Side Turkey
Things to do in Side Turkey
Looking for the top things to do in Side? This Mediterranean gem offers a perfect blend of things to do in Side, including stunning beaches, fascinating historical sites, and exciting activities. Whether you’re interested in exploring the ancient ruins or relaxing by the beach, Side has everything you need for a memorable vacation.
Top Things to Do in Side Turkey
Side is a beautiful destination with many things to do in Side, from exploring ancient monuments like the Temple of Apollo to enjoying peaceful beach days. For a unique experience, don’t miss the things to do in Side, such as visiting the Side Museum or diving into the crystal-clear waters.
Experience the breathtaking sunset at the ancient Temple of Apollo, one of Side’s iconic landmarks, perfect for capturing magical moments.
Side’s beaches offer golden sands and clear waters, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the Mediterranean.
This grand Roman theater still stands as a testament to Side’s rich history, known for its impressive architecture and acoustics.
Enjoy a serene walk at Manavgat Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and the calming sound of cascading water.
Explore Side’s reefs, shipwrecks, and vibrant marine life. This is a must for diving enthusiasts, with many unique underwater sites.
Discover Side’s hidden bays and coves with a boat tour, offering an ideal way to experience the Mediterranean’s beauty.
Step back in time at Side Museum, where fascinating ancient artifacts offer a glimpse into Side’s storied past.
Side’s surrounding golf courses are scenic and challenging, perfect for golfers looking for a Mediterranean retreat.
For thrill-seekers, Side offers off-road adventures with jeep safaris and ATV tours through scenic landscapes.
Visit Side Bazaar for handmade goods, traditional Turkish crafts, and unique souvenirs to take home.
Beaches in Side Turkey
Side is famous for its calm, clear waters and pristine beaches, catering to all types of beachgoers.
Content
Family-friendly Kumköy Beach offers clear water and a long, sandy shoreline, ideal for a relaxing beach day.
Sorgun Beach is a quieter, more secluded beach surrounded by nature, perfect for those seeking tranquility.
This popular beach provides a variety of facilities and is a favorite among tourists for its lively atmosphere.
Named after the nearby lake, Titreyengöl Beach is known for its serene environment and natural beauty.
Diving in Side Turkey
Side’s underwater world includes ancient wrecks, ideal for divers interested in both marine life and history.
This unique dive site offers the experience of diving where freshwater and saltwater meet, a must-try for seasoned divers.
Explore Side’s reefs to encounter vibrant fish and marine species, creating unforgettable underwater experiences.
Shopping in Side Turkey
A lively market with local crafts, jewelry, and leather goods, Side Bazaar is the place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
This local market is known for its fresh produce, spices, and traditional Turkish items, perfect for authentic shopping.
For a modern shopping experience, Side offers various boutiques and shopping centers with a wide range of goods.
Discover traditional Turkish rugs and kilims, handcrafted with intricate designs, available in specialized stores.
Historical Monuments in Side Turkey
With ancient ruins around every corner, Side is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.
One of Side’s most famous landmarks, the Temple of Apollo offers impressive ruins and a spectacular view over the sea.
This large Roman theater is known for its grandeur and historical significance, a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Once the center of trade, the Agora remains a fascinating spot that offers insight into the daily life of ancient Side.
Located in an old bathhouse, Side Museum showcases a collection of ancient artifacts, preserving Side’s rich history.
A unique glimpse into ancient social life, the Roman bath is another captivating historical site to explore.
Reviving History: Side's Legacy for the Future
At Side Old Town, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism is spearheading an ambitious project, “Legacy for the Future,” aimed at meticulously restoring and preserving Side’s most renowned landmarks. This initiative encompasses key historical structures, including the Temples of Apollo and Athena, the monumental nymphaeum (fountain), the ancient theater, agora, and harbor baths. Designed to bolster Side’s cultural appeal and extend Antalya’s status as a year-round destination, the project emphasizes heritage conservation while enhancing visitor engagement.
Temples of Apollo and Athena: Recent restoration efforts have focused on the Temple of Apollo, prioritizing historical integrity while enhancing its structural resilience. The Athena Temple’s restoration is nearing completion, and together, these temples form a significant part of the “Sacred Port Area,” a vital attraction within Side Old Town. Upon finalization, both temples will be illuminated at night, providing an evocative setting for visitors to experience these ancient sites against the Mediterranean backdrop.
The Nymphaeum: Standing at three stories high and 50 meters long, this monumental Roman fountain is among the largest of its kind. Nearly a thousand architectural elements have been carefully documented and digitally reconstructed in 3D. Restoration on the southern section is now complete, while work on the northern portion progresses. Plans include connecting the nymphaeum to an ancient water source, allowing it to flow once again—a symbolic revival of Side’s historic past.
Ancient Theater: Reflecting Hellenistic architectural influences, the Side Ancient Theater is undergoing restoration to serve as a venue for cultural and artistic events. Once completed, the theater will host various performances, transforming Side Old Town into a dynamic cultural destination.
Through these preservation and revitalization efforts, “Legacy for the Future” aims to attract a wider audience to Side Old Town, ensuring the legacy of its ancient heritage while creating an immersive experience for modern-day visitors.
