Side, Turkey: Ancient Ruins, Beaches & Things to Do

Side is one of Turkey’s most interesting coastal destinations, where ancient ruins sit directly alongside sandy beaches and the Mediterranean Sea.

The small peninsula combines archaeological sites, a walkable old town, restaurants and a classic Turkish beach-holiday atmosphere. It is also a convenient base for exploring other attractions around Antalya.

Where Is Side?

Side is in Antalya Province on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, around 70–75 km east of Antalya Airport.

The historic centre sits on a small peninsula surrounded by the Mediterranean, with long beaches extending along both sides.

How to Get to Side

From Antalya Airport

Antalya Airport is the main airport for Side. The journey generally takes around 1–1.5 hours, depending on traffic and your exact hotel.

You can travel by taxi, bus, shuttle or private transfer. A private transfer is particularly convenient if you are travelling with luggage or going directly to your hotel.

Best Things to Do in Side

1. See the Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo is Side's most recognisable landmark.

The remaining columns stand at the end of the ancient peninsula overlooking the Mediterranean. The site is particularly beautiful around sunset.

2. Explore the Ancient Theatre

Side's ancient theatre is one of the largest surviving Roman theatres in the region.

The impressive structure once held thousands of spectators and is one of the main archaeological attractions in the old town.

3. Visit Side Museum

Side Museum is located inside a restored Roman bath and contains sculptures, sarcophagi, inscriptions and other archaeological finds from the surrounding area.

It is relatively small, making it easy to combine with a visit to the ancient city.

4. Spend Time on the Beaches

Side has two main beaches on either side of the historic peninsula.

West Beach is popular with families and has generally calm, shallow water.

East Beach is longer and has more space, beach facilities and water sports.

5. Walk Through Side Old Town

One of the most enjoyable things about Side is simply walking around the old town.

Ancient columns, walls and other remains appear alongside restaurants, shops and cafés. The mixture of modern holiday life and ancient ruins gives Side much of its character.

6. Visit Manavgat Waterfall

Manavgat Waterfall is a short drive from Side and makes an easy half-day excursion.

The waterfall is surrounded by a riverside area with cafés, restaurants and places to sit and enjoy the scenery.

7. Take a Boat Trip

Boat trips from the Side area offer a chance to spend the day away from the busy beaches.

Depending on the route, trips can include swimming stops, caves, coastal views and lunch on board.

8. Visit Aspendos

The ancient city of Aspendos is one of the best day trips from Side.

Its enormous Roman theatre is particularly impressive and remains remarkably well preserved. The site can easily be combined with other attractions around the Antalya region.

Best Beaches in Side

• West Beach – Calm water, plenty of facilities and a good choice for families.
• East Beach – Longer and generally less sheltered, with more space for beach activities.
• Kumköy Beach – A popular sandy beach west of Side with hotels and restaurants nearby.
• Çolaklı Beach – A long sandy coastline surrounded by large resort hotels.

Where to Stay in Side

Side Old Town – Best for atmosphere, restaurants, historic sights and being within walking distance of the beach.

West Beach – Convenient for families and travellers wanting easy access to the sea and town.

East Beach – A good choice for larger resorts and beach facilities.

Kumköy & Çolaklı – Mainly larger resort hotels and all-inclusive accommodation, ideal for a traditional beach holiday.

Where to Eat in Side

Side has a mixture of traditional Turkish restaurants, seafood restaurants and international options.

The harbour and old town are particularly popular for evening dining.

Look for Turkish meze, grilled fish, kebabs, pide and fresh seafood if you want to try local flavours.

Best Time to Visit Side

April–May: Warm weather and comfortable conditions for exploring the ruins.

June: Hot and excellent for swimming.

July–August: Very hot and the busiest period.

September–October: Warm sea temperatures with more comfortable conditions for sightseeing.

November–March: Much quieter, with mild but less reliable beach weather.

For combining beaches and sightseeing, May, June, September and October are particularly good choices.

Getting Around Side

Walking – The historic peninsula is compact and easiest to explore on foot.

Dolmuş – Connects Side with Manavgat and surrounding areas.

Taxi – Useful for longer journeys and hotels outside the old town.

Bicycle – A practical option for exploring the coastline and nearby areas.

Private transfer – Convenient for airport journeys.

Side Travel Tips

• Visit the ancient ruins earlier in the day during summer.
• Sunset at the Temple of Apollo is worth seeing.
• Bring comfortable shoes because there is plenty of walking on uneven ancient surfaces.
• The old town becomes particularly busy on summer evenings.
• Carry some cash for smaller shops and restaurants.
• Consider combining Side with Aspendos or Manavgat for a full day of exploring.

Getting to Antalya Airport

When your holiday is over, allow enough time for the journey to Antalya Airport, particularly during the busy summer season.

If you prefer to arrange your airport journey in advance, TTTurs offers private transfers between Side and Antalya Airport and other destinations across Turkey.