Introduction
Side is one of Turkey's most unique and enchanting destinations – an ancient Greco-Roman city where magnificent ruins stand side by side with beautiful sandy beaches, turquoise water and a charming old town filled with restaurants, boutique hotels and shops. Located on a small peninsula on the Turkish Riviera, Side offers a perfect blend of history, beach and holiday atmosphere.
Whether you're a history lover, a beach seeker or simply looking for a beautiful and relaxed base on the Mediterranean coast, Side is one of Turkey's most rewarding destinations.
Where is Side?
Side is located in Antalya province, approximately 75 km east of Antalya Airport (AYT), on a small peninsula jutting into the Mediterranean Sea. The town is surrounded by two long sandy beaches – East Beach and West Beach – with the ancient ruins scattered throughout the old town.
How to Get to Side
From Antalya Airport (AYT):
The most comfortable way to reach Side is by private airport transfer. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.
👉 Book your private transfer from Antalya Airport to Side – €59
Public buses require a change in Manavgat and can take 2+ hours with luggage.
Top Things to Do in Side
1. Temple of Apollo
Side's most iconic landmark – five beautifully preserved Corinthian columns of the 2nd-century Roman Temple of Apollo standing dramatically at the tip of the peninsula, with the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop. Stunning at sunset. One of Turkey's most photographed ancient sites.
2. Side Ancient Theatre
One of the largest and best-preserved ancient theatres in Turkey, with a capacity of 15,000 spectators. Dating from the 2nd century AD, the theatre is remarkably intact and still used for concerts and events today.
3. Side Museum
Housed in a beautifully restored 5th-century Roman bath, the museum contains an impressive collection of ancient sculptures, sarcophagi and artefacts found in the surrounding area. One of the best small museums in Turkey.
4. Side Beaches
Side is flanked by two excellent beaches. West Beach (facing the sunset) is more sheltered and popular with families, while East Beach is longer and livelier with more beach bars and water sports facilities. Both have warm, calm Mediterranean water.
5. Side Old Town
The old town peninsula is a pleasure to explore on foot – ancient columns and ruins are embedded in the walls of restaurants and shops, creating a unique atmosphere where history and modern life coexist. The narrow streets are lined with jewellery shops, carpet stores and excellent restaurants.
6. Manavgat Waterfall
Located just 4 km from Side, the Manavgat Waterfall is a wide, powerful cascade on the Manavgat River. The surrounding park with its tea gardens and restaurants makes it a popular and pleasant excursion.
7. Boat Trips
Boat trips from Side harbour explore the coastline, visit sea caves and stop at secluded bays for swimming. A relaxing and scenic way to spend a day on the water.
8. Seleucia & Aspendos Day Trips
The magnificent Roman theatre at Aspendos (30 km west) is one of the world's best-preserved, while the ancient city of Seleucia in the mountains offers a more adventurous archaeological experience with fewer crowds.
Best Beaches in Side
- West Beach – sheltered, calm water, family-friendly, beautiful sunset views
- East Beach – longer, livelier, more beach bars and water sports
- Kumköy Beach – 5 km west, quieter, good for families
- Colakli Beach – long sandy beach west of Side, lined with large resort hotels
Where to Stay in Side
Side Old Town – most atmospheric, boutique hotels and pansiyons within the ancient walls, walking distance to ruins and beaches.
West Beach Area – good range of hotels from budget to 4-star, close to the beach and old town.
East Beach Area – larger hotels, livelier atmosphere, good for those wanting more beach facilities.
Kumköy & Colaklı – large all-inclusive resort hotels, ideal for families wanting a full beach holiday.
Where to Eat in Side
- Aphrodite Restaurant – romantic setting near the Temple of Apollo, excellent seafood and Turkish cuisine
- Ocakbaşı restaurants – traditional Turkish grill restaurants in the old town, great value
- Harbour restaurants – fresh fish and mezes with views over the boats
- Moonlight Restaurant – popular with tourists, good Turkish and international menu
- Manavgat River restaurants – riverside dining in a beautiful natural setting near the waterfall
Best Time to Visit Side
The best time to visit Side is May, June, September and October – warm enough for swimming and sightseeing without the intense July-August heat.
- April–May: 20–26°C – Ideal ✅
- June: 28–32°C – Great ✅
- July–August: 33–38°C – Very hot, peak season 🟡
- September–October: 26–32°C – Ideal ✅
- November–March: 12–18°C – Mild, off-season 🟡
Getting Around Side
- Walking – the old town peninsula is compact and best explored on foot (no cars allowed in the old town)
- Dolmuş (minibus) – connects Side with Manavgat, Antalya and surrounding areas
- Taxi – available at the entrance to the old town
- Bicycle rental – a great way to explore the beaches and surrounding area
- Private transfer – most convenient for airport arrivals and departures
Travel Tips for Side
- No cars are allowed inside the old town – park at the entrance and explore on foot
- The Temple of Apollo is magical at sunset – arrive 30 minutes before for the best light
- Side Museum is small but excellent – allow 1 hour
- Bring cash – many smaller restaurants and shops prefer cash
- The old town gets very crowded in July and August evenings – visit the ruins in the morning
Getting Back to the Airport
When it's time to leave, a private transfer ensures a comfortable and stress-free journey back to Antalya Airport.
👉 Book your return transfer from Side to Antalya Airport – €59
Travel with confidence – TTT Transfer provides private, fixed-price airport transfers across Turkey. Professional drivers, meet & greet service and flight tracking included.
