Side, a neighborhood of Manavgat in the beautiful province of Antalya, is known for its historic ruins and monumental structures that have survived to this day. The word “Side” means pomegranate, and the area hosts a history that dates back to the 7th century BC.
Ancient City
The region, believed to have first been settled during the Hittite period, saw ancient cities emerge. According to inscriptions, it was dominated by the Lydians in the 6th century BC, then the Persians. In the 4th century BC, the area was conquered by Alexander the Great and later fell under the control of the Syrian kingdom. It experienced the Pergamum kingdom, Roman, and Byzantine periods, was ruled by the Hamitoğulları principality in the 13th and 14th centuries, and became part of the Ottoman territory in the 15th century.
Nowadays, Side is predominantly known for tourism. Its population of 12,000 can swell to over a million tourists during the summer months.
Climate and Cuisine
Side exhibits typical Mediterranean climate features with hot summers and sometimes rainy winters. The average seasonal temperature is 18 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for year-round travel. The sea temperature in summer can reach 30 degrees Celsius, creating an ideal tourism paradise.
Side’s cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Greek influences, especially visible in the mezes. The kitchen is rich in olive oil-based dishes, seafood, and vegetable meals.
Altınbeşik Cave
Places to Visit
Side, located right next to Manavgat, attracts tourists throughout the year with its historical structures, ancient cities, and natural beauties. You can also partake in activities like underwater diving, trekking, rafting, and Jeep Safari. Boat tours are particularly popular in Side, which is home to several Blue Flag beaches.
- Side Ancient City: Dating back to the 7th century BC, this ancient city bears traces of Lydian, Persian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine civilizations.
- Temple of Apollo: Situated towards the seafront of Side’s ancient city, the Temple of Apollo offers stunning sunset views and is believed to have been built in the 3rd century AD.
- Side Museum: Located next to the ancient city of Side, the museum is filled with important artifacts, reliefs, and frescoes from various civilizations.
- Aspendos Theater: An amphitheater located in the ancient city, Aspendos is believed to have been established in the 10th century BC by the Achaeans.
- Seleukeia Ancient City: Founded in the 3rd century BC under Hellenistic influence, this ancient city is located within the boundaries of Manavgat.
- Side Beaches: Side, with nine Blue Flag beaches, is a favorite destination for sea tourism. Beaches like Titreyengöl, Çolaklı, Sorgun, Kumköy, and the Side public beach are popular.
- Altınbeşik Cave: Also known as Düden Water Cave, it houses a lake 125 meters deep.
- Köprülü Canyon: Starting from the Sütçüler district of Isparta and flowing to the Mediterranean Sea, Köprülü Canyon is renowned for its rafting tours.
Apollo Temple
Side Festivals
The World Music Culture and Art Festival, held annually between September 10 and 17, is a well-attended event. The International Manavgat Motorcycle Festival, Barış Suyu Festival, and the Manavgat Bicycle Festival in October also draw significant interest.
Köprülü Canyon in Side
How to Get There
Located 75 kilometers from the center of Antalya, Side is accessible by road. You can also fly to Antalya Airport and make a day trip from major cities. Frequent minibuses from Manavgat city center to Side offer convenient local transportation.
