12 Best Things to Do in Side

Nestled on Turkey’s stunning southern Mediterranean coast, the historic seaside city of Side offers a captivating blend of sun-soaked beaches and ancient history. Once a crucial ancient port city, today Side (pronounced See-deh) is an irresistible holiday resort that enchants visitors with its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and remarkably preserved ruins. Whether you’re a history buff eager to walk through Roman temples, a nature lover looking to explore canyons and waterfalls, or a family seeking sun and adventure, Side has something for everyone.

This charming town, located in the Antalya Province about 75 kilometers from Antalya Airport, is a unique destination where modern resort life meets ancient wonders. Its name, derived from the ancient Anatolian word for pomegranate, symbolizes fertility and abundance a fitting description for a place so rich in experiences. If you’re planning a trip to Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, here are the 12 best things to do in Side.

Explore the Iconic Temple of Apollo at Sunset

Easily the most iconic destination in Side, the Temple of Apollo is a breathtaking sight that feels like something from a dream. Located right on the coast, this stunning Roman temple was dedicated to Apollo, the god of the sun, music, and light. Dating back nearly 2,000 years, its elegant white marble columns still stand majestically against the Mediterranean Sea.

Adjacent to it is the Temple of Athena, dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and art, featuring symbolic engravings of pomegranates, which were considered sacred. While the ruins are impressive at any time of day, they are particularly magical at sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the golden light bathes the ancient columns, creating a perfect, romantic photo opportunity. After dark, the nearby Apollo nightclub offers music and dancing.

Wander Through the Charm of Side Old Town

Side’s Old Town is a National Heritage site often described as a living “open-air museum”. This traffic-free neighborhood is made for wandering, with historic architecture, ancient city walls, temples, and fountains blending seamlessly with modern life. As you stroll through its labyrinthine, cobblestone streets, you’ll discover a vibrant mix of shops, cozy cafes, and enticing restaurants.

The Old Town is flanked by two main beaches, creating a romantic backdrop for any vacation. It’s the perfect place to shop for local products and souvenirs like handmade crafts, leather goods, and colorful lamps, or simply soak in the atmosphere of a place where centuries of history are etched into every stone.

Step Back in Time at the Side Amphitheatre

A testament to the ingenuity of Roman society, the Side Amphitheatre is another of the city’s famous and unmissable ruins. This massive Greek-style amphitheater is one of the largest in the ancient Pamphylia region, once capable of seating between 15,000 and 20,000 spectators.

In ancient times, this was the center of society, where people gathered to watch everything from dramatic stage plays to fierce gladiator fights. Today, you can stand where ancient warriors and poets once stood and imagine life in a different era. Just east of the amphitheater, you can also explore the ancient Agora, or marketplace, which is part of the same easily walkable archaeological area.

Go Whitewater Rafting in Köprülü Canyon

For the ultimate outdoor adventure, venture about 90 minutes from Side to Köprülü Canyon National Park. This ruggedly beautiful park is famous for its incredible whitewater rafting experience on the river’s emerald-green waters. A full-day rafting trip offers a thrilling mix of gentle and medium-level rapids, making it exciting yet suitable for beginners.

As you paddle through the dramatic canyon surrounded by high cliffs and pine forests, you can also take breaks to swim in the cool water or even climb parts of the canyon. Most tours include a hearty local lunch, such as grilled trout or kebabs, served right by the river. Be prepared to get wet and muddy—it’s all part of the fun.

Discover History at the Side Museum

Perfect for history lovers, the Side Museum is housed in a unique and historic location: a meticulously restored Roman bathhouse (the Agora Bath) that dates back nearly 2,000 years. This fascinating museum showcases a rich collection of artifacts discovered during excavations around the city.

Inside its various rooms and courtyard, you can admire antiquities from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods, including impressive stone statues, ornate sarcophagi, marble coffins, and delicate glass and bronze pieces. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of nearly 10,000 ancient coins.

Unwind with a Traditional Turkish Bath (Hammam)

A visit to Turkey wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a Hammam, or Turkish bath, and Side is well known for providing this timeless tradition. This is a deeply rejuvenating experience for the mind, body, and soul, set in a serene spa atmosphere.

During a Turkish bath, a wellness guide pampers you with a full-body massage and sometimes even a hair wash, leaving you feeling refreshed and renewed. It’s an authentic cultural experience and the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring ancient ruins. Keep in mind that traditional hammams in Side are often separated by gender.

See the Majestic Manavgat Waterfall

Just a 15-minute drive from Side, the Manavgat Waterfall is arguably the most impressive natural wonder the area has to offer. This is one of the most visited waterfalls in Turkey, known not for its height but for being a beautiful, low waterfall that spreads across a wide area.

The site is popular for picnics, with several tea gardens, cafes, and seating areas arranged along a promenade where you can relax to the sound of the crashing water. While swimming is not permitted near the falls themselves, there are designated swimming areas in other parts of the Manavgat River. You can also arrive in style via a boat tour on the river.

Take a Relaxing Boat Trip to the Green Canyon

For a day of adventure in a stunning natural setting, take a boat trip to the Green Canyon. This picturesque valley is famous for its rich, green waters and beautiful landscapes, offering a variety of outdoor activities.

You can take a scenic cruise down the river, swim in the cool waters, go kayaking, or even join a jeep safari that explores the area around the canyon. Many tours are full-day excursions that include lunch and unlimited drinks, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this peaceful environment.

Relax and Play on Side’s Beautiful Beaches

Side is renowned for its beautiful golden shores and pristine beaches. The town has two main beaches, each with a different character.

West Beach has shallow, warm water, making it perfectly safe and ideal for families with children. It’s flatter, has more resorts, and offers a wide range of water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

East Beach is longer, wider, quieter, and more rugged. The water here can be rougher, but it runs along archaeological ruins and is close to the Temple of Apollo, offering a more scenic and historic setting.

Dive into History at the Side Underwater Museum

For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, scuba dive at the Side Underwater Museum, the only one of its kind in Europe. Located in the clear, turquoise waters off the coast of Manavgat, this diving spot is suitable even for beginners and requires no prior experience.

Beneath the surface, you will discover a fascinating world where history and nature merge. The seabed is home to around 110 sculptures inspired by Anatolian heritage, including replicas of mythological figures and cultural icons. It’s an incredible opportunity to see vibrant marine life making its home among submerged works of art.

Go on a Dolphin Watching Cruise

Setting sail on a dolphin-watching cruise is one of the most fun and family-friendly things you can do in Side. Take a break from the historic city center and head out to the Mediterranean Sea to enjoy the sun and see the many dolphins that live in the surrounding waters.

Boat tours often take you to “Dolphin Island” and provide opportunities for swimming in the clean river of Manavgat, enjoying lunch on a yacht, and other entertainment. For the best chance of spotting these playful creatures, plan your trip between May and July.

Discover the Lost Ancient City of Seleukeia (Lyrbe)

Escape the crowds and step into a forgotten world at the ancient city of Seleukeia, now widely believed to be the ruins of Lyrbe. Located just 30 minutes from Side, these atmospheric ruins are perched on a hilltop surrounded by pine forests, offering a peaceful blend of history and nature.

As you explore this uncrowded and free-to-visit site, you’ll find the remains of fortification walls, a surprisingly well-preserved agora (marketplace), temples, churches, a Roman bath, and a mausoleum. The hilltop location also provides stunning panoramic views over the plains of Manavgat.

FAQs

1. What is Side known for?

Side is famous for its unique blend of stunning Mediterranean beaches and well-preserved ancient Roman ruins. Key attractions include the iconic Temple of Apollo, a large Roman amphitheater, and a charming Old Town, which is often described as an “open-air museum”.

2. Is Side worth visiting?

Yes, Side is considered a fantastic holiday destination that offers a rich mix of history, culture, and beautiful beaches. It has a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling nearby city of Antalya, making it an ideal spot for travelers looking for both relaxation and exploration.

3. Is Side good for families?

Side is a perfect destination for families with children. It offers safe, sandy beaches with shallow water, particularly West Beach. There are also numerous family-friendly activities available, such as boat trips, water parks, and opportunities to swim with dolphins.

4. How do you get to Side?

The most common way to reach Side is by flying into Antalya Airport (AYT), which is the nearest airport. From there, it is about a 75-kilometer (47-mile) drive that takes approximately an hour. You can complete the journey from the airport via shuttle, taxi, or rental car.

5. What is the best time to visit?

The ideal times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm, the sea is suitable for swimming, and there are fewer tourists. Summer is very hot and crowded, while winter is quiet and too cool for beach activities.