Side Tourism and Travel Library

The vast majority of visitors to Side include the ancient theater, the Temple of Apollo, and the beaches on their list; however, this library often goes unnoticed. Yet, there is no other library dedicated to tourism and travel in Turkey. When you step inside the historic Yağhane building, you feel the texture of the ancient city and encounter a book collection that spans the world.

Books translated into 62 different languages give the library an international character. This venue, which is also extremely interesting for foreign visitors, reminds us that Side is not merely an archaeological site, and its cultural depth should not be overlooked.

Side's tourism season is busy; the streets within the ancient city become quite crowded in July and August. If you want to visit the library in a calmer environment, you can choose the periods of April-May or September-October. The weather is also much more suitable for walking during these months.

Since the library is open from Tuesday to Saturday, if you are coming to Side on a Sunday or Monday, you need to adjust your visit plan accordingly. Going in the morning is advantageous both for better light and to avoid crowds.

There is approximately 65-75 km distance from Antalya Airport to Side. From the airport, you can reach Manavgat first, and then Side by dolmuş or minibus. If you are coming with your own car, you need to leave your car in the parking lot at the entrance of Side; vehicles are not allowed into the ancient city.

The library is located right next to the Side Archaeology Museum and on the main walking axis, so it can be easily found on foot after leaving your car. You can also ask locals for the Yağhane building on Yasemin Street; it is a well-known structure in Side.

The stone facade of the Yağhane building and the library entrance are beautiful photo subjects in themselves. The image of a library within the ancient city's texture offers an ideal shot for those who want to reflect a different side of Side.

Inside the library, corners where book shelves and historic walls are combined are also suitable for interesting photographs. The streets around the library carry Side's traditional architectural texture, so keep your camera ready when passing through here.

Since the library is located close to the center of Side Ancient City, there are many restaurant and cafe options in the vicinity. Restaurants along Liman Street offer fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine, while small cafes within the ancient city are quite suitable for a shaded break.

In Side, especially in the morning, places offering local breakfast can be preferred. If you can extend your trip to Manavgat market, it is possible to find more affordable and local delicacies.

We recommend placing the library at the beginning or in the middle of your Side trip. Visit the Side Archaeology Museum early in the morning, then proceed to the library right next to it. From there, walk to the Temple of Apollo, see the ancient theater, and relax on one of Side's beaches in the afternoon.

If you are staying in Side for more than one day, you can dedicate your second day to Manavgat Waterfall and surrounding natural areas. Since the library visit is a short stop not exceeding half an hour, it can easily be fitted into a busy day.

The library is closed on Sundays and Mondays; plan your visit accordingly. It is advisable to confirm by phone before going, as opening hours may change.

The stone-paved streets of Side Ancient City are not suitable for walking in high heels; prefer comfortable and flat shoes. In summer months, the sun is quite strong, so we recommend carrying a hat and a water bottle with you.