Side★★
Side, Manavgat/Antalya
Freigelände jederzeit, Museum: 8:30–19:00 (Sommer)
Theater: 200 ₺ (~6 €), Museum: 100 ₺ (~3 €)
Side (pronounced: "Si-de") is a unique blend of ancient heritage and seaside resort. The peninsula on which ancient Side once sprawled is now a lively tourist town — but the ancient ruins are omnipresent. You drink your coffee next to 2,000-year-old columns and swim against the backdrop of an Apollo temple.
Ancient Side
- Temple of Apollo: The five standing columns at the harbor's edge at sunset — THE photo motif of the Riviera. The temple (2nd century AD) is located right by the sea.
- Great Theater: 15,000–20,000 seats, one of the largest in Asia Minor. Unlike most ancient theaters, it was not built into a hillside but stands free on arches — an architectural masterpiece.
- Side Museum: Housed in the restored Roman baths — sarcophagi, reliefs, and sculptures in an atmospheric setting.
- Nymphaeum & Agora: Fountain complex and marketplace with well-recognizable structures.
Beaches
- West Beach: Long sandy beach west of the old town, good for families, many beach clubs and hotels.
- East Beach: Quieter, more natural — turtles nest here. Less infrastructure, more nature.
💡 Tipp
The Temple of Apollo at sunset is magical but crowded. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset and secure a spot on the rocks to the left of the temple. For the ruins themselves: come early in the morning when the tour groups are still having breakfast.