Side: Holidays and Attractions
Side
Side is a town on Turkey's southern coast in the Mediterranean region, located on a small peninsula between Antalya and Alanya, near Manavgat. It is best known as an ancient archaeological town where ruins occupy a large part of the historic centre alongside modern resort development.
The history of Side is linked to ancient Pamphylia, when the town was an important seaport. Sections of defensive walls, colonnaded streets, public buildings and Roman temples have survived to the present day. Because of this, Side plays a notable cultural role on the coast: visitors often come not only for the sea but also to explore its archaeological heritage.
The town suits several holiday formats. The historic part is ideal for walking through the archaeological zone and viewing monuments; the coastline is popular for beach holidays; and families choose Side for its combination of sea, peaceful resort areas and easy trips to nearby natural sights. For active leisure there are boat trips, water sports and excursions around the Manavgat area.
Among the tourist districts and stretches of coast often highlighted are Side's old town, where the main ancient monuments are concentrated; Kumkoy, with developed hotel infrastructure; Sorgun, known for greener and quieter relaxation areas; and Colakli, with wide beaches to the west of town. These districts are connected by roads and local transport, making them easy to combine in one visit.
Beaches run along both sides of the peninsula. The western shore is usually busier and better equipped with resort facilities, while the eastern side feels calmer and is good for seaside walks. Within the town it is convenient to combine visits to archaeological sites with beach time without long transfers.
The climate in Side is Mediterranean: summers are hot and dry, winters mild and wetter; spring and autumn are often chosen for sightseeing and walks, while swimming season extends from late spring to early autumn. The nearest major transport hub is Antalya Airport, from which Side is usually reached by car transfer or bus via Manavgat.
Side on the map
Popular Locations of the City
Fascinating places for excursions and travel
Ancient city, Temple of Apollo, theatre and beaches of Side
Side combines ancient ruins, the sea and peninsula walks.
Side and the Temple of Apollo
The main attractions of Side are concentrated within the ancient city. One of the most recognizable monuments is the Temple of Apollo by the sea, next to which elements of the monumental harbor construction have been preserved. The Roman theatre also occupies an important place as a key monument that helps convey the scale of ancient Side as a major port centre.
For a fuller understanding of the town's past, visit the Side Archaeological Museum, housed in a former Roman bath building. Its exhibits complement the outdoor ruins: sculptures, reliefs, sarcophagi, inscriptions and finds uncovered during excavations in Side and its surroundings. After the museum it is convenient to walk along the ancient streets to the agora, the remains of monumental gates and the city walls.
Besides monuments, Side is popular for walks along the waterfront and around the peninsula, boat excursions, swimming and relaxing on sandy beaches. The town is also a convenient base for trips to Manavgat Waterfall, located nearby in the town of the same name. Such an itinerary allows you to combine archaeology, the sea and a short trip to a natural attraction without long transfers.
In the local cuisine visitors often focus on fish and seafood dishes, meze, kebabs and traditional Turkish sweets. For visiting the archaeological zone and the museum, spring and autumn are the most comfortable months, when outdoor walks are easier than during the peak summer heat.
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