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Hotels in Side: Experience culture and adventure
Side is on Turkey's Southern Mediterranean Coast, located in the Antalya Province. If you're looking for stunning beaches, ancient ruins and a touch of Turkish charm, Side is the perfect getaway. This Mediterranean gem has it all, from golden sands and crystal-clear waters to history dating back to the Roman era.
Spend your days relaxing on sun-soaked beaches, taking a dip in the turquoise sea or trying exciting water sports. Do you love history? Wander through the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, visit the Temple of Apollo at sunset or explore ancient streets where gladiators once walked.
Whether you are after a beach holiday or an adventurous getaway, get deals on hotels in Side, Turkey, for a fun getaway.
Side at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 4 hours 15 minutes
Main airport: Antalya Airport (AYT)
Population: 14,527 (2022)
Language: Turkish
Currency: Turkish lira
Time zone: Turkey Time Zone (UTC+3)
Getting to Side from the UK
Side is nestled between Antalya and Alanya. It's about 47 miles east of Antalya and easily accessible from Antalya Airport (AYT). You can get flights to Side from the UK. Direct flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh take around four hours, with airlines like easyJet, Jet2, Turkish Airlines and TUI.
If you are looking for cheap flights, travel in spring or autumn for the best deals on flights to Side. Once you land in Antalya, you can reach Side in about one hour by taxi or private transfer. Budget travellers can hop on a Havaş shuttle bus to Manavgat, then grab a quick taxi to Side.
The best time to visit Side
You can visit Side any time of the year, depending on whether you want beach days or fewer crowds. If you love hot weather and buzzing nightlife, visit Side in summer. With temperatures soaring, Side's beaches are packed with sun-seekers. Spend your days swimming in turquoise waters, trying watersports and sipping cocktails by the sea. The evenings come alive with harbour-side restaurants, sunset views at the Temple of Apollo and bustling bazaars. Just prepare for crowds and higher prices for hotels in Side.
Visit in spring or autumn for perfect weather, fewer tourists and better prices on Side hotels. It's the best time to explore Side's ancient ruins, hike in the Taurus Mountains and take boat trips along the coast. The sea is still warm enough for a swim, and you won't be melting while wandering through history. Plus, September and October are great for food and cultural festivals!
If you prefer quiet escapes, winter is ideal. Side enjoys mild winters, making it great for exploring ruins, wandering through charming old streets and enjoying Turkish hammams (spas). While the beach scene is quieter, it's the perfect time for a relaxing, crowd-free getaway with stunning coastal views.
Top attractions to visit in Side
The Temple of Apollo
The first place you should visit in Side is the Temple of Apollo. It is Side's popular landmark and sits right by the sea. This ancient temple was built for Apollo, the Greek god of light and sun. Although only a few majestic columns remain standing, the ruins exude a mystical charm, especially when bathed in golden sunset hues. Stroll around the site, take in the stunning coastal views and soak up Side's rich history. At night, the temple is beautifully lit, making it a magical spot for photos. It's also within walking distance of Side's bustling harbour, so you can end your visit with a delicious seafood dinner by the waterfront.
Side Ancient Theatre
If you are a history lover, you should stop by Side Ancient Theatre, a well-preserved Roman amphitheatre. This ancient theatre once hosted 20,000 spectators for gladiator battles and theatrical performances. Walk through its grand stone arches and steep seating rows. Today, the theatre still hosts concerts and cultural events, making it a great place to experience live music in a historical setting.
Manavgat Waterfalls
A short drive from Side, Manavgat Waterfall offers a refreshing escape from the heat. The cascading white, foamy waters are surrounded by lush greenery, making it a picture-perfect picnic spot. While the falls are not particularly high, the strong flow and misty atmosphere create a relaxing ambience. There are also riverside cafes, where you can enjoy Turkish tea or fresh fish while listening to the soothing sound of rushing water. You can also take a boat trip down the Manavgat River, where you might spot turtles, birds and even floating markets.
Side Museum
If you're fascinated by history, don't miss the Side Museum. Located inside a restored Roman bathhouse, this small but fascinating museum showcases statues, sarcophagi, coins and mosaics dating back thousands of years. It's a great place to learn about Side's Roman and Greek heritage before exploring the ancient ruins. The museum's courtyard, filled with sculptures and inscriptions, adds to its charm.
FAQs about Side holidays
Q: Is there much to do in Side, Antalya?
A: Yes. Side is packed with history, beaches and outdoor adventures. Explore ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo and the Roman theatre, or visit the Side Museum to dive into the town's past. If you love nature, take a boat trip along the coast or visit Manavgat Waterfall. The town's bustling harbour is perfect for shopping, dining and enjoying Turkish nightlife.
Q: When to visit Side?
A: The best time to visit Side is from April to June and September to October. The weather is warm but not too hot, which is perfect for exploring ancient ruins, hiking and beach days. July and August can be extremely hot, making beach lounging the best activity. Winter is mild and great for a quiet, crowd-free cultural getaway.
Q: Does Side have a sandy beach?
A: Yes. Side is famous for its long, golden beaches with shallow, crystal-clear waters. The East Beach is more natural and peaceful, while the West Beach is livelier, with beach bars, sun loungers and water sports. Whether you want to relax under the sun, take a dip in the Mediterranean or try jet skiing and parasailing, Side's sandy coastline is beautiful.
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