About Side – Turkey
What is Side in Turkey like?
On a little, 800m long peninsula in the Mediterranean Sea, some 15 kilometres east of Antalya, Side is a wonderful, laid-back beach resort. It is a charming, old-world town with contemporary buildings, posh shops, and hip eateries.
Due to its Peninsula location, two lengths of golden sand, proximity to the Mediterranean Sea on both sides, and plenty of archaeological wonders, Side has become one of the most well-liked resort destinations for tourists from all over the world.
Side Beaches
Families love to spend the day in the sun at the West Beach since it is safe and has shallow waters. While the East Beach is quiet and farther from the hotels, the West Beach features calmer water that is great for watersports. Many locals use this area because it is less crowded and a little rockier.
Between the River Aras and the Med, there is a windy section of beach called East Beach. Both beaches include a variety of water activity activities, including jet skis and banana boats, as well as lots of sun loungers for you to rest on. Additionally, both beaches have beach bars where you may sip a drink while sunbathing.
Side Old Town
Modern buildings, stylish stores, and late-night bars coexist in this charming town with the remnants of an old city. The Taurus Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for Side, which also features a fantastic ancient harbour, lovely beaches, excellent restaurants along the waterfront, attractive cobbled alleys dotted with intriguing stores, and a lot of history.
Tourists can find a nice assortment of stores and charming eateries in Side’s historic centre. While there are small markets in the resort for daily necessities, the Migros supermarket in Manavgat provides everything you could possibly need. Every Saturday, Side has a local market that is located directly across from the mosque. Every Monday and Thursday in Manavgat, a larger market is held.
Restaurants in Side
Near the harbour in the old town, there are numerous fish eateries. There are eateries in the Old Town opposite the Roman Baths that provide affordable Turkish cuisine in a lovely garden surrounded by ruins. Try the eateries around the harbour if you want to eat fancier food and take in the beautiful views of the water.
Golfing in Side
Golf is an extremely well-liked pastime in Side. Some of Turkey’s top golf courses may be found if you head over to Belek. The Lykia Links Club in Gundogdu, which has an 18-hole course and a 9-hole academy course, is a golf club that is located nearby.
Activities in Side
If golf is not your thing, Side has a lot more to offer. Why not hike or mountain cycle through the Taurus Mountains? You may even go whitewater rafting through the breathtaking Koprulu Canyon National Park and down the River Manavgat. The Sorgun Forest, nearby, is a great area to go horseback riding. You can get to Manavgat in 10 to 15 minutes. From here, you can take a boat journey to the waterfalls and eat lunch en route. It’s also worthwhile to pay a visit to the old city of Seleukia, where you can find some of the most amazing Roman remains.
Areas of Side
ILICA is located 5 to 10 minutes to the west of Side, just next to Kumkoy’s beaches. A major farmers market is held every Wednesday, and the hamlet features a community park with children’s play area, lovely bars, and restaurants.
Ilica is next to KUMKOY. Over time, both those who buy second homes in the neighbourhood and those who rent out their homes have grown to love it more. Kumkoy has wonderful bars and restaurants in addition to a gorgeous shopping centre.
The Taurus Mountains’ beautiful forests, the river that flows through MANAVGAT and its waterfalls are all its most famous features. Manavgat has a gorgeously manicured riverside park with many fantastic eateries, cafes, and pubs. Every week, a market is held here on a Monday and a Thursday.
History of Side
Anthony and Cleopatra once had their wedding in Side, which is a peninsula. The old and new coexist in the ancient city of Side, which has a unique appeal of its own. The second-busiest airport in the Mediterranean, Antalya, is only 45 minutes away by car from Side.
In 2024, Side welcomed thousands foreign tourists. It has a population of more than 14,500 people.
It’s a great place to buy a Property in Turkey!!
What’s on in Side throughout 2025 – COMING SOON!!
Side Market
SATURDAY: Clothing, merchandise, produce, and other things are sold at Manavgat.
The primary market day is Monday, but there is also a Thursday market across from Burger King that sells clothing, goods, produce, and other items.
Things to do in Side!
Boats trips
Day Tours by Vigotour
Sandy beaches
Beautiful golden beaches and serene, shallow waters are available here in Side, making them ideal for paddling. There are several water sport activities available if you choose to be more active.
Side Temple of Apollo
Visit the amazing Temple of Apollo. At the tip of Side’s Peninsula, there lies a magnificent temple that is well-liked by visitors. Many historic ruins have been built into Side. On the other side of the temple, you can see the well-known amphitheatre. It is advised to go to the temple in the late afternoon or early evening to witness the magnificent sun setting behind it. This is a sight that must be experienced.
Under Water Museum
In both Turkey and Europe, The Side Underwater Museum is the first and only institution of its sort. The first underwater museum in Turkey is 1.5 nautical miles off the coast of the tourist town of Side. It contains 110 sculptures that are positioned on the seabed. The museum intends to show how art and environmental science interact and to create a complex reef structure for marine life to invade, occupy, and significantly expand its biomass. Three separate depth zones, each accessible to amateur, semi-professional, and professional diver, were chosen for the sculptures’ placement.
Horse Riding
There are a few horse riding facilities in Side that are accessible to everyone, regardless of experience level. All ages, starting at age 6, are allowed to ride horses. The riding arena is situated close to the resort and inside the lovely Sorgun and Titreyengol pine forests. This would be a great family outing.
Jeep Safari
Jeep safaris are a thrilling day trip that the entire family may enjoy. Drivers with extensive expertise will operate the jeeps. On pristine country lanes and through little streams, your trip takes you into woodlands. Before reaching the tops of the tall mountains, you will have the opportunity to view and take in the spectacular natural views on this excursion. Take in the fun and splendour of nature as well as Turkish culture.
If you are interested in property in Side, please contact us at Turkish Connextions, we will be delighted to assist you.
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