· TR

Side

Side, Antalya, Turkey

Side, located in Antalya, Turkey, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern charm. This picturesque coastal town is renowned for its stunning sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise w…

#Historic ruins#Mediterranean coast#Ancient city#Archaeological site#Tourist destination
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Side.

Top Hotels in Side

Top Flights to Side

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Side.

Tours

Explore Ancient Ruins of Side

Discover the ancient city of Side, known for its rich history and impressive ruins dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

Shopping

Side Harbor Stroll and Shopping

Enjoy a relaxing walk along the Side Harbor, ideal for shopping and dining with a scenic view.

Outdoor

Manavgat River Rafting

Experience the thrilling rapids of the Manavgat River, perfect for adventure seekers.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Side.

Currency
₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira
Population
Not Available
Languages
Turkish, Turkish, English, German, Russian
Average weather
Side
Jan
rain
15°6°
Feb
rain
16°6°
Mar
cloud
18°8°
Apr
sun
21°11°
May
sun
25°15°
Jun
hot
30°19°
Jul
hot
34°23°
Aug
hot
34°23°
Sep
sun
31°20°
Oct
sun
26°15°
Nov
cloud
21°11°
Dec
rain
17°8°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Side.

What people love

Side, located in Antalya, Turkey, is a popular travel destination with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Here are some pros of traveling to Side:

  1. Historical Sites: Side is home to well-preserved ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo, the ancient amphitheater, and the Agora. Exploring these historical sites provides insight into the region's fascinating past.

  2. Beautiful Beaches: Side boasts beautiful sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Visitors can relax on the beach or enjoy activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and snorkeling.

  3. Scenic Landscapes: The natural surroundings of Side are breathtaking, with picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Taurus Mountains. Travelers can enjoy hiking, biking, or simply taking in the stunning landscapes.

  4. Shopping and Dining: Side offers a variety of shopping options, from traditional markets selling local crafts and souvenirs to modern shopping centers. The town also has a wide range of restaurants serving delicious Turkish cuisine and fresh seafood.

  5. Waterfalls and Nature: Nearby attractions like Manavgat Waterfall and the Köprülü Canyon National Park offer opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking, rafting, and picnicking in a beautiful natural setting.

  6. Hospitality: Turkish hospitality is renowned worldwide, and visitors to Side can expect to be warmly welcomed by the locals. The friendly atmosphere and welcoming attitude of the people make for a pleasant and memorable travel experience.

Overall, traveling to Side, Antalya, Turkey, offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences, making it a fantastic destination for travelers seeking a diverse and enriching vacation.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Side, Antalya, Turkey may include:

  1. Crowds: Side is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak travel seasons. This can lead to crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions, making it difficult to fully relax and enjoy the surroundings.

  2. Pricey: Due to its popularity, prices in Side can be higher compared to other destinations in Turkey. Accommodation, dining, and activities may be more expensive, particularly in the tourist areas.

  3. Tourist traps: Like many tourist destinations, Side may have some tourist traps where visitors are charged inflated prices for goods and services. It's important to be cautious and do some research to avoid falling into these traps.

  4. Limited local culture: With the high number of tourists in Side, the local culture and authenticity of the destination can sometimes be overshadowed by commercialization and catering to visitors. It may be challenging to experience a truly authentic Turkish culture in a heavily touristic area.

  5. Weather: Antalya can experience extremely hot temperatures during the summer months, which may be uncomfortable for some travelers. Additionally, the peak tourist season coincides with the hottest months, making it a less favorable time to visit for those who are sensitive to heat.

Please note that these are general considerations and individual experiences may vary. It's always a good idea to research further and consider your own preferences before planning a trip to Side, Antalya, Turkey.

Side, located in Antalya Province, Turkey, is an ancient city with a rich history that dates back to the 7th century BCE. It was founded by Greek settlers from Cyme in Aeolis, a region of Western Anatolia. The city's name, "Side," is derived from the Anatolian word for pomegranate.

Significant Historical Events:

  1. Hellenistic Period:

    • In the 4th century BCE, Side became an important city in the region due to its strategic location and harbor. It was a member of the Delian League, an association of Greek city-states under the leadership of Athens.
    • During the 2nd century BCE, the city came under the control of the Seleucid Empire, one of the successor states of Alexander the Great's empire. Later, it fell under the influence of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt.

  2. Roman Period:

    • Around 188 BCE, Side became part of the Roman Republic following the Treaty of Apamea. Under Roman rule, the city flourished as a commercial center, known for its trade in olive oil, wine, and slaves.
    • The city continued to prosper during the Pax Romana, the period of relative peace throughout the Roman Empire.
    • Side became a Christian bishopric in the early centuries of the Common Era.

  3. Byzantine and Later Periods:

    • In the 7th century CE, Side began to decline due to Arab raids and pirate attacks, which led to its abandonment by the 10th century.
    • The site remained largely deserted until the 20th century when it was rediscovered and began to be excavated.

Historical Figures:

  • Aspendus: Though not directly linked to Side, Aspendus was a notable figure from the region. Side's history is often intertwined with other nearby ancient cities such as Aspendos and Perge.

Important Landmarks:

  1. Theatre of Side:

    • One of the most significant landmarks of Side, this ancient theater could seat up to 15,000 spectators. It is one of the largest and best-preserved theaters from antiquity in Asia Minor.

  2. Temple of Apollo:

    • Located near the harbor, the Temple of Apollo is another significant landmark. It was dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of music, poetry, and the sun. The temple ruins are a popular attraction today, especially during sunset.

  3. Agora:

    • The ancient marketplace of Side, the Agora, was the center of public life. It includes remains of shops and an old Roman bath.

  4. City Walls and Gates:

    • The Hellenistic city walls and gates are still visible today, showcasing the city's ancient defenses.

  5. Nymphaeum:

    • This monumental fountain, located near the entrance of the ancient city, is an impressive example of Roman architecture.

Modern Side:

Today, Side is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque ruins and beautiful beaches. The modern town offers a combination of historical exploration and leisure activities, attracting visitors from around the world who are interested in both its ancient heritage and natural beauty.