Top Things to Do and Attractions in and Around Side

Perched on a slender peninsula where turquoise waves meet ancient marble columns, Side is one of the most enchanting corners of the Turkish Riviera. This former Greek and Roman port town has grown into a beloved resort destination, but it has managed to hold onto its old-world charm even as sun loungers now line beaches once trodden by traders and legionnaires. Whether you are drawn here for the history, the beaches, or simply the laid-back café culture of the old harbor, Side rewards curious travelers with a little bit of everything.

In this guide, we will walk through the very best things to do in and around Side, from iconic ruins to under-the-radar day trips, so you can plan a trip that balances relaxation with exploration.

🏛️ Wander Through the Ancient Ruins of Side

The heart of Side's charm lies in the way ancient history is woven directly into everyday life. Unlike museum-piece ruins fenced off in the distance, Side's Roman-era remnants sit right in the middle of town, tucked between souvenir shops, restaurants, and hotel courtyards.

• 🏟️ The Ancient Theatre – One of the best-preserved Roman theatres on the Turkish coast, this massive structure once sat thousands of spectators and still hosts a commanding presence over the old town.
• The Temple of Apollo – Side's most photographed landmark, especially at sunset when its remaining columns glow golden against the sea. It is a short stroll from the harbor and an absolute must for photographers.
• The Agora and City Walls – Scattered throughout the peninsula, these remains hint at just how significant Side once was as a trading hub in antiquity.

Give yourself at least half a day to properly explore the old town on foot. Comfortable shoes are a must, as many paths are cobbled and can get slippery near the harbor.

🏖️ Relax on Side's Beaches

Side is blessed with two very different beach experiences, depending on which side of the peninsula you choose.

• West Beach – Known for calmer waters and softer sand, this is a favorite for families and anyone looking for a peaceful swim with views toward the mountains.
• East Beach – Longer and slightly livelier, with beach bars and water sport rentals scattered along the shore, making it popular with younger travelers and groups.

Both beaches offer beautiful sunset views, but East Beach in particular is a wonderful spot to watch the sky turn orange over the Taurus Mountains in the distance.

🚤 Take a Boat Trip Along the Coast

No visit to Side feels complete without getting out onto the water at least once. Boat trips departing from the harbor typically cruise along the coastline, stopping at quiet coves for swimming and snorkeling. Many tours include lunch on board, music, and a relaxed pace that lets you soak in views of the peninsula from a completely different angle. It's a fun option for both couples looking for a romantic afternoon and families traveling with kids.

🐬 Visit Side's Waterpark and Aquarium

If you are traveling with children, or simply love a bit of splashy fun, the region around Side is home to lively waterparks with slides and pools suited to all ages. There is also a well-regarded aquarium nearby where you can see marine life up close, a great rainy-day or midday-heat alternative to the beach.

🛍️ Stroll the Old Town and Harbor

Side's old town is compact enough to explore leisurely, with narrow streets packed with jewelry shops, leather goods, ceramics, and Turkish delight stalls. In the evening, the harbor area comes alive with restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Turkish mezze, all set against the backdrop of boats bobbing gently in the marina. It's a wonderful place to end the day with a slow dinner and a glass of local wine or raki.

🌄 Day Trip to Manavgat Waterfall

Just a short drive from Side, the Manavgat River offers a scenic escape from the coast. The Manavgat Waterfall itself is not towering, but it is wide and powerful, and the surrounding riverside park makes for a pleasant walk. Many visitors combine this with a boat ride upriver, stopping at riverside restaurants for a fish lunch surrounded by greenery, a refreshing contrast to the beach scene.

⛰️ Explore Alanya's Castle and Caves

For travelers based in Side who want to venture a little further, Alanya makes an excellent day trip. Its hilltop castle offers sweeping views over the Mediterranean, while the Red Tower and nearby sea caves add extra historical and natural intrigue. The drive along the coast alone is worth the trip, with dramatic cliffs and turquoise water on one side and mountains on the other.

🏇 Try a Jeep Safari or Horseback Riding

Inland from Side, the landscape shifts into pine forests, rocky hills, and small rural villages. Jeep safari tours are a popular way to explore this terrain, often including stops at waterfalls, villages, and viewpoints, with plenty of dust and laughter along the way. Horseback riding tours are also available for those who prefer a quieter pace through nature, and both options give a completely different perspective on the region beyond the coastline.

🗺️ Getting to and Around Side

Side sits along the Turkish Riviera within reach of Antalya Airport, which serves as the main gateway for most travelers heading to this stretch of coast. Because Side itself is a peninsula with narrow, pedestrian-heavy streets, most visitors base themselves in nearby hotel areas like Manavgat, Titreyengöl, or Çolaklı and travel into the old town for sightseeing.

Arranging a private airport transfer is by far the most stress-free way to start your holiday, especially after a long flight. Rather than juggling luggage on public transport or negotiating taxi fares upon arrival, a pre-booked shuttle from Antalya Airport straight to your hotel in Side means you can relax the moment you land, with a driver already waiting and no surprises about pricing or route.

💡 Tips for Visiting Side

• 🧢 Visit the Temple of Apollo in the late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
• Wear comfortable footwear, as the old town's cobbled streets can be uneven.
• Stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities like the waterfall or jeep safari for the morning to avoid the midday heat.
• Book boat trips and day tours a day or two in advance during peak summer months, as popular ones fill up quickly.

🌅 Final Thoughts

Side manages a rare balance between ancient wonder and relaxed beach holiday, making it a destination that appeals to history lovers, families, and sun-seekers alike. Whether you spend your days wandering among Roman columns, floating in the Mediterranean, or venturing inland on a dusty jeep trail, this small peninsula has a way of leaving a lasting impression. Planning your transport in advance, starting with a reliable transfer from Antalya Airport, is one simple step that lets you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying everything Side has to offer.