Side Holiday Plan

Updated for 2026

Side is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations on the Turkish Riviera, known for its golden beaches, ancient ruins, and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a relaxing beach vacation, Side offers something for every traveler.

In this guide, we will help you create the perfect Side holiday plan, including the best things to do in Side, where to stay, top beaches, and useful travel tips to make the most of your trip to Antalya.

Why Side is a Perfect Holiday Destination

Side is one of the most charming holiday destinations on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. Known for its golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and fascinating ancient ruins, the town offers a unique mix of history, relaxation, and modern resort comfort.

Visitors can explore the impressive Temple of Apollo, wander through the ancient Roman theatre, or simply enjoy a relaxing day on one of the beautiful beaches. With its wide range of luxury resorts, family hotels, and beachfront restaurants, Side has become one of the most popular places for a holiday in Antalya.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, Side offers the perfect balance of culture, nature, and seaside relaxation.

Best Things to Do in Side

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Side, making it a great destination for travelers of all ages. The town is famous for its ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and lively promenade filled with cafes and restaurants.

One of the most popular attractions is the Temple of Apollo, especially at sunset when the ancient columns create a breathtaking view over the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can also explore the Side Ancient Theatre, which dates back to the Roman period and once held thousands of spectators.

Other popular activities include boat trips along the coastline, visiting the Manavgat Waterfall, shopping in the local bazaars, or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Side Old Town.

Best Beaches in Side

Side is well known for its beautiful beaches that stretch along the Mediterranean coast. The region offers both lively beach areas with water sports and quiet spots perfect for relaxing under the sun.

Side East Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area, known for its long sandy shoreline and clear turquoise water. It is ideal for swimming and relaxing with family.

Side West Beach is another favorite, especially for travelers staying at nearby resorts. The beach is lined with restaurants, beach clubs, and hotels, creating a lively yet relaxing holiday atmosphere.

Thanks to its warm climate and soft sand, Side’s beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying unforgettable Mediterranean sunsets.

Where to Stay in Side

Side offers a wide range of accommodation options suitable for every type of traveler. From luxury all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels near the ancient town, visitors can easily find the perfect place to stay.

Many travelers prefer staying at beachfront resorts that provide private beaches, pools, spa facilities, and entertainment programs. These resorts are especially popular with families and couples looking for a relaxing holiday experience.

If you prefer a more charming atmosphere, staying near Side Old Town allows you to enjoy beautiful views, historic streets, and easy access to restaurants and local attractions.

Side Holiday Travel Tips

Planning your holiday in advance can help you make the most of your trip to Side. The best time to visit is between May and October, when the weather is warm and ideal for beach activities.

During the summer months, temperatures can be quite high, so it’s recommended to explore historical sites in the morning or late afternoon. Comfortable walking shoes are also useful when visiting the ancient ruins and old town.

Booking accommodation and transportation early is also a good idea, especially during the peak holiday season when Side becomes a very popular destination.

There are many reasons why you should choose Side as your next vacation destination. Firstly, the town boasts of beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Secondly, Side has a rich history and is home to many ancient ruins such as the Temple of Apollo, the Amphitheater, and the Agora. Lastly, the town has a vibrant nightlife with many bars and clubs where you can dance the night away.

Best Hotels in Side

Side has many hotels to choose from, catering to different budgets and preferences. Here is a list of 18 popular hotels in Side:

1. Barut Hemera Resort & Spa – A luxurious all-inclusive resort with a private beach, spa, and several restaurants.
2. Voyage Sorgun – A family-friendly resort with a water park, mini golf, and kids’ club.
3. Trendy Verbena Beach – A modern hotel with a private beach, several pools, and a spa.
4. Crystal Sunrise Queen Luxury Resort & Spa – A luxurious hotel with a private beach, spa, and several restaurants.
5. Side Star Beach – A beachfront hotel with several pools, a water park, and kids’ club.
6. Otium Eco Club Side – A family-friendly hotel with a water park, mini golf, and kids’ club.
7. Sentido Turan Prince – A luxurious hotel with a private beach, spa, and several restaurants.
8. Sunis Elita Beach Resort Hotel & Spa – A luxurious all-inclusive resort with a private beach, spa, and several restaurants.
9. Diamond Elite Hotel & Spa – A modern hotel with a private beach, several pools, and a spa.
10. The Sense De Luxe Hotel – A luxurious hotel with a private beach, spa, and several restaurants.
11. Crystal Sunset Luxury Resort & Spa – A luxurious hotel with a private beach, spa, and several restaurants.
12. Alba Queen Hotel – A modern hotel with a private beach, several pools, and a spa.
13. Ramada Resort Side – A family-friendly hotel with a water park, mini golf, and kids’ club.
14. Royal Dragon Hotel – A luxurious hotel with a private beach, several pools, and a spa.
15. Laphetos Beach Resort & Spa – A beachfront hotel with several pools, a water park, and kids’ club.
16. Club Hotel Turan Prince World – A family-friendly hotel with a water park, mini golf, and kids’ club.
17. Adalya Ocean Deluxe Resort – A luxurious hotel with a private beach, spa, and several restaurants.
18. Kamelya Collection K Club – A beachfront hotel with several pools, a water park, and kids’ club.

Side Historical Sites

Side is a town with a rich history and has many historical sites to explore. The Temple of Apollo, the Amphitheater, and the Agora are some of the most popular historical sites in Side.

The Temple of Apollo is an ancient temple dedicated to the Greek god of music, poetry, and prophecy. The temple is located on the east side of the town and is one of the most well-preserved ancient sites in Side.

The Amphitheater is another popular historical site in Side. It is a well-preserved Roman amphitheater that was used for gladiator fights and other public spectacles.

The Agora is a large marketplace that was used in ancient times for trade and commerce. It is located in the heart of the town and is surrounded by many restaurants and shops.

Side Places to Visit

Aside from the historical sites, Side also has many beautiful places to visit. Some of the most popular places to visit include:

1. Manavgat Waterfall – A beautiful waterfall located just a few kilometers from Side.
2. Side Museum – A small museum that showcases the history of Side.
3. Side Harbor – A beautiful harbor where you can take a boat tour or enjoy a meal at one of the many seafood restaurants.
4. Titreyengol – A picturesque lake located just a few kilometers from Side.
5. Aspendos – A well-preserved ancient theater that is still used for performances today.
6. Apollon temple – Located on the head of the Side peninsula, the Temple of Apollo is about 2 kilometers from the town centre. Transportation to the temple can be done by city minibuses or on foot.

For more, you can review our article on Things to do in Side.

Side Daily Tours

Side offers many daily tours that allow you to explore the surrounding area. Here are some popular tours:

1. Pamukkale Tour – A full-day tour to Pamukkale, a natural wonder with terraced hot springs and travertine pools.
2. Antalya City Tour – A full-day tour to Antalya, a beautiful coastal city with a rich history and many attractions.
3. Jeep Safari – A half-day tour that takes you on an off-road adventure through the countryside surrounding Side.
4. Green Canyon Boat Tour – A full-day boat tour that takes you through the beautiful Green Canyon.
5. Alanya Castle Tour – A full-day tour to Alanya Castle, a well-preserved medieval castle that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Antalya Airport to Side Private Transfer

Antalya Airport is the nearest airport to Side, located approximately 65 km away, and the journey usually takes around 50–60 minutes depending on traffic.

After a long flight, the most comfortable way to reach your hotel is by booking a private Antalya Airport to Side transfer. Instead of waiting for taxis or crowded shuttle buses, a private transfer allows you to travel directly to your hotel in Side with comfort and peace of mind.

Our professional drivers will meet you at the airport and take you safely to your destination in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, our Antalya Airport private transfer service ensures a smooth and stress-free start to your holiday.

Book your Antalya Airport to Side transfer in advance and enjoy a comfortable ride to your hotel without delays or hidden costs.

FAQs About Visiting Side