Turkey · 2026 itinerary
Side 3-Day Itinerary
A day-by-day plan for Side: the best attractions in order, where to eat, how to get around — with free hotel briefings for your stay.
Arrive & Explore the Highlights
A well-preserved Roman theatre built in the 2nd century AD, seating 15,000. Located right in the old town, you can view its exterior and main facade for free from the surrounding streets.
🕐 Exterior accessible 24/7; interior ticketed daily 8am-7pm (summer), 8am-5pm (winter)
Free entry💡 Skip the paid entry inside. The best free views are from the path behind the theatre near the harbour. Go late afternoon for golden light on the stone.
Hotels near Side Ancient Theatre →A narrow walking path along the old Roman harbour, now lined with cafes and fishing boats. Views across the bay to the ancient city walls.
🕐 Open 24/7
Free entry💡 Walk all the way to the western end near the Temple of Apollo for a quieter stretch. Come at sunset for the best light, but avoid the expensive harbourfront cafes—buy a drink from a shop on the main street instead.
Hotels near Side Harbour Promenade →Yunus Cafe · ££
Joy Pegasos World: Navigator Bar · ££
Deeper Into Side
A public sandy beach west of the old town, free to access. No loungers or umbrellas here, just sand and sea. Quieter than the busy east beach near hotels.
🕐 Open 24/7, best between May and October
💡 Bring a towel or mat; there's no shade. Go early morning (before 9am) for calm water and no crowds. The current can be strong, so swim near the rocks where it's sheltered.
A small public park near the museum with benches, shade from pine and palm trees, and a view of the ancient aqueduct ruins. Good for a rest away from the crowds.
🕐 Open 24/7
💡 Bring your own water; the park's single kiosk overcharges. It's also a good spot for birdwatching—look for white storks on the aqueduct arches.
Theater Restaurant
pool bar
Final Favourites & Departure
Small museum housed in a restored Roman bath complex, displaying statues and artifacts from Side's ancient ruins. Entry fee is modest (around 5 EUR).
💡 Go on a Wednesday when it's less crowded. The bath's original heating channels are still visible in the floor of the first room.
Bar
Children's restaurant
Getting Around Side
This tourist tram runs along the seafront in summer only. Buy a token from the driver – no card. Get off at 'Kumköy' stop for the closest access to Sun King Apart.
Flag any dolmuş heading towards Kumköy or Çolaklı – they stop on the main road parallel to the coast. Pay with coins or small notes; no change given.
Agree on the fare before getting in – official airport taxis have a fixed rate board, but drivers often try to negotiate up. Pay in Turkish Lira for better rates.
From Side otogar, take a local minibus (dolmuş) to the hotel – about 10 minutes and €0.50. The Havaş bus drops you right outside the airport arrivals hall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 3 days enough for Side?
Three days covers the main highlights well. You can see the key attractions like Side Ancient Theatre and get a genuine feel for the city. For a more leisurely pace or to explore neighbourhoods in depth, a 5-day trip is better.
What is the best time to visit Side?
See our full best time to visit Side guide — it covers weather month by month, peak vs. shoulder seasons and how to avoid the crowds.
Where should I stay for this itinerary?
A central location saves transit time between sites. Top options include Myra Apart Hotel, Zum Fritz Gasthaus, Löwe Hotel. See the full ranked list with free briefings for each.