Things To Do In Side

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Things To Do In Side

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  • Filter (21)
  • Historical Site (7)
  • Boating & Cruises (2)
  • Beach (2)
  • Waterfall (1)

1. Temple of Apollo

Temple of Apollo

8 km
from city center
1 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

The Apollon Temple of Side is a remarkable treasure of Turkey. Also known as the Symbol of Side, the temple was built in dedication to Apollo- the Greek God of sun, light, dance, music, archery, truth and healing. Sunsets are a breathtaking view at the temple, and it is also situated near the beach, which adds to the dreamy scenery.

2. Side Amphitheatre

Side Amphitheatre

9 km
from city center
2 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

The Greek Amphitheatre marks an ancient era in Side and is one of the largest in the Ancient Pamphylia region. A total of about 15,0000 to 20,000 people could once be accommodated in one sitting. Plenty of history and culture has passed through the amphitheatre over the years. Stop by just to observe the beautiful Greek architecture.

3. Side Ancient City

Side Ancient City

8 km
from city center
3 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

The ancient city of Side, which was once a port city for Pamphilia, is preserved as an open-air museum and is a fifteen-minute walk from the city. Traces of many civilisations lie here through the amphitheatres, city walls, schools, temples, arches, fountains, monuments, baths and hospitals.

4. East Beach

East Beach

9 km
from city center
4 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

The East Beach of Side, Turkey is longer, wider, and has more gradient than the West Beach. It runs along the Mediterranean coast up to the Manavgat River and Sorgun region. The water here is rougher than the West Beach, making it difficult for swimming and snorkelling but ideal for parasailing and jet skiing. The revered Temple of Apollo is located near East Beach. It is also the starting point for many half-day and full-day cruises in and around Side.

5. Watersports at West Beach

Watersports at West Beach

9 km
from city center
5 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

The West Beach Side runs up to the Colakli area. It has shallow, warm water ideal for swimming and a newly-built promenade for leisurely walking. It is a perfectly safe seaside destination in Turkey for families travelling with kids. Water sports such as parasailing, snorkelling, jet skiing, and scuba diving can be availed here. The white sand beach has many small cafes, restaurants, and bar shacks. West Beach is flatter than East Beach and has more resorts, hotels, and other accommodation options.

6. Manavgat Waterfall

Manavgat Waterfall

14 km
from city center
6 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

The Manavgat Waterfall is one of the most visited waterfalls in Turkey. It’s a beautiful low waterfall that is spread over a large area. Several restaurants, cafes, tea gardens, and seating are arranged on a promenade near the falls. It is, thus, popular for picnics. The rate of water flow is also ideal for river rafting.

7. Koprulu Canyon

Koprulu Canyon

63 km
from city center
7 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Koprulu (Köprülü) Canyon is a famous national park of Turkey, known for its incredible white water rafting experience and its history. The rafting tours include swimming in the water, climbing up the canyon, passing through the forests and even catching a meal at the nearby waterfront restaurants. The entire area is simply picturesque. 

8. Side Museum

Side Museum

9 km
from city center
8 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

The Side Archaeological Museum showcases a variety of ancient artefacts like statues, jewels, coins, friezes, sarcophaguses, daily use objects, marble coffins and inscriptions. These antiquities are from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine Periods. It is located in an ancient Roman bathhouse (Agora Bath) that dates back to 2 A.D and was later restored into a museum.

9. Scuba Diving

Scuba Diving

9 km
from city center
9 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Discover the beautiful underwater life of the Mediterranean Sea by scuba diving at Side. It is the ideal place for diving due to its high biodiversity, good visibility and temperature. Many wrecks can be witnessed, resting on the sea bed. Scuba diving at Side takes place in the Manavgat Underwater Museum, the only underwater museum in Europe. 

10. Visit a Hammam

Visit a Hammam

10 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Hammam or Turkish baths are the world-famous steam baths from Turkey. It is a must-try at Side as many places in the city offering authentic Turkish baths. A few famous Hammam in Side are Harem Hamam & Spa (Kizilagac), Spa & Wellness, Delphin Hamam & Spa Wellness and Sultan Hammam.

11. Dolphin Island Boat Tour

Dolphin Island Boat Tour

50 km
from city center
11 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Swim with dolphins at Side’s Dolphinarium Sealanya. Boat tours are arranged from the hotels to the dolphin park and provide many fun activities like swimming in the clean river of Manavgat, lunch on a yacht and loads of entertainment. Apart from dolphins, there are seals and sea lions at the park too.

12. See Selge Ruins

See Selge Ruins

43 km
from city center
12 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Selge was an important trading hub in ancient Pisidia that later got included in the Pamphylia region between the Mediterranean Sea and the southern slope of Mount Taurus. Currently located in Altinkaya village of Antalya Province in Turkey, Selge is a titular see of the Roman Catholic Church. Only a few traces of the old city remains for visitors to explore. Remnants of a stoa, a basilica, a stadium, and a gymnasium can be traced along with parts of the perimeter wall and the Acropolis.

13. Demre, Myra & Boat Kekova Tour

Demre, Myra & Boat Kekova Tour

133 km
from city center
13 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Explore the history of Turkey through the Demre, Myra, and Kekova tours. The tour covers the main attractions of Myra, Demre, and Kekova, a sunken city. The tour can be done as a boat tour booked online or through local travel agents. It is a 14-hour tour, including lunch, all entrance costs, and hotel pick up and drop off. It starts at EUR 80 per person. It is operational in April to November.

14. Monumental Fountain (Nymphaeum)

Monumental Fountain (Nymphaeum)

9 km
from city center
14 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Nymphaeum, or the Monumental Fountain, is a stunning old structure at the entrance of the ancient city of Side. It is 35 metres wide and 5 metres long and was once the personification of eminence in the country. The Nymphaeum has marvellous architecture, consisting of a three-story facade filled with statues, frescoes, marble work, niches and Corinthian columns.

15. The State Agora

The State Agora

15 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

The State Agora was the city's political centre for government meetings and discussions to be held during the Roman ruling era. All the laws were voted on and proceeded at the agora. It was built in the Augustus era and is now a historical site.

16. Seleucia

Seleucia

16 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Seleucia was an ancient city in Greece along the coast of Pamphylia. It was also once known as Scandalor in the Middle Age. Situated on the hilltop, the remains of Selucia are now considered to be the remains of Lyrbe, another ancient city of Cilicia. The remains consist of churches, temples, an agora, a mausoleum, a gate, a necropolis and a Roman bath.

17. Fatih Cami Side

Fatih Cami Side

9 km
from city center
17 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Fatih Cami, also known as the Fatih Mosque, is located in the city center and is renowned for its architectural beauty. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens with numerous trees and flowers. The mosque is easily visible from afar, making it a prominent landmark in Side. On Saturdays, a bustling market is held nearby, where visitors can enjoy shopping and bargaining. Women visiting the mosque are required to wear clothing with long sleeves and a headscarf which are available at the entrance.

18. Aquajoy Theme Park

Aquajoy Theme Park

14 km
from city center
18 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Located in Manavgat, Antalya, Aquajoy Su Parki is a water park, near Side. Highlights include the Aqua Tower, Aqua Tube, and Black Hole for thrilling experiences, along with the Body Slide and Free Fall Kamikaze for adrenaline enthusiasts. The park ensures comfort with loungers, dressing rooms, and lockers, alongside cafeterias serving varied meals.

19. Antalya

Antalya
Day Trip

67 km
from city center
19 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Antalya, just 1 hour away from Side, is a coastal city offering ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and breathtaking vistas of the sea. You can explore this beautiful city on your own or book an organised tour either online or from local tour operators. In Antalya, main attractions include Hadrian's Gate, Duden waterfalls, Konyaalti beaches and many more.

20. Manavgat

Manavgat
Day Trip

12 km
from city center
20 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

Manavgat is a charming town in the Antalya province, located near the historic town of Side. Main highlights in the town are Manavgat Waterfall, Manavgat Observation Terrace, Grand Bazaar, Külliye Mosque and Ancient City of Side. Taking a bus is convenient and cost-effective, with frequent departures from the Side bus station.

21. Green Lake Boat Trip

Green Lake Boat Trip

21 out of 21
Things To Do in Side

The Green Lake Boat Trip is a full-day excursion usually combined with a jeep safari tour to nearby canyons. The entire tour lasts approximately 8 hours with 1 hour boat ride and includes pick up, drop off, lunch, and a visit to Manavgat waterfalls. This tour can be booked online or from any local tour operator.

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