Old Town Side
Step back in time in Side Old Town, where ancient Roman ruins meet a vibrant Mediterranean bazaar. Explore temples, a theatre, and charming streets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, cooler temps
Old Town Side
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Side Old Town, where ancient Roman ruins meet a vibrant Mediterranean bazaar. Explore temples, a theatre, and charming streets.
"A good place to spend an evening if you are in the area, with plenty of places for pics."
🚶♀️ Evening Walk Essential
Enjoy a stroll through the ruins and market as the sun sets. Great for photos!
💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
Haggle prices in the bazaar for unique finds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Apollon Temple Ruins
Waterfront
Majestic ancient columns standing against the sea, perfect for sunset photos.
Side Ancient Theatre
Central Old Town
A remarkably preserved Roman theatre offering a glimpse into historical performances.
Old Town Market
Central Old Town
Bustling streets filled with souvenir shops, local crafts, and vibrant atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Evening Strolls & Souvenirs
Ancient Wonders & Modern Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Evening Walk Essential
Enjoy a stroll through the ruins and market as the sun sets. Great for photos! +1
💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
Haggle prices in the bazaar for unique finds.
🍦 Turkish Ice Cream Fun
Experience the playful Turkish ice cream vendors.
🚗 Electric Ride Option
Consider an electric ride from the main barrier if needed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Evening Walk Essential
Enjoy a stroll through the ruins and market as the sun sets. Great for photos! +1
💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
Haggle prices in the bazaar for unique finds.
🍦 Turkish Ice Cream Fun
Experience the playful Turkish ice cream vendors.
🚗 Electric Ride Option
Consider an electric ride from the main barrier if needed.
📸 Plenty of Photo Ops
The ancient ruins and waterfront offer stunning backdrops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Old Town Side to be a pleasant place for an evening stroll, appreciating the blend of ancient ruins and a lively market atmosphere. While some feel it's heavily geared towards tourism, the historical sites are impressive and offer great photo opportunities. The vibrant bazaar and dining options add to the overall experience.
"Side Ancient city is a good place for an evening walk. There are plenty of places for pics. You can see old ruins or stroll in the old market area full of souvenir shops and restaurants.
Good place to spend an evening if you are in the area.
You can walk from the main barrier or take an electric ride( charges 125 Turkish Lira).
You can also get a Turkish ice cream experience here."
Bharat Dhiman
"Old Town Side
Old Town Side offers a decent enough way to spend a few hours, especially if you're staying nearby. It’s certainly got plenty of ancient ruins to explore, like the Theatre and the waterfront temples, which are interesting to see. You can easily spend time wandering through the archaeological sites and imagining the history.
Beyond the ruins, the Old Town is largely dominated by shops. There are certainly lots of them, selling everything from souvenirs to clothing and local goods. If you enjoy Browse and a bit of bargaining, you'll find plenty to keep you occupied. There are also numerous restaurants and cafes catering to tourists.
It's a pleasant enough place for a stroll, with a lively atmosphere, but it didn't really 'wow' us. It feels quite geared towards tourism, and while the ruins are impressive, the overall experience is pretty standard for a historical town with a strong commercial presence. Good for a visit, but perhaps not a must-see if you've explored similar places before."
Craig Smith
"The old town side is beautiful, but unfortunately it’s usually very crowded – but after all, it’s a tourist attraction. We went on a boat tour, which was really lovely, and I think it’s something you should do at least once – the views are truly beautiful."
Rayan Roro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Antalya Airport (AYT), you can take a taxi, pre-booked transfer, or public transport. Taxis and transfers are the most convenient, with options like Queen Transfer Cars serving Side. Public buses are also available but may require transfers.
Yes, Old Town Side is very walkable, with most attractions concentrated in the central area. Cobblestone streets are common, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Parking can be challenging in the Old Town due to its pedestrian-friendly nature and narrow streets. It's often best to park outside the main area and walk in.
Many ancient ruins are accessible by foot. For those with mobility concerns or who want to cover more ground, an electric ride is available for a fee.
Yes, various tours are available, including walking tours that highlight the history and key sites. Boat tours from Side also offer beautiful coastal views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Old Town itself is generally free to enter and explore. However, specific archaeological sites within the Old Town may require an entrance fee.
While the general Old Town area is free, specific sites like the museum or certain excavated areas might have admission fees. It's best to check on-site for current pricing.
The Old Town is always accessible, but shops and restaurants typically operate from morning until late evening. Archaeological sites may have specific visiting hours.
Many of the ancient ruins are visible from public areas, allowing you to appreciate them even without purchasing tickets for specific sites.
Information on combined tickets can vary. It's advisable to inquire locally or check official tourism websites for any available passes that might offer savings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Apollon Temple ruins by the waterfront, the impressive Side Ancient Theatre, and the remnants of the agora. +1
You'll find a wide array of souvenir shops selling textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and local crafts. Bargaining is common.
Yes, there are numerous restaurants and cafes offering Turkish cuisine and international options. Luna Gardens is noted for its diverse menu.
It can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season and in the evenings. Visiting in the late afternoon can offer a slightly less crowded experience.
An evening stroll through the illuminated ruins, dining at a waterfront restaurant, and browsing the market are popular choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The Apollon Temple ruins at sunset, the ancient theatre, and the charming narrow streets offer fantastic photo opportunities. +1
Golden hour, just before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for the ruins and the sea. Early mornings can also be good for fewer crowds.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and archaeological sites. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide ruins and street scenes. A wide-angle lens can be great for the temples.
Exploring the side streets away from the main thoroughfares can lead to quieter, picturesque spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical sites are fascinating, keep in mind that some areas might not be stroller-friendly due to uneven terrain. Opting for a baby carrier might be more practical. The waterfront offers a pleasant area for a stroll, and many restaurants have family-friendly options.
💰 Budget Travelers
For dining, look for local eateries away from the prime waterfront spots, or consider grabbing some delicious and affordable Turkish gözleme from a street vendor. While the electric rides have a fee, walking is free and allows you to discover more hidden corners.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider a boat tour departing from Side for a truly memorable experience, offering breathtaking coastal views and a chance to relax together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ancient Ruins
Beyond these major landmarks, the entire Old Town is an archaeological site. You can find remnants of ancient streets, fortifications, and other structures as you explore. While some areas might require tickets, many impressive ruins are visible from public spaces, allowing for a comprehensive appreciation of Side's historical significance.
For those interested in a deeper dive, consider visiting the Side Museum, which houses artifacts found in the area, offering further context to the ruins. The combination of accessible ruins and informative displays makes Side a compelling destination for anyone interested in ancient civilizations.
Shopping and Dining Experience
When hunger strikes, Old Town Side presents a diverse culinary scene. You'll find numerous restaurants and cafes catering to various tastes, from traditional Turkish mezes and kebabs to international dishes.
Beyond the main market streets, exploring the smaller alleys can reveal hidden gems, from quaint cafes to artisan workshops. The overall commercial aspect of the Old Town is undeniable, contributing to its bustling energy, especially in the evenings.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
For the best photographic results, aim for the golden hour just before sunset, when the light is soft and warm, enhancing the colors of the ancient stones and the sea.
When packing your gear, a versatile lens that can handle both wide architectural shots and closer details is ideal. A wide-angle lens can be particularly useful for capturing the scale of the temples and theatre.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit