From Alanya: city of Side Highlights Walking Tour

A Guided Walk Through Time: Explore Side from Alanya

Starting from Alanya, this full-day guided walking tour for around $816 per group (up to 10 people) promises a fascinating journey into the ancient city of Side. In just six hours, you’ll visit famous archaeological sites, marvel at the Temple of Apollo, and enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean. The tour is well-paced, combining cultural exploration with scenic vistas, making it a perfect fit for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to see Side’s legendary ruins with a knowledgeable guide, which makes the history come alive. Plus, the convenient transportation from Alanya means you can relax and focus on the sights instead of logistics. On the downside, this tour doesn’t include lunch or drinks, so you’ll want to plan for a snack or meal afterward. It’s best suited for those wanting an authentic taste of ancient Turkey without the hassle of independent planning, especially if you’re interested in walking among ruins and learning the stories behind them.

Key Points:
– Historic Highlights: Visit the Temple of Apollo, the Roman Theater, and the Temple of Athena.
– Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable local guides bring the history to life.
– Convenient Transport: Includes bus transfer from Alanya to Side.
– Cultural Context: Learn why these ruins are significant in Turkey’s history.
– Cost-Effective: Great value for a comprehensive half-day tour.
– Ideal for: History lovers, first-time visitors to Side, and those who prefer guided excursions.

Exploring Side: A Walk Through Ancient Wonders

When you think of Turkey’s antiquity, it’s hard not to picture Side—a place where Roman ruins meet a lively modern town. This walking tour offers a window into that world, starting with the short bus ride from Alanya. The journey itself is scenic, with views of the bay and mountains that set the scene for what’s to come.

The tour begins at a central meeting point in Alanya, next to the fountain at Dolmus Bussiasema, making it easy to find. From there, the group boards a comfortable Domus bus, heading toward Side, where the real adventure begins. You’ll be walking through the narrow streets lined with ancient stones, feeling like you’ve stepped back centuries.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Heart of Side: Ancient Ruins and Landmarks

Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo is arguably the most iconic site in Side. Its standing columns face out to sea, offering a dramatic backdrop for photos. The guide (likely a local with a passion for history) explains that this temple was once a grand religious site, and you’ll get close enough to appreciate the scale of these ancient columns—standing tall despite the passage of time. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the columns looked like they could topple at any moment but still stood proud.”

Roman Theater

Next up is the Roman Theater, dating back to the 2nd century AD. The theater’s imposing stone structure still hosts the occasional event, but most visitors come to admire its impressive acoustics and panoramic views. Climbing to the top tier rewards you with a spectacular vista of the Taurus Mountains and the coastline—an ideal spot for some memorable photos. One traveler commented, “Climbing up the theater gave us the best view of Side, and it’s amazing to imagine ancient crowds watching performances here.”

Temple of Athena

The Temple of Athena presents a quieter but equally captivating scene—a handful of towering columns gazing out to the sea. Its ruins are well-preserved enough to appreciate the craftsmanship of ancient builders and the significance of the site in antiquity.

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Additional Highlights and Practical Details

The tour also includes the Side Museum, where entrance fees are covered, providing a curated look at artefacts and exhibits from the region’s past. You may find that these displays deepen your understanding of how Side thrived as a trading port centuries ago.

The guided commentary makes these ruins come alive, sharing stories that are often lost in guidebooks. For example, one review mentions, “Our guide explained the history of each site with enthusiasm, making the ruins feel relevant and exciting.”

What’s Not Included

While the tour covers transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide, lunch and drinks are extra, starting at around 25 TL (about 4 EUR). It’s worth bringing some snacks or planning a meal afterward—there are plenty of cafes and restaurants in Side.

Logistics and Duration

This is a 6-hour experience, starting with a pickup in Alanya and ending back at the initial meeting point. The group size is limited to 10 people, which is ideal for a more personal experience. The tour runs in multiple languages—English, Turkish, German, and Russian—so you can choose a schedule that fits your language preferences.

What Real Travelers Say

Many reviewers praise the depth of knowledge their guides provide. “We appreciated how our guide brought context and stories, making the ruins much more meaningful,” one said. Others mention the scenic walks and the opportunity to climb the theater for a sweeping view.

A common praise is the value for money, especially given that the tour includes both transport and entrance fees. However, some note that without included lunch, you might want to plan ahead for food, especially if you’re hungry after a morning of walking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, those who enjoy walking and exploring historic sites, and travelers who prefer having a guide to bring the past to life. It’s especially suited for visitors staying in Alanya who want a day trip to Side without the hassle of organizing transportation or entry tickets.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

If you’re craving a deep dive into ancient Turkey’s ruins with a trusted guide, this tour offers excellent value. The combination of transportation, entry fees, and guided commentary makes it a convenient way to experience Side’s most famous landmarks.

While it’s a half-day commitment, the experience captures the essence of Side—its temples, theater, and seaside charm—in a way that’s both educational and enjoyable. It’s particularly strong for first-timers who want to get a solid overview without feeling rushed.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed or culinary-focused experience, this might not be the best choice. Also, since lunch isn’t included, be prepared to grab a bite on your own afterward.

In sum, this tour offers a balanced, authentic glimpse of Side’s archaeological treasures, paired with scenic views and insightful commentary—sure to enrich your understanding of Turkey’s ancient past.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
It includes a local guide, transportation by bus from Alanya to Side, and entrance fees to the Side Museum and the Ancient Theater.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour features a private bus operated by Domus, which is generally comfortable and reliable for this kind of day trip.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak Turkish?
Absolutely. The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, German, and Russian, ensuring you can follow along comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including travel time and sightseeing.

Are there any physical demands?
Since it involves walking among ruins and climbing the theater, comfortable shoes are recommended. The terrain is uneven in some areas.

Does the tour accommodate all weather conditions?
You should bring weather-appropriate clothing. The tour is outdoors, so expect sun or rain depending on the day.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable walking and exploring ruins, this tour can be educational fun for all ages.

If you’re eager to walk among ancient columns and imagine life in Roman times, this Side highlights tour from Alanya is a solid choice. It offers a well-rounded glimpse into the archaeological marvels that make this part of Turkey so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: