Things to Do in Side, Turkey – Best Excursions & Activities (2026)
Side is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the Turkish Riviera, offering a perfect mix of history, nature, and seaside relaxation.
Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, relax on a boat trip, or enjoy exciting outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do in Side for every type of traveller.
In this guide, we’ve listed some of the best excursions and activities in Side to help you plan an unforgettable holiday.
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Turkish Bath Experience in Side
One of the best ways to start your holiday in Side is with a traditional Turkish bath (hammam). It helps you relax after your journey and prepares your skin for a better tan.
During the experience, you can enjoy a combination of sauna, steam room, foam massage, and oil massage in a comfortable and hygienic environment.
You can find more details about this experience here:
Side Turkish Bath
.
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Dolphin Island Boat Trip
Boat trips are among the most popular activities in Side, offering a relaxing day on the Mediterranean Sea with swimming stops and beautiful coastal views.
The Dolphin Island boat trip is especially popular, as it combines a scenic cruise with entertainment and the chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat.
To learn more about this tour, you can check:
Dolphin Island Boat Trip
.
Scuba Diving in Side
If you enjoy exploring the underwater world, scuba diving in Side is a great experience. The Mediterranean Sea offers clear waters, interesting rock formations, and a variety of marine life.
One of the highlights is the underwater museum near Side, which makes this activity even more unique for visitors.
You can find more details here:
Side Diving Tour
.
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Pamukkale Day Trip from Side
Pamukkale is one of the most famous natural attractions in Turkey and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters.
During the tour, you can also visit the ancient city of Hierapolis and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this historical site.
To explore this experience, see:
Pamukkale Day Trip from Side
.
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Demre, Myra & Kekova Tour
This full-day excursion combines history and nature. You can visit the ancient city of Myra, explore the famous rock tombs, and see the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre.
The highlight of the tour is a boat trip around Kekova, where you can view the remains of a sunken ancient city beneath the water.
Learn more about this tour here:
Demre Myra Kekova Tour
.
Side offers a wide variety of activities, from relaxing boat trips to cultural excursions and adventure tours. Whether you prefer nature, history, or entertainment, there is something for everyone.
Free Things to Do in Side, Turkey
Besides organised excursions, there are also many free things to do in Side that you can easily enjoy during your holiday.
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Visit the Temple of Apollo & Athena
The Temple of Apollo is one of the most famous landmarks in Side and a must-see during your stay. Located in the Old Town near the harbour, this ancient site is especially beautiful at sunset.
Entry is completely free, and the atmosphere in the evening makes it one of the most memorable spots in the region.
You can learn more here:
Temple of Apollo in Side
.
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Explore the Ancient City of Side
The ancient city of Side dates back thousands of years and includes many historical monuments such as the Nymphaeum Fountain, Vespasian Gate, Tyche Temple, and the famous
Side Amphitheatre
.
Most of these sites can be visited free of charge, making it a great way to experience the history of the region.
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Take a Walk Along the Promenades
Side offers several beautiful walking routes. The Old Town area is perfect for exploring ancient streets, while the seaside promenade connects Side with nearby areas such as Kumköy and Evrenseki.
In the evenings, these areas become lively with restaurants, cafés, and bars, creating a relaxed holiday atmosphere.
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Visit Manavgat Town Centre
Manavgat is the main town of the region, located just a short distance from Side. It offers a mix of local shops, cafés, and markets.
The famous Manavgat market is held on Mondays and Thursdays and is one of the best places to experience local shopping culture.
You can also find more information here:
Markets in Side and Manavgat
.
Whether you are looking for relaxing experiences, cultural discoveries, or exciting outdoor activities, Side offers something for every type of traveller.
To make your holiday even more enjoyable, you can explore a wide range of
excursions and activities in Side
and choose the experiences that suit you best.
