Side Things To Do – Attractions & Must See

Side Things To Do

Side was an important and prosperous trading centre during the period of Roman control which lasted until the 3rd century. The list of ruins includes the Temples of Apollo and Athena, the amphitheater, the original colonnaded main street , the agora and the aqueduct system.

Manavgat Waterfall

The Managat waterfall on the Manavgat river lies 3km north of the town of Manavgat, itself a short distance inland from Side. The height is only a few metres but the river is impressively wide at this point and the flow is powerful as it foams over the rocks. There is a riverside cafe and the usual tourist trinkets for sale around the entrance. From Side, there are a number of ways to get here – by boat, minibus or by hiring a scooter.

Aspendos

Aspendos is probably one of the best-preserved theatres of the antiquity that I have seen. It was built for 15.000 spectators. Still used today, the theater’s galleries, stage decorations and acoustics testify to the architect’s success.

Behind the amphitheater are the ruins of numerous other structures which are worth walking through. These include a city gate, a nymphaeum, a couple of other temples, an agora and Roman baths.

Temple of Apollo

Side’s most famous and most photographed landmark is the 2,000 year old Roman Temple of Apollo situated at the Eastern tip of the peninsula near the harbour. Thanks to periodic restoration work, some of the Corinthian style marble columns are still standing and make for an impressive sight, particularly at sunset. The Temple of Athena lies in ruins nearby – perhaps one day this too will become a restoration project. Entrance to the site is free.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Side.