Things to Do in Side: Travel Guide
Side is an ancient Pamphylian harbour town where Greco-Roman ruins sit right among the streets, restaurants and beaches. The headland is crowned by the seafront Temple of Apollo, and the Manavgat River and waterfall lie just inland. Side is best known for Temple of Apollo by the sea, Roman amphitheatre, ancient city among the streets, sandy beaches, Manavgat River and Waterfall. Right now the sea is around 21°C with high crowds — Reliable sunshine, sea warming up. Excellent all-round touring weather.. Below are the top things to see plus the tours that actually run from Side.
Top sights in Side
Temple of Apollo — Five re-erected marble columns of a 2nd-century temple on the harbour point — Side's iconic sunset spot. Side Ancient Theatre — A grand Roman theatre seating around 15,000, one of the largest in the Pamphylia region. Ancient city gate & agora — Colonnaded streets, the agora and monumental gate that you walk through to reach the old town. Manavgat Waterfall — A wide, low waterfall on the Manavgat River a short drive inland, set in a riverside park.
Beaches
Side West Beach — A long sandy beach stretching towards Kumköy, with sunbeds and shallow water. Side East Beach — Sandy and generally quieter, running east of the peninsula towards Sorgun.
Getting to Side
Side is about 65 km east of Antalya Airport (AYT), roughly a 50–60 minute drive. It is the main resort hub of the Manavgat district.
Who Side suits
• History lovers • Families • Couples (sunset at the temple) • Beach holidays with culture
Local tips
• Watch sunset at the Temple of Apollo — arrive early to get a spot on the point. • The old-town ruins are free to wander; combine them with the theatre and museum. • Pair Side with the Manavgat Waterfall and a river boat trip for a full day.
Tours from Side
Frequently asked questions
What is Side known for?
Side is known for its seafront Temple of Apollo, large Roman theatre and ancient streets that run right through the modern town, plus sandy beaches and the nearby Manavgat Waterfall.
How far is Side from Antalya Airport?
About 65 km, a 50–60 minute drive.
Can you see ancient ruins in Side for free?
Yes — much of the ancient city, including the colonnaded streets and the Temple of Apollo, is open to walk through freely; the theatre and museum charge admission.
What's the weather like in Side right now?
Right now the sea is around 21°C with high crowds — Reliable sunshine, sea warming up. Excellent all-round touring weather..
What tours run from Side?
Popular options include Quad Safari, Aspendos Side Manavgat Waterfall Tour, Jeep Safari, Antalya Aquarium Tour (from Side).