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There are an array of things to do in Turkey, with Side sharing quite a few of those!
Side is a hidden treasure trove waiting to be discovered, with a multitude of experiences and sights that will leave you awestruck.
From walking hand in hand along the tranquil beaches to exploring the ancient ruins that whisper tales of a bygone era, Side is a destination that caters to all.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Side promises to weave its magic and leave you enchanted.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Side:
1. Temple of Apollo
Temple of Apollo is a ruin of an ancient temple located in Side, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk around the outside of the temple and admire the well-preserved architecture. There is also a beautiful view of the sea from the temple’s location.
Don’t miss: Be sure to wander through the ruins of the agora, the ancient city marketplace, as well as the nearby theater.
Insider travel tips: If possible, visit the temple early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds and the heat of the day.
Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the ancient ruins.
2. Side Beach
A beautiful sandy beach located in the town of Side, Turkey.
What to see or do: Swim in the crystal clear waters, sunbathe on the beach, enjoy water sports activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.
Take a stroll along the beach promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Don’t miss: The ancient ruins of Side’s Roman amphitheater, temple of Apollo and Athena, and the ancient city walls that date back to 7th BC.
Insider travel tips: Visit Side Beach during off-peak times to avoid crowds and have more space to relax. Many of the beachfront restaurants and cafes offer discount prices for lunchtime specials.
Be sure to bring your own towel, sunscreen, and water as beach amenities may be limited. Don’t be afraid to haggle with the beach vendors for a better price on activities or souvenirs.
3. Side Theater
A well-known ancient Roman theater located in the city of Side, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the well-preserved theater, which dates back to the 2nd century AD, and admire the impressive architecture and its 20,000 seating capacity.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea from the top rows of the theater and the opportunity to attend a live performance or concert during the summer season.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat of the day.
Also, consider bringing sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes for walking around the ancient ruins.
4. Side Museum
The Side Museum is a historical museum located in the ancient city of Side in Antalya, Turkey.
What to see or do: The museum houses a collection of artifacts and displays from the Roman era and the Byzantine era. Visitors can see pieces of sculptures, inscriptions, ceramics, and other objects that were discovered during excavations in the region.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the famous Vespasianus Titus Tunnel, an ancient water supply system built during the Roman period.
Visitors can walk through the tunnel and marvel at the impressive engineering of the past.
Insider travel tips:
5. Manavgat Waterfall
Manavgat waterfall is a natural wonder located in the town of Manavgat, approximately 5 km from the popular tourist destination, Side.
What to see or do: Marvel at the impressive cascade of water falling from a height of up to 4 meters, forming a beautiful pool below.
There are several observation decks and walking paths from where you can enjoy the view and take stunning photos.
Don’t miss: Take a refreshing swim in the cool waters of the pool, surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning scenery.
You can also enjoy a boat ride at the waterfall’s base to experience a unique perspective and get sprayed by the mist of the falls.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the waterfall early in the morning to avoid the crowds and have a more tranquil experience.
6. Köprülü Canyon National Park
Köprülü Canyon National Park is a stunning natural reserve located in Side, Turkey. The park offers an array of outdoor activities while being surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
What to see or do: Take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Köprüçay River, which is perfect for white water rafting. Hiking the trails through the canyon provides an opportunity to enjoy the stunning views and wildlife.
Köprülü Canyon National Park is a popular destination for camping, swimming, and canoeing.
Don’t miss: The Roman Oluklu Bridge, a 2000-year-old structure that adds to the stunning scenery and provides an insight into the area’s rich history.
Be sure to take time to explore the ancient ruins in the area, including the ancient city of Selge.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, it is recommended to visit the park between May and October, when the weather is warm and the river is running.
Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as summers in the area can be quite hot. It is also recommended to book activities in advance to ensure availability and to avoid disappointment.
7. Side Harbor
Side Harbor is a charming fishing village located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey.
What to see or do: – Take a stroll along the picturesque harbor lined with colorful fishing boats.
Don’t miss: The sunset over the harbor is absolutely breathtaking.
Make sure to grab a seat at one of the waterfront cafes and enjoy the view with a cup of traditional Turkish tea.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re looking for a quiet vacation, avoid the peak tourist season in July and August.
8. Titreyengol
Titreyengol is a resort town located near Side on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey.
What to see or do: Relax on the stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters.
Don’t miss: The sunset on the beach is spectacular. Make sure to bring a camera to capture the moment.
Insider travel tips: Book a hotel near the beach to have easy access to the sea and stunning views.
9. Green Canyon
Green Canyon is a stunning 12-kilometer-long gorge located near the town of Manavgat, about 20 minutes from the popular seaside resort of Side in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors to Green Canyon can take a leisurely boat trip along the emerald green waters of the canyon, surrounded by beautiful greenery and magnificent rock formations.
The boat trip takes around two hours and is a peaceful and relaxing way to enjoy the stunning scenery.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to jump into the cool, crystal clear water of the canyon and take a refreshing swim.
The boat will stop at a few different points during the trip, and visitors can take a dip in the inviting water.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to bring sun protection such as hats and sunscreen, as well as plenty of drinking water.
10. Side Antique City
Side Antique City is an archaeological gem located on the southern coast of Turkey known for its well-preserved Roman ruins.
What to see or do: There are plenty of hidden wonders to explore in this ancient city, including the Side Amphitheatre, the Temple of Apollo, and the ancient ruins of the city walls.
Visitors can also enjoy a stroll around the charming cobblestone streets or relax on the stunning beaches.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the beautiful Side Museum, which houses fascinating artifacts from the ancient Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Be sure to check out the stunning mosaics and murals in the museum’s exhibition halls.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit Side Antique City early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Wear comfortable shoes as some of the paths can be uneven, and bring sunscreen and a hat, especially during the summer months.
Don’t forget to haggle with vendors if you plan on shopping in the local markets.
11. Roman Ruins of Perge
Ancient Roman ruins located in the cities of Perge and Side in Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore the extensive ruins of Perge, which includes a stadium, an agora, a theatre, and a bathhouse. In Side, visit the well-preserved amphitheater, the ancient city walls, and the Temple of Apollo.
Don’t miss: The stunning Greco-Roman architecture and intricate mosaics in Perge’s bathhouse, as well as the beautiful sea views from Side’s amphitheatre.
Insider travel tips: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the ruins can get hot and there is not much shade.
Consider hiring a knowledgeable guide to learn more about the history and culture of the area and wear comfortable walking shoes.
12. Side Agora
Side Agora is an ancient marketplace located in the coastal town of Side, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the extensive ruins of the agora, which was once the center of commercial activity in the city.
Highlights include the remains of a monumental gateway, the stoa (a covered walkway), a large seating area that was used for public speeches, and the Byzantine basilica.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the statues and inscriptions that have been excavated from the agora and are on display in Side’s archaeological museum.
These artifacts provide insight into the daily lives and religious beliefs of the ancient residents of Side.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Side Agora is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
13. Evrenseki Beach
Evrenseki Beach is a popular sandy beach located on the southern coast of Turkey, near the ancient city of Side.
What to see or do: The beach provides a wide range of activities to visitors, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing and banana-boating.
There are also a number of beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy some refreshing drinks or a delicious meal.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a walk along the picturesque promenade, explore the nearby pine forests or watch a spectacular sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.
Insider travel tips: – If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, visit the beach early in the morning or during the week when it’s less crowded.