Side-Turkey.

Side is one of those rare places where you can stroll between 2,000-year-old Roman columns one minute and dip your toes in the Mediterranean the next. Sitting on a small peninsula in the Manavgat district of Antalya, this old town wears its history openly — the ancient ruins are woven right through the modern streets, shops and cafés. As a direct local operator based here on the Turkish Riviera, the Murat Atalay team put together this honest, practical guide to the best things to do in Side, so you can plan a day that actually fits the place.

Walk the Open-Air Ancient City

The single best thing about Side is that most of the ancient city is simply there to walk through. The ruins are spread across the old town and are largely open-air, so you can wander the colonnaded streets, the agora and the monumental Vespasian gate at your own pace.

The Temple of Apollo at Sunset

The Temple of Apollo is the icon of Side — Roman columns standing right by the sea, dating to roughly the 2nd century AD. Come at golden hour and you'll see why every photo of Side looks like this spot. Early morning is just as lovely and far quieter.

The Ancient Theatre & Side Museum

The Roman theatre is one of the largest in the region and genuinely impressive up close. The Side Museum, housed in a beautifully restored Roman bath, displays statues and finds from the area. Note that the museum and certain sites may charge a separate entrance fee — please check the official site for current tickets and hours.

Beaches, Old Town & Slow Evenings

Side isn't only ruins. The peninsula has sandy stretches on both sides, so you can pair a morning of history with an afternoon swim. The old town's lanes are full of family-run restaurants and shops; evenings here are relaxed, with the harbour lit up and the temple glowing against the dark water.

Day Trips & Guided Tours from Side

Side makes an excellent base. From here you can reach Manavgat Waterfall and river boat trips, jeep safaris into the Taurus foothills, rafting on the Köprülü Canyon, boat tours along the coast, and quad or buggy adventures. If you'd like any of these as a guided excursion, pick-up, duration and inclusions are confirmed at booking.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Self-guided; the open-air old town is free to walk at your own pace. For any guided excursion, duration is confirmed at booking.
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking.
• Includes: Open-air access to the ancient streets, agora and temple area.
• Excludes: Side Museum and certain site entrance fees (separate — check the official site); food and drinks.
• Family Friendly: Yes — flat old-town walking, easy for most ages.
• Best Season: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather; visit at sunset or early morning year-round.
• Difficulty: Easy, mostly level walking on stone streets (wear comfortable shoes).

Related Excursions

• Tours & things to do in Side
• Antalya excursions
• Alanya day trips
• Kemer tours
• Belek activities
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Side ancient city free to enter?

Most of the ancient ruins are open-air and free to walk through, as they're woven into the old town. The Side Museum and certain sites may charge a separate fee — check the official site for current prices.

When is the best time to visit the Temple of Apollo?

Sunset (golden hour) is the classic choice for photos, while early morning is quieter and equally beautiful.

Where exactly is Side?

Side sits on a small peninsula in the Manavgat district of Antalya province, on the Mediterranean coast.

How much time do I need in Side?

A relaxed half-day covers the main ruins, temple and museum; many visitors stay into the evening for dinner in the old town.

Is Side good for families?

Yes. The old town is flat and walkable, and there are beaches on both sides of the peninsula.

Are there guided tours and day trips from Side?

Yes — waterfalls, jeep safaris, rafting, boat tours and more. Pick-up and details are confirmed at booking.

Do I need to book the museum in advance?

We can't quote museum tickets or hours here — please check the official site for the latest information.

Ready to make the most of Side? Book your excursions direct with the Murat Atalay team — no agency or OTA commission, just a best-price guarantee and local people who actually know the area. Message us on WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com and we'll help you plan it.