Side (pronounced see-day), a resort town on the southern Mediterranean coast of Turkey, is that most wonderful of places that happens to deliver not only on the requisite beaches one would expect in this part of the world (and yes, they are indeed beautiful), but also on a king-sized serving of history and culture. For anyone looking for a holiday destination with an equal amount of style and substance (and sun, sea, and sand to boot), Side is an excellent choice. Whether you’re planning to shop, relax on the beach, try out the local delicacies, or head into nature on a range of day excursions in the surrounding countryside, the one thing you won’t want to miss is delving into the city’s expansive Greek and Roman heritage.
Contents:
- Side: Centuries of History to Explore
- The Great Gate
- The Nymphaeum
- The Temple of Apollo
- And Much More…
- Where to Stay
- How to Get There
Side: Centuries of History to Explore
The laconic, holiday ambience of Side belies just how much there is to see and do in and around this former fishing village. It’s grown into a vibrant tourist destination with a host of hotels and restaurants strung along its promenade, fabulous beaches with watersports and all the amenities, and upmarket shops and restaurants. But it can never be forgotten that it’s also one of the most important historical sites in Turkey’s Antalya region.
In a bustling beach resort it might seem like an incongruous pairing, but it must be said that Side carries it well. For those interested in leaning into more than 2,000 years of history, here are just three of the most important cultural attractions not to be missed.
And top tip: even on a short walk around, there are a lot of others you won’t actually be able to miss!
The Great Gate
The Great Gate is an imposing sight and a fitting invitation into the plethora of ancient ruins you’ll find beyond. It stands as a well-preserved portal into ancient history, ushering you on to the main street as it has done since Roman times. The gate stands at 13.5m at its highest point, although it has been reduced considerably since its original construction in the second century BC. As part of the city walls, adjacent to the gate are the relics of an impressive monument dedicated to the Emperor Vespasian. The Great Gate has changed its form several times over the centuries, even having parts walled up at times; but today its extant ruins stand proudly as the symbolic access to the city — still very much in use.
The Nymphaeum
The aqueduct which supplied Side with its life-giving water is thought to date back to the end of the second century AD — delivering to the local citizens through the fountains, cisterns and baths from the River Melas. The Nymphaeum (a monumental fountain dedicated to the mythical water nymphs) is very close to the Great Gate, and parts of it are reasonably well preserved.
It is originally thought to have been three stories high, comprising an ornately adorned facade (the reliefs and statues of which are now housed in the local museum), and numerous tall columns coming out of the water of the aqueduct. Today, while only the bottom layer of the structure remains, it’s still an impressive and very evocative sight and you can wander around and examine the ruins quite closely.
The Temple of Apollo
The Roman Temple of Apollo was built around the second century BC, and is arguably the most recognisable and revered symbol of Side. It stands on the tip of the peninsula near the Old Town, and can be seen from many vantage points around the harbour and city. It is a truly beautiful piece of art, architecture and engineering — a fitting tribute to its namesake, Apollo, god of music, poetry, light and the sun. Originally constructed around seventeen stately columns, today, even with only five remaining it is a stunning sight to behold — particularly at sunset against the backdrop of the Mediterranean. (It’s also become popular with Instagrammers, so choose your times carefully.)
And Much More…
Using these three highlights as your basic itinerary you can’t help but encounter a host of other ancient relics, as well, including the Roman Baths, the Theatre, the State Agora, the Commercial Agora, and the Basilica. Within a few hours, along with a visit to the Museum, you should be able to gain a genuine insight into the past and build up a picture of this fascinating ancient site.
Where to Stay
Paloma Finesse Side: This world-class accommodation introduces you to beautiful Side in the best way possible. Set in a stunning beachfront location, the Paloma Finesse delivers on every aspect, with luxury amenities and appointments throughout. The spacious rooms feature high quality decor and furnishings, and you can choose from ocean or garden views from your private balcony. The facilities onsite include a spa, sauna, fitness room and fantastic restaurant.
Acanthus Cennet Barut Collection: Set on a stunning private beach with magical views over the Mediterranean, this outstanding resort offers all the luxuries you could want. The well-appointed rooms all come with generous balconies to enjoy the views, along with stylish, contemporary decor and all the mod-cons. The onsite restaurant serves up quality meals with a choice of indoor or outdoor dining, and there are several bars, a fitness centre, and an adults-only section of the beach for when you want total peace and privacy.
Barut Hemera, Ultra All-Inclusive: Looking for the ultimate celebrity treatment in Side? You’ll find it here! With an unbeatable location right on the beautiful beach, this superb resort offers private beach access, year-round swimming pools, multiple restaurants, lush gardens, and a fitness centre with spa, sauna, steam room, hammam and hot tub. The generous air-conditioned rooms will wrap you in luxury for a relaxing and indulgent stay in this wonderful part of Turkey.
How to Get There
Getting from the UK to Side is a simple matter of booking a flight to Antalya Airport (AYT). The route is serviced by numerous carriers, including British Airways, Tui, easyJet, Jet2, and others. Flight time is around 4.5 hours from various UK airports.
Once you land in Turkey, the easiest way to ensure a smooth, stress free journey from Antalya Airport to Side is by pre-booking one of Shuttle Direct’s airport transfers. Choose from cost-effective shared rides or luxury private transfers, then sit back, relax, and let us do all the work.
Overview
UK to AYT Flight Time: 4 hours, 26 mins approx.
AYT to Side: 68 kilometres
Shuttle Direct Transfer: 57 minutes approx.
Types of Transfer
Shuttle Direct understands travellers’ needs vary from person to person, which is why we don’t offer a “one size fits all” approach to our airport transfer services. You can choose from several options to get from Antalya Airport to Side to ensure you get exactly what you want.
Shuttle Bus: For some people, making the holiday budget stretch as far as possible is the most important thing, which is why we offer a cost-effective shared shuttle bus option for your Antalya transfers. Once you exit the airport terminal, you’ll go to a designated place to board the shuttle along with other travellers, then you’ll be taken to a convenient central drop-off point in Side. Budget-friendly and simple!
Taxi: If you’re looking for door-to-door service but don’t want to pay the earth, pre-book a local taxi with Shuttle Direct for your airport transfers and you’ll have a driver and taxi waiting for you once you land. When everyone else is still in the queue waiting for their turn in a taxi, you’ll already be on your way from Antalya to Side!
Private Transfer: Looking for a bit of luxury and the ultimate in convenience for your Side transfers? One of our luxury private airport transfers offers the ultimate ride — with a friendly, professional driver, a high-end modern vehicle, and a door-to-door service that will make you smile. Your only job is to enjoy the scenery!
Minibus Transfer: For anyone travelling with a family or group of friends, consider pre-booking a comfortable minibus transfer from Antalya Airport to Side. The large capacity vehicle has plenty of room for passengers and luggage to all travel together, and you’ll be taken right to the door of your accommodation — couldn’t be easier.
Choosing the Right Transfer
Getting the airport transfer from Antalya Airport to Side that suits your needs is very important, and it’s a decision only you can make in the end. However, the choice will always come down to two factors: cost and convenience.
Convenience: If a door-to-door service is non-negotiable and you really prefer to travel on your own without other passengers, then one of our pre-booked local taxis or a high-end luxury private transfer from Antalya Airport to Side is what you’re looking for. They are a little more expensive than a shared shuttle, but you won’t have to consider anyone’s needs except your own.
Cost: If, however, you’re the kind of person who doesn’t mind travelling with others and you’re looking to save a bit of money, then choose one of our reliable, regular shared shuttle buses for your Side transfers. You’ll meet your shuttle at a designated point at the airport, then travel with other passengers to a convenient central drop-off point. Rest assured that even though you’ll save money, you won’t have to compromise on comfort and safety.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is a market leader for onward ground transfers to and from airports all over the world. Our services are fast, efficient, safe and comfortable, and our drivers are always friendly and professional. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly shared shuttle bus service, or you prefer the luxury of a private ride, we can help. Our reputation for great communication and reliability is well-deserved, and we’ll get you wherever you need to go on time, every time. Pre-book with us today!
