Side Travel Guide 2025 – Beaches & Mediterranean Charm

Welcome to Side – Where History Meets the Sea

The Side Travel Guide 2025 takes you to one of Turkey’s most enchanting coastal towns — a place where golden beaches and ancient ruins exist side by side.

Located about 75 kilometers east of Antalya, Side (pronounced See-day) offers travelers a unique blend of history, culture, and Mediterranean relaxation. Once a powerful port city in ancient Pamphylia, today Side stands as one of the most charming and accessible destinations on the Turkish Riviera.

Ancient Ruins and Timeless Beauty

The Side Travel Guide 2025 begins with the town’s breathtaking archaeological treasures. The moment you enter Side’s old town, you’re walking through living history.

The most famous landmark is the Temple of Apollo, standing proudly by the sea. At sunset, its marble columns glow golden — one of the most photographed sights in Turkey.

Other must-see ruins include:

• The Ancient Theatre: Built in the 2nd century AD, it once held 20,000 spectators and still hosts performances in summer.
• The Roman Baths (Agora): Now transformed into an archaeological museum displaying mosaics and statues.
• The City Walls and Gates: The Vespasian Gate marks the entrance to the ancient city, perfectly preserved.

Every corner of Side whispers stories from the past, blending seamlessly with modern cafés and boutiques.

Mediterranean Beaches and Sunshine

Side’s coastline is a paradise for beach lovers. The Side Travel Guide 2025 highlights two main beaches, both ideal for swimming and sunbathing:

• East Beach: Long and sandy, perfect for water sports and families.
• West Beach: Quieter, with boutique hotels and small beach bars offering a relaxed vibe.

The sea is shallow, calm, and crystal-clear — ideal for children and snorkeling. Many resorts offer private beach sections with sunbeds and umbrellas.

Nearby, you’ll also find Sorgun Beach surrounded by pine forests, offering a tranquil escape from the crowds.

Day Trips and Nearby Attractions

Side is perfectly located for exploring the surrounding region. The Side Travel Guide 2025 recommends:

• Manavgat Waterfalls: Just 15 minutes away, where you can cool off and enjoy local tea gardens.
• Aspendos: One of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world, still used for concerts.
• Köprülü Canyon: A natural park ideal for rafting, hiking, and adventure lovers.

Boat tours departing from Side Harbor take you along the coastline, with swimming stops and dolphin sightings in the open sea.

Where to Stay

Side offers a variety of accommodation — from luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels:

• Luxury: Barut Hemera, Paloma Finesse, Voyage Sorgun.
• Mid-range: Side Prenses Resort, Acanthus Cennet Barut Collection.
• Boutique: Side Town Hotel, Aura Boutique Hotel.

Most hotels include full-board or all-inclusive options with spa centers and private beach access.

Dining and Nightlife

Food is a big part of the Side Travel Guide 2025. Enjoy Aegean and Mediterranean cuisine — grilled fish, meze platters, and the famous mantı (Turkish dumplings).

Popular dining spots include:

• Liman Restaurant: Fresh seafood with sea views.
• Ocakbasi Side: Traditional Turkish grill and kebabs.
• Karma Restaurant & Lounge: Modern dining and cocktails by the harbor.

At night, the town glows with soft lights reflecting on ancient ruins. You’ll find rooftop bars, live music venues, and cozy seaside cafés perfect for a calm evening.

Getting There

Side is easily accessible from Antalya International Airport, about an hour’s drive. Regular shuttle buses and private transfers operate year-round.

Local transport includes taxis and minibuses connecting Side with nearby towns like Manavgat and Alanya.

Final Thoughts

The Side Travel Guide 2025 showcases a destination that perfectly blends history, comfort, and coastal beauty.

Here, you can spend the morning exploring ancient ruins, the afternoon swimming in turquoise water, and the evening dining under the stars beside the Temple of Apollo.

Side is not just a town — it’s an open-air museum by the sea, where the past and present live together in harmony.

Whether you’re a history lover, a beachgoer, or a romantic traveler, Side promises an unforgettable Turkish Riviera experience in 2025.