Side Turkey Travel Guide & Tourist Information (2026)
Side is a popular holiday destination on the southern coast of Turkey, known for its sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning again, having the right Side tourist information can make your holiday much easier and more enjoyable.
In this travel guide, you will find simple and useful information about Side, including where it is, what to see, and practical tips to help you plan your stay.
📍 Where is Side, Turkey?
Side is a seaside resort town located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, between Antalya and Alanya. It is part of the Manavgat region and is around 60–70 km from Antalya Airport.
Thanks to its central location, Side is a great base for exploring both historical sites and natural attractions in the surrounding area.
🏛️ What to See in Side
Side is a unique destination where history and modern holiday life come together. As you walk through the town, you will come across impressive ruins from the Roman period, many of which are located right next to the sea.
Temple of Apollo and Athena
One of the most famous landmarks in Side is the Temple of Apollo, located by the harbour. These ancient columns create a beautiful setting, especially during sunset. It’s a great place for a relaxed walk, photos, and enjoying the sea view from nearby cafés.
Ancient Theatre of Side
The ancient theatre is one of the largest in the region and could once hold around 15,000 people. Even today, it remains an impressive structure and gives a clear idea of the importance of Side in ancient times.
State Agora
The State Agora was once the political and commercial centre of the city. Today, you can explore its ruins and see remains of important buildings, including what is believed to have been a library and religious structures.
🏖️ Beaches in Side
Side is well known for its long sandy beaches, which are ideal for relaxing during the warm summer months.
The East Beach is the most popular one, located close to the town centre. Here you will find:
- Sunbeds and umbrellas
- Beachfront cafés and restaurants
- Water sports activities
If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, you can walk further along the coastline to find less crowded areas.
🌿 Nearby Places to Visit
Manavgat Waterfall
Located a short drive away, Manavgat Waterfall is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. It offers a peaceful setting and is ideal for a short visit or a relaxing break during the day. You can also visit this beautiful place as part of a Cabrio Bus Safari tour from Side, which combines sightseeing with a fun and comfortable open-top ride.
Köprülü Canyon
For those looking for a bit more adventure, Köprülü Canyon is one of the best natural attractions in the region. It is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.
You can also visit this area with an organized rafting tour from Side, which includes transfers and guidance for a comfortable experience.
🚐 Transportation in Side
- Dolmuş (minibus): The most common way to travel between Side, Manavgat, and nearby areas
- Taxi: Easily available but more expensive than public transport
- Walking: The old town of Side is small and perfect to explore on foot
💡 Useful Tips for Visitors
- Best time to visit: May to October offers warm weather and ideal sea conditions
- Avoid crowds: Visit popular places early in the morning or later in the afternoon
- Markets: Manavgat Market takes place on Mondays and Thursdays
- Cash and payments: Most places accept cards, but carrying some cash is useful for small purchases
🚀 Booking Excursions in Side
While you can explore some places on your own, many attractions around Side are easier to visit with organized excursions.
These tours usually include:
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Comfortable transport
- Well-planned programs
On our website, you can browse different options and book easily. No prepayment is required, and you can pay during your holiday.
