Side is the Antalya coast's classic combination of ruins and resort. The ancient town occupies a small peninsula about an hour east of Antalya, and its streets still run among Roman and Byzantine remains: a large theatre, the agora, the city gate, the baths that now house the Side Museum and, at the tip, the columns of the Temple of Apollo, standing against the sea. The temple is the postcard shot, especially at sunset, when the warm stone glows and the harbour boats gather. Side was a rich trading port in antiquity, famed for its slave market and its shipbuilding, and the modern village has grown around its ruins, so you can stroll from a ruined colonnade into a cafe or souvenir shop. Most visitors see Side on a long day trip from Antalya with Perge and Aspendos, though staying for sunset on your own or joining a late tour makes a big difference. The beaches east and west of the old town are among the area's best.
What to see: the theatre is one of the largest in the region, set against the town with sea views from the top. The Temple of Apollo, partly reconstructed, is on the shore. The Side Museum in the Roman baths holds sculpture from the city, and the Byzantine ruins near the shore add layers of history. Side's colonnaded main street and monumental gate bring you back to the town's busy past, and the harbour area is the liveliest part of the evening.
What to know: Side is also a busy resort town, so the main streets near the harbour feel touristy, with shops and restaurants. Escape the crowds by walking the shoreline, the quieter west and east sides or the archaeological area away from the main road. In midsummer the afternoon is hot; the golden hour at the temple is the reward for waiting. Tour itineraries often include the Manavgat waterfall or river cruise on the same day, which is a good way to cool down.
Planning: the Viator day trip we link covers Perge, Aspendos, Side and the Manavgat waterfalls in about ten hours and includes lunch, with the Temple of Apollo admission included and other entry fees usually extra. For a slower visit, book a hotel in Side, take a taxi from Antalya or use the intercity bus to Manavgat and then a local minibus. Check current opening times for the museum and the temple precinct before you go.
What to expect
The experience
A walk through the peninsula's ruins, the theatre, the agora and the shoreline temple, finishing at the harbour for a seaside meal.
Best time
Late afternoon into sunset for the Temple of Apollo glow, with the harbour lights after.
How long
Two to three hours on site, within a full-day tour that also covers Perge and Aspendos.
Tips
Keep sun protection handy, expect resort crowds near the harbour, and walk to the quieter shore for the best photographs.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want ruins and sea in the same afternoon.
- Families
- A beach, an easy walk, ice cream and open ruins keep children busy.
- Couples
- The Temple of Apollo at sunset, then dinner by the harbour.
- Pair with
- Perge, Aspendos and the Manavgat waterfall or river cruise.
- Time needed
- Half a day if you travel on your own; most of a day on a combined tour.
Good questions
How far is Side from Antalya?+
About an hour by car east of Antalya, and slightly longer by tour bus or intercity bus via Manavgat.
Is the Temple of Apollo free to see?+
The columns on the shore can be seen from the surrounding promenade, while entry to nearby archaeological sites and the museum can carry separate fees.
Is it better to visit Side at sunset?+
Yes, the temple at sunset is Side's signature view, but it is also the busiest time near the harbour.
Can I swim at Side?+
Yes, there are sandy beaches on both sides of the peninsula, so many visitors combine the ruins with a swim.
What does the day trip include?+
The linked Viator tour covers Perge, Aspendos, Side and the Manavgat waterfalls with lunch and transfers; some site entry fees are separate.
