Side Mediterranean Coast, Turkey Travel Guide
Morning (9 AM): Arrive at Antalya Airport (AYT). Take a pre-booked private transfer directly to Side (about AN hour travel time). Check into a lodging located in or very near the Ancient Side area. Late Morning (11 IN the morning): Explore the Side Ancient City. Focus on the most iconic sites: the grand From the roman era Theatre and the adjacent Agora.
Lunch (1 PM): Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at one of the charming restaurants lining the Side Harbor, taking in the bustling atmosphere and sea views. Afternoon (3 PM): Walk to the tip of the peninsula to visit the Temple of Apollo and Athena. After, relax briefly on Side East Beach or Side West Beach. Late Afternoon (5 PM): Visit the Side Museum, housed in the roman-era Bath complex.
A focused plan for a short break.
Morning: Arrive in Side, check into your accommodation. Dedicate the morning to exploring the core of the Side Ancient City, including the Roman Theatre, Agora, Temples, and Side Museum. Afternoon: Head to Side West Beach. Relax on the sand, swim in the calm waters, or try some water sports. Evening: Experience sunset at the Temple of Apollo, followed by a delightful dinner at a restaurant in the scenic Side Harbor.
Morning: Take a short dolmuş ride to Manavgat. Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing boat trip on the Manavgat River, or take an excursion to the stunning Green Canyon for scenic views and tranquility. Evening: Dine at a traditional Turkish restaurant in Manavgat for a more local experience, or return to Side for dinner.
Morning: Make a day trip to the ancient Roman city of Aspendos to see its remarkably preserved theatre, and optionally visit the extensive ruins of Perge. Afternoon: Relax at your accommodation pool or enjoy another few hours at the beach. Consider a traditional Turkish Hamam experience for relaxation. Evening: Enjoy a final dinner in Side before your departure.
This longer duration adds more exploration. Think about adding a 2-3 day trip to Pamukkale/Hierapolis, and dedicate another 3 days to explore Cappadocia for unique landscapes and hot air balloon rides. Alternatively, spend more time uncovering secluded beaches and nature green spaces in Antalya Province, or visit Alanya further east.
For those planning an extended visit (a month or more), consider renting a self-catering apartment or villa in Side or Manavgat. This creates a slower pace, immersion into local life, and extensive exploration of the region and beyond. Winter months often have attractive long-stay rates.
Rent an apartment or villa for a more local living experience.
Enjoy a relaxed pace and immersion into daily life.
Winter months often present very attractive long-stay rates.
Tailor your itinerary to specific interests: history, culinary, adventure, family fun, art, or wellness.
Spend ample time in Side Ancient City, revisiting the Roman Theatre, Agora, and Temples. Explore the Side Museum at detail. Plan day trips to Aspendos (for its theatre) and Perge (for its extensive city ruins). For the adventurous, a trip to the remote mountain city of Selge has dramatic ruins and an unique historical experience.
Dine at various Side harbor seafood restaurants for fresh catch. Dedicate a day to the Manavgat local market for local produce, spices, and street food. Seek out traditional lokantas in Manavgat for authentic, budget-friendly Turkish dishes. Try a variety of street foods like döner, simit, and midye dolma. If available, participate in a Turkish cooking class.
Experience the thrill of white water rafting at Köprülü Canyon. Join a Jeep Safari or Quad Safari into the Taurus Mountains for off-road exploration. Try underwater diving to explore the underwater gallery or local dive sites. Consider paragliding (available near Alanya or Antalya).
Enjoy plenty of beach days on Side's sandy shores. Many resorts have excellent water parks and kids' clubs. Visit the scenic Manavgat Waterfall and experience a picnic. Take a relaxing Green Canyon boat trip. Explore the Side Ancient City, perhaps focusing on the fun aspects like the Roman Theatre.
Study the impressive Roman Theatre in Side and Aspendos. Admire the old city architecture and urban planning. Explore the sculptures and artifacts in the Side Museum. Look for local artisan workshops selling ceramics or traditional crafts.
Indulge in traditional Turkish Hamam experiences for cleansing and relaxation. Enjoy quiet walks on Side East Beach and contemplate sunrise or sunset at the Temple of Apollo. Some resorts may offer yoga or meditation sessions for further tranquility.
Optimize costs and discover Side's unique charm throughout the year.
Accommodation in budget guesthouses. Rely almost exclusively on the inexpensive dolmuş system for all local travel. Prioritize street food and dining at local lokantas in Manavgat. Self-cater some meals by buying groceries from the Manavgat market. Focus on free attractions like walking around the ancient Side peninsula and enjoying the beaches. Pay only for low-cost entry fees for museums or specific sites.
Stay in comfortable 3-4 star hotels, balancing amenities with cost. Use a mix of dolmuş for most travel and occasional taxis for convenience. Enjoy meals at mid-range restaurants, trying a variety of Turkish dishes. Include 1-2 organized day trips to sites like Aspendos/Perge or a boat trip.
Opt for 5-star all-inclusive resorts, leading to maximum comfort and amenities. Arrange private airport transfers and take cabs or personal drivers for all travel. Indulge in fine dining experiences within your resort or at upscale restaurants in Side. Book private guided tours, enjoy spa treatments, and consider luxury boat trips or private excursions.
Summer (June-August) brings peak beach and water sports. The the sea itself is warm, and all beach clubs and aquatic activities centers are fully operational. Experience lively nightlife with numerous bars and nightclubs open until late. Outdoor festivals and concerts, including the Side International Culture & Art Festival (sometimes extends in early October), add to the atmosphere.
Winter (November-March) is ideal for quiet historical exploration without crowds or intense heat. Prices for flights and accommodation are significantly lower. There is more focus on indoor activities like visiting the Side Museum or enjoying a traditional Hamam for relaxation plus cultural immersion.
Embrace the quiet and savor the historical sites with fewer people. This season is perfect for leisurely walks through ancient ruins without the summer crowds.
Be aware that many seasonal resorts and restaurants will be closed; confirm operational status for your chosen accommodation. Prepare for cooler, potentially rainy weather, and pack accordingly.
