A Roman city on a peninsula, with a temple at the tip, a theatre by the gate and sandy beaches on both sides.

1. The Temple of Apollo

Five marble columns at the end of the peninsula, best at sunset with the sea behind them.

2. The ancient theatre

A 15,000-seat Roman theatre beside the old city gate, with the museum in the old baths across the road.

3. The old town

Pedestrian lanes of restaurants, shops and pensions inside the city walls, running down to the harbour.

4. East and west beaches

Sand on both sides of the peninsula: the west beach is long and backed by hotels, the east beach quieter with dunes.

5. Manavgat waterfall and market

A wide, low waterfall with tea gardens, and one of the region’s biggest markets on Mondays and Thursdays.

6. Aspendos

The best-preserved Roman theatre anywhere, 30 minutes west. Summer festival performances are unforgettable.

7. Köprülü Canyon

Rafting on gentle rapids through a national park an hour inland, with lunch by the river.

8. Boat trips and the Manavgat river

Cruises along the coast to the river mouth and up the river to the waterfall, or a day out on a gulet.

9. Seleukeia and Aspendos aqueduct

Quiet ruins in the hills for those who want more Roman remains without the crowds.

Plan the rest of your trip

See how to get to Side, compare the best areas to stay and check the best time to visit. Browse tours and experiences in Side listed on Visit Turkey.