Side is a unique combination of ancient history, golden beaches and resort comfort. The city is located on the southern coast of Turkey, in the province of Antalya, and is famous for its ancient ruins, picturesque views and mild climate. Here, antique columns are juxtaposed with cafes by the sea, and the majestic Temple of Apollo is illuminated by the setting sun - like a postcard from antiquity.

📍 Geography and climate

Side is located about 75 kilometers east of Antalya, in the Manavgat district.

• Climate: is typically Mediterranean: hot and dry summers, mild winters.

• Temperatures range from +28 to +35°C in summer and +10 to +18°C in winter.

• Bathing season: from April to November.

• The city is located on a small peninsula, surrounded by the sea on three sides.

🏖 Beaches

Side is famous for its long sandy beaches and warm sea:

🌅 West Beach

• Suitable for families with children - fine sand, gentle entrance.

• Infrastructure: sun loungers, cafes, water entertainment.

• Along the beach - beautiful hotels, walking areas.

🌊 East beach

• Wilder, less crowded.

• Great for walks, morning yoga and solitude.

• There are archaeological ruins nearby, with beach areas adjacent to them.

🏛 Historical attractions

Side is a real open-air museum. The history of the city has more than 3500 years.

The main monuments are:

• Temple of Apollo and Athena - the symbol of the city. The remains of the columns on the seashore, especially impressive at sunset.

• Antique Theater of Side - could seat up to 20,000 spectators. One of the largest in Asia Minor.

• Agora - ancient market square.

• Nympheum Fountain - monumental antique structure at the city gate.

• City walls and arched gates - perfectly preserved.

• Roman Thermae, where today is located Side Museum with unique statues and reliefs.

🛥 Port and boat trips

• Side 's old port is a picturesque harbor at the foot of the ruins.

• Yachts, fishing boats and pleasure craft moor here.

• Daily boat tours: to caves, along the coast, to secluded bays.

• Possibility to rent a private boat or boat for a sunset walk.

🌆 City atmosphere

Side's old town is a maze of narrow stone-paved streets with white houses, orange trees and cafes overlooking the sea:

• The atmosphere is a combination of history, coziness and oriental flavor.

• In the evening the city comes alive: restaurants, shops, music is playing.

• Many boutiques with handicrafts, antiques, fabrics, Turkish jewelry.

🍽 Cuisine and gastronomy

Side offers both traditional Turkish cuisine and international menus:

• Fish restaurants by the sea - fresh dorada, calamari, octopus.

• Meze, kebabs, dolma, ayran, lahmajun.

• Desserts: baklava, kunefe, ais cream on goat's milk.

• Markets with fruits, honey, olives and nuts.

A special treat is dinner overlooking the columns of Apollo's temple and the sunset over the sea.

🎭 Cultural life

• In summer, concerts, plays and festivals are held in the amphitheater.

• Periodically there are archaeological exhibitions and ethno-fairs.

• Nearby is the town of Manavgat, where agricultural fairs and folklore shows are held.

🌳 Nature nearby

🏞 Manavgat Waterfall

• Located 10 km from Side.

• Picturesque place with park, cafe and recreation area.

⛵ Manavgat River

• River cruises to the sea with stops on the beach are popular.

🏕 Titrengöl Lake

• A secluded place for picnics and walks surrounded by greenery.

🏨 Housing and infrastructure

Side offers a wide range of accommodation:

• From 5-star all-inclusive hotels to antique-style boutique hotels.

• Options overlooking the sea, near the beach or in the old town.

• Developed transportation system (dolmushi, cabs), car rentals, supermarkets, pharmacies.

🛍️ Shopping and souvenirs

• Bazaar and shopping streets in the old town.

• Leather goods, textiles, silver, spices, ceramics.

• Local and European clothing, carpets, masks, souvenirs with antique motifs.

🏡 Real estate and life

Side is an attractive place to buy a home:

• Suitable for those who want to live in silence, by the sea, with historical atmosphere.

• Options: apartments, houses, villas by the beach or in green areas.

• More and more often it is chosen as a wintering place for Europeans and Russian speakers.

✈ How to get there

• The nearest airport is Antalya (AYT), ~60 km (≈1 hour drive).

• Transfers, car rentals, buses, dolmushas are available.

• In the city itself you can get around on foot or on rented scooters.

✅ Why go to Side

✔ Great beaches and clean sea
✔ One of the most atmospheric ancient cities in Turkey
✔ A combination of history and modern comfort
✔ Romantic atmosphere for couples and families
✔ Picturesque harbor, sunsets, walks
✔ Rich sightseeing program nearby

📌 Conclusion

Side is not just a resort, it is a living museum on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a city where every stone preserves a thousand-year history, where you can start your morning at the columns of the Temple of Apollo, and finish with a swim in the warm sea and dinner in a street café.

If you are looking for a vacation that combines culture, comfort, romance and sunshine, Side is your ideal choice.