Side Travel Guide

Situated on a peninsula and flanked by two stretches of golden beach, the pretty holiday resort town of Side is a jumble of old and new, with an extensive range of tourist accommodation, shops, late-night bars, and restaurants mixed in among the ruins of the ancient city. In the centre of town is the magnificent 2nd-century theatre with beautiful views towards the sea, and the remains of the Roman Baths contain an impressive collection of artefacts.

Shopping

The shopkeepers in Side have a reputation for pestering tourists, especially in the city centre. Many shops will not display prices so be prepared to haggle. Busy streets that lead down to the sea are lined with souvenir shops selling typical Turkish handicrafts such as carpets, jewellery, and leather goods. Visitors can take a bus to the Manavgat market on Thursdays, which has the usual souvenir options such as t-shirts and leather goods. The main markets are fun and have a lively atmosphere, but the best deals can usually be found in quieter areas.

Restaurants

Side has a variety of restaurants, ranging from Western style food to local delicacies such as dolmades and kebabs. Anatolia Cafe is a popular place for English breakfasts and roasts.

Nightlife

Most of Side's nightlife is concentrated along the beachfront. There are a few lively bars and clubs, but they don't stay open very late.

Holiday activities

Side is full of antique ruins, but the Aspendos theatre and Apollon Temple are the most popular. The harbour is full of interesting boat tours and activities, including trips around Side or to neighbouring towns. The turtles can be visited on a daily tour, and the white sand beaches provide activities such as scuba diving, parasailing, horse riding, and swimming. Nearby Manavgat has some beautiful natural sights, including a lovely waterfall.

Any negatives?

Side can be very crowded on weekends, when many local tourists visit.