Side is a beautiful heritage resort town that is located on the south coast of Turkey around 75 kilometers from Antalya. There are several ancient spots and historical ruins that can be explored from Side. The Side day trips guide lists some nice ideas for visitors who want to discover the surrounding regions on quick getaways.

Antalya

Antalya is a major tourist centre a little further from Side. It is known for its conventional architecture, old castles, scenic beauty and its numerous hotels, pubs and night clubs. This place hosts a variety of sporting events throughout the year. It is also called the Turkish Riviera. The beaches are clean and a treat for the eyes. The place is also known for its numerous international fairs and conventions.

Hadrian's Gate

This is the only city gate, located on the entrance of Antalya, that has been preserved until today. It is the most attractive of the Pamphylia: Uckapilar (Three Gates). This gate was built to pay tribute to Emperor Hadrian who was visiting the city in 130 AD. Except for the columns, the entire gate is built of pure white marble. It has intricate carvings that are a treat to the eye.

Antalya Museum

This museum was set up in 1922 by Suleyman Fikri Erten. It has around 12 exhibition rooms and extensive gardens and galleries. The museum houses mosaics, Phrygian ornaments and the Gallery of the Gods. It also has a room full of Christian art that has pieces of the skull and jawbone of St Nicholas.

Kekova

You can take full day trips to Kekova either by bus or boat. On the way, you can visit the well known Sunken City and St. Nicholas Church.

Short tours

There are several short day tours that are arranged by operators for tourists visiting Side. The sea plane tour is a short twenty minute tour on a sea plane at the riverside. You can have lunch right beside the beautiful Aksu river. The shark fishing tour consists of feeding the sharks and then fishing on the boat. With the camel tour, you can enjoy an exhilarating camel ride on the outskirts of the city. Simple boat tours are also available. The boats leave from the resort in the Mediterranean and Aegean regions. You may choose to swim, sunbathe or simply sail. Delicious meals are served on the deck. For visitors in Side, there are not only amazing historical wonders to see within the town, but also all around it.