Antalya and Side, Turkey: A Traveler’s Guide

Antalya, Turkey, is a captivating coastal city nestled along the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. Renowned for its harmonious blend of ancient wonders and modern delights, Antalya offers a captivating experience for every traveler. The Side district, a jewel in Antalya’s crown, beckons with its remarkably preserved ancient city and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, exploration of historical ruins, or immersion in vibrant culture, Antalya and Side promise an unforgettable journey1.

Antalya

Antalya, a vibrant metropolis with a population exceeding one million, stands as a testament to centuries of captivating history2. The city’s origins trace back to the 2nd century BC when Attalus II, the King of Pergamon, established it as a strategic port2. Over the ages, Antalya has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, from the grandeur of the Romans and Byzantines to the splendor of the Seljuks and Ottomans2. This rich tapestry of civilizations has left an indelible mark on Antalya’s architecture, culture, and spirit.

Geography of Antalya

Antalya graces the southwestern coast of Turkey, where the majestic Taurus Mountains meet the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea4. The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by sun-drenched summers and mild, wet winters5. Antalya’s geographical layout is best understood through its three concentric areas:

• Kaleiçi (Old Town): This historic heart of Antalya enchants with its charming Ottoman-era architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and a picturesque harbor.
• The City: Encompassing the broader metropolitan area, Antalya is a bustling hub of modern life, with a population exceeding one million.
• The Province: Extending along the coastline, the Antalya province encompasses a diverse landscape of coastal towns, mountain resorts, and ancient ruins2.

Culture of Antalya

Antalya pulsates with a vibrant cultural scene that reflects its diverse heritage and modern dynamism. The city boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and theaters6. Antalya is also home to Hadrian’s Gate, a magnificent triumphal arch built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD7. For those seeking a deeper connection to the past, Antalya offers a unique surprise: it is the birthplace of Santa Claus, inspired by the legendary St. Nicholas who was born in the ancient town of Patara within the Antalya province7. As the sun sets, Antalya transforms into a vibrant hub of nightlife, with a diverse array of bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to every taste8.

Attractions of Antalya

Antalya is a treasure trove of attractions, blending historical wonders with natural beauty. Here are some must-visit sites:

• Kaleiçi (Old Town): Wander through the labyrinthine streets of Kaleiçi, where time seems to stand still amidst charming Ottoman-era houses, boutique hotels, and traditional craft shops9.
• Antalya Museum: Delve into the region’s rich history at the Antalya Museum, home to an impressive collection of artifacts spanning various eras9.
• Düden Waterfalls: Escape the city bustle and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Düden Waterfalls, a serene oasis perfect for nature walks and picnics9.
• Olympos and Çıralı: Journey to the ancient city of Olympos, explore the ruins, and relax on the beautiful Çıralı beach9.
• Aspendos Theatre: Marvel at the architectural grandeur of the Aspendos Theatre, a remarkably well-preserved Roman theater that still hosts events today9.
• Perge Ancient City: Step back in time at Perge, an ancient Greek city with extensive ruins, including a stadium, agora, and Roman baths9.
• The Land of Legends Theme Park: Experience thrilling rides and entertainment at The Land of Legends Theme Park, a popular attraction for families and adventure seekers10.
• Karain Cave: Embark on a journey into prehistory at the Karain Cave, where the first human Neanderthal remains were found, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient past11.
• Lycian Way: For avid hikers, the Lycian Way presents an epic adventure. This 540-kilometer trail winds through ancient ruins and along the stunning Mediterranean coastline, offering unparalleled views and a unique blend of natural beauty and history7.

Side

Side, a captivating district of Antalya, is renowned for its remarkably preserved ancient city and stunning natural beauty. Situated on a peninsula, Side offers a unique blend of historical exploration and seaside relaxation.

History of Side

Side’s history dates back to the 7th century BC when Greek settlers established it as a prominent port city12. It flourished as a significant trading center and played a role in the ancient world’s slave trade12. Importantly, Side held the distinction of being the sole port city in the region until the establishment of Antalya13. The city’s strategic location and natural harbor contributed to its prosperity, but it also attracted the attention of various empires and civilizations. Over the centuries, Side came under the rule of the Lydians, Persians, Alexander the Great, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans14. Each civilization left its mark on Side, contributing to the diverse architectural and cultural heritage that is visible in its ruins today.

Attractions of Side

Side’s allure lies not only in its ancient ruins but also in the mystical ambiance created by the seamless integration of the new town with the remnants of its glorious past15. Here are some of the captivating attractions that await you in Side:

• Ancient City of Side: Explore the extensive ruins of the ancient city, including the Roman amphitheater, the Temple of Apollo, the Temple of Athena, the nymphaeum, and the agora13.
• Side Museum: Housed within the restored Agora Bath, the Side Museum showcases a fascinating collection of artifacts unearthed from the ancient city, offering a glimpse into its rich past10.
• Temple of Apollo: Perched on the edge of the peninsula, the Temple of Apollo is a striking landmark that offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, especially during sunset10.
• Manavgat Waterfall: Just a short distance from Side, the Manavgat Waterfall captivates with its wide cascade and serene natural beauty10.
• Side Ancient Theater: This grand amphitheater, with a capacity of 15,000 spectators, is a remarkable example of Roman architecture. Unlike other theaters in the region built into hillsides, Side’s theater stands uniquely on arches, showcasing its distinctive design13.

Beaches of Side

Side boasts a collection of pristine beaches, each with its own unique charm. These beaches offer a haven for relaxation and a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports16. Some of the most popular beaches in Side include:

• Side East Beach: Stretching over 3 kilometers, this beach is known for its fine golden sand and calm waters.
• Kumkoy Beach: Popular with families, Kumkoy Beach offers shallow waters and a range of water sports activities.
• Sorgun Beach: This Blue Flag beach is known for its mix of sand and pebbles and its tranquil atmosphere.

Hotels in Side

Side offers a diverse range of hotels to suit every taste and budget. Whether you seek a luxurious beachfront resort or a charming boutique hotel, you’ll find the perfect accommodation to enhance your Side experience. Here are a few notable options:

 

Hotel	Description
Aura Boutique Hotel	Located in the heart of Side, with a terrace offering panoramic views17.
Fun&Sun Smart Hane sun	Located a 9-minute walk from Side Public Beach, with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool17.
Side Prenses Resort Hotel & Spa	Located on the Mediterranean coast with a private area at the sandy beach17.
Side Crown Palace Ultra All Inclusive	Located in the Kumkoy district, with an outdoor pool and a private beach area17.
Barut GOIA	Located 1.1 miles from Sorgun Beach, with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool17.
Akra Sorgun Tui Blue Sensatori – Ultra All Inclusive	Located a few steps from Sorgun Beach, with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool17.
TUI Blue Barut Andız – All Inclusive – Adults Only	Located a 4-minute walk from Kumkoy Beach, with an outdoor swimming pool17.
Sentido Kamelya Collection Selin Hotel	Located on the seafront, with a private area on Colakli Beach, and central air-conditioned rooms with sea or garden views18. It also includes seasonal outdoor pools, water slides, a spa center, and 3 professional football fields19.
Barut Hemera	A five-star hotel with 384 air-conditioned rooms, a television, a coffee machine, and a mini-bar20. It also has a private beach, garden views, an aqua park, water slides, an indoor swimming pool, a traditional Hammam, a treatment room, and a Jacuzzi20.
Acanthus Cennet Barut Collection	A five-star hotel with a sandy beach, swim-up room upgrades, and 5 restaurants21. It also has a buffet restaurant, outdoor pool, and cabanas21.

Restaurants in Side

Side offers a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants serving a range of cuisines to satisfy every palate. Here are a few noteworthy options:

 

Restaurant	Description
Elia Restaurant	Serves authentic cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients22.
Carpe Diem	Offers a diverse menu that includes traditional Mediterranean, Turkish, Italian cuisines, and fresh fish and seafood23.
Old Town Steakhouse	Serves steakhouse cuisine24.
Gua Restaurant	Offers a delicious dining experience with stunning views and friendly service25.
Side Star Resort Hotel Restaurants	Offers a variety of restaurants, including Pera Main Restaurant, Alaturca Turkish À la Carte Restaurant, Las Tapas Mexican  la Carte Restaurant, Thai Phoon Far East À la Carte Restaurant, and Divan Bistro26.
Thai Phoon	Serves Thai cuisine27.
Las Tapas	Serves Mexican cuisine28.

Activities in Side

Side offers a plethora of activities to suit every interest, from exploring ancient wonders to enjoying thrilling adventures.

 

Activity	Description	Suitable for
Visit the ancient city of Side	Explore the ruins of the ancient city, including the Roman amphitheater, the Temple of Apollo, and the nymphaeum.	History buffs, families, couples
Relax on the beach	Side has a number of beautiful beaches to choose from, including Side East Beach, Kumkoy Beach, and Sorgun Beach.	Families, couples, relaxation seekers
Take a boat trip	There are a number of boat trips available from Side, which will take you to see the Manavgat Waterfall, the Green Canyon, and other nearby attractions.	Families, couples, nature lovers
Go rafting	The Köprülü Canyon is a popular spot for whitewater rafting.	Adventure seekers, thrill-seekers
Visit the Manavgat Waterfall	The Manavgat Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located just outside of Side.	Families, couples, nature lovers
Visit the Side Museum	The Side Museum is housed in a restored Roman bath and contains a collection of artifacts from the ancient city.	History buffs, culture enthusiasts
Take a jeep safari	Explore the countryside around Side on a jeep safari.	Adventure seekers, nature lovers
Visit the ancient city of Seleucia	Seleucia is an ancient city located in the middle of a forest.	History buffs, nature lovers
Visit the canyons of Side	Side is home to three canyons: Köprülü Canyon National Park, Green Canyon, and Sapadere Canyon.	Nature lovers, adventure seekers
Take a day trip to Antalya	Antalya is a larger city located about an hour’s drive from Side.	Culture enthusiasts, shoppers, sightseers
Take a boat trip on the Manavgat River	Enjoy a relaxing boat trip on the Manavgat River, surrounded by natural beauty.	Families, couples, nature lovers

Transportation to and from Side

Flights

The nearest airport to Side is Antalya Airport (AYT), located approximately an hour’s drive from Side29. Antalya Airport is well-connected with numerous international airlines, including Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and SunExpress, offering convenient access for travelers from around the world30.

Buses

Buses provide a convenient and affordable mode of transportation to and from Side. Several reputable bus companies, such as Kamil Koc, Pamukkale, and Metro Turizm, operate regular services to Side29. Upon arrival at the Side bus station, you’ll be greeted by a fascinating historical landmark – the remnants of a Roman aqueduct built around 150-200 AD31. This aqueduct, stretching 30 kilometers with numerous bridges and tunnels, served as a vital water source for the ancient city.

Antalya Kart

For those planning to utilize public transportation within Antalya, the Antalya Kart offers a convenient and cost-effective option32. This transportation card can be used on buses and trams throughout the city, simplifying your travel experience.

Ferries

While there are no ferry services directly to Side, you can find ferries operating to nearby coastal cities like Antalya and Alanya33. From these cities, you can easily reach Side by bus or taxi.

Visa Requirements

Most nationalities can enter Turkey without a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days34. However, it’s essential to verify the specific visa requirements for your nationality before traveling to ensure a smooth entry process.

Safety and Security

Antalya and Side are generally safe destinations for travelers. However, it’s always prudent to exercise caution and be mindful of potential risks. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, especially in crowded areas35. While incidents targeting tourists are rare, it’s important to be aware of the general risk of terrorism that exists in many parts of the world35.

Conclusion

Antalya and Side offer a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them ideal destinations for travelers seeking a diverse and enriching experience. Side, with its remarkably preserved ancient city, pristine beaches, and a wealth of activities, promises an unforgettable vacation. Whether you wander through the ruins of ancient civilizations, relax on sun-drenched shores, or embark on thrilling adventures, Antalya and Side will leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.