Side Museum Antalya
Discover ancient Roman history at Side Museum and its sprawling archaeological site, featuring iconic ruins and stunning Mediterranean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Side Museum Antalya
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient Roman history at Side Museum and its sprawling archaeological site, featuring iconic ruins and stunning Mediterranean views.
"The Temple of Apollo at sunset is absolutely breathtaking – a must-see in Side!"
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early or late to avoid the strongest sun. Bring water and wear a hat!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking on ancient stones and uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Artifacts
Main exhibition halls
Discover intricate sculptures, pottery, and coins from Side's rich past.
Temple of Apollo Ruins
Adjacent to the museum
Marvel at the iconic remains of this ancient Roman temple, especially stunning at sunset.
Roman Theater
Near the museum
Explore the impressive ruins of a large Roman theater, imagining past performances.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early or late to avoid the strongest sun. Bring water and wear a hat!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking on ancient stones and uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort!
📸 Sunset Views
The Temple of Apollo is breathtaking at sunset. Don't miss it! 
⏳ Allow Ample Time
While small, take your time to appreciate the history.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early or late to avoid the strongest sun. Bring water and wear a hat!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking on ancient stones and uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort!
📸 Sunset Views
The Temple of Apollo is breathtaking at sunset. Don't miss it!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
While small, take your time to appreciate the history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Side Museum and the adjacent Ancient City for their historical significance and picturesque ruins, especially the Temple of Apollo at sunset. While the museum is compact, it effectively complements the exploration of the vast archaeological site. Some find the site can get crowded and hot during peak times.
"The layout is impressive: colonnaded streets, a well-preserved agora, and fragments of once-majestic buildings scattered throughout. It’s worth paying the €10pp to view the museum and the archeological sites!"
Shane Cousins
"Definitely worth the visit. It's not a big museum, but it's nicely done."
Shinybeard55
"This museum is NOT wheelchair friendly, only if you have very big all terain wheels. Otherwise this can be a very painful experience. Do not try this if you suffer from pain. The staff does try to help you but this is even a challenge as an ambulatory wheelchair user with back pain and strong pain killers..
The toilet was looking very nasty.
There are seats if you need a rest in between, normal toilets are okay."
Carmina Grunewald
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Side Museum is located in the heart of the ancient city of Side. You can reach Side by bus from Antalya's main bus station (Otogar). From the Side bus stop, it's a short walk to the museum and ancient ruins. Taxis are also readily available.
Yes, the Side Museum is an integral part of the Side Ancient City complex. The artifacts displayed in the museum were excavated from the surrounding archaeological site.
Many visitors recommend exploring the ancient city on foot. Wear comfortable shoes and allow at least 2-3 hours to see the main sites like the theater, agora, and temples.
Yes, guided tours are often available and can provide deeper historical context. You can inquire locally or book in advance. Some boat trips also include a stop in Side.
Parking is available near the entrance to Side Ancient City, though it can get busy. It's often easier to park and walk, especially during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a ticket is required to enter the Side Museum and the adjacent Side Ancient City archaeological site. You can purchase tickets at the entrance.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. Generally, the museum is open daily from morning until early evening. It's best to check the latest hours before your visit, especially during off-peak seasons.
Ticket prices are subject to change. Expect a modest entrance fee for the combined ticket to the museum and ancient city. Check official sources for current pricing.
While some major attractions in Turkey offer online booking, it's less common for smaller museums like Side. Purchasing tickets on-site is usually straightforward.
There is no strict dress code, but modest attire is recommended out of respect for the historical and cultural significance of the site.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Roman Theater, the Agora, the Temple of Apollo, the Nymphaeum, and various Roman-era ruins. The museum itself houses many artifacts from these sites.
Children can enjoy exploring the ancient ruins and seeing historical artifacts. The open spaces of the ancient city are good for them to run around, but supervision is essential.
The Side Underwater Museum is a separate diving attraction featuring submerged statues. It's a unique experience for divers and snorkelers, distinct from the main Side Museum.
Restroom facilities are usually available within the ancient city complex. Cafes and restaurants can be found in the modern town of Side, just a short walk away.
The ancient city has uneven terrain and many steps, making it challenging for those with mobility issues. The museum itself may have some accessible areas, but exploring the entire site can be difficult.
📸 📸 Photography
The Temple of Apollo ruins, especially at sunset, offer stunning photographic opportunities. The Roman Theater and the panoramic views of the sea from the ancient city are also highly recommended.
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artifacts. Always check for signage.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun and creating beautiful golden hour shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and archaeological sites to preserve their integrity and for safety reasons. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
If you are diving or snorkeling at the Underwater Museum, you can take photos with appropriate underwater camera equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the ancient city are limited. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to keep everyone comfortable. While the museum itself is smaller, the sheer scale of the ruins can capture a child's imagination more effectively. The nearby modern town of Side also offers family-friendly restaurants and ice cream shops for a treat after exploring.
🏛️ History Buffs
+1Don't miss the chance to learn about Side's strategic importance as a port city and its transition through various empires. Consider hiring a local guide or doing some pre-trip research to fully appreciate the historical nuances. The Side Underwater Museum also offers a unique, albeit modern, artistic interpretation of history for those interested in diving.
+1📸 Photographers
+1Explore the colonnaded streets and agora for architectural details and atmospheric shots. The sea views from the ancient city are also stunning. For a truly unique shot, consider the Side Underwater Museum if you have the right equipment.
Remember to visit during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Side Ancient City
+1One of the most striking features is the Roman Theater, which could seat thousands of spectators and was used for gladiatorial contests and performances. Its scale is impressive, and standing within its tiers offers a powerful sense of history. The Temple of Apollo, with its iconic remaining columns, is another must-see, particularly beautiful when illuminated at sunset.
+1While the museum provides context, walking through the actual ruins is where the history truly comes alive. Imagine the bustling port, the vibrant marketplace, and the daily lives of the people who inhabited this ancient city centuries ago. It's an immersive experience that connects you directly to the past.
The Significance of Side Museum
Inside, you'll find a diverse array of exhibits, including sculptures, sarcophagi, mosaics, pottery, and coins. These objects offer tangible evidence of the artistic achievements, daily life, and religious practices of Side's inhabitants. Particular highlights often include marble statues and intricate reliefs that speak to the wealth and sophistication of the Roman period.
Visiting the museum before or after exploring the ruins can significantly enhance your appreciation of the ancient city. It helps to put the fragmented structures into context, allowing you to visualize the original splendor and understand the significance of the finds. It’s a compact yet informative introduction to the archaeological treasures of Side.
The Unique Side Underwater Museum
+2Divers and snorkelers can explore this submerged world, encountering marine life that has made the statues their home. The collection includes figures inspired by mythology and history, adding an element of discovery to the dive. It's a testament to creative reuse of space and a novel way to engage with art and history.
While not directly part of the ancient city ruins or the main Side Museum, the Underwater Museum is a popular activity for those visiting the region, offering a memorable adventure beneath the waves.
Social
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