Side Mediterranean Coast, Turkey Travel Guide
Dedicated hostels are rare in Side. Some budget guesthouses or small hotels include dormitory-style rooms or very affordable private rooms. More traditional hostel options are common in larger cities like Antalya.
Small, often family-run establishments with basic, clean rooms, sometimes including breakfast. They feature a more local feel and appear frequently in the old town or slightly outside main tourist zones. These suit travelers seeking affordability and a connection to local life.
This category is frequent and varied in Side. Options range from charming boutique hotels nestled within the ancient town to larger, resort-style hotels along beach areas. Many have amenities like swimming pools, on-site restaurants, and often represent good value for money. They suit a broad audience, including couples and small families.
These hotels are abundant along the Side-Manavgat coastline, especially east and west of the ancient peninsula in areas like Kumköy and Titreyengöl. They include extensive facilities: multiple swimming pools, private beaches, different eateries, entertainment programs, and spa services. All-inclusive hotels include meals, drinks, and often some activities within the price.
Some hotels are creatively built into or in the area of historical structures within the ancient city walls. These properties combine modern comfort with an ancient ambiance, creating an unique plus deep experience.
These are self-catering apartments with services at the hotel like cleaning and sometimes a reception. They are a good choice for families, groups, or travelers planning longer stays, with more space and kitchen facilities for self-catering.
Vacation rentals, including apartments and villas, are widely available through platforms like Airbnb and the apartment sections of Booking.com. Local real estate agencies also list properties. These rentals offer more space, privacy, and kitchen facilities, creating a more independent travel style and frequently a dive into local living. They especially suit families or groups who seek a home-like environment.
Homestay options and community-based tourism initiatives are less common directly in Side, a highly developed resort town. These experiences are more prevalent in rural or less tourist-centric areas of The country of turkey, for cultural immersion.
While some organized campsites are in the broader Antalya region, fewer locate directly near Side. These sites mainly serve RVs and tents and usually sit further from the main town center, creating a more rustic experience.
Choosing where to lodge in Side greatly influences your travel experience. Each area delivers a distinct character and different advantages.
All mentioned areas in Side and Manavgat generally are safe for tourists. As with any tourist destination, petty theft, like pickpocketing, might happen in areas with a lot of people like the old city or markets.
Ancient Side Peninsula: Right at the heart of historical attractions. Easy access to dolmuş for Manavgat and further local routes. Kumköy/Titreyengöl: Need dolmuş or taxi to reach ancient Side. They include direct beach access and often have shuttle services to Side. Manavgat: A good hub for intercity buses, but daily travel by dolmuş or taxi to Side and the beaches is necessary.
Ancient Side Peninsula: Can be lively in the evenings with restaurants and bars, especially along the harbor. Daytimes are often busy with tourists. Kumköy/Titreyengöl Resorts: Can be noisy within the resorts due to entertainment programs, but outside the resort complexes, these areas usually have less noise. Manavgat: Experiences typical town noise, but less tourist-centric noise or nightlife compared to Side.
If history matters most, stay near the historic city. For beach relaxation, a resort in Kumköy or Titreyengöl works well.
Side ancient city with harbor and hotels
Smart booking strategies result in the best accommodation and prices for your Side trip.
Negotiating walk-in rates is rare for established hotels, especially larger resorts or chains. Prices are usually fixed. However, for smaller, independent inns or pensions, specifically during the low season, polite negotiation might be possible, especially for multi-night stays. Approach this respectfully.
These vary significantly by hotel and booking platform. Always check the specific policy before confirming your reservation. Many platforms and hotels have free cancellation up to a certain date, giving flexibility. All-inclusive resorts or non-refundable rates often have stricter cancellation policies. Understand these terms.
Accommodation prices peak due to high demand.
Prices decline noticeably during these periods.
The lowest accommodation prices generally appear.
To give you a better sense of choices, here is a comparison table for typical accommodation types in Side. Specific property names are illustrative; research current reviews and availability for your travel dates.
Search for small pensions or guesthouses found in the old town or just outside its immediate center. These offer simpler accommodations often favored by locals.
Hotels that deliver a good balance of comfort and amenities without the luxury price tag. Research properties like "Side Star Beach Hotel" or boutique choices such as "Side Su Hotel" for a pleasant stay.
Numerous 5-star all-inclusive resorts dominate the beachfronts in Kumköy and Titreyengöl. "Barut Hemera" or "Ali Bey Resort Side" are examples, presenting extensive facilities and service.
Many larger all-inclusive resorts in Kumköy and Titreyengöl are specifically for families. They often feature kids' clubs, multiple swimming pools, water parks, family rooms, and devoted entertainment programs. Vacation rentals (apartments or villas) are also excellent for families, presenting more space and the option to self-cater.
For solo travelers, budget guesthouses in the old town offer a more social and walkable experience, simplifying meeting other travelers and exploring on foot. Safety in Side generally is high, creating peace of mind.
Vacation rentals and apart-hotels are ideal for longer stays. They have more space, privacy, and the convenience of kitchen facilities, letting you settle in and experience Side at a slower pace. Many present weekly and monthly pricing.
Some boutique hotels within the ancient city walls or very close to them present a historical ambiance. These places often incorporate traditional architecture or are built around ancient remnants, delivering an unique stay infused with Side's past.
300-600 (per night)
800-2500 (per night)
2500+ (per night)
1000-3000+ (per unit)
Check recent feedback of any accommodation before booking.
Luxury resort pool in Side, Turkey
Unique properties with historical ambiance, often in the old town.
Ideal for groups or extended visits, with more space and kitchen facilities.
Extensive facilities and entertainment, perfect for relaxation.
