Side Ancient City

Side Ancient City is located in Side neighbourhood in the Manavgat district of Antalya, on a historic peninsula extending into the Mediterranean Sea. Around 7–8 kilometres from central Manavgat, the ancient city lies along the same walking route as Side Old Town, the bazaar and the harbour.

The main ways to reach Side Ancient City are:

• By car: From Manavgat or the D400 highway, follow the signs towards Side. Vehicle access may be restricted in the historic centre, so visitors generally use the car parks near the entrance.

• By public transport: Municipal buses and dolmuş minibuses operate between central Manavgat and Side. Routes and timetables can change, so check them on the day of your visit.

• By taxi: Taxis provide direct access from hotels in Side, central Manavgat and nearby tourist resorts.

• By organised tour: Some cultural and sightseeing tours departing from Side, Manavgat, Antalya and Alanya include Side Ancient City in their itineraries.

• On foot: Visitors staying in central Side or at hotels close to the peninsula can easily reach the ancient city on foot.

Approximate distances:

Starting Point	Distance to Side Ancient City
Side centre and bazaar	Walking distance
Manavgat town centre	7–8 km
Manavgat Waterfall	12–15 km
Evrenseki and Kumköy	7–12 km
Antalya Airport	60–70 km
Antalya city centre	70–80 km
Alanya	60–70 km
Aspendos Ancient Theatre	35–40 km

For navigation, search for Side Ancient City, Side Archaeological Site, Side Ancient Theatre or Side Museum. As the ancient city covers a large area, choosing the car park closest to the monument you want to visit can save time.

A large part of Side’s ancient streets, harbour area and open monuments such as the Temple of Apollo can be explored free of charge, while controlled areas including the Side Archaeological Site, Ancient Theatre and Side Museum require a ticket.

According to official and current information accessed in September 2026:

Area	Admission and Visitor Information
Open archaeological routes through Side	Largely free
Colonnaded streets and accessible open ruins	Free in accessible sections
Area around the Temples of Apollo and Athena	Free
Side Archaeological Site and Ancient Theatre	Ticket required; MüzeKart valid for Turkish citizens
Side Archaeological Site ticket for foreign visitors	€7 under the 2026 tariff
Side Museum	Separate or seasonal combined ticket arrangements may apply; MüzeKart valid
Side Museum ticket for foreign visitors	€5 under the 2026 tariff
Daytime opening hours	08:00–18:45
Night museum hours	19:00–22:00
Night ticket office closing time	21:30
Closed days	Listed as open every day
MüzeKart	Valid for Turkish citizens
MüzeKart during night visits	An additional night ticket is required under the 2026 programme

During the 2026 night museum programme at the Side Archaeological Site, visitors with a Turkish ID number who hold a valid MüzeKart are stated to require an additional 200 TL night ticket.

Admission prices, combined tickets, restoration closures and opening hours may change during the season. Check the official MüzeKart or museum website on the day of your visit.

Side Ancient City can be explored on foot along a route beginning at the Monumental Fountain and continuing through the colonnaded streets, agoras, theatre, museum, old town, harbour and the Temples of Apollo and Athena.

Recommended walking route:

1. Monumental Fountain and Great City Gate

2. Colonnaded Street

3. State Agora

4. Commercial Agora and Temple of Tyche

5. Side Ancient Theatre

6. Side Museum

7. Vespasian Monument and surrounding ruins

8. Side Old Town and bazaar streets

9. Ancient harbour

10. Temples of Apollo and Athena

Allow around 2–3 hours for a shorter visit. Visitors who want to explore the ancient theatre, museum, agoras and harbour area in more detail should allow around 4–5 hours.

If you want to watch the sunset at the Temple of Apollo, starting your route in the afternoon works particularly well.

Stone and marble surfaces become extremely hot in summer. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat, water and sun protection. Excavations and restoration work may occasionally alter pedestrian routes, so always follow the signs and barriers on site.

Side Ancient City is a unique archaeological destination where historic ruins and a lively Mediterranean resort share the same peninsula. Visitors can walk among Roman colonnaded streets, theatres, agoras and temples before continuing directly into Side Old Town, the harbour, restaurants and the seafront.

The ancient city is not a single enclosed archaeological site with one entrance. Free open-air routes and ticketed controlled areas exist alongside one another. For this reason, entrance fees, opening hours and the amount of time required should be considered separately for the Side Archaeological Site, Ancient Theatre, Side Museum and Temple of Apollo.

What Is Side Ancient City?

Side Ancient City is a historic settlement that was one of the most important ports and trading centres of the ancient region of Pamphylia.

With its administrative buildings, marketplaces, theatre, baths, temples, harbour, water systems and residential areas, Side functioned as a fully developed city in antiquity.

A large proportion of the ruins visible today date from the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods.

Because modern Side developed on and around the ancient settlement, visitors can experience historic monuments and the present-day old town along the same walking route.

Which Province Is Side Ancient City In?

Side Ancient City is located in the Manavgat district of Antalya Province.

Side is not a separate province or district. It is a neighbourhood and tourism area within Manavgat, Antalya.

The ancient city lies on a peninsula around 7–8 kilometres southwest of central Manavgat.

Side is located east of Antalya city centre and west of Alanya.

Which Region Is Side Ancient City In?

Side Ancient City is located in Türkiye’s Mediterranean Region and within the ancient geographical region of Pamphylia.

Pamphylia was the historic region covering much of the coastal plains along the eastern side of the Gulf of Antalya. Perge, Aspendos, Sillyon and Side were among its most prominent ancient cities.

Side’s natural position on the Mediterranean coast played an important role in its development as a major port and trading centre.

What Does the Name Side Mean?

The name Side is generally considered to come from an ancient Anatolian language and to mean “pomegranate.”

The pomegranate was an important symbol of Side and appeared on the city’s ancient coins. This is considered one indication that the name originated from a local language spoken in the region before Greek colonisation.

Side also had its own distinctive local language and writing system, reflecting the city’s Anatolian cultural heritage.

When Was Side Ancient City Founded?

The known settlement history of Side dates back to at least the 7th century BC.

Ancient sources and archaeological evidence show that Side was already an important settlement during this period. However, its local name and Anatolian linguistic characteristics suggest that settlement in the area may have begun earlier.

Using the 7th century BC as a reference point, Side is approximately 2,700 years old.

Most of the monumental ruins visible today were constructed later, particularly during the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods.

What Is the History of Side Ancient City?

The history of Side spans approximately 2,700 years, from ancient Anatolian kingdoms and Persian rule to the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods.

Major periods in Side’s history include:

Period	Developments in Side
7th century BC	Side developed into an important settlement
6th century BC	Lydian and later Persian rule
334 BC	Macedonian control during Alexander the Great’s campaign in Anatolia
Hellenistic Period	Ptolemaic and Seleucid rule
2nd century BC	Period of independence and commercial development
1st century BC	Influence of pirate activity
After 78 BC	Roman rule
2nd–3rd centuries AD	Peak period of trade, architecture and urban prosperity
5th–6th centuries AD	Major Christian centre of eastern Pamphylia
9th–10th centuries AD	Raids, economic decline and population loss
Early 20th century	Development of Selimiye village among the ancient ruins

Most of the monumental character visible in Side today was shaped during the city’s prosperous years under the Roman Empire.

Who Lived in Side Ancient City?

Side was inhabited by local Pamphylian communities, Hellenistic populations, Romans and Christian communities during the Byzantine period.

Throughout its history, the city came under the influence or rule of the Lydians, Persians, Macedonians, Ptolemies, Seleucids, Kingdom of Pergamon, Romans and Byzantines.

Side also maintained its independence during certain periods and minted its own coins.

In the early 20th century, Muslim immigrants from Crete established the village of Selimiye among the ruins, forming the basis of modern Side.

Which Civilisation Built Side Ancient City?

Side Ancient City does not belong to a single civilisation; the ruins visible today represent layers of heritage created over many different periods.

The theatre, monumental fountains, agoras, baths and temples largely reflect Roman-period development.

Churches and episcopal buildings belong to the Byzantine period, while elements of the urban plan and earlier architectural remains date back to the Hellenistic period.

It would therefore be incomplete to describe Side simply as a “Roman city”. Its local Pamphylian and Hellenistic history predates Roman rule.

Why Was Side Ancient City Built?

Side Ancient City was not constructed at one time for one specific purpose; it was a living port city that developed gradually over centuries.

Different structures in the city served different purposes:

• The harbour and warehouses supported trade.

• Agoras were used for commerce and public life.

• The theatre hosted performances and civic events.

• Baths were used for hygiene and socialising.

• Temples were used for religious ceremonies.

• Fountains and water systems supplied the city with water.

• Walls and gates provided defence.

• Basilicas and churches served Christian worship during the Byzantine period.

Why Is Side Ancient City Important?

Side is important because it combines monumental Roman architecture, an ancient harbour and a living modern Mediterranean town in one destination.

Features that make Side particularly significant include:

• Its role as one of Pamphylia’s major ancient ports

• Its distinctive local language and coinage tradition

• Its unusual ancient theatre architecture

• Monumental Roman-period buildings

• Side Museum housed in the ancient Agora Baths

• The seaside Temples of Apollo and Athena

• Ancient ruins integrated with the modern old town

• The opportunity to combine cultural sightseeing and sunset views in one route

Why Was Side Ancient City Abandoned?

Side was not abandoned because of a single event. Its decline resulted from a combination of raids, economic difficulties, the decreasing importance of its harbour and long-term population loss.

The city began losing its former economic strength around the 4th century AD.

Although Side regained importance as a Christian centre during the 5th and 6th centuries, later attacks, political instability and changes in trade routes weakened the city.

By the 9th and 10th centuries, Side’s population had declined substantially. Historical accounts indicate that some residents moved towards the Antalya area.

What Is the Story and Legend of Side Ancient City?

The historical story of Side is one of a port city that grew wealthy through trade, passed under the control of several kingdoms and empires, and became a monumental Roman city.

Many of Side’s popular legends are associated with the Temples of Apollo and Athena.

One well-known story claims that Cleopatra and Mark Antony met at the Temple of Apollo. However, there is no conclusive archaeological evidence directly linking this romantic story to the temple.

For this reason, popular legend and verified historical information should be considered separately.

What Did Side Ancient City Look Like in the Past?

Ancient Side was a sophisticated Mediterranean city with colonnaded streets, marketplaces, monumental fountains, baths, a theatre, temples and a busy harbour.

Monumental streets beginning near the main city gate extended towards the harbour and temples.

Colonnaded porticoes and shops lined the streets. The agoras were centres of commercial and administrative life, while the theatre served as one of the main venues for entertainment and public gatherings.

The surviving ruins represent only part of the ancient city. Most houses, timber upper structures and everyday residential areas have not survived.

What Can You See at Side Ancient City?

Visitors to Side Ancient City can see numerous monuments from different periods, ranging from the Monumental Fountain to the seaside temples.

Main attractions include:

• Monumental Fountain or Nymphaeum

• Great City Gate

• Colonnaded Streets

• State Agora

• Commercial Agora

• Temple of Tyche

• Side Ancient Theatre

• Vespasian Monument

• Agora Baths and Side Museum

• Harbour Baths

• Temple of Apollo

• Temple of Athena

• Southern Basilica

• Episcopal Palace and basilica remains

• City walls

• Aqueducts and water channels

• Buildings around the ancient harbour

The areas accessible to visitors may change depending on excavation and restoration work.

What Is the Monumental Fountain of Side?

The Monumental Fountain of Side is a large Roman-period fountain located near the landward entrance to the ancient city.

Known as the Nymphaeum, the structure once had an impressive façade designed to welcome visitors entering the city.

Water transported to Side through aqueducts was collected here and displayed as part of the monumental architecture.

The fountain is one of the most suitable places to begin a walking tour of Side Ancient City. Its surviving sections help visitors understand the original scale and multi-storey design of the building.

Why Is Side Ancient Theatre Important?

Side Ancient Theatre is important because of its distinctive architecture, which combines the Hellenistic theatre tradition with Roman construction techniques.

The lower seating rows are partly supported by the natural terrain, while the upper sections rise over an extensive vaulted substructure.

This feature distinguishes Side Ancient Theatre from many other ancient theatres in Anatolia.

Dating mainly to the 2nd century AD, the theatre is estimated to have accommodated around 15,000–17,000 spectators.

During the 3rd century AD, it was adapted for arena events, and in the 5th century parts of the building were used for religious purposes.

Is Side Ancient Theatre Inside Side Ancient City?

Yes. Side Ancient Theatre is located in the centre of the ancient city, close to the agora and near the narrowest part of the peninsula.

The theatre lies directly along the main walking route from the Monumental Fountain and Colonnaded Street towards Side Old Town and the Temple of Apollo.

As the theatre is a controlled and ticketed area, its admission rules may differ from the free open-air sections of Side Ancient City.

How Many People Could Side Ancient Theatre Hold?

Side Ancient Theatre is estimated to have had a capacity of approximately 15,000–17,000 spectators.

Slightly different figures can be found in different sources depending on seating calculations and reconstruction methods.

Its capacity demonstrates the size and regional importance of Side during the Roman period.

Stone steps are steep and may be worn in places, so visitors should take care while walking inside the theatre.

Are Side Ancient City and the Temple of Apollo in the Same Place?

Yes. The Temple of Apollo is one of the most important seaside monuments within Side Ancient City.

The temple stands close to the entrance of the ancient harbour at the tip of the peninsula.

Immediately beside it are the remains of the Temple of Athena, dedicated to Side’s principal goddess.

Visitors can walk from Side Ancient Theatre to the Temple of Apollo through Side Old Town and the harbour area.

When Was the Temple of Apollo in Side Built?

The Temple of Apollo in Side was constructed around the 2nd century AD during the Pax Romana, a period of relative peace and prosperity in the Roman Empire.

The temple was dedicated to Apollo, one of the principal gods worshipped in Side.

Its reconstructed columns overlooking the Mediterranean have become one of the most recognisable symbols of Side.

The area around the temple can become crowded at sunset. Visit in the morning for a quieter experience.

Where Is Side Museum and What Is Inside?

Side Museum is housed in the restored Agora Baths, a Roman bath complex dating to approximately the 2nd century AD within Side Ancient City.

The museum displays archaeological finds discovered during excavations in Side and the surrounding area.

The collection includes:

• Statues and sculptural fragments

• Sarcophagi

• Reliefs

• Inscriptions

• Coins

• Architectural fragments

• Grave stelae

• Finds from the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods

The museum helps visitors understand the relationship between the monuments visible outside and the art and everyday life of ancient Side.

How Much Is the Entrance Fee for Side Ancient City?

The general open-air areas of Side Ancient City are free to explore, while controlled areas such as the Side Archaeological Site, Ancient Theatre and Side Museum require admission.

Under the 2026 tariff, admission for foreign visitors is listed as €7 for the Side Archaeological Site and €5 for Side Museum.

Seasonal single-ticket or combined-ticket arrangements may also be available.

Turkish citizens can enter eligible controlled areas with a valid MüzeKart.

Ticket prices may change during the year, so check the official tariff before visiting.

Yes. MüzeKart is valid for Turkish citizens at the Side Archaeological Site and Side Museum.

MüzeKart is not required for free public areas such as Side Old Town or the Temple of Apollo.

It is used for museums and archaeological areas where admission is normally charged.

Night museum programmes may have separate pricing. Under the 2026 programme, MüzeKart holders are required to purchase an additional ticket for night visits.

What Time Does Side Ancient City Close?

The official Side Archaeological Site page lists regular daytime visiting hours as 08:00–18:45.

The daytime ticket office is also listed as closing at 18:45.

During the night museum programme, the archaeological site may reopen between 19:00 and 22:00, with the night ticket office closing at 21:30.

These hours should not be confused with public areas around Side Old Town, the harbour and the Temple of Apollo.

Controlled archaeological and museum areas have their own opening hours.

Is Side Ancient City Open Every Day?

The official Side Archaeological Site page lists the site as open every day of the week.

Temporary changes may occur because of public holidays, maintenance, restoration projects, events, weather conditions or security arrangements.

Businesses in Side Old Town, Side Museum and other individual attractions may operate different opening hours from the archaeological site.

Is Side Ancient City Open in the Evening?

Side Old Town, the harbour and the area around the Temple of Apollo can be explored in the evening, while ticketed sections of the archaeological site stay open late only during announced night museum programmes.

Side becomes particularly lively on summer evenings.

The bazaar, restaurants, harbour and temple area remain popular after sunset.

For entry to the Ancient Theatre and controlled archaeological sections, follow the official night museum dates and opening hours.

Does Side Ancient City Have Night Museum Visits?

Yes. Side Archaeological Site is one of the archaeological attractions included in Türkiye’s 2026 night museum programme.

According to the official programme, night visits are available from 1 June to 1 October.

The announced hours for Side are:

• Night opening: 19:00

• Night closing: 22:00

• Ticket office closing: 21:30

• Programme: Every day

For MüzeKart holders with a Turkish ID number, the additional 2026 night ticket is listed as 200 TL.

Dates, admission fees and opening arrangements may change because of special events or seasonal decisions.

How Long Do You Need at Side Ancient City?

Allow at least 2–3 hours for Side Ancient City, or approximately 4–5 hours for a more comprehensive visit.

Approximate visiting times:

Visit	Recommended Time
Monumental Fountain and open ruins	45–60 minutes
Side Ancient Theatre	45–60 minutes
Side Museum	60–90 minutes
Old Town and harbour	1–2 hours
Temple of Apollo and sunset	45–90 minutes
Complete sightseeing route	4–5 hours

If you also plan to eat, shop or spend time at the beach, Side can easily become a full-day destination.

Can You Swim at Side Ancient City?

Swimming is not permitted among the archaeological ruins themselves, but beaches suitable for swimming are located on both sides of the Side peninsula.

Side East Beach and Side West Beach extend along the two sides of the historic peninsula.

After exploring the ancient city, visitors can add a swimming break at either beach.

Do not swim in the ancient harbour, directly beside archaeological remains or in rocky areas where swimming is prohibited.

Is Side Ancient City Suitable for Children?

Side Ancient City can be visited with children, although hot weather, uneven stone surfaces and steep theatre steps mean that close supervision is necessary.

Tips for families:

• Visit early in the morning or later in the day during summer.

• Bring hats, water and sun protection.

• Do not leave children unattended on the theatre steps.

• Do not allow children to climb on the ruins.

• Divide longer routes into shorter sections with breaks.

• Consider uneven surfaces when using a pushchair.

Visiting the museum can also make it easier to explain the buildings and archaeological remains to children.

Is Side Ancient City Wheelchair Accessible?

Some of the main walking areas in Side Ancient City are accessible, but uneven ancient paving, steps and slopes can make full access difficult.

Flatter routes can be found around Side Old Town and the harbour.

Upper sections of the Ancient Theatre, certain excavation areas and stone-paved streets can be challenging for visitors using wheelchairs or walking aids.

Contact Side Museum Directorate for current information about the most suitable entrance, parking area and accessible route.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Visit Side Ancient City?

The most comfortable times to visit Side Ancient City are early in the morning and during the period before sunset.

• Morning: Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds and a more comfortable museum visit

• Midday: Strong sunlight and intense summer heat

• Afternoon: Suitable for the theatre, old town and harbour route

• Sunset: The most popular time to visit the Temple of Apollo

• Evening: Ideal for Side Old Town, the harbour and night museum visits

For sunset, arrive at the Temple of Apollo at least 45 minutes before the sun goes down.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Side Ancient City?

Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons for visiting Side Ancient City.

• Spring: Mild temperatures, greener surroundings and comfortable walking conditions

• Summer: Longer visiting hours and night museum programmes, but very high temperatures

• Autumn: Ideal for combining swimming with cultural sightseeing

• Winter: Quieter atmosphere, although rain is more likely

• Weekdays: Usually less crowded than weekends

• Early morning: More peaceful before larger tour groups arrive

In July and August, exposed archaeological areas can become extremely hot around midday.

Where Are the Best Photo Spots in Side Ancient City?

The most popular photo locations in Side Ancient City include the Temple of Apollo, Ancient Theatre, Monumental Fountain and Colonnaded Streets.

Recommended photography spots include:

• Temple of Apollo at sunset

• The broad façade of the Monumental Fountain

• Perspective views along the Colonnaded Street

• Seating rows of the Ancient Theatre

• Agora and Temple of Tyche

• Open courtyard of Side Museum

• Ancient harbour

• Mediterranean views from the peninsula

Do not climb on archaeological remains or cross barriers. Check permit requirements in advance for professional or commercial photography.

When Did Archaeological Excavations Begin at Side Ancient City?

Systematic archaeological excavations at Side began in 1947 under the direction of Arif Müfid Mansel.

The excavations uncovered the Ancient Theatre, agoras, baths, temples, streets and numerous movable archaeological finds.

A significant number of these discoveries are now exhibited in Side Museum.

Archaeological research can continue today through universities, public institutions and specialist archaeological teams.

Some routes may occasionally close because of ongoing excavation work.

Is Side Ancient City Being Restored?

Excavation, conservation and restoration work continues periodically throughout Side Ancient City.

The aim of these projects is to preserve surviving structures, improve the safety of visitor routes and document newly discovered archaeological remains.

Some of the columns that form the iconic appearance of the Temple of Apollo today were re-erected using the archaeological restoration method known as anastylosis.

During restoration, an entire monument or individual sections may temporarily close to visitors.

Is There a Bazaar at Side Ancient City?

Yes. Side Old Town and bazaar are located directly along the walking route between the ancient city, theatre, harbour and Temple of Apollo.

Visitors may find:

• Souvenir shops

• Clothing and accessory stores

• Restaurants

• Cafés

• Ice cream shops

• Jewellery stores

• Tour and activity sales points

The bazaar becomes particularly busy during summer evenings.

Before purchasing anything, ask about the price, product specifications, payment methods and return conditions.

Where Should You Stay Near Side Ancient City?

The closest accommodation areas to Side Ancient City include the Side peninsula, central Side, Kumköy, Evrenseki, Sorgun and Titreyengöl.

Area	Main Accommodation Advantage
Side peninsula	Walking distance to the ancient city, bazaar and harbour
Central Side	Easy access to restaurants, beaches and transport
Kumköy and Evrenseki	Large resorts and wide sandy beaches
Sorgun	Forest and coastal atmosphere
Titreyengöl	Family hotels and a quieter environment
Central Manavgat	Local city life and transport connections

When choosing accommodation, consider not only straight-line distance but also whether the hotel provides a shuttle or has convenient dolmuş connections to Side.

What Do Visitors Say About Side Ancient City?

Visitor reviews most frequently praise the way Side combines archaeological ruins with the bazaar, harbour and Mediterranean scenery.

Positive reviews commonly highlight:

• Sunset at the Temple of Apollo

• The impressive scale of the Ancient Theatre

• Open areas that can be explored free of charge

• The archaeological collection in Side Museum

• The ability to reach many attractions on foot

• The evening atmosphere

• The opportunity to combine history and the beach in one day

Common criticisms include summer heat, crowds, difficulty finding parking, relatively high restaurant prices and occasional closures caused by restoration work.

What Is the Difference Between Side Ancient City and Perge?

Side is an ancient port city integrated with a modern resort, while Perge is an inland archaeological site with a more clearly preserved and separated ancient urban layout.

Feature	Side Ancient City	Perge Ancient City
Location	On the Mediterranean coast	Inland, in Aksu district
Main character	Harbour, temples, theatre and living old town	Colonnaded streets, stadium and monumental urban plan
Modern settlement	Integrated with the ruins	Archaeological area is more clearly separated
Beach	Nearby	No
Sunset	Famous for the Temple of Apollo	Open archaeological landscape
Recommended visit	3–5 hours or full day	2–3 hours

Both sites can be included in the same Antalya holiday, although visiting them on different days will usually provide a more comfortable experience.

What Is the Difference Between Side Ancient City and Aspendos?

Side is an extensive ancient city and harbour area, while Aspendos is best known for its exceptionally well-preserved ancient theatre.

In addition to its theatre, Side includes agoras, baths, a museum, temples, an ancient harbour and a living old town.

At Aspendos, the theatre, aqueducts and surrounding ancient city remains are the main attractions.

Aspendos is more suitable for a shorter, monument-focused visit, whereas Side is better suited to a longer itinerary combining history, the sea, shopping and meal breaks.

What Are the Best Places to Visit Near Side Ancient City?

There are ancient monuments, beaches, waterfalls and nature destinations within easy reach of Side Ancient City.

Popular nearby attractions include:

• Side East Beach

• Side West Beach

• Side Harbour

• Side Museum

• Temples of Apollo and Athena

• Manavgat Waterfall

• Manavgat River

• Titreyengöl

• Sorgun Forest

• Ancient City of Lyrbe, also known as Seleukeia

• Oymapınar Dam

• Green Canyon

• Aspendos Ancient Theatre

• Köprülü Canyon

• Tazı Canyon

For more ideas, explore Maxtoria’s Best Places to Visit in Side guide and Best Places to Visit in Manavgat.

How Should You Plan a Visit to Side Ancient City?

A Side Ancient City itinerary can be planned as either a half-day or full-day trip, combining the archaeological monuments with sunset and the evening atmosphere of Side Old Town.

Example half-day itinerary:

• Monumental Fountain and Great City Gate

• Colonnaded Street

• Side Ancient Theatre

• Side Museum

• Old Town and harbour

• Sunset at the Temple of Apollo

Example full-day itinerary:

• Manavgat Waterfall in the morning

• Lunch in central Manavgat

• Side Ancient City in the afternoon

• Ancient Theatre and Side Museum

• Side Old Town and bazaar

• Sunset at the Temple of Apollo

• Dinner around the harbour

During summer, avoiding the hottest midday hours will make walking through the ancient city much more comfortable.

Planning Your Side Ancient City Visit with Maxtoria

Visitors planning to explore Side Ancient City should decide in advance how they will get there, how much time they want to spend and which ticketed attractions they want to visit.

Before your trip, check:

• Transport from your hotel to Side

• Parking or public transport options

• Side Archaeological Site and museum opening hours

• Current entrance fees

• MüzeKart conditions

• Night museum programme

• Time required for the Ancient Theatre and Side Museum

• Sunset time at the Temple of Apollo

• Areas temporarily closed for restoration

• Return transport arrangements

You can compare sightseeing tours, boat trips, nature experiences and cultural activities around Side on the Side tours and activities page.