Is Side Old Town Worth Visiting? Three Times, Three Options
Is the old town of Side worth visiting? We compare the temple, theatre and bazaar in morning, sunset and evening options, and explain how many hours you should set aside.
Yes, the old town of Side is worth visiting. The ancient theatre, the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the harbour and the bazaar streets sit within walking distance of one another on a small peninsula. If you set aside 2-3 hours, you can comfortably see all of them. It is also a place where even those who don't love history can pass the time, because the ruins are set among tourist shops and restaurants, right in the middle of everyday life.
What is there in the old town of Side, and can you walk around it?
Yes, and mostly on foot. Side lies about 60-70 km east of Antalya, in the district of Manavgat. The old town is gathered on a narrow headland surrounded by the sea. The main points are:
- Ancient theatre: A very large structure from the Roman period. Once you climb to the upper rows, you look out over the town to the sea.
- Temple of Apollo: At the tip of the peninsula, right by the sea, a few columns stand upright. It is the most photographed spot of the day.
- Harbour and walls: Fishing boats, cafés and remnants of the old city walls together.
- Agora, monumental fountain and main gate: Along the main street, seen with short stops.
- Side Museum: Inside an old Roman bath, with its collection of sculptures and sarcophagi.
Entry conditions and opening hours for places such as the museum and theatre may change. Check before your visit. Stone paving becomes slippery when wet, so wear shoes with good grip.
Where are shopping and food in Side?
The streets between the main street and the harbour work like a bazaar. Shops selling leather goods, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, spices and Turkish delight line the way. Bargaining is expected; take your time, look at a few shops and compare. For a meal, the harbour-side spots have views, while a street or two inland the local businesses are quieter.
Should you go in the morning, at sunset or in the evening?
The same place feels very different depending on the time of day. Let's put the three options side by side.
Early morning: for history enthusiasts and photographers
Around nine o'clock the streets are empty and the stone surfaces have not yet warmed up. You reach the theatre and temple without crowds. In the summer months this option is especially important. The downside is that some shops may not yet be open. Once you finish your walk, the bazaar begins to come alive.
Afternoon and sunset: the most balanced option for first-time visitors
Visiting the museum, theatre and bazaar in the afternoon and timing the temple with sunset is the order that works best on a first visit. The light softens, and the columns of the temple make a striking picture with the sea. At the end of October, the sky starts to darken around six in the evening. Plan accordingly and check the sunset time for that day.
Evening: for dining and a night stroll
The harbour restaurants and bazaar open in the evening, and the temple and walls are illuminated. If you want to see the ancient ruins in detail, this option is not suitable, but it is a lovely time for a stroll and a meal. If you are staying in Side, you can also fill the evening with a different programme. For water, light and music show, the Antalya / Alanya Land of Legends Night Show with Hotel Transfer Land of Legends show, with hotel transfer from many points including Side, can be considered for this purpose. As the tour lasts about 7 hours, it is better to schedule your walk around Side for the morning that day.
Side or Alanya Castle?
When you have limited days around Antalya, this question often comes up. In brief:
- Side: Flat ground, short distances, bazaar and harbour together. More comfortable for families with children or those who find walking tiring.
- Alanya Castle: On a hilltop, with Seljuk-period walls, the Red Tower and the shipyard. The views are wide, but it is uphill. The Alanya Castle, Damlatas Cave and City Tour by Cable Car makes the uphill section easier, as Alanya Castle, Damlatas Cave and the city tour are done by cable car.
You don't have to do both on the same day. Planning Side for half a day and Alanya for another day is less tiring. If you are staying in Side, explore Side on foot; if you are staying on the Alanya side, choose the castle tour.
What to do after the walk?
Walking through stone streets for a few hours tires the legs. For the afternoon or evening, a traditional Turkish bath in Side is a good choice. Side: Turkish Hamam with Kese Peeling, Foam Massage and Transfer The Side Hamam is a programme of about 1.5 hours including kese peeling, foam massage and transfer. If you plan to explore in the morning and rest in the afternoon, this order works well.
How is the old town of Side at the end of October?
There is no August crowd, and walking is much more comfortable. Midday can still be warm, but shaded streets are not a problem. Cafés by the sea stay open, though some seasonal businesses may have started to close. Go with a light top and comfortable shoes, and take a light jacket for the evening.
Frequently asked questions
How many hours are enough for the old town of Side?
2-3 hours is enough to see the theatre, temple, museum and bazaar. If you add a meal break and sunset, plan for half a day.
How do you get to Side from Antalya?
You can travel from Antalya to Side by bus, minibus or private vehicle. Vehicle access to the old town centre may be limited, so you may need to park at the entrance and walk. Check the current situation before your visit.
Is there shopping in the old town of Side?
Yes. The bazaar around the main street and harbour sells leather, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, spices and Turkish delight. Looking at a few shops and comparing is a good idea.
Is Side suitable for visiting with children?
Yes. Distances are short, and children can move around the theatre comfortably. Sturdy shoes for the stone ground, plus water and a hat for midday, are enough.
