Best Places to Visit in Side: A 25-Stop Guide from Ancient Ruins to Canyons

The must-see places in Side include the Ancient City of Side, the Roman Theatre, Side Museum, the Temples of Apollo and Athena, Side Harbour, East and West beaches, Manavgat Waterfall, Titreyengöl and Green Canyon. If this is your first visit, spend one day following the ancient city–bazaar–harbour route in Side town centre. On your second day, choose between the beaches, the Manavgat area or the canyons, depending on your interests.

What makes Side special is the way the remains of an ancient port city and a modern holiday resort share the same peninsula. You can walk along Roman colonnaded streets in the morning, swim in the afternoon and watch the sunset at the Temple of Apollo in the evening. Popular attractions such as Manavgat Waterfall, Oymapınar, Köprülü Canyon and Aspendos are not in Side town centre, however, so they should be planned separately with travel time in mind.

Rather than presenting a long list of names, this Side travel guide explains where each attraction is, who it suits and how much time to allow. History enthusiasts, families with children, travellers without a car and visitors looking for nature or adventure can therefore build a more practical itinerary.

List of the Best Places to Visit in Side

The suggested times below are approximate visiting times and do not include travel. The first ten attractions in Side town centre can be combined into one walking route. For places further afield, a car, public transport or a tour with hotel transfers is usually more convenient.

Map of Places to Visit in Side

This is a schematic map designed to make it easier to compare sightseeing areas and route directions. It should not be used for accurate distance measurement or navigation.

Places to Visit in Side Town Centre

The greatest advantage of exploring places to visit in Side town centre is that the historical monuments, bazaar, harbour and beaches are close together. You can start at the entrance to the ancient city, walk to the Temple of Apollo at the tip of the peninsula, then stop in the bazaar or by the harbour on your way back. Stone surfaces become very hot in summer, so an early start or a late-afternoon visit to the museum and theatre will be more comfortable.

1. Ancient City of Side

Covering much of the peninsula, the Ancient City of Side was one of Pamphylia’s major ports and trading centres. Today, the Monumental Fountain, city gates, colonnaded streets, agoras, baths, theatre, temples and religious buildings from different periods can all be seen along the same route. Modern shops and everyday life continue among the ruins, giving Side a more layered atmosphere than a conventional archaeological site.

Do not treat the ancient city as a single photo stop. Allow at least two hours to see the main structures comfortably, or three to four hours if you also want to visit the museum and theatre and examine the ruins in detail. Wear shoes with good grip because the stone and marble surfaces are uneven in places. In summer, carry water, a hat and sun protection.

Some open sections of Side can be crossed freely, while the museum, theatre and controlled areas may have different entry rules. Excavations, restoration work and evening museum programmes can change routes and opening times, so check the latest information on the day of your visit.

2. Monumental Fountain and Great City Gate

At the landward entrance to the ancient city, the Monumental Fountain (Nymphaeum) is one of the most impressive structures to welcome visitors to Side. It once had a multi-storey façade fed by aqueducts and decorated with statues. Even the surviving sections give a strong sense of the ancient city’s wealth and scale.

The nearby Great City Gate and remains of the defensive walls reveal how monumental entrances and city defences were designed together. Rather than planning these as a separate excursion, make them the starting point of your walk from the car park or public transport stop towards the theatre. Morning and late-afternoon light are better than midday for both temperature and photography.

3. Colonnaded Street and City Ruins

Leading from the gate into the peninsula, the Colonnaded Street was one of ancient Side’s main thoroughfares. Columns, shops, baths, civic buildings and water channels along the route make it easier to imagine daily life in the city. Because the ruins are spread over a wide area, follow the signs as you walk.

Look beyond the largest monuments and notice the paving, column bases and relationship between neighbouring buildings. This section is highly exposed to the sun. If you are visiting with children, take short breaks; if you have a pushchair, bear in mind that parts of the surface can be rough and uneven.

4. State Agora, Commercial Agora and Temple of Tyche

Traces of Side’s civic and economic life can be seen around the State Agora and Commercial Agora. Agoras were not simply marketplaces: they were centres where people met, public affairs were discussed and urban life unfolded. The circular Temple of Tyche at the centre of the Commercial Agora represented the city’s ideas of fortune and prosperity.

These structures are very close to the theatre and museum and are best explored on the same route. Reading the information panels makes the visit much richer than viewing the ruins as isolated stone blocks. It is also a useful stop for explaining to children how shopping and everyday life worked in an ancient city.

5. Side Museum

Housed in a restored ancient agora bathhouse, Side Museum displays sculptures, reliefs, sarcophagi, portraits, inscriptions, coins and architectural fragments discovered during excavations. Objects from the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods help visitors understand the life behind the buildings seen outside.

The museum is not a vast complex, but you should still allow at least one hour for its galleries and garden. During the hottest part of the day, it offers a cooler and more meaningful break. When visiting with children, seeing the open ruins first and then entering the museum can help put the objects into context.

Opening times, ticket prices and Museum Pass conditions may change, so check them on the day. The museum and ancient theatre are close together, but their entrances and ticket arrangements may be separate.

6. Roman Theatre of Side

With its monumental form at the point where the peninsula narrows, the Roman Theatre of Side is the ancient city’s most imposing structure. Its plan reflects the Hellenistic theatre tradition, while the upper seating tiers rise over a vaulted Roman substructure. This combination gives it a distinctive place among the ancient theatres of Anatolia.

When the seating, stage building and surrounding cityscape are considered together, it becomes clear that this was not only a venue for performances but also a major civic space where thousands of people gathered. The steps are steep and stone surfaces may be slippery, so supervise children, stay within safety boundaries and wear comfortable shoes.

Summer evening openings may provide an opportunity to see the theatre in cooler weather and under illumination. Dates and hours can change, however, so base your plans on current official information.

7. Monument and Fountain of Vespasian

The Monument of Vespasian near the theatre is one of Side’s surviving traces of the Roman imperial period. Although only fragments remain, it is valuable for understanding the position of monumental architecture within the city. It can be examined together with the nearby fountain and other architectural pieces.

You do not need to set aside a long visit for this stop. Fifteen to thirty minutes is enough while walking from the theatre towards the old town or harbour. Read the on-site explanations to avoid missing smaller details, and do not climb on the remains.

8. Temples of Apollo and Athena

The Temple of Apollo, now the symbol of Side, is especially impressive at sunset thanks to its position overlooking the ancient harbour at the tip of the peninsula. Together with the neighbouring Temple of Athena, it was built during the Pax Romana in honour of the city’s principal god and goddess. The standing columns, sea and sky form Side’s most recognisable view.

Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunset to explore without rushing and find a good viewpoint. The area can become very busy on summer evenings, so visit in the morning if you prefer quieter surroundings and easier photography. Respect the safety barriers and do not climb on the stones.

9. Side Old Town and Bazaar

Set among the ancient ruins, Side Old Town is the living part of the central sightseeing route, with stone-paved streets, small shops, cafés, restaurants and traditional products. As the bazaar lies between the ancient city and harbour, it is easy to add a shopping or meal break to a day of sightseeing.

The architecture is easier to appreciate by day, while lights and crowds create a livelier atmosphere in the evening. Before buying, ask about prices, product details, payment and returns. The narrow streets become busy on summer evenings, so earlier hours may be more comfortable for families with young children.

10. Side Harbour and Seafront Walk

Side Harbour is a natural continuation of the town-centre route, with excursion boats, fishing boats, waterfront restaurants and the nearby temples at the tip of the peninsula. When the heat begins to fade, a walk along the seafront is one of the easiest ways to enjoy Side.

If you would like to see the coast from the water, compare routes, swimming stops, lunch and transfer options on the Side boat tours page. Walk only in permitted areas around the piers and keep children supervised, as boat traffic and wet surfaces can create hazards.

Side Beaches and Coastal Experiences

Side’s coastline consists mainly of long, sandy beaches. It should not be approached in the same way as Antalya’s small, rocky coves. East and West beaches, on either side of the town centre, are easy to reach without a car. Kumköy, Evrenseki and Sorgun are better suited to visitors looking for different combinations of facilities, nature and space.

11. Side East Beach

Stretching along the eastern side of the peninsula, Side East Beach suits visitors who want to leave some of the town-centre crowds behind and walk along a long section of coast. Public areas and privately operated facilities may be available in different sections; sunbed, shower, parking and minimum-spend arrangements vary from place to place.

Sea conditions, waves and the slope of the shore depend on the weather. If you are swimming with children, assess the conditions on the day rather than relying on general descriptions. Mornings are usually better for a quieter swim, while late afternoon is ideal for walking and photography.

12. Side West Beach

Thanks to its proximity to the old town and tourism area, Side West Beach is one of the most convenient swimming spots for travellers without a car. Its sandy shore, seafront path and nearby businesses are particularly useful for families with children and visitors who want to combine history and the beach in the same day.

The central section can be busy in summer. Walk further west along the coast or arrive early in the morning to find a quieter place. At sunset, looking towards the Side peninsula offers a different perspective from the temple and old-town route.

13. Kumköy and Evrenseki Beaches

West of Side, Kumköy and Evrenseki have wide sandy beaches, hotels, walking areas and a broad range of seaside facilities. They offer a more traditional beach-holiday atmosphere. You can reach them from the centre by dolmuş or taxi, and they may be within walking distance depending on where you are staying.

The sandy shoreline and choice of facilities are useful for families, although sea depth and waves can vary from day to day. Distinguish between public beach sections and services belonging to hotels or private operators. These beaches are better planned as a half-day visit than a brief sightseeing stop.

14. Sorgun Forest and Sorgun Beach

East of Side, Sorgun has a different character from the busy tourism strip to the west, with pine trees, coastline and a natural setting close to the Manavgat River. Different sections of Sorgun Beach may be managed by hotels or private businesses or open to the public, so check your access point before setting out.

The woodland provides shade and pleasant scenery in summer, but all restrictions on access, picnics and lighting fires must be followed during periods of high wildfire risk. Sorgun can be combined with Titreyengöl and the Manavgat river mouth on the same half-day route.

Places to Visit Near Side and Manavgat

Side lies within Manavgat district in Antalya Province. For that reason, the closest places to visit near Side include central Manavgat, the waterfall, the river, Sorgun and Titreyengöl. Oymapınar, Lyrbe, Köprülü Canyon and Aspendos require longer journeys and are better treated as half-day or full-day trips.

15. Titreyengöl

Titreyengöl, in the Sorgun area, offers a short nature break with reeds, birds and lakeside paths. Large hotels surround parts of the lake, so do not expect a completely untouched environment. Even so, the atmosphere is usually quieter early in the morning.

Do not feed the birds, enter the reed beds or treat the lake as a swimming spot. One or two hours is enough for photography, a short walk and an extension of your Sorgun route. Public transport arrangements may vary by season, so check the current services.

16. Manavgat Waterfall

Manavgat Waterfall is known not for a high, narrow drop but for powerful water flowing across a broad riverbed. Viewing areas, shaded sections and places to eat and drink make it one of the easiest nature trips from Side.

Although the surroundings feel cooler in summer, the site can be busy at weekends and around tour-group arrival times. Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience. Never cross the safety barriers: the current is strong. Entry, parking and opening arrangements can change, so check the latest information before travelling.

Rather than visiting the waterfall alone, you can combine it with Manavgat market and a river cruise. Travellers who prefer an organised transfer can consider the Manavgat river cruise, bazaar and waterfall tour from Side.

17. Manavgat River and the River Mouth

Flowing down from the Taurus Mountains, the Manavgat River passes through the city before reaching the Mediterranean near Sorgun. River cruises, reed-lined banks, fishing boats and the point where river and sea meet are among the most distinctive nature experiences around Side.

Boat itineraries can differ in their swimming stops, market visit, waterfall stop, lunch and transfer arrangements. River and sea water can differ considerably in temperature and current, so swim only in permitted areas. If you drive to the river mouth, check road, parking and shoreline conditions, particularly after heavy rain.

18. Manavgat Town Centre and Market

Central Manavgat offers a more local urban atmosphere than Side’s tourist peninsula. The town centre, riverfront and markets held on designated days can be visited for textiles, spices, fresh produce and souvenirs. If the market is the main reason for your visit, confirm its day and closing time in advance.

It is more efficient to combine the town centre with the waterfall or a river cruise than to treat it as a full-day trip in its own right. Keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas and agree prices and product conditions before buying.

19. Oymapınar Dam and Green Canyon

Oymapınar Dam on the Manavgat River and the surrounding Green Canyon offer a completely different day from the coast, with high cliffs, forests and calm lake scenery. The main experience is usually a boat trip on the reservoir with swimming stops and time to enjoy the landscape.

There may be checkpoints and restricted technical zones around the dam, so use only permitted routes. Winding roads and limited public transport make travelling by car or joining a programme with hotel transfers more comfortable. Compare lunch, drinks, transfers and swimming stops among the available Green Canyon tours from Side.

20. Ancient City of Lyrbe (Seleukeia)

Set on a forested hill, Lyrbe—also widely known as Seleukeia—offers a quieter archaeological experience, with the remains of a two-storey agora, basilica, cisterns, baths and defensive walls. It is a good alternative for travellers who want to discover history in nature after the busy central route in Side.

The final stretch of road and the walking surface can become difficult depending on the season. Carry water, download an offline map and wear sturdy shoes. Avoid isolated trails alone or late in the day. Excavation work and access conditions can change, so check the latest situation before leaving.

21. Köprülü Canyon and Oluk Bridge

Köprülü Canyon National Park is a full-day destination known for rafting and outdoor activities along the Köprüçay River, which flows between steep canyon walls. The Roman-era Oluk Bridge adds a historical stop to the river and forest scenery. It can be visited on a day trip from Side but should not be squeezed into a short afternoon.

If you plan to go rafting, compare the operator’s licences, equipment, insurance, age and health restrictions, route, meals and transfer conditions. Water levels and weather can affect the programme. If you are driving on rural and village roads, leave extra time beyond the navigation estimate.

Compare adventure-oriented options among the tours and activities in Side. For a more relaxed way to explore the Taurus Mountains, consider one of the Side jeep safari tours.

22. Aspendos Ancient Theatre

West of Side, Aspendos is one of Türkiye’s most impressive ancient theatres, renowned for its well-preserved stage building and broad seating area. Most visitors focus on the theatre, but the basilica, agora, aqueducts and acropolis form part of a much larger ancient city.

Aspendos can be visited from Side by car or on a tour with transfers as a half-day trip. It can be combined with Köprülü Canyon, but an early start is essential if you want to explore both areas properly. Access and visiting hours may change on event days, so check the current programme.

23. Tazı Canyon and Selge

Tazı Canyon, in the Köprülü Canyon area, is known for viewpoints high above the cliffs. The Ancient City of Selge adds history to the route with its mountain settlement, theatre and unusual surrounding rock formations. Both are far from central Side and require a full day because of the winding and sometimes challenging roads.

Approaching the unprotected cliff edges at Tazı Canyon is extremely dangerous. Never cross safe boundaries for a photograph. Check road and weather conditions towards Selge, and plan to return before dark. Green Canyon may be more suitable for young children, visitors with limited mobility or anyone looking for a shorter and easier day.

Alternative Experiences in Side

Beyond historical sites, beaches and nature routes, Side also offers more structured experiences such as diving and theme parks. Age, health, weather, transfers and what is included in the package play a greater role in these activities than they do at conventional visitor attractions.

24. Side Underwater Museum and Scuba Diving

For experienced divers, the Side Underwater Museum offers a chance to discover sculptures and themed installations placed at different depths below the surface. This is not a conventional museum that can be reached on foot from the beach; visiting requires an authorised diving centre, a boat, suitable equipment and appropriate sea and weather conditions.

If you have never dived before, discuss training, health requirements, age limits and introductory dive options with the operator. You can compare programmes on the Side scuba diving tours page. Bear in mind that tours may be postponed if sea conditions are unsuitable.

25. The Land of Legends

The Land of Legends in Belek–Kadriye is not within Side, but it is a popular full-day excursion for families with children and theme-park enthusiasts staying in the area. The water park, rides, shopping avenue and seasonal evening shows offer different programmes within the same complex.

Remember that a park ticket, an evening-show booking and a transfer package are not necessarily the same product. Check age and height restrictions, which attractions are operating, food policies and return times before buying. Compare daytime and evening options with transfers on the Land of Legends tours from Side page.

Best Places to Visit in Side at Night

The best places to visit in Side at night are not limited to bars and restaurants. Sunset viewpoints, illuminated ancient monuments, harbour walks, the bazaar and the seafront offer options for different ages and budgets.

Sunset at the Temple of Apollo

Begin your evening near the Temple of Apollo about an hour before sunset. The best viewpoints fill quickly in high season, so arrive early. If evening museum hours are available after sunset, you may also be able to visit the theatre and controlled areas of the ancient city according to the current schedule.

Old Town, Bazaar and Harbour Walk

The route from the temple through the bazaar to the harbour is the easiest evening plan that does not require a car. Browse souvenir shops, stop for a meal overlooking the sea and watch the boats in the harbour. Families with children may prefer the early evening before the streets become more crowded.

Seafront Walk at West Beach

When the heat of the day fades, West Beach and the seafront provide a quieter alternative. This route suits couples who prefer a sunset walk to loud entertainment. In sections with limited lighting, keep away from the water’s edge and slippery surfaces.

Manavgat Riverfront

If you would like a different evening from central Side, plan a walk and meal along the Manavgat riverfront. Check the last public transport departure before setting out. Daytime stops such as the market and waterfall are better kept separate from an evening focused on the river.

Evening Shows and Entertainment

Families looking for a more structured evening can consider seasonal shows and transfer programmes. For destinations such as The Land of Legends, check whether the package includes only the show, how long the transfer takes and what time you will return to your hotel. Compare all available programmes on the Side tours page.

Where to Go in Side for Different Types of Trip

Free Places to Visit in Side

The following stops can be included in a budget-friendly Side itinerary:

• The streets of Side Old Town and the bazaar

• Side Harbour and seafront walking areas

• The outer surroundings of the Temples of Apollo and Athena

• Freely accessible sections of the Colonnaded Street and open city ruins

• Public sections of East and West beaches

• Public areas along the beaches of Kumköy, Evrenseki and Sorgun

• Public walking areas around Titreyengöl

• Accessible sections of the Manavgat riverfront and river mouth

• Manavgat town centre and bazaar

• Public viewpoints around Oluk Bridge

Museums, the theatre, controlled archaeological areas, the waterfall, parking, sunbeds, boat trips, diving and other activities may charge a fee. Access rules and prices can change, so it is more reliable to check the current rate on the day than to rely on a fixed figure in a travel guide.

One-, Two- and Three-Day Side Itineraries

One-Day Side Town-Centre Itinerary

Start in the morning at the Monumental Fountain and Great City Gate. Follow the Colonnaded Street to Side Museum, the agoras and the ancient theatre. Stop for lunch in the bazaar or swim at West Beach around midday. Return to the old town and harbour in the late afternoon, then end the day with sunset at the Temple of Apollo.

Two-Day Side Itinerary

Devote the first day to the central route. On the second day, choose one of three options according to your interests:

• Easy nature route: Manavgat Waterfall + bazaar + river or river mouth

• Coastal route: Kumköy–Evrenseki or Sorgun + boat tour

• Historical route: Aspendos + Manavgat Waterfall

If you are travelling without a car, a day tour with transfers may save more time than an itinerary requiring several public transport connections.

Three-Day Side Itinerary

Spend the first day in central Side. On the second day, choose Manavgat Waterfall, the river and market, or a beach programme. For day three, nature lovers can visit Green Canyon, adventure seekers can go to Köprülü Canyon, history enthusiasts can choose Aspendos or Lyrbe, and families with children can spend the day at a theme park.

Do not try to fit Tazı Canyon, Selge, Köprülü Canyon and Aspendos into a single day. They may look close together on a map, but winding roads, activity durations and rest stops can make the day much longer than expected.

What to Know Before Visiting Side

• Separate the centre from outlying attractions: The ancient city, bazaar, harbour and beaches can be explored on foot; allow a separate day for the canyons and Aspendos.

• Plan around the summer heat: Explore exposed ancient sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and use midday for the museum, beach or a shaded break.

• Wear comfortable shoes: Marble streets, theatre steps and uneven archaeological surfaces are not suitable for flip-flops.

• Check evening museum hours: The ancient theatre and archaeological site may open in the evening during summer, but dates and times vary.

• Ask about beach access: Public shoreline and services operated by a hotel or private business can sit side by side on the same beach.

• Allow enough time for routes outside Side: Roads towards Green Canyon, Köprülü Canyon and Selge differ from the main coastal road and town traffic.

• Take sea and current warnings seriously: At the Manavgat river mouth and during boat-trip swimming stops, enter the water only in authorised areas.

• Confirm market days: Check the operating day and hours of Manavgat market for your travel dates.

• Check dynamic information on the day: Museums, archaeological sites, the waterfall, theme parks, boats and transfer programmes may change because of the season, maintenance or weather.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Side

What are the must-see places in Side?

First-time visitors should see the Ancient City of Side, Side Museum, the Roman Theatre, the Temples of Apollo and Athena, the old town, bazaar and harbour. If you have an extra day, choose one route covering Manavgat Waterfall, the river or Green Canyon.

What are the best places to visit in Side town centre?

The Monumental Fountain, Great City Gate, Colonnaded Street, agoras, Side Museum, Roman Theatre, Monument of Vespasian, Temple of Apollo, old town, bazaar and harbour can all be explored on foot in Side town centre.

Where should I go in Side at night?

The most convenient evening route starts at the Temple of Apollo for sunset and continues through Side Old Town, the bazaar and harbour. For a quieter option, walk along West Beach. Families with children may also consider seasonal evening shows.

How many days do you need in Side?

One day is enough for central Side. Two or three days provide a more balanced itinerary if you also want to include a beach, Manavgat and one canyon or ancient city outside the centre.

Can you explore the Ancient City of Side on foot?

Yes. The principal ruins, museum, theatre, old town, harbour and temples lie along a walkable route. Comfortable shoes and planned breaks are important, however, because of the heat, uneven stone surfaces and steps.

Where can you go in Side with children?

Side Museum, West Beach, Titreyengöl, Manavgat Waterfall and age-appropriate theme parks are suitable options for families. Check age and safety requirements separately for canyons, rafting, diving and the steep steps of the ancient theatre.

Are there free places to visit in Side?

Side Old Town, the bazaar, harbour, seafront walking areas and public sections of the beaches can be enjoyed free of charge. Some open ruins are visible without a ticket, but the museum, theatre and controlled areas may have separate admission arrangements.

What natural attractions are near Side?

Manavgat Waterfall, Titreyengöl, Sorgun, the Manavgat river mouth and Green Canyon are the main natural attractions near Side. Köprülü Canyon and Tazı Canyon are farther away and require a full day.

Can you get around Side without a car?

Central Side, the ancient city, bazaar, harbour and nearby beaches can all be explored without a car. Dolmuş services connect Manavgat and some coastal areas, while tours with transfers are more practical for Oymapınar and the canyons.

What is the best time of year to visit Side?

Late spring to early autumn is best for a beach holiday. Spring and autumn are cooler and more comfortable for ancient sites and nature trips. In winter, you can still visit the museum, ancient city, waterfall and Aspendos, while boat trips and water activities depend on weather conditions.