Side Museum

Side is one of Turkey's busiest holiday regions in the summer. In July and August, the ancient city is overflowing with people; the museum also gets its share of this intensity. If you want a calmer and more enjoyable visit, choose April, May, September, or October. During these periods, the weather is much more suitable for both walking and photography.

If you have to go in the summer, try to be at the gate in the early morning. In the afternoon, both the heat becomes unbearable and tour groups start to fill the ancient city. Since the museum's interior is an enclosed space, it is also a good choice to protect yourself from the heat.

To reach Side from Antalya city center, you can take a bus from Antalya Bus Terminal to Manavgat, and then a minibus connection to Side. Some companies also arrange direct services to Side. Minibus services from Manavgat to Side run quite frequently.

If you are coming by car, you need to use the car parks at the entrance of Side; vehicle entry into the ancient city is restricted. The museum appears right next to the ancient theater when you enter through the north gate and follow the main street. It's not hard to find.

Restaurants lined around Side's harbor and along Harbor Street primarily offer seafood. Fresh fish, shrimp, and octopus are prominent delicacies in this area. Prices increase during the tourist season; if you venture a little further inland, you can find more affordable and local options.

After exploring the ancient city, resting your tired feet while sitting by the harbor and dining with a view of the Mediterranean is one of Side's most classic experiences. Choosing a shaded spot for lunch makes a big difference, especially in summer.

It's possible to visit Side in one day, but it can be tiring. Start early in the morning by entering through the north gate and begin with the Side Museum; then visit the ancient theater right next to it. Before noon, walk along the main street down to the harbor.

After lunch, head to the Temple of Apollo; if you want to photograph this temple at sunset, set aside some time for the evening. The temple is one of Side's most iconic photo spots. For the rest of the day, you can relax on the beach or stroll through the bazaar.

The museum itself offers a unique atmosphere where Roman bath architecture is intertwined with the ancient city's fabric. The marble sculptures and mosaics inside are photographed very well with natural light; since harsh sunlight doesn't enter much in the middle of the day, morning hours provide softer light.

Upon exiting the museum, the ancient theater and the surrounding columns also offer beautiful shots. Side's most famous photo spot is the Temple of Apollo; you'll often see photos of it with the sea at sunset on social media.

Side Museum is free for Turkish citizens with a Müzekart. A symbolic entrance fee applies to foreign visitors; checking muze.gov.tr for the current figure is the most accurate. There may also be a separate entrance fee for the ancient theater.

Food and accommodation prices in Side increase significantly during the summer season. If you don't want to strain your budget, choosing before June or after September is advantageous both for your wallet and for comfort.

Walking distances within the ancient city are quite long; we recommend wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Cobblestone paths and uneven surfaces can be challenging with sandals or high heels. In summer, carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.

Flash photography and large bags may be restricted inside the museum; follow the directions at the museum entrance for current rules. Don't forget to bring your Müzekart.