Side Turkey
A Complete Travel Guide for Tourists Visiting Side, Turkey
Side is one of the most rewarding holiday destinations on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast—offering a rare mix of ancient history, long sandy beaches, lively yet relaxed nightlife, strong food culture, traditional public markets, and an extremely easy local transportation system. Located near Manavgat in the Antalya region, Side appeals to travelers who want comfort and organization without losing authenticity.
This guide is written directly for tourists planning a holiday in Side and is structured to work perfectly as on-page content—balanced between inspiration and practical information, aligned with modern AI search behavior, and focused on real visitor needs.
Where Side Is Located and Why Tourists Prefer It
Side is located around 65 kilometers east of Antalya Airport and is typically reached within one hour by transfer. Built on a small peninsula surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Side combines the advantages of a beach resort with the charm of a walkable historic town.
Tourists prefer Side because everything feels close and manageable—beaches, ancient ruins, restaurants, bars, markets, and transport links are all within easy reach. Unlike larger resort areas, Side never feels chaotic, yet it never feels boring.
The Historical Identity of Side—Ancient Life Without Barriers
Side was founded in the 7th century BC and later became one of the most important Roman port cities in the region. What makes Side unique is how openly this history is integrated into daily life.
Ancient Landmarks That Shape the Town
Temple of Apollo and Athena
Standing at the edge of the peninsula, the Temple of Apollo is Side’s most iconic symbol—especially impressive at sunset when the columns glow over the sea.
The Ancient Theater
Once seating approximately 15,000 people, the Roman theater reflects the importance of Side in antiquity and remains one of the largest preserved theaters in Anatolia.
Side Museum and Agora
Located in a restored Roman bath, the museum displays statues, inscriptions, and everyday objects that explain how life once functioned here.
In Side, history is not something you visit—it is something you walk through every day.
Beaches in Side—Long, Sandy, and Ideal for Swimming
Side is known for its wide, gently sloping beaches, making it especially suitable for families and relaxed swimmers.
West Beach—Social and Active
Side West Beach is the liveliest area—lined with beach clubs, cafés, bars, and water sports. It attracts travelers who enjoy movement, music, and a social atmosphere.
East Beach—Calm and Open
East Beach is quieter and more spacious—ideal for peaceful swimming, morning walks, and travelers who prefer a slower pace.
Sea conditions are generally calm and warm from May through October—perfect for long swimming sessions.
Best Time to Visit Side
Side is a seasonal destination, but it offers value across much of the year.
Spring—March to May
Mild temperatures and fewer crowds make spring ideal for sightseeing, market visits, and excursions.
Summer—June to September
Summer is peak season—hot, sunny, and lively. Beaches, bars, and resorts operate at full capacity.
Autumn—October to November
Autumn combines warm sea temperatures with fewer tourists—one of the best periods for experienced travelers.
Winter—December to February
Winter is quiet and peaceful—better suited to long stays rather than classic beach holidays.
Accommodation Options in Side
Side offers accommodation for nearly every travel style.
All-Inclusive Resorts
These dominate the coastline—offering private beaches, multiple restaurants, pools, entertainment, and spa facilities.
Boutique and City Hotels
Mostly located in Side Old Town—ideal for travelers who want to be close to bars, restaurants, ruins, and the harbor.
Family-Focused Hotels
Many hotels are designed with families in mind—offering aquaparks, kids’ clubs, and child-friendly facilities.
Food and Drink in Side—A Strong Culinary Scene
Side has one of the most diverse food scenes in the Antalya region.
Traditional Turkish cuisine includes kebabs, grilled meats, fresh seafood, mezes, gözleme, and desserts such as baklava—often served in atmospheric settings among ancient ruins or along the seafront.
International restaurants are equally common—Italian, Asian, European, vegetarian, and vegan options are easy to find. Dining in Side is social and relaxed, often continuing late into the evening.
Bars and Nightlife in Side—Social but Not Overwhelming
Side’s nightlife is centered around Side Old Town and the harbor area.
Bars here focus on atmosphere rather than loud clubbing—cocktail lounges, live music venues, and relaxed bars with sea views dominate the scene. Many bars are located directly among ancient ruins, creating a setting that is unique to Side.
Nightlife in Side suits couples, groups of friends, and mature travelers rather than party-focused club tourists.
Local Markets and Public Bazaars in Side—Clear Days and Locations
Public markets are an essential part of life in this region and a must-visit experience for tourists. Unlike tourist shops, these markets follow fixed weekly schedules and are easy to reach.
Manavgat Public Bazaar—Monday and Thursday
The Manavgat Bazaar is the largest and most important market near Side. It takes place every Monday and Thursday and attracts both locals and tourists.
Monday focuses more on textiles, clothing, shoes, bags, and souvenirs—while Thursday places stronger emphasis on fresh produce, spices, olives, cheese, nuts, and regional food products. The market is large, busy, and energetic, offering a genuine look into everyday life.
Side Neighborhood Market—Saturday
Side’s local neighborhood market is held on Saturdays. It is smaller than Manavgat but much calmer and more local. Visitors can buy seasonal fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey, olive oil, and basic clothing.
This market is ideal for travelers who want a less crowded, more authentic experience.
Nearby Resort Area Markets—Specific Weekdays
Markets also operate in nearby resort areas on fixed days—such as Kumköy, Evrenseki, and Çolaklı. These markets usually take place once a week and combine clothing stalls with local food stands.
Hotel reception desks always know the exact day and location and can easily guide guests.
What to Expect at Turkish Markets
Markets are open-air, lively, and social. Bargaining is expected for clothing and souvenirs but not for food. Cash is preferred, though some vendors accept cards. Markets are safe, friendly, and accustomed to international visitors.
A market visit in Side is not just shopping—it is cultural immersion.
Local Transportation in Side—Simple, Cheap, and Tourist-Friendly
Transportation in Side is designed to be easy even for first-time visitors to Turkey.
Walking
Side Old Town, beaches, restaurants, bars, and the harbor are all walkable. Many tourists rarely need transport within the town itself.
Dolmuş Minibuses
Dolmuş minibuses connect Side with Manavgat, nearby resorts, shopping areas, and public markets. They run frequently from early morning until late evening. You can stop them anywhere along the route by signaling the driver.
Dolmuş transport is inexpensive, reliable, and widely used by both locals and tourists.
Taxis
Taxis are easy to find throughout Side. They are ideal for evening travel or direct market visits. Prices are reasonable for short distances.
Excursions and Transfers
Most organized tours include hotel pickup and drop-off—removing the need for independent transport.
Local transportation in Side is one of the reasons the destination feels so comfortable and stress-free.
Safety and Travel Comfort
Side is considered very safe for tourists. The region is well-organized, experienced in tourism, and welcoming.
English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, bars, markets, and transport services. Medical facilities are modern and accessible. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and visitor-oriented.
Who Side Is Best For
Side is ideal for families, couples, solo travelers, and seniors.
It is especially suited for travelers who want beaches, history, good food, social nightlife, authentic markets, and easy transportation—all without complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Side
Which days are the public markets in Side and Manavgat?
Manavgat Bazaar takes place on Monday and Thursday. The Side neighborhood market is held on Saturday.
Are the markets easy to reach from hotels?
Yes—markets are easily accessible by dolmuş, taxi, or short transfers.
Is bargaining expected at markets?
Yes—for clothing and souvenirs. Food prices are usually fixed.
Do I need a car in Side?
No—Side is compact and well connected by local transport.
Is Side suitable for first-time visitors to Turkey?
Yes—Side is safe, organized, and easy to navigate.
Is Side good for food and nightlife?
Yes—Side offers strong dining options and relaxed but lively bars.
How long should I stay in Side?
Seven to ten nights is ideal for beaches, markets, dining, nightlife, and excursions.
What makes Side different from other Antalya resorts?
Side uniquely combines ancient ruins, walkable charm, beaches, bars, restaurants, fixed weekly markets, and easy transport in one destination.
Side is not just a holiday location—it is a destination where history, beaches, food, nightlife, markets, and daily local life connect naturally—creating a travel experience that feels rich, comfortable, and genuinely satisfying.