Side Travel Guide

Side (pronounced 'see day') is situated on the Mediterranean coast approximately 75 kilometers from one of Turkey 's largest cities' Antalya . This unique seaside resort lies on a small, flat peninsula which is 300 meters wide and 800 meters long and is just packed to the brim with archaeological wonders and surrounded on both sides by the deep, blue water of the Med. At certain points along the main street that runs through the centre and down to the quaint fishing harbour, you can look between the buildings and streets and see the sea on either sides.

Side was once an important commercial town. With its large merchant fleet it traded with the countries of the eastern and western Mediterranean and served as a port for many parts of inner Turkey . Side was a slave market from which African slaves were sold and also a center for piracy. After this period, Side turned to legitimate commerce and still prospered.

Whilst Side has become extremely popular with European and Turkish holidaymakers alike, it has managed to retain its ‘quaintness’ and authenticity. Due to its abundance of archaeological treasures, all the architecture in the old part of Side is of a certain style – pretty, two – storey stone buildings with varnished, wooden balconies all along the labyrinth of narrow, winding alleyways.

Side has just everything you could want. For the culture – vulture there is obviously a treasure chest of ancient history all around which includes: The Amphitheatre dating back to Hellenistic period and is one of the largest (after Aspendos) in Turkey seating approximately 15,000 people; The Roman Temples of Apollo and Artemis; The City Gates; Aqua ducts and Museum. One of the most enjoyable experiences is walking through these ruins at night when all are illuminated.

During summer time no motor trafficing is allowed downtown and you need to walk about 1 km to reach to sea. The best fish restaurants in the area.