Side Tours

Six Corinthian columns at the western tip of the Side peninsula — what survives of a 2nd-century AD temple that collapsed in a medieval earthquake. The rest of Side old town is a layered walk: the Roman Theatre (15,000 capacity), the Side Museum inside a 5th-century bathhouse, Byzantine walls and streets still lined with working restaurants and shops. Side (pronounced "see-deh") is a living town built inside an ancient city — allow half a day on foot to do it properly.

Boats depart from Side's main harbour toward hidden coves and the Manavgat River delta, with swimming stops and lunch on board. For calmer water and better visibility for snorkelling, book a morning slot — afternoon winds on this stretch of coast pick up from around 2pm. See all options under Antalya boat trips — routes departing from both Side and the city centre are listed there.

12 km east of Side, the Manavgat River widens into a broad, turquoise-green waterfall before reaching the sea. A river cruise from Manavgat harbour covers the falls, reed beds and traditional market. Saturday is the best day — the Manavgat outdoor bazaar runs every Saturday morning, making it one of the most authentic local-life experiences in the region. Read the full Manavgat guide before you go.

Aspendos Roman Theatre — 30 km west — is the best-preserved ancient theatre in Asia Minor. The stage building still stands to its original height, which almost no other Roman theatre can match. The standard Antalya day trip combines Aspendos with Perge and Side in one efficient loop. Arrive at Aspendos before 10:00 to beat the tour-bus peak hour — the site looks completely different when empty.