Side-Turkey.

Few sights on the Turkish Riviera are as instantly recognisable as the Temple of Apollo in Side. A small row of slender white marble columns stands right at the edge of the Mediterranean, on the tip of the little peninsula where the ancient city meets the modern resort town. When the sun drops low and the marble turns honey-gold, it becomes one of the most photographed spots in all of Antalya province. This guide walks you through what the temple is, why sunset is the moment to see it, and how to fold it into a wider visit of Side Ancient City.

What you are actually looking at

The temple was raised during the Roman period, around the second century AD, and dedicated to Apollo, the god of light, music and harmony. Over the centuries earthquakes brought much of it down, and what you see today is the result of careful twentieth-century restoration: five columns re-erected side by side, carved capitals catching the sea breeze. It sits at the very edge of the peninsula, beside the line of the ancient harbour, so the water is your backdrop in every direction you look.

Part of a whole ancient city

The temple is the headline act, but it is only one chapter of Side. Within a short stroll you also have a large, well-preserved Roman theatre, the colonnaded agora where the city once traded, monumental gates and walls, and the Side Museum, housed in a former Roman bath, where classical sculpture is displayed. Because the modern town grew up among the ruins, you can step straight from a seaside cafe into two thousand years of history.

Why sunset is the moment

The columns face the open sea on the western side of the peninsula, which is exactly why they have become a sunset icon. As the light softens, the white marble glows warm and the columns frame the sinking sun like a natural picture window. Arrive a little before golden hour to find your spot, as the small terrace around the temple fills up with photographers and couples on clear evenings. A local guide can time your walk so you reach the temple as the light turns, after seeing the theatre and agora earlier in the visit.

How to visit comfortably

The temple area is open and walkable, set on flat ground near the harbour, so it suits most ages and abilities. The peninsula's lanes are partly cobbled and can be busy in high season, so comfortable shoes and water are sensible. For opening hours, any entry arrangements and current details, check the official site or have them confirmed at booking. Bring a light layer for the evening sea breeze, which can pick up just as the colours peak.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Tour duration confirmed at booking.
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking.
• Includes: Local guiding through Side Ancient City, transport as arranged; details confirmed at booking.
• Excludes: Personal spending, any museum entry/fees (check official site), meals unless stated.
• Family Friendly: Yes — flat, walkable site suitable for most ages.
• Best Season: Spring through autumn for clear sunset skies; mild and quieter in shoulder months.
• Difficulty: Easy, mostly level walking on mixed surfaces.

Related Excursions

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Temple of Apollo in Side?

It stands on the tip of the Side peninsula, right at the sea edge beside the ancient harbour, within the heart of Side Ancient City in the Manavgat district of Antalya province.

How many columns are still standing?

Five columns were re-erected side by side during twentieth-century restoration work, and these are what frame the famous sunset view today.

When was the temple built and who was it for?

It dates from the Roman period, around the second century AD, and was dedicated to Apollo, the god of light, music and harmony.

Is sunset really the best time to see it?

Yes. The columns face the open sea to the west, so the temple is at its most striking in golden hour as the marble warms and the sun sets behind it.

Can I combine the temple with the rest of Side?

Absolutely. The Roman theatre, the agora, the city gates and the Side Museum are all within a short walk, so a guided visit can take in the whole ancient city.

Is the site suitable for children and older visitors?

The temple area is flat and easy to reach near the harbour, though the peninsula's lanes are partly cobbled, so comfortable shoes help.

Are there opening hours or an entry fee?

For current opening hours, any entry arrangements and fees, please check the official site or have the details confirmed at booking.

Ready to stand among the columns as the sun goes down? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team for a local-guided Side Ancient City experience — message us on WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com. Booking direct skips agency and OTA commission and comes with our best-price guarantee.