Side-Turkey.

Kemer sits where the pine-cloaked Taurus Mountains tumble straight into the Mediterranean, just west of Antalya. It is a place of pebbly Blue-Flag beaches, calm marinas and ancient ruins hiding in the forest. We are Murat Atalay's local team, and we live and work on this coast all year round. This guide skips the brochure cliches and tells you what genuinely deserves a day of your holiday, the way we would explain it to a friend over a glass of tea.

Ancient Cities Between Sea and Pines

The single most rewarding history stop near Kemer is Phaselis, a Lycian-Roman harbour city set among the pines with three separate harbours. You can wander the main paved avenue, see the ruined agora and bath buildings, then simply swim off the same beach where ancient ships once moored. It is rare to find ruins where the swimming is this good.

Further south lies the ancient site of Olympos, a romantic, overgrown ruin scattered along a stream that meets a long pebble beach. The mood here is wild and green rather than monumental, which is exactly why people love it.

Mountains, Cable Cars and Eternal Flames

Mount Tahtali by Olympos Teleferik

The Olympos cable car (Olympos Teleferik) lifts you up Mount Tahtali to roughly 2365 metres. On a clear day the view stretches across the whole bay, with the sea on one side and ridge after ridge of mountains on the other. Bring a layer even in summer; the summit air is noticeably cooler than the beach.

Yanartas, the Chimaera

Near Olympos and Cirali, natural flames burn straight out of the rocky hillside at Yanartas. This is real methane seeping from the earth, alight for thousands of years, the fire that fed the ancient Chimaera legend. It is most atmospheric after dark, when the little flames glow against black rock.

Canyons, Villages and Quiet Beaches

Goynuk Canyon is the green heart of the area: cold clear water running between tall rock walls, ideal for a refreshing walk and a swim. For slower days, the beach villages of Beldibi, Goynuk, Tekirova and Cirali each have their own character, from family-friendly shallows to turtle-nesting shores. Ask us which suits your group; we will give you the honest version.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Varies by excursion, confirmed at booking.
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking.
• Includes: Hotel transfer and guidance; specific inclusions confirmed at booking.
• Excludes: Personal spending, site entrance fees and optional extras unless stated; check official site for fees.
• Family Friendly: Yes, options suitable for children and mixed groups.
• Best Season: Spring to autumn; flames and viewpoints enjoyable year-round.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate depending on the chosen excursion.

Related Excursions

• Kemer excursions & tours
• Antalya day trips
• Side excursions
• Alanya tours
• Belek excursions
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the must-do thing in Kemer?

If you do one thing, make it the Tahtali cable car for the view or Phaselis for ruins-and-swimming combined. Both capture what makes Kemer special.

Can I reach Kemer attractions from Side or Manavgat?

Yes. We arrange hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat and nearby resorts; the exact time is confirmed at booking.

When is the best time to see Yanartas flames?

The flames burn day and night, but they look most dramatic after dark against the rock.

Is the Tahtali summit cold?

It is noticeably cooler than the coast because of the altitude, so bring a light layer even in summer.

Are these excursions suitable for families?

Yes, we have options for children and mixed-age groups. Tell us your group and we will recommend the right fit.

Do I need to book tickets and entrance fees separately?

Some sites and the cable car may have their own fees; please check the official site, and we will confirm what is included at booking.

How long does an excursion take?

It depends on the trip you choose; duration is confirmed at booking.

Why book direct with you?

Booking direct removes agency and OTA commission, so you deal with the local team running the tour and get our best-price guarantee.

Ready to explore Kemer the local way? Message Murat Atalay's team directly on WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com. Booking direct cuts out agency commission and comes with our best-price guarantee. We will help you build the perfect day.