Complete Side Turkey Guide in 2023
Turkey is a beautiful country that is becoming more and more popular each year. Antalya city is one of the most joyful hot spots with its amazing towns! In 2023, Side Turkey will be a top tourist destination, and we want to make sure you are prepared!
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In this Side Turkey guide blog post, we will provide a complete guide to Side Turkey travel in 2023. We will cover everything from the best time of year to visit Side Antalya to where to stay and what to do while you are there!
Moreover, in this complete Side Turkey guide, you will be able to see all the best things to do in Side Antalya which includes free ones! Also, you can enjoy the best restaurants in Side Turkey.
Table of Contents
- What Side is Antalya like? (Side Turkey tourist information)
- How to get Side Turkey from Antalya?
-
Things to do in Side Antalya
- Side, Turkey Roman Ruins
- Side Ancient City
- Visit Side Museum (Side Archaeological Museum)
- Antalya Side Ancient City Entrance Fee
- Side Ancient City Opening Hours?
- Watersports in Side
- Free Things to Do in Side, Turkey
- Boat Trips From Side
- What to do in Side? (Unique Things)
- Day Trips From Side Turkey
- Best Beaches Turkey Side
- Shopping in Side Antalya
- Best restaurants in Side
- Side Nightlife
- Where to stay in Side Turkey? (Best Hotels in Side, Turkey)
What Side is Antalya like? (Side Turkey tourist information)
Side is a lovely town in the Antalya Province of Turkey. It is located on the Mediterranean Sea and Side, Turkey population is about 18,000 people. You should visit Side Antalya because it is one of the nicest towns on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. Also, Side is known for its beautiful beaches, archaeological ruins, and friendly locals! Let’s take a look at Side Turkey tourist information.
Side tourist information
You can get more information and Side Turkey reviews from this center. Besides English, you will be able to find more language support there. It is also worth noting that there is a place where you can report your complaints.
Address:Â Side, Side Cd. No:3, 07330 Manavgat/Antalya
Working Hours: 08:30 AM – 05:30 PM (Closes on Saturday and Sunday)
Phone:Â (0242) 753 12 65
You can read Turkey area code blog post in order to make calls in Turkey.
Buy SIM Card for Tourists in Turkey
When is the best time to visit Side Turkey?
The best time to visit Side Turkey is from May to the end of Autumn. This is the summer season when everyone goes to Turkey for the best vacation ever. But like in Side town there are some Turkey country facts like every time can be the best time to visit. Apart from the season, Side almost has nice weather and always has a magnificent sunset view.
Side Turkey Weather
Side weather is quite sunny and hot in general. If you go to Side Turkey let’s say in winter, you can still swim because the climate is always smooth there. You can prefer indoor activities if it’s raining instead of outdoor attractions. You’ll be able to find many things to do Side Turkey.
How to get Side Turkey from Antalya?
There is no airport in Side. After landing at Antalya Airport, it is 65 km from Side by road and takes about 1 hour.
The most preferred method by tourists is to go to the hotel where they will stay in Side with private transfer services from Antalya airport.
If you do not prefer a private transfer service, you can take a taxi.
Some tourists complain about taxi drivers in Turkey and unfortunately, uber is not available in Turkey. There are global companies that you can use as an alternative to Uber. You can safely hire a taxi from here.
Side Antalya Bus
Public buses depart from Antalya bus station every hour. Public buses cost around 108 TL per person.
If you are in the city center, you must first go to the Antalya bus station. From the airport, you should ask for the bus stops.
Do not forget, the public bus will be slow and hotter. It wouldn’t be a nice experience for the first day of the holiday. But it is a cheaper option anyways.
What airport do you fly to for Side Turkey?
As we mentioned above, there is no airport in Side. The nearest international airport is Antalya International (AYT) and from here it takes 1 hour to get to Side by road.
GazipaĹźa Airport is located in Alanya and is a second alternative. But it is not an international airport and tickets are difficult to find. It takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes by road.
CHECK cheap flight tickets to Antalya airport.
How far is Side from Antalya airport? (Antalya to Side Transfer)
It takes 65 km from Antalya to Side and about 1 hour by road.
How long is the transfer from Antalya to Side?
If you prefer a taxi or transfer vehicle from the airport, it will take 40 minutes – 1 hour. If you want to go from Antalya bus station and Konyaaltı, the journey will take 1.30 hours.
How many days in Side Turkey is enough?
3 days will be enough to visit Antalya Side. But if you are planning to visit around (such as Alanya, Antalya center, Kemer, Phaselis ancient city, Olympos ruins Turkey, Chimaera Eternal Flames and more) you should spare at least five days. 1 day is enough to explore ancient Side. If you are in love with rafting and other watersports, you should spare a full day for them. Manavgat Koprulu Canyon is very popular and you can find many attractions there. Make sure to read the best Koprulu Canyon Manavgat attractions.
Of course, many people prefer Side Turkey to relax at the hotel, and the duration of the Side holiday varies according to your expectations.
Side Antalya things to do (for limited time)
Turkey Side, you should definitely spend 1 day visiting the ancient ruins and museum, 1 day seeing the canyon, Manavgat waterfall, and its surroundings. Also one day for lovely beaches in town.
If you want to shop in Antalya, we have good news for you below! You may need more days to extend your vacation. Before talking about things to do in Side Turkey, we added here some useful posts you might be interested in deeply.
Shopping is one of the best things to do with kids in Antalya. You can explore Antalya shopping malls and enjoy tax-free shopping.
You can check our Things to do in Antalya post in order to be more organized and make your vacation plans in detail.
Things to do in Side Antalya
Now, let’s see an extension guide for what to do in Side Turkey. Side is the best place in Antalya Province, hands down. The archaeological ruins are fascinating, the beaches are sandy and clean. Amazing nature is a plus. You can find many things to do in Manavgat and Side Turkey.Â
You can get more info from Side, Turkey tourist information when you get there but now you can explore Side Antalya with us. There are plenty of things to do in Side Turkey! Here are some of our favorites:
Side, Turkey Roman Ruins
The Side Ruins are a must-see if you are visiting Side Turkey. They are an archaeological site that includes the ruins of a Roman theater (Side amphitheater) or Greek Amphitheater, agora, baths, Vespasianus Aniti, and temples (Tyche Tapinagi).
Side Ruins historical short info
The Side Ruins are located in the town of Side, Antalya Province, Turkey. They are an archaeological site which has many ruins like Hellenistic Theater Turkey. The Side Ruins and museum are a must-see if you are visiting Side Turkey!
Side Ancient City
You should see the Side theatre which is inside the Side Ancient City. Side Ancient City has a beautiful view from the top and important spots for photography lovers.
Visit Side Museum (Side Archaeological Museum)
This museum is not as huge as the Antalya Archaeological Museum but it’s worth seeing with all those historical and magical precious pieces.
Museum hours vary according to the season. Working hours are 08:30 – 20:00. Ticket office closes at 19:30.
Antalya Side Ancient City Entrance Fee
If you have a valid and available museum pass, admission is completely free. If you do not have a museum pass, Side Museum 130 TL, Antique Theater 300 TL with the increase made in August 2023. You can visit the temple of Apollo, Athena and the rest of the ancient city free of charge.
Museum Pass is very affordable especially in Side Turkey. Otherwise you should pay entrance fees for each places separately.
Side Ancient City Opening Hours?
Side Ancient Theater’s working hours are 08:30 – 20:00. Ticket office closes at 19:30. Side Museum works in same hours too.
Watersports in Side
Side Turkey beaches are also famous for boat tours and water activities as well as satisfying for swimming.
Moreover, Side Antalya beaches have some extreme water sports attractions too. Side is a great place for watersports! There are plenty of opportunities to go swimming, snorkeling, sailing, rafting, and more. Side also has several diving centers where you can get certified or take a beginner diving lesson.
Side Underwater Museum
There is a scuba diving underwater museum in Side which we added to our Side Turkey map. Side Underwater Museum is the first underwater museum in Turkey. Here is one of my favorite thing to do in Side Antalya which includes lunch and free transfer.
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Underwater Museum in Side Turkey (Side scuba diving underwater tours)
Free Things to Do in Side, Turkey
Walking around the nearby Side old town is the most popular free thing to do in Side Antalya. You can see the famous Aspendos Bridge, and walk nearby Titreyengol (Lake) for cozy moments. Also, public beaches such as Side Beach Turkey are free too. There are more things but let’s highlight an amazing place now.
Must visit: Temple of Apollo Antalya
Apollon Temple has no admission fee. That means the entrance is free. You must visit there and see the Temple of Apollo architecture. Side is one of the best towns in Antalya because it has various ruins from several periods. You can come across many Side in Turkey reviews with this ancient building.
Well, you should see a stunning view from Apollon Temple Side. This place is one of the most popular instagrammable and historical spots in Antalya province.
Boat Trips From Side
Take the daily or hourly boat trips from Side. You will be able to find many of them all day long which go to plenty of places. You may find a place at the last minute but if you book before, it will be better for you and your plans. Otherwise, you may not find a place and then get disappointed.
Here are plenty of boat tours that offer you completely different experiences and places to see.
Green Canyon boat tour from Side
Party boat Side Turkey (Side boat tour foam party tickets)
What to do in Side? (Unique Things)
The traditional baths are very famous all around Turkey. Turkish bath Side Turkey offers you historical vibes with the healer’s hands. Get a good rest because you’ll need energy and a refreshed feel for your next trip. You can take a day trip either inside the town or to other nearby towns.
Read more about traditional Turkish hammams. Explore 👉🏻 Essentials of Turkish Bath
Day Trips From Side Turkey
Side Turkey holidays are an excellent base for exploring the rest of Antalya Province. We recommend taking a day trip to the nearby Side to Alanya Guide or Manavgat.
One of the best things to do near Side Turkey is explore nature. You should definitely visit Koprulu Canyon and do rafting in Side Antalya. You can learn more by reading our Koprulu Canyon Turkey article.
Trips in Side Turkey need walking a lot. Do not forget to get your feet comfy with the best barefoot shoes for travel.
If you have time there are a few Side Pamukkale tours that you may join. You can go on your own too for a more flexible exploration. If you go from Side to Pamukkale, we prepared all the essentials that you must know about Hierapolis Pamukkale including the Pamukkale entrance fee 2023, too.
One of the famous Side trips in Cappadocia, Turkey. If you find your Cappadocia tour from Side we’ve got a present for you. Here is your Cappadocia itinerary and Cappadocia best restaurants guides.
If you don’t want to go far away, let’s close a bit to the Side of Antalya again.
What to do in Manavgat
Manavgat is another resort town in Antalya. Mostly Manavgat and Side are mentioned together because they are almost nested. But still, both have different things to do. So we highly recommend that you visit Manavgat, too.Â
Aquajoy Su Parki (Waterpark) is a nice attraction for families with kids. You can visit Seleukia (Lybre) and Selge ancient cities.
As I mentioned above, Green Canyon Turkey boat trips are also amazing for nature lovers.
Manavgat Waterfall Facts
Manavgat Waterfall is definitely one of the best waterfalls in Turkey. If you are wondering about how to get to Manavgat waterfall it is easy to go there by car and the road takes 4km and about fifteen minutes.
At Manavgat waterfall, the stream coming from the Taurus Mountains spills from 4 meters. There is a balcony to watch the waterfall and you can take a walk around the river.
You can’t swim at Manavgat Waterfall but there are stunning beaches in Side Turkey. Let’s take a look closer at Side Beaches.
Manavgat Waterfall entrance fee
A Mediterranean Museum Pass is not available but the Manavgat Waterfall entrance fee is around 30 Turkish liras.
Best Beaches Turkey Side
One of the nicest coastal towns, Side Antalya Turkey is known for its beautiful sandy beaches.
The best-known Side beaches and bays like this. Side’s beaches are beautiful and sandy, with plenty of sun loungers and parasols. Many of them are available for both families and couples. Discover the nicest beaches in Side Turkey now, leaving the enjoyment to your perfect vacation.
Best beaches in Side
Enjoying the clean and sandy beaches sounds dreamy. Here your all wishes come true with Antalya Side beaches.Â
- Side public beach (Side Beach Antalya)
- Titreyengol Beach
- Sorgun public beach
- Kumkoy beach
- Kleopatra Beach (Cleopatra Side, Turkey) is actually in Alanya Turkey but you can go there from Side for sure. There is a Kleopatra Side Hotel in Side which has a beautiful beach too.
Either for love holidays and romantic moments or family times on the beach, you will be able to spend a smooth and cheerful time with your beloved ones.
Side Turkey things to do are not finished yet! Another attraction is shopping in Side, Turkey.
Shopping in Side Antalya
Side Turkey is a great place to shop, particularly for souvenirs! Here are some of the best places to Side shopping:
The Side Bazaar: The Side Bazaar is a covered market with stalls selling everything from souvenirs to clothing.
Antalya Night Market: The Antalya Night Market is open every night and sells fancy souvenirs.
You can find some fake shops while you are traveling around Ancient Side. Prices are affordable.
There are also several street markets that you can come across in Side Antalya reviews. The most famous one is on Saturdays.
Is Side Turkey Good for shopping?
If you are looking for something like significant brands, you may not find so many options in Side Turkey. Maybe Nova Shopping Mall or Mall of Side can help you.
Do you have any spare time for shopping in Antalya? Because if you have, we will offer you some attractive options.
For cheap shopping in Antalya center, explore that guide for the best shopping malls in Antalya.
I can also suggest you to visit Land of Legends and Antalya Aquarium. You can find tickets and transportation offers from Side to Antalya via links above.
Shopping centers and souvenir decisions make people hungry. Let’s take a look at the most popular places to eat in Side Antalya.
Best restaurants in Side
You should try Ocakbaşı restaurant Side Turkey if you want to try more traditional cuisine. Here are some famous restaurants in Side:
- Conny’s Restaurant Side Turkey
- GĂĽl restaurant, Side
- Orfoz restaurant Side
- Q Beach Restaurant & Lounge
- Antique Restaurant Side
In addition, you may find world cuisine there. There are plenty of Indian restaurants in Side Turkey, too. You can see more Side, Turkey restaurants on our Side Turkey map below.
You need relaxation and chilling on your vacation. You deserve that better than any time. Here you go some highlighted spots for Side Turkey things to do at night.
Side Nightlife
Antalya nightlife is one of the most alive and colorful attractions on the Mediterranean coast. But Side Town has nothing short of Antalya Center. Here are some of the best bars in Side, Turkey.
- Karma Side
- Kiss Bar Side
- The Royal Castle Pub
- Hello Bar & Pub
- Night Disco Cruise with Foam Party
You can also check the nearby beach clubs and hotel bars. If you want to go somewhere else you can enjoy the Lara beach nightlife or zippy Alanya nightlife too.
Read 👉🏻 Kemer nightlife & Is Antalya good for nightlife?
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Where to stay in Side Turkey? (Best Hotels in Side, Turkey)
Everybody can find a place in Side, Turkey hotels for their budget or needs. There are plenty of accommodation options in Side Turkey, from hotels to apartments and even camping! Here are some suggestions for your needs.
Is Side in Antalya?
Side is a town that belongs to Antalya province. The distance is about 60 km. It is located east of the center of Antalya.
Side Turkey Hotels on the Beach
Most of the Side hotels on the beach have private beaches which are within walking distance but they still offer you a bus.
You should choose 5 star hotels in Side, Turkey all inclusive because this way you will prevent unexpected payments.
Instead of Side hotels all inclusive you can stay in boutique hotels too. It’s up to you. Side has various offers for anyone. If you are traveling with your family, you can choose a Side Turkey hotel with waterpark. Then you can spend more quality time at the hotel together or separately.
SEE OFFER for Side Turkey hotels.
Our Side Trip Tours
Antalya Side Turkey region mostly has all-inclusive holiday resorts. One of the best Side beach hotels in Antalya is LaBranda.Â
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We experienced La Branda Labranda Excelsior Side once and it was a very nice place with a private beach within walking distance. The room was very clean. The food wasn’t perfect but it was OK. The pools and common places are very clean and cozy.
I met a lot of German tourists. I encountered services such as hairdresser, market and Turkish bath (check my personal hammam products choice) in this hotel. Not to mention a variety of sports activities and night entertainment.
Well, those are from my Side Turkey traveler reviews. In 2023, I visit Side Antalya for a daily trip. It was also amazing day. Again.
What is the best Side hotels? (Turkey resort guide)
There are plenty of great Side hotels to choose from, but let’s highlight some of them:
Serenity Blue Resort and Spa. The Serenity Blue Resort and Spa is a five-star hotel that offers stunning views of the town.
The best All inclusive holiday resorts are Side Crown Serenity Hotel, and Diamond Premium Hotel & Spa.
Best Side hotels for couples are Seven Seas Hotel Blue and Side Royal Alhambra Palace.
Best Side hotels for families are Crystal Sunset Luxury Resort & Spa and Crystal Sunrise Queen Luxury Resort & Spa.
So there you have it, our complete guide to Side Turkey travel in 2023 but don’t forget this is just a basic guide for Side Turkey.
Side is a beautiful town with friendly locals, stunning beaches, and plenty of things to do! We hope you enjoy your time in Side Turkey!
Life in Side Turkey
Side is one of the places where foreigners can live most comfortably in Turkey. The weather is hot in summer and winter. There are many activities to do in Side with its sea, nature, and historical areas.
House rents in Side Turkey are more affordable than in Turkey, and if you only want to live in Turkey for a while, there are many hotel options available.
You can read more for simple information for foreigners in Turkey and liveable cities of Turkey.
FAQ About Side Turkey
If you are planning to visit Side Turkey, this guide and frequently asking questions about Side Turkey will be helpful for you.
How long does it take to transfer to Side Turkey?
Side Turkey does not have an airport. After arriving at Antalya Airport, it takes about 1 hour by road. You can choose a taxi and private transfer. See offer for transport Side Antalya airport.
Where is the best place for rafting in Side?
The best place for rafting in Side is the Koprulu Canyon National Park. Koprulu Canyon is about one hour from the center of Side.
Is there any bus from Antalya to Side?
Yes, there are Antalya to Manavgat buses. Either you can take them from the bus station, airport or some special bus stops which are on the main road. (One of them is very close to the Mall of Antalya shopping mall.)
You can learn more info about Antalya to Side transfer time via Antalya Bus Terminal or Antalya Airport contact. Current ticket price is 108 Turkish Liras.
What are the beaches like in Side Turkey?
The beaches in Side Antalya are mostly sandy. You can able to find some nice public beaches inside the ancient city of Side. Ask Nar Beaches, there are several Nar Beaches in different location of the ancient city. Also you can visit other beaches and bays near this amazing location.
Which beach is the best in Turkey?
You should take a look at Best Beaches in Antalya area. Each beach have different qualities and many of them have their Blue Flags as well. For instance, many people likes Patara Beach but I don’t like there so much. Because it is full of sand and waves make me tired.
On the other hand, Kaputas Beach is worldwide famous and definitely one of the best beaches in Turkey. If you want to get there, you should go earlier because parking is a very big problem during the season.
Here is my favorite beaches in Antalya Turkey: Phaselis Beach, Olympos Beach, best Kas beaches and Konyaalti Beach.
What’s the best beach in Antalya?
Well, Kaputas Beach is one of the most popular ones. But you can read the post linked above, then you can decide on your own. Once you’ve get to the Kas Turkey, you should visit other Kas beaches as well. You can learn more about best Kas beaches from here.
Are beaches in Side sandy?
Yes. Generally, Side Antalya town has sandy beaches mostly. The sand is usually fine and of the type that children will want to play with. Therefore, when choosing swimsuits and bikinis, it is useful to choose products with a design that will not get sand in between. The same goes for any other beach products you’ll be using.
What is Side in Turkey known for?
Side Turkey is known for its historical landmarks, ancient ruins, Side theatre, Apollon Temple, 5 stars hotels, sandy beaches, watersports, Koprulu Canyon, and more.
Why do people come to Turkey?
People come to Turkey for its ancient heritage, traditional cuisine, turquoise coasts, etc. Explore more about Turkiye. Best Turkey destinations can be found here.
Which is better, Antalya or Side?
Antalya center is better than Side. Because Antalya offers more options for exploring, shopping and having gourmet experiences. Side has only one ancient ruins but you can find at least 5-6 ancient cities in the center of Antalya. For instance, you can visit Perge Ancient City, Phaselis Beach, Antalya Archeological Museum and more. Also you can find many options for shopping in Antalya.
Are you still in a dilemma? You can read our Complete Antalya Travel Guide from here, then you can make your own decision. Both have different pros and cons. Write me about your expectations, so maybe I can help you as well.
Does Side have good nightlife?
Yes, during the season, you’ll be satisfied in Side Turkey. Hotels, pubs and nightclubs offers many night entertainments. If you have time and looking for different places, you can also read about is Antalya good for nightlife, too.
Is Side Turkey lively?
Yeap. Side Turkey never sleeps during the season. However, the answer to this question may vary according to your expectations and wishes. While there are magnificent lively and entertaining activities in some hotels, others find the activities in the hotel insufficient and go out. I’m sure you can find something that appeals to you out there. If you are not satisfied, try Antalya city center. Kemer town is also a very popular location with its colorful nightlife. Read more about Kemer nightlife.
Which place is best for nightlife?
Antalya places are the best place for nightlife in general. Kemer, Side, and Alanya towns are very colorful.
What is the beach like in Side Turkey?
You can read our Best beaches for kids Antalya blog post.
Are there free things to do on Side?
In our opinion, the first free thing to do on the Side is to visit the Temple of Apollo and the ancient ruins on the beach. You can also visit the old town of Side for free and enjoy the sea at the free public beach.
What is Side Turkey area code?
The area code for Side Turkey and Antalya is 242. For mobile phone calls, you must add 90 to the beginning of the number. You can have a look at Turkey area codes for details.
What is Side like in Turkey?
Side Turkey is one of the rare holiday regions where you can visit historical sites while enjoying the sea and the beach. Side Antalya is 38-40 degrees during the summer. It has an ancient city dating back to Rome.
What to see in Side Turkey?
In Side Antalya, you should definitely see the Roman Ruins and the Roman Ancient City. Also, Manavgat waterfall is very close and we recommend you to see it. Also, do not forget to participate in sea sports.
Is Side worth visiting?
If the activities and things to do you have read so far appeal to you, you should definitely see Side. Do not forget to visit Alanya as well. Every destination in Antalya will give you an unforgettable experience.
Now you can get your guide Side Turkey from TripAdvisor which includes things to do in Side Turkey.
Side Antalya Map
Also, you can reach Side map on google from here.
Look at!
Best Shopping Malls in Antalya 2023
Complete Alanya Turkey Guide in 2023
One Day in Antalya 2023
Best Beaches in Turkey for Families 2023
Pure Excellence: Turkish Bath a.k.a. “Hammam”
