Side
An archaeological gem with Roman temples, an ancient theater, and museum remnants of the classical city dominating a scenic peninsula. Combines significant history with beach resort facilities and family attractions.
Things to do
- Roman Theater — Explore one of Turkey's best-preserved amphitheaters from the 2nd century AD, which once seated 15,000 spectators and now hosts summer performances.
- Temple of Apollo — Walk among five standing Corinthian columns of this iconic 2nd-century Roman temple overlooking the Mediterranean, perfect for sunset photography.
- Side Museum — Browse artifacts including sculptures, coins, and mosaics from the classical period housed in restored Roman bathhouses near the harbor.
- Beach relaxation and water sports — Enjoy sandy Mediterranean beaches flanking the ancient peninsula with parasailing, jet skis, and banana boat rides available seasonally.
- Waterfall expeditions to Manavgat Falls — Visit the powerful cascading waterfall 3 kilometers inland, accessible by short boat ride or minibus, with riverside tea gardens for refreshment.
- Bazaar shopping in old town — Navigate narrow streets filled with carpet shops, leather goods, jewelry, and souvenirs in the atmospheric medieval quarter near the harbor.
- Green Canyon boat tour — Take a scenic boat excursion through dramatic limestone cliffs and emerald waters of the Orontes River canyon 30 minutes from Side.
Food to try
- Kebab varieties (şiş kebab and Adana kebab) — Char-grilled seasoned meat skewers served with flatbread, fresh vegetables, and yogurt sauce are quintessential Mediterranean Turkish fare.
- Fresh Mediterranean fish meze — Sample grilled sea bass, bream, or mullet alongside cold appetizers like hummus, tzatziki, and stuffed grape leaves at waterfront restaurants.
- Pide (Turkish boat bread) — Enjoy boat-shaped flatbread topped with cheese, minced meat, or vegetables, baked in traditional ovens and eaten fresh in bakeries throughout town.
- Manti and Turkish yogurt bowls — Try small dumplings filled with meat or cheese served under spiced butter and yogurt, a comforting regional specialty in local restaurants.
- Fresh citrus and pomegranate juices — Order pressed orange, lemon, or pomegranate juice squeezed to order at beachfront kiosks to refresh after exploring archaeological sites.
Local customs & good to know
- Dress respectfully at religious sites — Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees when visiting any mosques or entering homes, and remove shoes as directed.
- Haggle at markets but respect shop owners — Bargaining is expected at bazaars and souvenir shops, but start politely and accept final prices graciously; aggressive negotiation is considered rude.
- Accept tea and hospitality customs — When offered çay (tea) at shops or by locals, accepting is a sign of respect and goodwill; refusing may seem impolite.
- Respect daily prayer times — Many businesses close briefly five times daily for prayers; plan museum and activity visits around these times, typically mid-morning and evening.