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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Mediterranean Coast, Turkey

Iconic Landmarks

Side's ancient ruins are its main draw, delivering a deep dive into its rich past. These sites present a remarkable blend of history and scenic beauty.

Image Reference: Side Roman Theatre and ancient city ruins

Side Ancient City

  • This expansive archaeological site covers the entire peninsula, forming the historical core of Side.
  • Context: Once a major Roman port city in Pamphylia, its ruins tell the story of a prosperous trade and cultural center. Structures include the vast Roman Theatre, the Agora, various Temples, and remnants of city walls.
  • Visitor Information: Much of the ancient city is an open archaeological park, freely accessible for walking. The Theatre and the Side Museum (housed in the Roman Bath complex) have separate entrance fees. Hours vary seasonally, typically extending later in summer.
  • Insider Tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds and the intense midday heat. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, as the terrain is uneven with many ancient stones.

Temples & Theatre

Temple of Apollo and Athena

  • These two prominent Roman temples stand majestically at the very tip of the Side peninsula, directly overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The Temple of Apollo is especially famous for its five reconstructed Corinthian columns, creating an iconic silhouette.
  • Context: Dedicated to the gods Apollo and Athena, who were the patron deities of ancient Side. Their location underscores the city's strong maritime connections and its devotion to these deities.
  • Visitor Information: This area is freely accessible with no entrance fee. It is widely considered the best spot in Side to watch the sunset, as the golden light bathes the ancient columns.
  • Insider Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot for sunset photography. Be careful when walking around the ruins, as surfaces can be uneven.

Side Theatre

  • A large, remarkably well-preserved Roman theatre, originally from the 2nd century AD. It held an impressive capacity, seating between 15,000 and 20,000 spectators.
  • Context: Beyond theatrical performances, the theatre also hosted gladiatorial contests during its Roman heyday. In the Byzantine period, the theatre converted into a fortified settlement, depicting its changing role.
  • Visitor Information: An entrance fee applies (approx. 200 TL as of 2024). It is open daily.
  • Insider Tips: Climb to the very top rows for truly panoramic views of the entire ancient city, the modern town, and the sweeping Mediterranean coastline. The acoustics within the theatre are still impressive.

Image Reference: Side Roman Theatre interior

Museums & Fountains

  • Side Museum: Housed within the beautifully restored Roman Bath complex, the museum displays a collection of artifacts unearthed during archaeological excavations in Side.
  • Context: The museum gives important context to Side's rich history and the broader Pamphylian region. Its exhibits include Roman sculptures, sarcophagi, coins, and items from daily life, presenting a tangible connection to the city's past.
  • Visitor Information: An entrance fee applies (approx. 150 TL as of 2024). It is located near the main gate of the ancient city.
  • Insider Tips: Visit the museum either before or after exploring the outdoor ruins. This lets you better understand the artifacts' original context and appreciate the scale of ancient Side's artistic and engineering achievements.

Nymphaeum Monumental Fountain

  • Structure:

    A grand, multi-tiered fountain situated at the entrance to the ancient city. This impressive structure once received water via an aqueduct system.

  • Context:

    The Nymphaeum is a testament to sophisticated Roman engineering and meticulous urban planning, serving both functional water supply and aesthetic beauty to the ancient city.

  • Visitor Information:

    This site is freely accessible, with no entry fee.

  • Insider Tips:

    Imagine it in its prime, with water cascading down its tiers, making a cooling oasis for ancient inhabitants and travelers.

  • Less crowded times and secret viewpoints:

    Early Morning (before 9 AM): The best time for all outdoor sites to avoid both the largest crowds and the intense midday heat. The light also suits photography. Late Afternoon/Sunset: Especially for the Temple of Apollo, this time delivers breathtaking views and a magical atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon. Side East Beach: This beach, east of the peninsula, presents different views of the ancient city's coastline, often with fewer crowds than the more popular west beach. It allows a peaceful perspective.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

While Side is most celebrated for its outdoor archaeological park, it also presents insights into its past through its local museum.

Museums & Galleries

Major museums with collection highlights:

  • Side Museum:

    Its collection highlights include a range of Hellenistic and Roman sculptures, intricately carved sarcophagi, and everyday artifacts that illuminate the daily life and artistic achievements of ancient Side.

  • Specialized and niche museums:

    Side does not have other significant specialized or niche museums directly within the town. For a larger and more comprehensive archaeological collection, the Antalya Archaeological Museum in Antalya city merits a day trip.

  • Art galleries and exhibition spaces:

    Formal art galleries are limited in Side. However, some hotels or local souvenir shops may display and sell works by local artisans, including ceramics, paintings, and traditional crafts.

Cultural centers and performance venues:

  • The Roman Theatre in Side:

    While mainly an archaeological site, it occasionally hosts cultural events or performances during special occasions, like the Side International Culture & Art Festival. These events make for an unique opportunity to experience a modern performance in an ancient setting.

  • Special exhibits and programming:

    Check with local tourism information centers or your hotel for any temporary exhibits, cultural events, or special programming that might occur during your visit, especially in the summer months.

Ancient City Walls & Gates

Significant remnants of the defensive walls that once encircled ancient Side are still visible. The Vespasian Gate, a monumental arched entrance, is an especially distinguished structure, marking one of the main access points into the ancient city.

Agora & Roman Baths

The ancient marketplace, near the Roman Theatre, was once the bustling commercial and social heart of the city. Its ruins show the outline of shops and public spaces, surrounded by a colonnade. The well-preserved structure now housing the Side Museum originally served as a Roman bath complex, a central feature of Roman social life.

State Agora & Library

Adjacent to the theatre, these are the ruins of a larger public space and what is believed to have been an ancient library, underscoring Side's role as a center of learning.

Byzantine Basilica & Hospital

Ruins from the later Byzantine period, including the remains of an early Christian basilica and what is thought to be an ancient hospital, demonstrate the continuity of settlement and changing religious practices.

  • Early Christian basilica remains.
  • Ancient hospital ruins.
  • Evidence of continuous settlement and changing religious practices.

Historical Sites

Side's peninsula holds dense historical sites, presenting a journey through millennia of human settlement and civilization.

Image Reference: Manavgat Waterfall in Turkey

Historical Districts and Architecture

The entire ancient Side peninsula is a living historical district. It features an unique blend of grand ancient ruins alongside charming, traditional Ottoman-era houses built directly among or on top of ancient foundations. This results in a compelling architectural dialogue between different eras.

Aspects:

  • Architectural Styles: Explore the harmonious coexistence of classical Roman structures and later Ottoman additions.
  • Walkable Heritage: The pedestrianized nature of the old town makes for easy exploration.
  • Echoes of the Past: Every corner reveals a story from Side's long history.

Religious and Spiritual Sites

Side also offers insight into its religious past, showing a blend of faiths throughout history.

Sites:

  • Side Mosque: A modern mosque in the town serves the local Muslim community. Visitors may enter respectfully outside of prayer times, observing appropriate dress codes.
  • Byzantine Basilica: The ruins of an early Christian church within the ancient city present insight into Side's spiritual history before the arrival of Islam.
  • Sacred Spaces: Discover the spiritual layers woven into Side's historical fabric.

Natural Attractions

Beyond its ancient past, Side's natural surroundings present beauty and opportunities for relaxation.

Parks and Gardens:

  • Side Promenade: A well-maintained walking path along the coastline, delivering pleasant green spaces and continuous sea views. It is popular for leisurely strolls.
  • Manavgat Waterfall & Picnic Area: Approximately 10 km from Side, this is a picturesque, low-height waterfall on the Manavgat River. The surrounding area features tea gardens and picnic spots, for a pleasant natural escape.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Sunset at Temple of Apollo presents truly breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Mediterranean Sea, framed by the iconic ancient columns.
  • Side Harbor: Features scenic views of fishing boats, tour boats, and the ancient ruins that line the waterfront, especially beautiful in the golden hours of morning or late afternoon.

Wildlife and Waterways

Explore the natural diversity around Side, from tranquil rivers to stunning beaches.

Wildlife Viewing Areas:

  • Manavgat River: Boat trips on the river can deliver opportunities for bird watching and observing local flora along the riverbanks.
  • Green Canyon (near Manavgat): A stunning reservoir often visited as a day trip. Boat tours on the turquoise waters present a chance to see local wildlife and immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the canyon.
  • Beaches, lakes, and waterways: Side West Beach, Side East Beach, Manavgat River, Lake Titreyengöl all offer unique experiences.

Hidden Gems

Off-the-beaten-path attractions:

  • Ancient Aqueducts: Parts of the impressive Roman aqueduct system that once supplied water to ancient Side can be found outside the main ancient city area. These scattered ruins illustrate the scale of Roman engineering and are often explored without crowds.
  • Ruins beyond the main tourist path: Venture further into the ancient city, away from the immediate vicinity of the theatre and temples. You can discover less prominent ruins like the ancient hospital, residential areas, or parts of the city walls that offer a more solitary exploration experience.

Local favorites rarely visited by tourists:

  • Manavgat Local Market: While generally known, many tourists stick to Side. The Manavgat market (Mondays and Thursdays) presents a genuine, bustling local experience. It is where locals shop for produce, textiles, and household goods, providing a true slice of Turkish life.
  • Side Sualtı Müzesi (Underwater Museum of Side): This unique museum is accessible only via diving or snorkeling tours. It features a collection of statues and artifacts deliberately placed underwater, delivering a distinct cultural experience for divers and snorkelers.

Natural Attractions

Beyond its ancient past, Side's natural surroundings present beauty and opportunities for relaxation.

Scenic Viewpoints

This spot presents truly breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Mediterranean Sea, framed by the iconic ancient columns. It is a photographers' dream.

Side Harbor

Features scenic views of fishing boats, tour boats, and the ancient ruins that line the waterfront, especially beautiful in the golden hours of morning or late afternoon.

Manavgat Waterfall

Approximately 10 km from Side, this is a picturesque, low-height waterfall on the Manavgat River. The surrounding area features tea gardens and picnic spots, for a pleasant natural escape.

Explore Local Nature

Wildlife Viewing Areas

Manavgat River: Boat trips on the river can deliver opportunities for bird watching and observing local flora along the riverbanks.

Discover Boat Trips

Green Canyon

A stunning reservoir often visited as a day trip. Boat tours on the turquoise waters present a chance to see local wildlife and immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the canyon.

Explore Green Canyon

Side West Beach

A long, sandy beach with calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for families. It hosts numerous resorts, beach clubs, and water sports facilities.

Find Beachfront Hotels

Side East Beach

Generally quieter and less developed than West Beach, with a more tranquil atmosphere. It also presents some beach clubs and views towards the ancient ruins.

Book Quiet Stays

Lake Titreyengöl

A small, scenic lake located just east of Side, popular for peaceful walks around its perimeter and bird watching.

Discover Nature Tours

Emerging Destinations

Explore beyond the main tourist circuit for unique perspectives.

Selge Ancient City Altınkaya:

  • A more remote and challenging ancient city located high in the Taurus Mountains.
  • It delivers dramatic ruins, including a well-preserved theatre, set against stunning mountain views.
  • This necessitates a dedicated trip and some hiking.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture breathtaking and distinctive images in Side's beautiful settings.

Picture-Perfect Spots:

  • Sunrise at East Beach: Capture the ancient ruins silhouetted against the morning light, a quieter and often more dramatic scene than sunset.
  • Local Fishing Boats: The colorful fishing boats at Side harbor present charming photo subjects, especially in the early morning as fishermen prepare for their day.
  • The "Face" in the Theatre: From certain angles, the worn stones of the Roman Theatre's seating can appear to form a human face, a quirky photo opportunity for observant visitors.

Hidden Gems Tip

Walk along Side East Beach in the morning for a quieter experience and beautiful views of the ancient ruins from a different angle.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the main tourist circuit, Side and its surroundings hold lesser-known spots that present unique perspectives and quieter experiences.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

These sites offer a glimpse into Side's past away from the crowds.

Explore Further:

  • Ancient Aqueducts: Parts of the impressive Roman aqueduct system that once supplied water to ancient Side can be found outside the main ancient city area. These scattered ruins illustrate the scale of Roman engineering and are often explored without crowds.
  • Ruins beyond the main tourist path: Venture further into the ancient city, away from the immediate vicinity of the theatre and temples. You can discover less prominent ruins like the ancient hospital, residential areas, or parts of the city walls that offer a more solitary exploration experience.

Local Favorites

Experience authentic local life and unique cultural insights.

Discover True Side:

  • Manavgat Local Market: While generally known, many tourists stick to Side. The Manavgat market (Mondays and Thursdays) presents a genuine, bustling local experience. It is where locals shop for produce, textiles, and household goods, providing a true slice of Turkish life.
  • Side Sualtı Müzesi (Underwater Museum of Side): This unique museum is accessible only via diving or snorkeling tours. It features a collection of statues and artifacts deliberately placed underwater, delivering a distinct cultural experience for divers and snorkelers.

Emerging Destinations

For those seeking more adventure and isolation, new experiences await.

Selge Ancient City Altınkaya:

  • A more remote and challenging ancient city located high in the Taurus Mountains.
  • It delivers dramatic ruins, including a well-preserved theatre, set against stunning mountain views.
  • This necessitates a dedicated trip and some hiking.

A true remote adventure for the avid explorer.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture memorable images at these distinct locations.

Best Photo Spots:

  • Sunrise at East Beach: Capture the ancient ruins silhouetted against the morning light.
  • Local Fishing Boats: The colorful fishing boats at Side harbor present charming photo subjects.

Capture the essence of Side through your lens.

The "Face" in the Theatre

Discover a quirky natural phenomenon within the Roman Theatre.

A Unique Feature:

  • From certain angles, the worn stones of the Roman Theatre's seating can appear to form a human face.
  • A quirky photo opportunity for observant visitors.

Look closely for this hidden detail.

Overall Sightseeing Summary

Historical Depth

Side offers a journey through millennia of human settlement and civilization.

Natural Beauty

The region presents stunning landscapes from beaches to mountains.

Unique Finds

Beyond main attractions, discover lesser-known spots and photo opportunities.

Planning Your Visit

For attraction tickets and tours, visit GetYourGuide.com for convenient booking.
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