Introduction 

Located on Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coastline, Side combines ancient history, natural beauty, and modern attractions to create an unforgettable holiday destination. This charming coastal town, with its well-preserved Roman ruins and pristine beaches, offers visitors a unique blend of historical exploration and seaside relaxation. While many travelers are content to enjoy Side’s beautiful beaches and wander through its ancient streets, the surrounding region offers a wealth of extraordinary excursions that showcase Turkey’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From cascading waterfalls to underground cities, these carefully curated day trips allow visitors to experience the authentic charm and varied attractions that make this corner of Turkey truly special.

Popular Excursions in Side

Manavgat Waterfall and River Cruise

Just a short drive from Side lies one of Turkey’s most picturesque natural attractions, the Manavgat Waterfall. This popular excursion begins with a visit to the impressive waterfall, where the Manavgat River cascades over a natural rock formation, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of white water against lush greenery. The relatively low height of the falls is compensated by their impressive width and the powerful volume of water that flows year-round. After exploring the waterfall area and its surrounding tea gardens, visitors board a comfortable boat for a leisurely cruise down the Manavgat River. The journey takes you through scenic landscapes where the fresh river water meets the salty Mediterranean, creating a unique ecosystem. Most tours include a delicious lunch served on board and multiple swimming stops in the refreshingly cool river water. The excursion often concludes with free time at the famous Manavgat Bazaar, where travelers can practice their bargaining skills while shopping for textiles, spices, jewelry, and authentic Turkish souvenirs.

Aspendos Ancient Theater and Perge

History enthusiasts shouldn’t miss this comprehensive excursion that explores two of Turkey’s most impressive archaeological sites. The journey begins with a visit to the ancient city of Aspendos, home to what is widely considered the best-preserved Roman theater in the world. Built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Marcus Aurelius, this magnificent structure could seat 15,000 spectators and still hosts concerts and performances today thanks to its remarkable acoustics and intact stage building. After exploring the theater and the remains of the aqueduct, the tour continues to the ancient city of Perge, once the capital of Pamphylia. Here, visitors can walk along the colonnaded streets, marvel at the impressive stadium, Roman baths, and the agora (marketplace) while learning about the city’s 3,000-year history. Many tours include a stop at a traditional Turkish restaurant for lunch, offering authentic local cuisine. This excursion provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich historical heritage and the advanced engineering capabilities of ancient civilizations. 

Green Canyon Boat Tour

One of the most breathtaking excursions from Side takes visitors to the stunning Side Green Canyon, a magnificent emerald-green reservoir created by the Oymapınar Dam. This full-day tour begins with a scenic drive through the Taurus Mountains, offering spectacular views of the countryside before arriving at the canyon. Boarding a comfortable boat, visitors cruise through the canyon’s tranquil waters, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and lush pine forests. The vibrant turquoise color of the water, contrasting with the verdant surroundings, creates a photographer’s paradise. The tour includes several swimming stops in secluded bays where the water is crystal clear and refreshingly cool. Many tours also feature a delicious lunch at a waterside restaurant, where fresh fish and traditional Turkish dishes are served with panoramic views of this natural wonder. The Green Canyon excursion offers a perfect escape from the coastal heat and provides a unique perspective on Turkey’s diverse landscapes. 

Alanya Castle and Cleopatra Beach 

This popular excursion takes visitors to the neighboring coastal city of Alanya, known for its impressive medieval castle and beautiful beaches. The journey along the scenic coastal road offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Upon arrival in Alanya, visitors explore the 13th-century Seljuk castle, perched dramatically on a rocky peninsula overlooking the Mediterranean. This massive fortification, with its 6.5 km of walls and 140 towers, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline. Within the castle grounds, visitors can explore ancient cisterns, a Byzantine church, and the Seljuk-era Süleymaniye Mosque. The tour continues with a visit to the octagonal Red Tower (Kızıl Kule), Alanya’s most recognizable landmark and a masterpiece of medieval military architecture. After the historical exploration, the excursion includes free time at the famous Cleopatra Beach, where visitors can relax on the fine golden sand and swim in the crystal-clear waters. Many tours also include a stop at Damlataş Cave, known for its therapeutic air that is believed to help respiratory conditions. 

Köprülü Canyon Rafting Adventure

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Köprülü Canyon National Park offers one of Turkey’s premier white-water rafting experiences. Located about an hour’s drive from Side, this spectacular canyon is home to the emerald-green waters of the Köprüçay River, which cuts through dramatic limestone cliffs creating perfect conditions for an exciting rafting adventure. The excursion begins with a safety briefing and equipment distribution before participants board the rafts with experienced guides. The journey down the river includes navigating through rapids ranging from easy to moderately challenging, making this activity suitable for beginners and families. Between the adrenaline rushes, there are opportunities to swim in calm sections of the river and marvel at the canyon’s towering walls and lush vegetation. Most tours include a traditional Turkish lunch served riverside at a local restaurant specializing in fresh trout. The combination of beautiful natural surroundings and exciting adventure makes this one of Side’s most popular excursions for active travelers. 

Summary

Side’s strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the diverse attractions of Turkey’s Mediterranean region. From the ancient theater of Aspendos to the thrilling rapids of Köprülü Canyon, these extraordinary excursions offer experiences that go far beyond the typical beach holiday. The region’s unique combination of historical treasures, natural wonders, and adventure opportunities ensures that visitors of all ages and interests can find excursions that create lasting memories. By venturing beyond Side’s immediate surroundings, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for Turkey’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking historical insights, natural beauty, relaxation, or adventure, these carefully curated Side Excursions showcase the best of what Turkey has to offer, transforming a simple beach vacation into an unforgettable journey of discovery and exploration.