Side-Turkey.

Most visitors to Side rush straight to the famous coastal temples, but a short drive into the hills behind Manavgat hides one of the Turkish Riviera's quietest treasures: the ancient city often called Seleukeia, and more correctly known today as Lyrbe. Tucked deep inside a fragrant pine forest, its ruins sit almost untouched by crowds. Walking here feels less like sightseeing and more like stumbling onto a city the world forgot. This is the kind of place we love sharing as a direct local operator who actually lives on this coast.

Why Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Feels Different

Unlike the polished, busy sites along the shore, Lyrbe is reached by a winding road into the wooded hills near Bucakseyhler, north of Manavgat. The forest does something unusual to a ruin: it softens it. Sunlight filters through the pines and falls across fallen columns and weathered stone, and on most days you may have long stretches of the site entirely to yourself. There are no big tour buses idling outside, no rows of souvenir stalls. It is one of the rare ancient cities near Side where silence is part of the experience.

Seleukeia or Lyrbe? A Genuine Mystery

The name itself is a small piece of archaeology. For decades the site was published as Seleukeia, a name that stuck on maps and signs. But research suggests the real Seleukeia of Pamphylia, a harbour city, probably lay elsewhere, west of Side, and that these forest ruins are more likely the city of Lyrbe. The on-site signage now reflects this debate. We mention both names so you are not confused when you see them used interchangeably online and on the ground.

What You Can Actually See

The star of Lyrbe is its agora (marketplace), widely described as one of the best-preserved examples in the whole Pamphylia region. The two-storey structure with its surviving columns is genuinely striking, especially framed by trees. Beyond the agora you can wander past the remains of a bathhouse (hamam), cisterns, temples, sections of city wall and the outlines of old houses. The visible stonework spans Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods. Serious excavation work here was led by the noted Turkish archaeologist Jale Inan in the 1970s, the same scholar associated with nearby Perge and Side.

Tips for Exploring

Wear proper closed shoes: the ground is uneven, with loose stone and forest roots. Bring water and, in warmer months, sun protection even under the canopy. The site rewards slow walking, so allow time to follow the paths between structures. For exact entrance fees, parking details and any seasonal access notes, please check the official site or confirm at booking rather than relying on old figures online.

Quick Facts

• Duration: A shorter day-trip outing within reach of the coast (longer cave trips differ); exact timing confirmed at booking.
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking.
• Includes: Transfer, local guidance to the ruins; full inclusions confirmed at booking.
• Excludes: Entrance fees, personal expenses and meals unless stated; confirmed at booking.
• Family Friendly: Yes, suitable for older children who can manage uneven forest paths.
• Best Season: Spring and autumn are ideal; the forest gives welcome shade in summer.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate walking on uneven, natural ground.

Related Excursions

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Seleukeia (Lyrbe)?

It lies in the pine-forested hills north of Manavgat, near Bucakseyhler, inland from the Side coast. It is reachable as a day outing from the resorts.

Is it really called Seleukeia or Lyrbe?

Both names are used. It was long published as Seleukeia, but scholars now believe the true Seleukeia lay elsewhere and that these ruins are more likely Lyrbe. On-site signs reflect this debate.

What is the main thing to see?

The two-storey agora (marketplace), considered one of the best-preserved in Pamphylia, along with baths, cisterns, temples, city walls and house remains.

Is it suitable for children?

Older children who can handle uneven forest ground will enjoy the adventure. The terrain is natural and not flat, so sturdy shoes are important.

How much is the entrance fee?

Fees and access rules can change, so we recommend checking the official site or confirming at booking rather than relying on outdated figures.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures, while the pine canopy provides shade in summer. We can advise on timing when you book.

Will it be crowded?

Rarely. This is one of the quietest ancient sites near Side, which is exactly its charm.

Ready to explore a side of the coast few travellers ever see? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. As a local operator we cut out agency and OTA commissions, and we back every booking with our best-price guarantee. Message us and let's plan your quiet forest adventure to Seleukeia (Lyrbe).