How to Get from Alanya to Side: Dolmuş, Transfer, Car Hire
How to get from Alanya to Side? Compare dolmuş, private transfer, hire car and tour options with journey times and practical tips; plan your day.
How to get from Alanya to Side? Side lies about 60-70 km west of Alanya, along the coastal road. The most comfortable way is a private transfer or hire car (roughly 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic). The most economical way is by dolmuş and bus, but you usually need to change in Manavgat, so the total time becomes a little longer.
Below you will find the options, who each one suits, and how to make the most of your day in Side.
How many hours does it take from Alanya to Side?
The route largely follows the main coastal road (D400). On the way you pass the holiday resorts of Okurcalar and Avsallar, west of Alanya, before reaching Manavgat. Side lies right beside Manavgat, on a small peninsula.
- By car: Usually around an hour if there is no traffic. It may take longer at the end of summer and at weekends.
- By dolmuş/bus: Usually between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on the number of stops and the wait for a connection. Treat this time as an estimate.
Because exact departure times and fares can change, get up-to-date information from the bus station or your hotel reception before setting off.
How do you get from Alanya to Side by dolmuş and bus?
This is the budget-friendly route. The general process is as follows:
- Take the bus or dolmuş heading towards Manavgat from Alanya bus station.
- Change at Manavgat bus station to a dolmuş going to Side. This second stage is usually short.
- In Side, dolmuşes usually drop you at the stops at the entrance to the town. From there you can reach the ancient city and the seafront on foot.
Who it suits: Those with flexible time, backpackers and anyone wanting to try local transport.
Please note: Be sure to find out the last departure time for return journeys. In autumn months such as October, days get shorter early and departure frequency may differ from the summer season. It is a good idea not to leave your return until late in the evening.
Is a private transfer or taxi worth it?
For those who do not want to change, families with children and travellers with luggage, the most comfortable option is a door-to-door transfer. You are picked up from your hotel and taken directly to Side. A taxi works on the same principle. Before setting off, agree the fare and the return conditions in advance, and leave no uncertainty about the price.
If you plan to stay in Side and not return to Alanya, changing to a dolmuş with luggage can be difficult. In that case a private transfer is more practical.
Going to Side by hire car
If you are travelling by hire car, the road is straightforward and clear. Simply follow the main road. Set up your satnav in advance and look into parking when you arrive in Side. Vehicle access may be restricted in the old town centre. Allow a little extra time to find a parking space; car parks near the entrance are a common solution.
Who it suits: Those who want to stop at places such as Manavgat on the way, and groups or families travelling together.
Tour options: what to know before going to Side
In our catalogue, a standout option specifically for Side is Side: Turkish Hamam with Kese Peeling, Foam Massage and Transfer Side: Turkish Hamam with Kese Peeling, Foam Massage and Transfer (1.5 hours, from 25 EUR). The tour includes transfer. However, check in the description on the booking page whether the pick-up point is in Side or another area. The booking page states whether pick-up from Alanya is available.
After a walk and a visit to the ancient city in Side, a hamam makes a good break. At the end of summer and in autumn, when the weather cools, the warmth of the hamam is especially pleasant.
When you return to Alanya, to ease tiredness, Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w/ Transfer Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w/ Transfer (2 hours, from 20 EUR) is a good choice. The journey back rounds off your day in a restful way.
If you would rather spend another day at sea, Alanya: Catamaran Cruise with Lunch and Soft Drinks Alanya: Catamaran Cruise with Lunch and Soft Drinks (4.5 hours, from 30 EUR) is a lovely alternative for seeing the coast from the sea.
How should you plan a day in Side?
Side is a small peninsula. The ancient ruins, harbour and beach are close together, so it is easy to explore on foot.
- Morning: Choose the cooler hours for the ancient theatre and the ruins around it.
- Midday: Eat around the harbour and rest on the beach.
- Towards sunset: Stroll around the Temple of Apollo. However, factor in your return journey too.
A day trip from Alanya to Side is feasible in mid-October. Setting off early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon is the most comfortable plan. Entry fees and opening hours can change, so check the site information before your visit.
Which option suits you?
- Most economical: Dolmuş/bus (with a change in Manavgat).
- Most comfortable: Private transfer or taxi.
- Most flexible: Hire car.
- Focused on hamam and relaxation: Look at tour options that include transfer.
If you have no luggage and your time is flexible, the dolmuş can be an enjoyable experience in itself. If you are travelling with children or luggage, a direct transfer saves a considerable amount of time.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a direct dolmuş from Alanya to Side?
Since services can change, we cannot be definitive. The usual arrangement is to change in Manavgat. Check the current situation at the bus station or with your hotel.
Can you visit Side from Alanya as a day trip?
Yes, it is possible. Setting off early in the morning and returning in the evening is a good plan. Check the last departure time for return services in advance.
Which place in Side should you allow the most time for?
The ancient theatre, the Temple of Apollo and the area around the harbour stand out. For entry fees and opening hours at the archaeological site, get up-to-date information before your visit.
Can you have a hamam when going to Side?
Yes. The Side: Turkish Hamam with Kese Peeling, Foam Massage and Transfer Side hamam tour in our catalogue includes transfer. Check the pick-up point on the page before booking.
