Side travel guide: what to know before you go
The best months are May to October for swimming, and two or three days cover the old town, Aspendos and the Manavgat Waterfall. The airport is Antalya Airport (AYT), about an hour’s drive away, so plan your transfer before you arrive.
Photo: HALUK COMERTEL, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Best time to visit
May to October is the main season for swimming and beach days. July and August are the hottest months, with strong sun and high humidity on the coast. April, May, September and October are warm and good for walking among the ruins.
Winter is quieter, and some beach and boat activities are less available. The ancient sites are pleasant to visit in the cooler months.
How many days you need
Two or three days cover the old town of Side, the Roman theatre at Aspendos and the Manavgat Waterfall. This suits visitors who want to see the main sights.
A week suits a beach holiday. With a fourth day you can visit the city of Antalya and its old town, Kaleiçi.
Getting from the airport to the centre
Antalya Airport (AYT) is the airport most visitors use for Side. The drive takes about an hour, so confirm the time with your hotel before you book.
The simplest options are a pre-booked transfer or a taxi from arrivals. Public transport usually means travelling to Manavgat first and then taking a dolmuş minibus to Side, which is harder with heavy luggage.
Getting around
The old town of Side is small and easy to explore on foot. The Temple of Apollo, the ancient theatre, the Side Museum and the harbour are all close together.
Dolmuş minibuses and taxis link Side with Manavgat and the nearby resorts. A hire car helps for Aspendos, but parking is limited near the old town.
Where to stay
The old town suits visitors who want to walk to the ruins and the harbour. Resort areas near Side, such as Kumköy, Evrenseki and Titreyengöl, have larger hotels and suit beach holidays and families. Manavgat is the nearest town and suits those who want a quieter base with local life.
What to book in advance
Book your airport transfer before you travel, so a driver is waiting when you land. In the busy summer season, book accommodation early, especially in or near the old town.
A guided tour or a river boat trip is best booked ahead in summer. Day trips to Aspendos and the Manavgat Waterfall are easier with transport arranged.
Common mistakes to avoid
Visiting the ruins at midday in summer, when there is little shade.
Wearing smooth shoes on the old paving stones and worn theatre steps.
Assuming Side is close to Antalya city, when it is about 78 km away.
Not checking opening times and entry rules for the museum and ruins before you go.
Money, tipping and practical notes
The currency is the Turkish lira (TRY). Cards are widely accepted in resort areas, but carry a little cash for small shops, taxis and dolmuş rides. Tipping is customary in restaurants.
The plug type is C and F, at 230 volts. Check official Turkish government sources for visa rules based on your nationality. Tap water is not recommended for drinking.
Facts on this page were last checked in November 2026. Routes, rules and opening days change, so confirm important details with the official source before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Side?
May to October is best for swimming. April and November are quieter and cooler.
How far is Side from Antalya Airport?
The drive takes about an hour. Confirm the time with your hotel.
Can I visit Aspendos from Side?
Yes. Aspendos is reachable by taxi, tour or rental car.
Is Side easy to explore on foot?
Yes. The old town is on a small peninsula and the main sights are close together.
How far is Side from the city of Antalya?
Side is about 78 km from Antalya, near the town of Manavgat.
Is Side suitable for a beach holiday?
Yes. It is a popular holiday town on the Mediterranean coast with resorts nearby.