With an annual average temperature of 65°F/ 18°C, and an abundance of nature, sea, history, and local charm, it’s easy to see how the beautiful Turkish resort town of Side will more than likely continue drawing more tourism in the years to come – will you be included?

Located on the southern Mediterranean Turkish coast, explore centuries’ worth of history at the beautiful Apollo Temple and Athena Temple, and the Side Antik Theater! Appreciate the column styles and artistic details, and historic events that took place there!

Cruise down the Manavgat River, enjoying the sights of crashing waterfalls, or head to Green Canyon for beyond-stellar rafting! Make it to Koprulu Canyon National Park, and take a cruise that goes underneath the stunning Aspendos Bridge – a rock bridge connecting two canyons!

Visit the unreal sight of Pamukkale, and enjoy a swim in the healing thermal pools that historically were referred to as a Roman spa resort!

With all of these ideas to add to your list of things to do in Side, let’s get going and add some more!

1 – Visit the symbols of Side at the Apollo and Athena Temple

Apollo and Athena Temple, Side

Admire the presence of the towering Apollo and Athena Temples dating back to 150 BC! The Apollo temple is built to honor the god of music, harmony, and light while the Athena temple is built to honor the goddess of wisdom, intelligence, and art.

Both temples are built with Corinthian-style columns and white marble. The Temple of Apollo specifically has Medusa heads, while the Temple of Athena has imagery of Pomegranates, as this fruit is considered sacred in mythology.

Located next to the sea, the scenery of both temples is the picture postcard photo waiting to happen!

2 – Discover Side’s waterways on a boat tour

Take in the sweeping views of the dramatic and rocky hills dotted with green vegetation and the deep turquoise waters near Side on a magnificent boat tour!

Explore nearby Green Lake, and get close to Green Canyon and Oymapinar Dam, as you make your way to Manavgat, a nearby city with beautiful waterfalls.

In for something slightly more adventurous? Check out a boat tour and Jeep safari adventure combo, and enjoy a bonus off-roading adventure into the beautiful nearby mountains! Plus on your boat tour, you’ll pass by the dramatic waterfalls near Manavgat!

boat tours in Side

3 – Have a little fun at the Land of Legends theme park

Only 1 hour away from Side is the fun-packed Land of Legends theme park – a water park, theme park, hotel, and even a shopping center all in one place!

With the 62-meter high Hyper Coaster, the Zippy Zappy Coaster, the Round The World game, and more, you can rest assured there will never be a dull moment at Land of Legends!

Make a splash at Aqua Land, with rides like the Float Rider, and even get to swim with dolphins! Some admission tickets include other perks like night shows and bonus access to other parts of the park!

Land of Legends Theme Park tickets

4 – See the quiet side of Side on a quad tour

quad tours in Side

Go off the grid for a little while, and enjoy a quad tour through the rough terrains near Side!

From the coast to the muddy gravel roads, the towering mountains, and more, enjoy the local nature of Side, as you pass through parts of the city’s outskirts that not many get to see on their travels! Enjoy seeing and listening to local wildlife, and even learning about local vegetation!

Due to the nature of this activity, you may get mud and dirt on your clothes, so bring extra clothes, and use the locker facilities at the tour headquarters!

quad tours in Side

5 – See the ancient theater in Side Ancient City

Ancient City, Side

Walk through the gates of Side Ancient City, and feel like you’ve stepped back to the 7th century! Starting with the Side Antik Theater, which had a capacity for 17,000 people that saw many confrontations between gladiators and large animals.

The Side Antik Hospital can still be admired by its ruins, with large holes on the side of the structure, possibly looking like large windows or doors.

Though most of the structures of the ancient city are ruins, some structures can still be admired, and considering the history of Side Ancient City, it’s a must on anyone’s itinerary!

6 – Go whitewater rafting at Koprulu

Set 1 hour north of Side, Koprulu Canyon is another stunning natural site with incredible rafting tours, a historic stone bridge, and tons of trout fishing opportunities!

On this day-long trip, enjoy rafting through the emerald-colored waters in the canyon, maneuvering your way around the medium-level rapids, and glancing around for local wildlife making their quick appearance every now and then.

After your rapids tour, you’ll have a chance to swim or even relax on the shore, followed by a delicious local lunch!

Some rafting tours include photos taken during the experience, so don’t forget to smile!

rafting tours in Side

7 – Hop on an exciting Jeep tour

jeep tours from Side

Ready for a Turkey-style safari? Hop on a thrilling Jeep safari tour, taking you through some of Side’s most scenic landscapes, from the Taurus Mountains to witnessing the stunning Manavgat Waterfall.

Enjoy a stop by the local villages on the mountains as you venture through remote areas with your guide and driver sharing local tips and cultural insight into life on the mountains near Side.

Many Jeep safari tours also include Green Lake boat tours, with possible swimming opportunities, as well as a delicious lunch included in your day-long experience!

jeep tours in Side

8 – Do some shopping and waterfall-watching at Manavgat

Located 11 minutes away from Side, Manavgat is a beautiful city on the Manavgat River that offers different activities to all sorts of travelers.

From a cultural tour through the grand Manavgat Bazaar for a little souvenir shopping to a cruise to witness the crashing Manavgar Waterfalls or a historical walk through the Central Mosque Complex, all there is to do is to browse at which attraction catches your eye!

If you’d like to see it all, enjoy an all-encompassing Manavgat tour from Side, which includes ground transport, an English-speaking tour guide, lunch, snacks, and a boat ride.

Manavgat tours from Side

9 – Gawk at the incredible Rock Tombs in Demre

Also known as Kale or Myra, Demre is a beautiful day trip idea from Side to take advantage of and see several other historical and beautiful sites, shedding light on the city’s local culture.

Visit the church of St. Nicholas, also known as Santa Clause, who historically was a 4th century Bishop of Demre! To learn more about this side of Santa that may be new to you, check out the Santa Clause (St. Nicholas) Museum inside the church!

Next, take a close look at the ruins of Roman Myra, including a stunning theater and rock tombs!

Demre day trips from Side

10 – Cool off at Amazon Water World

Amazon Water World, Side — credit to Amazon Water World

Ready to make some splashes? Check out Amazon Water World, offering refreshing pools, wave pools, water canals, lazy rivers, and fun slides for the kids in your travel group!

Located on Çolaklı beach in Side, the famous water resort has an abundance of fun and safe water activities geared towards children, but parents, don’t fret! Enjoy the 2 Turkish Baths, 2 Saunas, steam rooms, aroma therapy, and massage therapies, amongst many other relaxing activities for you to indulge in!

When hunger strikes, head over to the on-site restaurants featuring local cuisine, and international favorites!

11 – Learn about the history of the State Agora

View the ruins of the previous State Agora of the ancient city of Ephesus, known as the political and social center of the city during the Roman Era.

Inside the important and historical site, philosophical teachings, political debates, and other civil activities took place, including voting for the city’s local laws.

In its heyday, the State Agora was made of pink granite transported from Egypt, and later on, had a large cistern to transport water to the city.

Though today the State Agora is in ruins, it’s still a fascinating place to see!

12 – Go scuba diving to visit the Underwater Museum

scuba diving in Side

Go scuba diving and find yourself with remnants of ancient temples, statues of gods, and other fascinating pieces that belonged to a city now underwater.

On this special scuba diving expedition, you’ll jump in feet first with your instructor, and be guided through the crystal blue waters, enjoying the local sealife, and approximately 110 statues living underwater that belong to Anatolian history.

After your exciting scuba diving adventure, you’ll have free time to swim, and afterward, receive a delicious local lunch!

scuba diving in Side

13 – Enjoy the scenery on a Dolphin Island boat tour

dolphin island cruises from Side

Spot some dolphins on a memorable Dolphin Island Boat Tour from Side! Hop on board a pirate-style boat, and jet off into the waters, keeping a close eye on dolphins popping their heads out!

Included in your dolphin tour, you’ll also receive a delicious BBQ lunch, followed by some live music, dancing, and depending on your tour, an exhilarating foam party!

Some other tours also offer swimming and snorkeling opportunities near Karaburun Cove or even sunbathing on the boat’s top deck, if that’s more your style.

Dolphin Island tours start at $16 USD.

Dolphin Island tours

14 – Try the best coffee shops in Side

Accompany your coffee time with a sweet pastry, from baklava to a strawberry shortcake, and more at the delightful Doruk Pastanesi!

Located near the Temple of Apollo is the quaint Cafe Easy Rider, where you can enjoy anything from a cup of traditional Turkish coffee to a latte on the beautiful open patio, with views of the blue sea!

Offering great coffee options and a cool ambiance is Cafe Dreams, another coffee hot spot located near the Temple of Apollo. Reasonably-priced coffee plus hospitable staff make this a top pick for locals!

Yunus Bar offers everything from cozy coffee to a refreshing beer, and delicious Turkish cuisine, ready any time of the day.

15 – Wander throughout Side Museum

See remnants of the excavations near Side at the expansive Side Museum! Get a deeper appreciation for the city, and its history, including the different eras and influences it survived.

The archaeological museum allows you to step inside to see ancient artifacts within its 5 rooms, including ruins of ancient bathhouses, especially the 2,000-year-old Agora Bath of Side, dozens of restored statues, items that belonged to the townspeople from coins, pottery, and even a large sarcophagus and more!

Lastly, check out the gardens full of medieval relics! The museum is 3 – minutes away.

16 – Exfoliate and soak inside a Turkish bath

turkish bath in Side

Experience a traditional Turkish bath, also known as a Hammam, a steam bath that has been a traditional component of everyday life in the Islamic world for centuries.

Relax as you enjoy a special cleansing treatment, followed by a body exfoliation, and steam session, allowing the body muscles to relax and release tensions and stress.

With dozens of spas and traditional bath sites in Side, explore wonderful treatments, from mud baths to salt rooms, and more!

Detox your body, treat yourself to a foot massage after so much walking around, and give yourself a little TLC – the Turkish way!

Turkish Baths in Side

17 – Escape the city for a day trip to Pamukkale

Pamukkale, Turkey

Wander through a landscape taken straight out of Willy Wonka at Pamukkale, a scene of fluffy-looking white rocks and fluorescent blue hot springs!

4-hours away from Side is Pamukkale, which means “Cotton Castle” – a name that was given due to the carbonated mineral buildup in the water, resembling a fluffy, cotton-candy-like texture. Swim in the thermal pools, and relish in the beautiful scene you’re in!

Depending on the day trip you choose, you’ll also make a few stops in nearby sites like Salda Lake, known as the “Turkish Maldives”, and a stop at Hierapolis, an ancient religious hub and temple.

Pamukkale day trips from Side

18 – Take in some vitamin D at the best beaches in Side

Stay central to Side and check out Kumkoy Beach, a 100 meters long stretch of golden sand and shallow water, making it ideal for those traveling with younger children.

Evrenseki Beach is another wonderful option, 7.5 kilometers away from Side, with tons of amenities to enjoy, including changing rooms, showers, beach volleyball courts, seaside cafes, and more!

Want to lounge around? Check out Seaside Beach Lounge, and its sandy and pebble shores. During the summer, beach cabanas pop up as well as the fun ambiance of music and dancing.

Want a quiet beach? Sorgun Beach was awarded the Blue Flag award for its pristine blue waters and lush natural landscape!

19 – Take a boat tour at Green Canyon

Witness the grandeur of Green Canyon, a beautiful dam reservoir, only 39 minutes away from Side.

Enjoy a stunning tour through the wilderness and nature of one of Turkey’s most beautiful sites, combining exquisite views of the rocky canyon, soaring birds, and fluorescent emerald-colored waters!

To enjoy both the beauty and the history of this site, join a Green Canyon tour near Side, learning some fascinating tips and facts from your guide.

Many tours offer combo experiences, including a visit to Oymapinar Dam, visiting the Seleukia Ancient Roman City, a swimming break at Green Dam, lunch afterward, plus more!

Green canyon tours near Side

20 – Make a trip to the historic Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City

Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City, Side

Only 30 minutes away from Side, Seleukeia Ancient City was historically an important Greek city with an incredible mix of history, culture, and nature in one place.

Visit the ruins of the ancient city, as you walk through the fortification walls still standing, and into the ancient agora filled with ruins of baths, temples, libraries, and even a few tombs.

Get spanning views over the plains of Manavgat and the beauty of the pine forest nearby!

Best of all, the site is free to enter, making it one of the most affordable things to do in Side!

21 – Visit the beautiful city of Antalya on a day trip

Explore the dense history of Antalya, an important gateway into Turkey’s southern Mediterranean region, known for its sparkling coast with tons of boats and world-class resorts.

Only 1 hour from Side, book a fun day trip to Antalya, and enjoy the different activities from a city tour featuring the historic Old Town to visiting the Antalya Aquarium with over 40 thematic rooms and the biggest tunnel aquarium in the world!

Enjoy a ride on the scenic cable car, reaching 700 meters into the sky to view sights nearby like the Kaleiçi plus the natural scenery including the sea!

Antalya day trips from Side

22 – Witness a ballet show in a 2,000-year-old theater at Aspendos Opera and Ballet

Aspendos Opera and Ballet, Turkey

Classical music and culture lovers, don’t miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime of attending the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival, taking place in June and July.

Featuring a celebration of traditional dance, ballet, and classical opera, the Opera and Ballet Festival takes place in the historic Aspendos theater, which dates back 2,000 years!

Enjoy the immersive experience of witnessing traditional dance and song within a historic space with the same incredible acoustic structure as before!

Book your ticket in advance at the event’s website and check out the other services offered with your ticket.

23 – Stroll through the Ancient Houses & colonnaded streets

Walk down the historic promenade of the colonnaded streets of Side, which used to be the main streets of the popular city in the 2nd century AD.

Though 2 colonnade streets existed, the one going west to the city’s agora is the one that is currently open and easily accessible, with towering columns and ruins of the shops that used to dot the street!

Pass the 2 best-preserved ancient houses from the 1st century BC, and analyze the plan of the houses, each with an interior courtyard and even a few remnants of the mosaic floors!

24 – Enjoy a day out in nature canyoning

canyoning in Side

Turn up the fun with an exciting canyoning adventure in Side! With bonus activities added on your canyoning excursion like zip lining and rafting – you’re in for a wild day of non-stop fun!

Travel to Koprulu Canyon, only a 1-hour drive north of Side to explore nature from both the air and water! Enjoy a full day of canyoning up the Koprulu Canyon, followed up by an exciting zip lining to see the scenic landscape of caves, water, and vegetation, and then hit the waters on a rafting adventure!

Though all accessories are included bring your SPF and swimsuit!

canyoning in Side

25 – Have a wild time at Land of Lions

Land of Lions, Side — credit to Land of Lions

A conservation center with incredible experiences to get close to some of nature’s amazing animals, check out Land of Lions to see huge families of lions, roam freely through the park!

Home to over 30 lions from all over the world, and of all ages, these lions live and roam freely, and you can observe them safely from different points in the park!

As a bonus, you’ll also see tigers, crocodiles, and monkeys, all in their respective habitats within the large park! Check out the rest of the themed spaces, from terrariums to the bird sanctuary, and crocodile park!

26 – Take a photo of the Aspendos Bridge

26 minutes away from Side is the historic and strong Aspendos Bridge that crosses the Koprucay River, near the Koprulu Canyon National Park.

Visibly stunning with 7 arches of different sizes, and a length of 225 meters long, the bridge dates back to the 4th century, and has been consistently repaired throughout the years to keep its use going until recently.

Today, you can walk across the historic bridge, and take a pause midway to admire the view of the gushing water underneath, as well as the nature surrounding the epic bridge!

27 – Taste some savory Gozleme pancakes

Gozleme pancakes in Side

Get your hands on some delicious Gozleme pancakes, a traditional Turkish pancake that, unlike the sweet American breakfast variety, this pancake is typically savory and filled with minced meat, potatoes, veggies, or cheese.

To try one for yourself, visit Rock Family Tea Garden Cafe, located only 11 minutes away from Side city center. Enjoy your Gozelene pancakes with a cup of Turkish coffee, right along the river.

The reasonable prices and the hospitality of the staff are two main reasons why people return time and time again to this restaurant!

28 – Explore the rugged landscapes near Side on a buggy tour

buggy tours in Side

Hold on tight when you hop on a thrilling Buggy safari, touring along the natural lands near the Koprucay River, taking note of the wildlife and unique vegetation.

Be in the driver’s seat on this experience, as you take reigns of the buggy, with the guidance of your instructor and guide, following the group into the wilderness! Some tours also include stops at the Koprulu Canyon National Park, and driving along archaeological sites and various rock forms!

The extent that you’ll be driving is 20-kilometers approximately! Accessories and ground transportation are included.

buggy tours in Side

29 -Take in the relief work on the Anıtsal Çeşme (Nymphaeum)

See with your own eyes the remnants of the Anıtsal Çeşme (Nymphaeum), an ancient Roman fountain, considered to be one of the most spectacular fountains all around, dating back to the 2nd century AD.

Situated just outside the city, a 9-minute walk from the city center are the beautiful marble columns. Also known as the “Monumental Fountain” it has beautiful, detailed reliefs on it still visible today, from fishes, Medusa heads, bear claws, and a few more to spot.

So stop by, and read the historical signage sharing more interesting facts about this incredible fountain.

30 – Go on a fishing trip

fishing in Side

Looking for a relaxing activity in Side? Why not look into fishing? Catch some of the local fish as you learn about fishing practices and species on a fishing excursion in Side!

From bonito to scorpion fish, bluefish, or a red mullet, you’ll be surprised by the variety of different fishes that reside on the coast of Side! On your fishing activity, you’ll also receive hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as receive the proper equipment and accessories!

Pick up a few fishing techniques used by the locals and learn about the role of fishing in local culture and cuisine!

fishing in Side

31 – Get your shopping on at the Side Old Town Market

Pay a visit to Side Old Town, and hit up the Side Old Town Market, brimming with tons of life with customers bartering clothing, accessories, home goods, and more!

From 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays, enjoy the abundance of shopping opportunities and browse around the different colors and scents of the market. From colorful lamps to intricate tapestries and all, the Side Old Town Market is open-air and located in the heart of Old Town.

Bring cash to the market, and avoid buying historical coins, as it’s illegal to sell them and most are fake.

32 – Giddy up on a horse riding adventure

horse riding in Side

Choose between horse riding on the beach or the dense pine forest when picking out your ideal horse riding activity in Side!

Enjoy a scenic and peaceful moment horseback riding through Titreyengol and the Sorgun Pine Forest, smelling the fresh scent of woodsy pine in the air while learning local facts from your guide. Afterward, enjoy a delicious local snack at a cafe.

Those wanting to breathe fresh beach air, check out horseback riding opportunities on the beach, trekking on quiet shores, all the way to resorts, and nearby cute seaside cafes.

Horse riding activities start at $58 USD.

horse riding in Side

33 – Refresh yourself at Aquajoy water park

Aquajoy Water Park, Side — credit to Aquajoy

Enjoy Aquajoy water park’s exhilarating water slides, tubing opportunities, lazy rivers, and more!

Whether you’re traveling with young kids, or it’s just you, a refreshing way to cool off from the day’s heat is to visit a waterpark, and why not check out Aquajoy water park, only 10 minutes away from Side city center?

For the adults, enjoy going down the exciting adult-size slides with high drops and cool landings, or relaxing poolside with a refreshing drink and book in hand, under an umbrella!

Admission to this all-around fun park starts at 270 Turkish Lira.

34 – Ride through the beautiful Taurus Mountains

Visit the magnificent Taurus Mountains, a significant historic and natural mountain range located on the southern coast of Turkey.

Enjoy an excursion to the mountains, absorbing the fresh air on a Jeep Safari, and coming close to a few sites like Green Canyon, the Oymapinar Dam, and a beautiful waterfall! Rush through the water and mud, and glance around the impressive mountains!

Take reigns on a Buggy Tour, learning about special endemic species and cultural facts about the mountain along the way. Ride around for 10 kilometers, circling an action-packed trail!

Taurus mountains day trips from Side

35 – View the historical Vespasian Monument & Gate

Feel enchanted by the site of the Vespasian Monument & Gate towering around 13.5 meters in the air, and sustained by two ancient walls. It is the gate through which traffic still passes to get into the city, and you can still make out the Greco-Roman details.

3-minutes away from Side, the Vespasian Monument & Gate are said to have been named after the Vespasian Emperor. In its time, its said that the arch was probably higher, but with natural disasters and attacks, the arch was rebuilt slightly lower.

The Vespasian Monument & Gate is a 15-minute walk from Side.

36 – Check out all there is to see in Alanya

Book a fun day trip to the resort town of Alanya, a 1-hour drive from Side, and explore the beautiful sites that the Turkish Riviera town has to offer.

Admire the Red Tower, a symbol of the city dating back to 1226, lay on Cleopatra Beach, said to have been named after Cleopatra herself visited, and explore the beauty of Alanya Castle, amongst many other sites!

Some of the day trips from Side to Alanya include a 5-hour boat tour in Green Canyon, with a stop in Alanya, or a day trip with a tour guide!

Alanya day trips from Side

37 – Explore the stunning Eagle Canyon

Situated within the outstanding Taurus Mountains is the beautiful Eagle Canyon, one of Turkey’s most impressive canyons to explore!

When you book a day trip from Side to Eagle Canyon, you’ll experience not only bird’s eye views of the deep valleys, incredible wildlife, and the history of this site but also a few historical stops along the way.

Stop by an ancient Roman bridge, stop by the city of Selge, known for its amphitheater ruins, and so much more! Stop by to refresh yourself at Koprucay River, after you hike the Eagle Canyon.

Lunch is also provided on this tour.

Eagle Canyon day trips from Side

38 – Satisfy your cravings at the best restaurants

Enjoy the seaside vibes and delicious Turkish cuisine at Q Beach Restaurant & Lounge. After your filling meal, feel free to stay and relax seaside with a house cocktail in hand.

Check out Side House Cafe, known to have repeat customers due to the incredible hospitality, delicious quality meals, and lively ambiance with live music! The pub-style restaurant has beautiful views of the sea too!

Meat eaters, satisfy your hunger at Old Town Steakhouse, with a hearty piece of locally raised steak seared on the grill with the perfect glass of local wine. Looking for seafood? Enjoy the variety of the Mix Fish Plate or try the delicious grilled salmon.

Relish a mix of Turkish and international cuisine at Side Orfoz Restaurant, with an outdoor terrace looking out over the ocean, and immaculate vibes that turn on as soon as the sun sets. From chicken to seafood, steaks, and salad – this place has it all!

Serenade Restaurant & Bar is just what you imagine a romantic restaurant to look like. Twinkling lights, views of the sea, and delicious Turkish classics with a few Mexican options!

39 – Visit the “sunken city” on Kekova Island

Make it out to Kekova Island on a day trip, known for its historic sites as much as for its natural splendor.

Explore the magnificent fortress on top of a hill, as well as pieces of the old pier, while walking amongst the lush beauty of the island, proving to be a true escape from the hustle of Side.

A boat tour around Kekova is another great way to enjoy the coves nearby, and learn more about the time when the island was submerged underwater due to earthquakes, as you see remnants of the 300-seat theater, ancient houses, and more!

Kekova day trips from Side

40 – Cut loose at a foam boat party

foam boat party in Side

Get your party on a fun foam boat party, cruising through the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea, meeting new people, and playing with foam!

Start your adventure cruising down the Manavgat River, moving along the city of Side before hitting the Mediterranean, as the abundance of food and drinks start to make their rounds through the boat! Best of all, your foam boat party ticket already includes food and drinks, so no worries about having to buy onboard.

Throughout the 3 levels of the boat, you’ll get a little bit of everything, including swimming and spotting a few turtles!

foam boat party

41 – Book a day trip to the Roman city of Myra

Venture to the ancient city of Myra, a city dating back to the 5th century BC with tons of ruins from rock tombs, to the ancient amphitheater, to stunning flower fields, fruit orchards, and more.

On a day trip from Side, enjoy a stop in Myra, exploring its Roman town roots through its ruins, as well as stopping by a few other ancient cities along the way. You’ll also make stops at the sunken city of Kekova and Demrel!

As part of your full-day trip activities, you’ll also get to enjoy a lovely lunch at a local restaurant.

Myra day trips from Side

42 – Wine and dine at the Fire of Anatolia Show

Fire of Anatolia shows in Side

Get your tickets to the show of the city, the Fire of Anatolia Show! Enjoy a spectacular show of 100+ dancers performing Turkish dance and culture, taking place at the Gloria Aspendos Arena, only 30 minutes away from Side!

When you book your ticket ahead of time, you’ll not only receive entry to the award-winning Turkish performance, but you’ll also enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner and drinks, as well as ground transportation to and from your hotel!

Get an artistic taste of local Turkish culture, and enjoy a beautiful evening of color, dance, and even a few fireworks!

Fire of Anatolia shows

43 – Duck into a few caves on a day trip

Situated in the stunning Taurus Mountains, you’ll find the Altınbesik Cave National Park, an active cave system, where you can peek inside and get a view of the large stalactites and stalagmites!

Some tours to the Altınbesik Cave also include a trip to the Ormana Village, a mountain village known for its beautiful house architecture known as the “Button Houses.”

Fall in love with the unruly nature of Sapadere Canyon on a triumphant hike around the canyon, and a refreshing swim in the many natural pools.

Goblin’s Cave is a popular cave system and home of healing mineral waters that drip from the Taurus Mountain.

Visit one of the deepest cave networks in the country at Dudencik Caves, which go as deep as 330 meters into the earth! A guided tour of this site will show you the best lakes around!

Cave tours near Side

44 – Party all night long at the best nightclubs and pubs

Party the night away at Seven Side Club, with live DJ guests, themed nights, and drinks to last the whole night, and then some. The club has an open rooftop, dancers, and a vibe too good to pass up to get to know Side’s nightlife!

Located along the coast, Kiss Bar Slide is the perfect place to grab dinner and stay for a while after watching the sun sets. Enjoy a lively and youthful ambiance of partygoers, and be sure to order the house cocktail!

Otherwise known as a popular drink in many countries, Raki in Turkey is also known as a popular nightlife hot spot. Make sure to try some Raki of course, but pace yourself as this drink has 40%-50% alcohol!

How to get to Side?

Side doesn’t have an airport, however, the closest airport to fly into is Antalya Airport (AYT) only 34 miles (54 kilometers) from Side.

Due to the distance from the airport to Side, the best and most convenient way to get to your hotel is via an airport transfer! Ride comfortably and hassle-free, no matter when you get in!

Where to stay in Side?

Traveling with your partner? Stay at Carpe Diem Boutique Hotel-Adults Only! Enjoy the airy, clean, and bright rooms with unobstructed views of the Mediterranean, and only a few minutes away from the beautiful Green Canyon!

Armas Bella Sun is a resort with outdoor pools, a healing spa, and access to a private beach, amongst other amenities. Enjoy either views of the garden or the Mediterranean Sea from your room, or the dining spaces!

Relish all the dining options at Oyster Boutique Hotel, from international to Turkish! The hotel is close to all the sights in the central Side, while also maintaining its quiet areas for its guests.

Traveling with family? Stay at Otium Family Eco Club, a kid-friendly resort with endless activities for the whole family. From petting animals to board games to child-friendly restaurants and play areas, this is a great option for those traveling with young children!

best hotels in Side

Where to go next?

Explore the other great places to visit in Turkey, from its UNESCO World Heritage Sites to its coastal cities and more!

Take a Cappadocia tour from Side, and hop on a breathtaking adventure through the skies of Turkey, on an early morning hot air balloon, floating above the fairy chimneys!

Further down the coast is the resort town of Alanya, with historic sites, such as the Alanya Castle, and natural wonders like the Damlatas Caves.

Immerse yourself in the magnificent city of Antalya, a coastal city that blends history, beaches and vibrant culture. Stroll through the charming old town and admire the picturesque Düden waterfall.

Visit the coastal town of Bodrum, and admire the medieval fortress, the historic Mausoleum at the Halicarnassus, and the beautiful Bodrum Castle with a museum showcasing ship artifacts!

For history enthusiasts, Fethiye is a treasure trove; visit its Ancient Rock Tombs and the Ghost Village of Kayaköy telling tales from a time long past.

Experience Marmaris, a town on the Turkish Riviera known for its beautiful pebble beaches, lively nightlife, and ample diving opportunities!

Hop over to Cyprus, indulging in its archaeological sites like the Tombs of the Kings and the fascinating MUSAN – Museum of Underwater Sculptures!

Make it to Istanbul, and explore its historic streets pulsing with life. Explore the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace, and peruse the goodies at the Grand Bazaar!

Final thoughts

From historic ruins revealing 2nd-century amphitheaters and temples to the impressive natural landscapes like the Green Canyon and Koprulu Canyon National Park, plus the incredible nightlife and coastal vibes – Side should surely make it to the top of your Turkey bucket list destinations!

What from our list of best things to do in Side caught your attention the most?

Happy travels!

Table of contents:

44 Fun Things to Do in Side, Turkey