Part beach resort, part archaeological site, Side is a gem of a town along Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast with a bevy of things to do. Within the ancient walled city, Greco-Roman ruins and archaeological treasures pepper the bustling shopping streets, and you’re just as likely to stumble across an ancient temple as a lively bar or ocean-view restaurant. Highlights include the grand amphitheater, well-preserved Roman Baths, and Temple of Athena, perched atop the sea cliffs against a backdrop of shimmering ocean.
Side’s compact center can get overwhelmed by tourists in summer, and accommodation and tour prices often bump up to meet demand. Opt for a shoulder season visit in April and May or September and October when fewer crowds and cooler weather make exploring the ruins more pleasurable. With average highs around 77ºF (25ºC), it’s still warm enough to hit the beach in the afternoon.
Side’s walled ancient city is largely pedestrianized (taxis are allowed to enter to drop travelers at their hotel), so pack comfy shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. The small center is easy to get around on foot, but if you want to explore further or head to the beach, hop on one of the shuttle buses or pick up a taxi from just outside the main city gate.
For a more local experience, opt to stay at one of the family-run pensions (guesthouses) within the city walls instead of the larger hotels, and hire a bike or moped or quad bike to get around. It’s worth haggling on all prices in Side, and the further you go from the city gate (and the tourist crowds), the more likely you are to snag a lower price.
