Side holidays

How to reach Side

• Flight time: Direct flights to Antalya, the nearest airport to Side, take around 4 hours from London and other major UK airports.

• Transfer time: Antalya Airport is around 65km from Side. A taxi or private shuttle is the fastest option to reach Side, taking around 1 hour, while the airport bus combined with a local dolmuş (shared minibus) can take closer to 2 hours.

• Price: Taxis cost approximately TRY1,700–TRY2,000 (£37–£44) to Side’s centre. The airport bus, followed by a dolmuş, is the budget option at around TRY300 (£7) total.

Best time to visit Side

The best time for your Side holidays will depend on whether you prefer milder conditions or hot beach weather.

• April to June brings warm, pleasant weather and fewer crowds. With temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, around 8 to 11 hours of sunshine a day and low rainfall, it’s a good time to wander through Side’s ancient ruins.

• July to August is summer and Side’s high season, with temperatures skyrocketing to 35°C or even more. While such sizzling weather is not everyone’s cup of tea, it’s perfect for beachgoers, with around 12 to 13 hours of sunshine per day and minimal rain.

• September to November brings more comfortable temperatures and a relaxed autumn vibe. Crowds thin as temperatures are cooling from around 28°C in September to 20°C by November. Though rainfall slightly increases to around 30–60mm, it’s still a great season for sightseeing without the summer heat.

• December to March is Side’s low season. Average winter temperatures hover around 12°C to 18°C, and you can expect some rainfall (50–100mm a month). The weather is ideal, though, for those who prefer exploring the area in cooler temperatures and soaking up Side’s charm at a relaxed pace.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Turkish is the official language, but English is widely understood in tourist areas, especially in hotels, restaurants, and at popular attractions.

• Local habits and customs: Side is known for its relaxed, friendly atmosphere. When visiting mosques or other religious sites, however, dress modestly and follow local customs, such as removing shoes and covering your shoulders.

• Currency: The Turkish Lira is the local currency. ATMs are available, and most major hotels and restaurants accept credit cards. It’s advisable to have some cash for public transport and tipping.

• Getting around: Local dolmuş minibuses are an affordable and convenient way to get around, with fares typically starting at around TRY10 (£0.2) for shorter distances. Taxis are available but always confirm the fare before starting your journey.

• Electricity and plug types: Turkey uses 220V, with two-round-pin plugs so UK travellers need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Side operates on Turkey Time, which is GMT+3.

• Required travel documentation: UK nationals can stay in Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, with a passport valid for at least six months.

Best things to do in Side

Side is a delightful blend of ancient history and beautiful beaches, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed holiday with a touch of adventure.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Temple of Apollo: For a spectacular view and stunning photos, head straight to the Temple of Apollo near Side’s harbour at sunset. The temple’s ancient columns stand proudly against the sky, creating a memorable view over the Mediterranean Sea.

The best districts

• Old Town: The Old Town of Side is a charming area filled with cobbled streets, Roman ruins and lively markets. Wander leisurely past ancient city walls and browse small shops offering everything from Turkish carpets to souvenirs.

• Kumköy: Known for its luxury resorts and beautiful sandy beaches, Kumköy, outside Side, boasts stylish cafés, beachfront bars and a variety of water sports.

Parks and gardens

• Side Beach Promenade: A well-kept promenade lined with palm trees and views over the Mediterranean, it’s perfect for an evening stroll and watching people walk by. There are plenty of cafés and beach bars along the way.

• Manavgat River Park: This green oasis by the Manavgat River has paths, seating areas and shaded spots for a picnic. Surrounded by the sound of flowing water and lush scenery, you can unwind and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

Historical monuments

• Side Amphitheatre: Side’s still-intact monumental gate now serves as the entrance to the town’s modern resort area. Inside the gate is the entrance to the jaw-dropping theatre, a freestanding, once 20,000-seat structure supported by massive arched vaults.

• Temples of Apollo and Athena: This iconic site near the harbour is where two temples once stood in honour of the gods Apollo and Athena. The Temple of Athena has been partly re-erected and its white portico is Side’s trademark and a favourite place to take sunset photographs.

Day trips in the area

• Manavgat Waterfall: The most popular outing from Side is to the Manavgat Waterfall, just 5km northeast of town. It’s a really beautiful setting, but the influx of tour buses can be overwhelming in the summer months, so better visit in less busy seasons.

• Aspendos Archaeological Site: Just 1 hour’s drive from Side, you’ll be awestruck by the Aspendos Archaeological Site, which is especially notable for its Roman theatre and aqueducts. Still used to stage the annual Opera and Ballet Festival, the theatre in Aspendos is among the best preserved in Asia Minor.

• Perge: Around 60km from Side, Perge is an unusually well-preserved ancient city. Explore the ruins of Perge’s grand stadium, baths and the main colonnaded street, which give a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.

Activities for families in Side

Side is a fantastic family-friendly destination, with many activities that will keep both children and adults entertained.

• Waterparks: For a splash of excitement, Aquajoy Aquapark in Manavgat has water slides, wave pools, games that are perfect for family fun, and dedicated play areas.

• Beach activities: Side’s beaches are perfect for families, with shallow, calm waters for safe swimming while many beachside resorts offer rental services for paddleboards, kayaks and snorkelling equipment.

Free things to do in Side

Side has a lot to offer if you’re looking for free activities.

• Free events: Side hosts a variety of free festivals throughout the year, including cultural performances and outdoor concerts. Just have your eyes peeled for such events!

• Manavgat Market: Neighbouring Manavgat is a bustling community. Monday is market day and a good opportunity to browse the local crafts, old coins or rugs found among the fruit and vegetables. It’s free to wander through the stalls and enjoy the vibrant local atmosphere.

• Nature walks and outdoor relaxation: Side’s beach areas and parks provide peaceful spots for casual walks or outdoor yoga, with plenty of benches and shaded areas where you can enjoy the Mediterranean breeze. And all these at no cost at all!

Nature and outdoor activities in Side

Side’s beautiful natural landscape offers endless options for outdoor adventures.

• Water sports: Side’s beaches provide the perfect setting for water sports, including parasailing, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are also options for jet skiing and snorkelling.

• River rafting: Köprülü Canyon is home to one of Turkey’s best river rafting experiences. Join a guided tour along the Köprüçay River, navigating mild rapids in a thrilling rafting adventure.

• Adventure activities: Side’s natural surroundings lend themselves to plenty of adventurous outings. Local outfitters offer quad biking tours through rugged trails around Side, as well as jeep safaris that allow you to explore the countryside and small local villages.

• Boat trips: A short drive from Side brings you to the beautiful Green Canyon, where you can take a relaxing boat trip on emerald-green waters surrounded by mountains, and enjoy the fresh air.

Beaches in Side

Side is home to some of the most beautiful beaches along the Turkish Riviera, offering visitors a perfect blend of relaxation, stunning scenery, and plenty of opportunities for water-based activities. Whether you’re looking for a lively spot with amenities or a quieter, more secluded beach, Side has something to suit every type of beachgoer.

Side Beach

Side Beach is the main beach in the area, and it stretches for several kilometres, offering soft golden sand and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is well-equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, and there are numerous beach bars and cafes where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and traditional Turkish snacks. Its lively atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for families, couples, and solo travellers who want to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

Kumköy Beach

Located just a short distance from Side, Kumköy Beach is known for its long, sandy shoreline and clear, shallow waters, which make it a great choice for swimming and lounging under the sun. The beach offers plenty of amenities, including beachside restaurants and water sports facilities. It's a popular spot for those looking for a lively yet relaxed beach experience, where you can enjoy various activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boating.

Evrenseki Beach

For a quieter experience, Evrenseki Beach offers a peaceful retreat with its clean sand and tranquil waters. Located to the east of Side, Evrenseki is less crowded, providing the perfect environment for those seeking a relaxing day by the sea. The beach is ideal for swimming, and the calm atmosphere makes it perfect for those who simply want to unwind or take in the beautiful surroundings.

Sorgun Beach

Sorgun Beach is a quieter, more natural beach located in the Sorgun Forest, offering visitors a tranquil atmosphere and crystal-clear waters. This beach is known for its serene beauty and more secluded environment. Ideal for those looking to escape the more crowded areas, Sorgun Beach is perfect for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing in the shade of the surrounding pine trees.

Side’s beaches are perfect for a variety of experiences, whether you're seeking the vibrant energy of Side Beach, the calm waters of Evrenseki, or the serene beauty of Sorgun Beach. With plenty of options to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand, the beaches of Side offer something for every type of traveller, making it an ideal beach destination during your Side holidays.

Local dishes in Side

One of the great delights of holidays to Side is indulging in Turkish culinary classics, from meze platters to fresh seafood.

Some typical dishes

• Meze: A classic Turkish experience, meze is a selection of small appetisers like hummus, baba ganoush and cacık (yoghurt with cucumber and garlic). It’s a great idea for sampling different local flavours.

• Pide: Pide, the boat-shaped Turkish pizza, is a delicious concoction topped with meats, vegetables, eggs or cheese. It’s ideal for sharing or as a quick meal on the go.

Meat dishes

• Adana Kebab: This spicy, grilled kebab made from minced lamb and spices hails from Turkey’s southern regions. It’s typically served with rice or flatbread and grilled vegetables. Yummy!

• Şiş Kebab: Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often lamb or chicken, are served with rice and grilled vegetables. Simple but delicious!

Fish and seafood dishes

• Grilled Sea Bream: Freshly caught from the Mediterranean, sea bream is grilled to perfection and served with a simple garnish of lemon and herbs. Ideal dish for seafood aficionados!

• Calamari: Side’s coastal location means plenty of fresh calamari on the menu. Lightly battered and fried, with a side of garlic sauce or a squeeze of lemon, it makes a perfect starter.

Sweets and desserts

• Künefe: Worth the extra calories, this ubiquitous Turkish dessert is made from shredded pastry layered with melted cheese, cooked until golden, and soaked in sweet syrup. You won’t refuse a second helping!

• Baklava: One of Turkey’s most distinguished desserts, baklava features phyllo pastry with honey or syrup and nuts, creating a rich, sticky treat. So just hit a local café and enjoy!

Local drinks

• Ayran: When in Turkey, do like the Turks do and drink this refreshing yoghurt-based drink. It’s served with many meals, especially in warmer months.

• Rakı: The Turkish national aperitif is rakı, not unlike Greek ouzo but stronger (45–48 percent alcohol), usually drunk over ice and topped up with bottled water.