental mausoleums
  • Rock-cut graves
  • Decorative funerary inscriptions

The size of the necropolis reflects Side’s wealth and importance during the Roman Empire.

Many beautifully carved sarcophagi discovered here are now preserved inside the Side Museum.

Byzantine Side

Following the spread of Christianity, Side gradually transformed into an important Byzantine religious center.

Several churches and basilicas were constructed throughout the city during the 5th and 6th centuries AD.

Among the most impressive remains are:

  • The Great Basilica
  • Episcopal Palace
  • Baptistery
  • Small chapels
  • Byzantine city walls

Many ancient Roman buildings were carefully adapted for Christian worship, illustrating the city’s changing cultural landscape.

Side’s Beautiful Beaches

Beyond its extraordinary history, Side is equally famous for its magnificent beaches.

The town enjoys more than 20 kilometers of golden sandy coastline, offering excellent facilities for every type of traveler.

East Beach

Located beside the ancient city, East Beach offers a quieter atmosphere with stunning views of Roman ruins.

Its long sandy shoreline and crystal-clear water make it ideal for:

  • Swimming
  • Sunbathing
  • Morning walks
  • Paddleboarding
  • Photography

Because it is less crowded than other beaches, East Beach is particularly popular with couples and visitors seeking relaxation.

West Beach

The lively West Beach stretches toward Kumköy and Evrenseki.

This popular beach features:

  • Soft golden sand
  • Shallow water
  • Beach clubs
  • Restaurants
  • Water sports
  • Family-friendly facilities

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Jet skiing
  • Parasailing
  • Banana boats
  • Windsurfing
  • Beach volleyball

Its calm waters make it especially suitable for families with children.

Boat Tours

Exploring Side from the sea is one of the most enjoyable holiday experiences.

Daily boat cruises depart from the harbor, visiting:

  • Hidden coves
  • Sea caves
  • Quiet swimming bays
  • Dolphin viewing areas (occasionally)
  • The mouth of the Manavgat River

Many cruises include:

  • Swimming stops
  • Snorkeling
  • Turkish lunch onboard
  • Foam parties
  • Live entertainment

Sunset cruises are particularly popular during the summer months.

Things to Do in Side

Visitors can easily spend several days exploring Side and its surroundings.

Popular activities include:

  • Visiting ancient archaeological sites
  • Swimming at Blue Flag beaches
  • Boat cruises
  • Scuba diving
  • Snorkeling
  • Parasailing
  • Jet skiing
  • Turkish bath (Hamam)
  • Shopping in the Old Town
  • Sunset photography
  • Cycling
  • Horse riding
  • Jeep safari
  • River rafting
  • Golf in nearby Belek

Food & Drink

Side has become one of Turkey’s finest culinary destinations.

The old town is filled with charming restaurants serving authentic Mediterranean cuisine alongside international dishes.

Local specialties include:

  • Fresh Mediterranean sea bass
  • Sea bream
  • Calamari
  • Octopus
  • Shrimp
  • Grilled lamb
  • Adana kebab
  • Meze platters
  • Stuffed vine leaves
  • Gözleme
  • Pide
  • Fresh olive oil dishes

For dessert, visitors should try:

  • Baklava
  • Künefe
  • Sütlaç
  • Turkish delight
  • Homemade ice cream

Many rooftop restaurants overlook the harbor and Temple of Apollo, providing unforgettable sunset dining experiences.

Shopping in Side

Shopping is another highlight of visiting Side.

The narrow streets of the Old Town are lined with boutiques and traditional shops selling:

  • Handmade Turkish carpets
  • Leather goods
  • Gold and silver jewelry
  • Ceramics
  • Mosaic lamps
  • Olive oil soaps
  • Handmade textiles
  • Turkish towels
  • Spices
  • Turkish delight
  • Local artwork

Nearby Manavgat Market, held several days each week, offers one of the region’s best selections of local produce, cheeses, olives, spices, clothing, and handmade souvenirs.

Nightlife

Although Side maintains a relaxed atmosphere, evenings are lively and enjoyable.

Visitors can experience:

  • Rooftop cocktail bars
  • Live music venues
  • Beach lounges
  • Marina cafés
  • Traditional Turkish music performances
  • Open-air restaurants

The combination of illuminated Roman ruins and the Mediterranean coastline creates one of the most romantic evening settings on the Turkish Riviera.

Family-Friendly Holidays

Side is one of Turkey’s most family-friendly destinations.

Children can enjoy:

  • Safe sandy beaches
  • Water sports
  • Pirate boat trips
  • Dolphin excursions
  • Water parks
  • Mini clubs at resorts
  • Horse riding
  • Cycling paths
  • Nature walks

The combination of beaches, history, and outdoor activities ensures entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Excursions, Accommodation & Travel Information

Beyond its extraordinary archaeological treasures and beautiful beaches, Side serves as an excellent base for exploring some of the Turkish Riviera’s most famous natural wonders, ancient cities, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re seeking cultural discoveries, adrenaline-filled activities, or relaxing boat cruises, Side offers countless opportunities for unforgettable experiences.

Daily Tours & Excursions

One of the greatest advantages of staying in Side is its proximity to many of Antalya Province’s most popular attractions.

Manavgat Waterfalls

Only a short drive from Side, the picturesque Manavgat Waterfalls are among the region’s most visited natural attractions.

Although the waterfalls are not particularly high, the broad curtain of rushing white water creates a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along riverside walking paths, enjoy traditional Turkish tea in shaded cafés, or dine in riverside restaurants while admiring the scenery.

Manavgat River Boat Cruise

A relaxing cruise along the Manavgat River is one of the area’s signature excursions.

These popular tours typically include:

  • Scenic river cruise
  • Swimming where the river meets the Mediterranean Sea
  • Freshly prepared Turkish lunch
  • Visit to the Manavgat Bazaar
  • Opportunities for birdwatching and photography

The calm river and beautiful natural surroundings make this excursion ideal for families and couples.

Green Canyon Boat Tour

The breathtaking Green Canyon, located within the Taurus Mountains, offers one of Antalya’s most scenic boat trips.

Visitors cruise across emerald-green waters surrounded by steep cliffs, pine forests, and spectacular mountain landscapes.

Activities often include:

  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Wildlife observation
  • Lunch at a lakeside restaurant
  • Photography

Köprülü Canyon National Park

Adventure lovers should not miss Köprülü Canyon National Park, home to one of Turkey’s premier white-water rafting destinations.

Visitors can also enjoy:

  • Ziplining
  • Hiking
  • Jeep safaris
  • Mountain biking
  • Camping
  • Scenic viewpoints

The dramatic canyon, crystal-clear Köprüçay River, and ancient Roman bridge create a spectacular natural setting.

Aspendos Ancient City

Less than an hour from Side lies the magnificent ancient city of Aspendos, home to one of the world’s best-preserved Roman theatres.

The theatre continues to host:

  • International opera festivals
  • Classical concerts
  • Ballet performances
  • Cultural events

Visitors can also explore the ancient aqueducts, agora, basilica, and stadium.

Perge Ancient City

Another remarkable archaeological excursion is Perge, one of ancient Pamphylia’s greatest cities.

Highlights include:

  • Monumental gates
  • Roman baths
  • Colonnaded streets
  • Stadium
  • Theatre
  • Agora
  • Ancient fountains

Perge is one of Turkey’s finest examples of Roman urban planning.

Antalya City Tour

Many visitors enjoy spending a day exploring the provincial capital.

Popular attractions include:

  • Kaleiçi (Old Town)
  • Hadrian’s Gate
  • Antalya Museum
  • Old Harbour
  • Düden Waterfalls
  • Cumhuriyet Square
  • Modern shopping districts

Pamukkale & Hierapolis

One of Turkey’s most famous day trips takes visitors to Pamukkale, renowned for its dazzling white travertine terraces.

The excursion also includes the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hierapolis, where visitors can explore:

  • Roman theatre
  • Necropolis
  • Ancient streets
  • Thermal pools
  • Cleopatra’s Pool

Jeep Safari

Jeep safaris through the Taurus Mountains offer exciting off-road adventures.

Typical tours visit:

  • Traditional Turkish villages
  • Mountain rivers
  • Orange orchards
  • Pine forests
  • Hidden waterfalls
  • Scenic viewpoints

Many include opportunities to meet local families and experience rural Turkish culture.

Accommodation

Side offers one of the widest ranges of accommodation on the Turkish Riviera.

Visitors can choose from:

  • Luxury five-star beachfront resorts
  • Boutique hotels
  • Adults-only hotels
  • Family resorts
  • All-inclusive holiday villages
  • Spa hotels
  • Apartments
  • Villas
  • Guesthouses
  • Budget pensions

Many hotels feature:

  • Private beaches
  • Swimming pools
  • Spa and wellness centers
  • Water parks
  • Children’s clubs
  • Fine dining restaurants
  • Sports facilities
  • Evening entertainment

The nearby resort areas of Kumköy, Evrenseki, Sorgun, Titreyengöl, and Kızılağaç also offer excellent accommodation options.

Shopping Beyond the Old Town

In addition to the charming boutiques of ancient Side, visitors can enjoy shopping at:

  • Nova Mall Manavgat
  • Manavgat Bazaar
  • Weekly village markets
  • Traditional handicraft shops
  • Leather outlets
  • Jewelry stores
  • Turkish carpet galleries

Popular souvenirs include:

  • Handmade ceramics
  • Turkish delight
  • Olive oil soaps
  • Spices
  • Local honey
  • Mosaic lamps
  • Handwoven textiles
  • Leather handbags
  • Silver jewelry

Festivals & Cultural Events

Throughout the year, Side hosts numerous cultural festivals celebrating its rich heritage.

Among the most famous is the International Side Culture and Art Festival, featuring:

  • Classical concerts
  • Opera performances
  • Ballet
  • Theatre
  • Art exhibitions

Many performances take place inside the magnificent Roman Theatre, providing a truly unforgettable setting.

Climate

Side enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate characterized by:

Summer (June–September)

  • Hot and sunny
  • Temperatures frequently exceed 30°C (86°F)
  • Warm sea temperatures
  • Perfect for beach holidays

Spring (April–May)

  • Pleasant temperatures
  • Blooming wildflowers
  • Ideal for sightseeing
  • Excellent hiking weather

Autumn (September–November)

  • Warm sea
  • Comfortable daytime temperatures
  • Fewer crowds
  • Perfect for photography

Winter (December–March)

  • Mild weather
  • Occasional rainfall
  • Quiet atmosphere
  • Excellent for cultural tourism

How to Get There

Side is easily accessible from across Turkey.

By Air

The nearest airport is Antalya Airport, approximately 65–70 kilometers away.

Visitors can reach Side via:

  • Airport shuttle
  • Private transfer
  • Taxi
  • Rental car
  • Public buses

By Road

Regular intercity buses connect Side with:

  • Antalya
  • Manavgat
  • Alanya
  • Fethiye
  • Marmaris
  • İzmir
  • Ankara
  • Istanbul

Local Transportation

Visitors can easily travel around the region using:

  • Dolmuş (shared minibuses)
  • Taxis
  • Rental bicycles
  • Car rentals
  • Walking within the Old Town

Best Time to Visit

Side is a year-round destination, but the most pleasant months are:

  • April
  • May
  • June
  • September
  • October

These months offer:

  • Warm sunshine
  • Comfortable temperatures
  • Ideal sightseeing conditions
  • Pleasant sea temperatures
  • Smaller crowds

July and August are perfect for beach holidays but are also the hottest and busiest months.

Travel Tips

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes when exploring the archaeological sites.
  • Carry water and sun protection during the summer.
  • Visit the Temple of Apollo at sunset for spectacular photographs.
  • Start sightseeing early in the morning during the hottest months.
  • Combine archaeological visits with beach time for the perfect holiday.
  • Explore Side’s narrow streets on foot to discover hidden cafés, boutique shops, and charming courtyards.
  • Try traditional Turkish cuisine at local restaurants overlooking the ancient harbor.
  • Book popular excursions in advance during the peak summer season.

Why Visit Side?

Few destinations in the Mediterranean combine history, culture, natural beauty, and modern tourism as successfully as Side. Here, visitors can spend the morning exploring magnificent Roman monuments, relax on golden sandy beaches in the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the coast, and finish the day watching the sun set behind the iconic Temple of Apollo.

From its remarkably preserved ancient city and picturesque harbor to its luxury resorts, lively markets, excellent restaurants, and easy access to nearby attractions, Side offers something for every traveler.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a beach lover, an adventure seeker, or a family looking for a memorable holiday, Side stands out as one of the finest destinations on the Turkish Riviera. Its unique blend of ancient heritage, Mediterranean charm, and warm Turkish hospitality ensures an unforgettable experience and makes it a destination visitors return to time and again.