How to Get from Alanya to Side: Dolmuş, Transfer, Car Rental
How to get from Alanya to Side? Compare dolmuş, private transfer, rental car and tour options with travel 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 option is a private transfer or rental car (roughly 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic). The most economical route is by dolmuş and bus, but you usually need to change in Manavgat, so the total time gets a bit longer.
Below you'll find the options, who each one suits, and how to spend your day efficiently 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 resort areas such as Okurcalar and Avsallar west of Alanya, then reach Manavgat. Side sits right next to Manavgat, on a small peninsula.
- By car: Usually around an hour when there is no traffic. Late summer and weekends can add some time.
- By dolmuş/bus: Typically 1.5-2 hours, depending on the number of stops and waiting time for connections. Plan with this estimate in mind.
Since exact departure times and fares can change, get up-to-date information from the bus station or your hotel's reception before setting off.
How do you get from Alanya to Side by dolmuş and bus?
This is the budget-friendly route. The general flow is:
- Take a bus or dolmuş from the Alanya bus station heading towards Manavgat.
- Change at the Manavgat bus station for a dolmuş to Side. This second leg is usually short.
- In Side, dolmuşes usually drop you off at the stops at the entrance of the town. From there you can walk to the ancient city and the seafront.
Who it suits: Travellers with flexible time, backpackers and those who want to try local transport.
Please note: Be sure to find out the last departure time for return trips. In autumn months such as October, days get shorter and departure frequency may differ from the summer season. It's a good idea not to leave your return until late in the evening.
Does a private transfer or taxi make sense?
For those who don't want to change vehicles, families with children and travellers with luggage, the most comfortable option is a door-to-door transfer. You're picked up from your hotel and dropped off directly in Side. A taxi works on the same principle. Before setting off, clarify the price and return conditions in advance and leave no uncertainty about the fare.
If you plan to stay in Side and not return to Alanya, changing dolmuş with luggage can be difficult. In that case a private transfer is more practical.
Going to Side by rental car
If you're driving a rental car, the road is straightforward and clear. Simply follow the main road. Set up your navigation in advance and check parking options when entering Side. Vehicle access to the old town centre may be restricted. Allow some 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 like Manavgat along the way, and groups or families travelling together.
Tour options: What should you know before going to Side?
A standout option in our catalogue 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 page states whether pick-up from Alanya is offered.
After a walk and a visit to the ancient city in Side, a hamam is a good break. In late summer and autumn, when the weather cools down, the warmth of the hamam feels especially pleasant.
When you return to Alanya, to unwind 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. It ends your return day in a relaxing way.
If you'd 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 great 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's easy to explore on foot.
- Morning: Choose the cooler hours for the ancient theatre and the surrounding ruins.
- Midday: Eat around the harbour and rest on the beach.
- Towards sunset: Stroll around the Temple of Apollo. But also factor in your journey back.
A day trip from Alanya to Side is doable in mid-October. Setting out early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon is the most comfortable plan. Entrance fees and opening hours can change, so check 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: Rental car.
- Focused on hamam and relaxation: Look at tour options that include transfer.
If you have no luggage and your time is flexible, a dolmuş trip can be enjoyable as an experience in itself. If you're travelling with children or luggage, a direct transfer saves a lot of time.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a direct dolmuş from Alanya to Side?
Since services can change, we can't say for certain. The usual practice is to change in Manavgat. Check the current situation at the bus station or with your hotel.
Can you do Alanya to Side as a day trip?
Yes, it's possible. Setting out 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 ruins entrance fees and opening hours, 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.
