How Far Is Alanya from Side? Distance, Journey Time and Route Options
How far is Alanya from Side? Roughly 60–70 km, or 1–1,5 hours by car. Distances from the airports, route options and a day plan are all covered in this guide.
How far is Alanya from Side? The D400 coastal road between Side and Alanya is roughly 60–70 km. By private car or transfer, the journey usually takes 1 to 1,5 hours. Traffic, summer crowds and stops can lengthen the journey, so check current conditions before you set off.
Here I'm not just giving the numbers. I explain what the distance means for your day plan, how far it is from each airport to Side and Alanya, and what you can do in Alanya over a full day.
How many km and hours from Side to Alanya?
The route always follows the same line: you head out of Side towards Manavgat, then continue east along the D400 towards Alanya. Most of the road runs parallel to the sea, a flat stretch lined with citrus and greenhouse plantations on both sides. As you approach Alanya, the road nears the foot of the mountains and begins to wind.
In practice, think of it like this:
- Distance: roughly 60–70 km
- Time: 1 hour on free-flowing roads, up to 1,5 hours at busy times or if you stop along the way
- Return trip: you'll spend about 2–3 hours on the road
So Alanya is a distance you can manage as a day trip from Side. But if you don't set off early, the time on the road takes a big bite out of your day.
How far is it from the airport to Side and Alanya?
Those searching "How far is Side from Alanya airport" are mostly mixing up two different airports. There are two airports in the region, and the distances are very different.
Antalya Airport
From Antalya Airport to Side is roughly 60–65 km; by transfer it usually takes around 1 hour. From the same airport to Alanya you need about 120–130 km, which can take 1,5–2 hours. So if you're staying in Side, Antalya Airport is closer to you than Alanya is.
Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport
This airport is roughly 35–40 km from Alanya. To Side there is around 100 km, which can take more than 1,5 hours. If you're staying in Side and flying into Gazipaşa, be sure to factor in this time. Flight schedules and transfer times can change, so confirm the exact plan before booking.
How do you get from Side to Alanya?
There are three main options:
- Private transfer: door-to-door, and the most comfortable choice for anyone with luggage.
- Intercity bus and dolmuş: you need to go to Manavgat first, then change there for Alanya. It takes some planning, but you'll be travelling alongside local people.
- Hire car: the road is simple and well signposted. Finding a parking space in central Alanya and navigating the narrow streets can be a hassle in season.
For a detailed comparison, see our article "How to Get from Alanya to Side".
How do you make the most of a day in Alanya?
Spending 1 to 1,5 hours on the road only to sit on the beach often falls short. There's plenty to do in Alanya, and if you choose the right tour, the journey time won't feel like a price to pay.
By sea from Alanya: castle and coves
Alanya : Relaxing Cruise With Transfer (5 hours) sails from Alanya harbour on a two-deck boat across the Mediterranean and shows you the historic castle side of the city from the sea. The peninsula and walls, which are hard to make out from the shore, read far more clearly from the water. If you want to go in the morning and return in the afternoon, this route is an easy option.
Mountains and canyon: Sapadere
If you want to escape the heat and the crowds, Alanya: Sapadere Canyon Tour with Lunch and Cave Visit (6 hours) takes you up into the Taurus Mountains. The route passes through banana and avocado orchards and stops at a historic stone bridge and a gözleme break. A cave visit is also on the programme. In October the mountain side is cooler than the coast, so I'd suggest bringing a light jacket.
Evening in Alanya: night jeep safari
Alanya: Night Jeep Safari, Boat Trip and Dinner (5 hours) starts in the evening; according to the programme, departure is at 18:30. The route runs along the coastal road past Damlataş and Kleopatra beaches to the western entrance of Alanya Castle, and includes a boat trip and dinner. In October the light fades early, so this tour, which coincides with sunset, suits the season well. Factor in the return journey to Side, as you may need to arrange a transfer for the trip back at night.
Stay in Side and visit Alanya, or the other way round?
Side has its own ancient city, beaches and hamam; Alanya stands out for its castle, caves and mountain routes. Rather than trying to cover both in one day, it's more efficient to pick one as your base and set aside a single day for the other. If you come back from Alanya tired, a hamam break in Side such as Side: Turkish Hamam with Kese Peeling, Foam Massage and Transfer (1,5 hours) is a lovely way to end the day. Kese scrub, foam massage and transfer are all included in this package.
What should you consider when booking?
- Pick-up point: the pick-up location for tours is usually set for Alanya hotels. If you're joining from Side, check the pick-up details and service options on the booking page.
- Times: departure times vary by season. In October the day ends early, so set your return time accordingly.
- Weather: on sea tours, the programme may change depending on wind and wave conditions. Check the weather forecast on the morning of your trip.
- What to bring: swimwear, a towel, sun cream and comfortable shoes are enough for most tours.
Frequently asked questions
Can you walk or cycle from Side to Alanya?
No, it isn't practical. The distance is over 60 km, and most of the road is the D400 highway. You'll need a motor vehicle or a transfer.
Is Antalya Airport closer to Side or to Alanya?
It's closer to Side. From the airport, Side is roughly 60–65 km away and Alanya is 120–130 km.
Can you do Side to Alanya as a day trip and return?
Yes, it's possible. Set off early, allowing 2–3 hours for the round trip on the road. If you choose a tour, plan the finish time together with the return journey.
What time is best to leave Side for Alanya?
Setting off early in the morning helps you avoid traffic and heat. In October the evenings draw in early, so it's a good idea to time your return to daylight. Confirm current times before you set off.
