Side, which means "Pomegranate" in an ancient Anatolian language, sits on a promontory flanked by long sandy beaches. On its landward side, the town is surrounded by the ruins of ancient Side, including a recently restored amphitheatre and an impressive Roman gateway. There’s also a museum packed with ancient relics to explore.
Side’s town centre is pedestrianised and the narrow main street leads down to a harbour and the remains of the Temples of Apollo and Athena. This is a great spot at sunset with the temple columns silouetted against the sea and sky.
A short drive away are the beautiful waterfalls of Manavgat and the stunning Roman theatre of Aspendos, which hosts a music festival each summer. There's also rafting in the Koprulu Canyon National Park.
Getting There
Side is a 60 minute drive from Antalya airport.
There are buses to Alanya and Antalya from Side’s bus station.