Side-Turkey.

Picking the right base on the Turkish Riviera matters more than people expect. The Mediterranean coast of Antalya province — the Turquoise Coast — packs ancient ruins, long beaches, pine-clad mountains and lively resort towns into one warm, sunny stretch. But Side feels nothing like Belek, and Kemer is a different world from Alanya. This guide walks you through the main resort bases honestly, so you can choose the one that fits how you actually want to spend your holiday.

The main resort bases, compared

Each town suits a different kind of traveller. None is "the best" — they're just best for different people.

Side & Manavgat

Side sits on a peninsula wrapped in genuine Roman ruins — the Temple of Apollo right by the sea, an ancient theatre and old-town streets that lead straight to the water. It's relaxed, walkable and steeped in history, which makes it a favourite for couples and culture-minded families. Just inland, Manavgat (Side's parent district) gives you the famous waterfall, river trips and the Green Canyon. As a local operator based here, this is the area we know best.

Antalya city

Antalya is the big hub: the gateway airport (AYT), the atmospheric Kaleici old town, museums, marinas and shopping. If you like a city buzz alongside the coast — and easy onward connections to everywhere else — Antalya is a smart, central base.

Alanya

Further east, Alanya is lively and energetic, crowned by its hilltop castle and flanked by long sandy beaches. It leans towards a fun, social, value-friendly holiday and is well placed for travellers flying into Gazipasa-Alanya Airport (GZP).

Belek

Belek is the polished, resort-led choice: world-class golf, large luxury hotels and the Land of Legends theme park. It's ideal if you want a self-contained, comfort-first stay with everything on tap.

Kemer

West of Antalya, Kemer is where the Taurus mountains meet the sea. Pine forests, pebbly coves and a cooler, greener feel make it a draw for nature lovers and active travellers.

How to choose your base

Think about your priorities. History and a walkable old town? Side. City life and connections? Antalya. Beaches and nightlife on a budget? Alanya. Golf and full-service luxury? Belek. Mountains and forests? Kemer. The good news: the whole region is compact and well connected, so wherever you stay, day trips to the others are easy — and as a direct local operator we run tours and transfers across all of them.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Varies by excursion, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Local guidance, transfers as per the chosen tour, planning help
• Excludes: Personal spending, optional extras, items listed at booking
• Family Friendly: Yes — options for all ages
• Best Season: Spring to autumn for warm Mediterranean weather
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate, depending on the activity

Related Excursions

• Side tours & excursions
• Antalya tours & day trips
• Alanya tours
• Belek tours
• Kemer tours
• More Turkish Riviera guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Turkish Riviera resort is best for first-timers?

Side and Antalya are easy first choices — Side for ruins and a compact old town, Antalya for variety and connections. Both make great bases for exploring the rest of the coast.

Is Side good for families?

Yes. Its walkable old town, beaches and nearby Manavgat waterfall and river trips work well for families with children of different ages.

Which resort is best for a quieter, nature-focused holiday?

Kemer, with its pine forests and mountain backdrop, suits travellers who want greenery and a calmer pace alongside the sea.

Where should golf lovers stay?

Belek is the region's golf hub, with specially designed courses and large resorts geared to golfers.

Can I do day trips between resorts?

Yes. The resorts are well connected and we offer transfers and tours linking them, so you can stay in one base and still see the others.

Which airport should I fly into?

Antalya Airport (AYT) serves the whole region, while Gazipasa-Alanya Airport (GZP) is handy for Alanya. The best choice depends on your base — confirm details on the official site.

How do I get the best price on tours?

Book DIRECT with us. We're the local operator, so there's no agency or OTA commission added, and we back it with a best-price guarantee.

Ready to plan your Turkish Riviera holiday? Message the Murat Atalay team direct on WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com — local experts, no middleman, and a best-price guarantee on every tour and transfer.