Welcome to Side, the pearl of the Turkish Riviera. You have arrived at a destination where history sleeps under the golden sands and the sun shines with a generous warmth almost all year round. Walking through the ancient town, seeing the Temple of Apollo against the sunset, is a magical experience. However, to truly understand the beauty of this region, you need to look beyond the hotel walls. This is where
Side excursions come into play.
If you are searching for the best
things to do in Side, you are in the right place. Whether you are an adventure seeker looking to conquer the Taurus Mountains, a history enthusiast eager to walk the streets of ancient civilizations, or a family wanting to create unforgettable memories on the turquoise waters, our diverse range of
Side tours covers it all.
Below, we have prepared an extensive guide to help you navigate through the mesmerizing options available to you. Let’s dive into the experiences that will define your Turkish holiday.
Why You Should Book Excursions in Side?
Side is geographically blessed. It sits centrally located on the Antalya coast, making it the perfect hub for exploration. To the north, the wild nature of the Taurus Mountains offers adrenaline-filled safaris. To the south, the Mediterranean Sea invites you for relaxing
boat trips. Furthermore, its proximity to major historical sites like Perge, Aspendos, and even further destinations like Cappadocia, makes
Side daily tours an essential part of your itinerary.
Participating in these excursions allows you to escape the routine of the all-inclusive hotel life. It connects you with the local culture, the stunning nature, and the hidden gems that most tourists miss. From the emerald waters of the
Green Canyon to the white travertines of Pamukkale, adventure is just a booking away.
The Call of the Mediterranean: Boat Trips and Water Activities
When you think of a holiday in Turkey, the first image that comes to mind is the crystal-clear blue sea. That is why
Side boat trips are the most popular choice among our guests. But not all boat trips are the same; we offer a variety of experiences to suit your mood.
1. Daily Side Boat Tour
Imagine spending a day on a charming wooden boat, gliding over the gentle waves. The classic
Side boat trip is perfect for relaxation. As we sail around the peninsula, you get a unique view of the ancient ruins and the Temple of Apollo from the sea—a photo opportunity you don't want to miss. We stop at secluded bays for swimming breaks, where you can jump into the refreshing water. A delicious grilled lunch is served on board, and if you are lucky, you might spot the famous Caretta Caretta sea turtles swimming alongside the boat.
2. Green Canyon Boat Trip
For those who prefer the tranquility of fresh water and dramatic mountain scenery, the
Green Canyon tour is an absolute must. Located in the Oymapınar Dam reservoir, this is one of the few canyon lakes in the world where boat tours are permitted. The water is a stunning emerald green, surrounded by lush pine forests and towering cliffs. It is peace in its purest form. Swimming in the cool waters of the canyon is a revitalizing experience that stands out among other
things to do in Side.
3. Manavgat River Cruise and Bazaar
This excursion is a favorite because it combines nature with local culture. You will cruise down the Manavgat River, watching the river turtles and birds, until you reach the point where the river meets the sea. Here, you can swim in the icy river water on one side and the warm salty sea on the other! After the swim, the tour takes you to the famous
Manavgat Grand Bazaar. It is the perfect place to practice your bargaining skills and shop for spices, textiles, and souvenirs.
4. Scuba Diving and Fishing Tours
Curious about what lies beneath the surface?
Diving in Side is an adventure suitable for both beginners and professionals. The underwater museum and the vibrant reefs offer a colorful spectacle. If you prefer to stay above water but love the thrill of the catch, our fishing tours provide a relaxing day out with the chance to catch your own dinner.
Adrenaline and Nature: Safari and Adventure Tours
If lying on a sunbed all day isn't your style, you need to head towards the mountains. The landscape behind Side is rugged, dusty, and absolutely beautiful—perfect for off-road adventures.
Jeep Safari Adventure
Buckle up for a fun-filled day! The
Side Jeep Safari is not just a drive; it is a cultural journey. Exploring the Taurus Mountains in 4x4 vehicles, you will pass through traditional Turkish villages, visit ancient mosques, and see a way of life that hasn't changed for decades. The highlight? The friendly water fights between the jeeps to cool off in the summer heat! It is loud, messy, and incredibly fun for all ages.
Quad Biking and Buggy Safari
For those who want to take control of the wheel,
Quad Safari (ATV) and Buggy Safari tours offer the ultimate rush. You do not need a special license or prior experience. After a safety briefing, you will navigate through mud, streams, and pine forests. It is a dusty, adrenaline-pumping experience that leaves you dirty but smiling from ear to ear.
White Water Rafting at Köprülü Canyon
Did you know that one of Turkey’s best rafting rivers is just a short drive away? The
Köprülü Canyon Rafting tour is one of the top-rated
Side excursions. The river offers class 2 and 3 rapids, which means it is exciting enough for thrill-seekers but safe enough for families and beginners. Paddling through the cold waters with ancient bridges and canyon walls rising above you is an experience that perfectly defines "adventure."
Journey Through History: Cultural Excursions
Turkey is often called the cradle of civilizations. Staying in Side puts you within reach of some of the most significant historical sites in the world. While the local ruins are impressive, the surrounding regions hold treasures you simply cannot miss.
Cappadocia Tour from Side
Is it possible to visit the land of fairy chimneys and hot air balloons from Side? Absolutely. Although it is a longer journey, the
Cappadocia tour (available as 2-day or 3-day trips) is the highlight of many tourists' holidays. Walking through underground cities, seeing the ancient rock churches, and watching the balloons rise over the volcanic landscape at sunrise is a bucket-list experience that justifies the travel time.
Pamukkale and Hierapolis
Known as the "Cotton Castle," Pamukkale is a natural wonder of white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. Right next to it lies the ancient city of Hierapolis. A
Pamukkale tour from Side allows you to walk barefoot on the white cliffs and swim in the ancient Cleopatra Pool, where Roman columns lie submerged in the warm thermal water. It is a spa day and a history lesson rolled into one.
Demre, Myra, and Kekova
This tour takes you to the roots of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus) and the Lycian civilization. You will visit the rock-cut tombs of Myra, the church of St. Nicholas, and take a glass-bottom boat tour over the
Sunken City of Kekova. Seeing ancient stairs and amphorae just below the water's surface is hauntingly beautiful and historically fascinating.
Family-Friendly Fun and Relaxation
Traveling with kids? Or perhaps you just need some pampering? We have specific
Side tours designed for comfort and family entertainment.
The Land of Legends Theme Park
Often referred to as the "Turkish Disneyland," this massive park offers high-speed roller coasters, a huge water park, and spectacular evening shows. A trip to the
Land of Legends is a full day of non-stop entertainment for children and adults alike.
Traditional Turkish Bath (Hamam)
You cannot visit Turkey without experiencing a traditional
Turkish Bath. We highly recommend booking this for your first or second day. The peeling (kese) process removes dead skin cells, which not only purifies your skin but also prepares it for a deeper, longer-lasting tan. It includes a sauna, foam massage, and oil massage—pure rejuvenation.
Pirate Boat Trip
If you have children, the
Big Kral Pirate Boat is a fantastic option. It is not just a boat trip; it is a floating theater. With pirate-themed animations, treasure hunts, foam parties, and games, your children will be entertained by professional animators while you enjoy the sun on the deck.
How to Choose the Right Side Tours?
With so many
things to do in Side, making a choice can be overwhelming. Here are a few expert tips to help you plan:
- Consider the Duration: Some tours like Rafting or the Green Canyon are full-day events. Others, like the Quad Safari or Hamam, take only a few hours. Balance your schedule so you don't burn out.
- Check the Weather: In the peak of summer (July-August), water-based excursions like Rafting, Scuba Diving, and Boat Trips are refreshing life-savers. In spring or autumn, cultural trips to Cappadocia or Pamukkale are much more comfortable as the temperatures are milder.
- Book in Advance: Side is a very popular destination. High-demand tours like the Green Canyon or small-group cultural trips can fill up quickly. Booking your Side excursions online ensures your spot and often gives you a better price than street vendors.
Why Book Your Excursions With Us?
We understand that your holiday time is precious. You don't want to waste it waiting for late transfers or dealing with unprofessional guides. Here is why thousands of travelers trust us with their holiday memories:
- Local Expertise: We are locals. We know the best captains, the safest drivers, and the most knowledgeable guides in the region.
- Fair and Transparent Pricing: No hidden costs. The price you see usually includes transfers, insurance, and lunch (where applicable). We believe in honesty.
- Safety First: All our excursions are fully insured and adhere to strict safety regulations. Your well-being is our priority.
- 24/7 Customer Support: We are here for you. From the moment you browse our site until you return to your hotel after the tour, we are just a message away to assist with any questions or changes.
Ready to Create Unforgettable Memories?
Side is more than just a hotel room and a buffet. It is a gateway to extraordinary experiences. Whether you want to soar over calcium terraces, raft down wild rivers, or simply dance on a boat under the Mediterranean sun, we have the perfect experience waiting for you.
Don't let your holiday be just "good"—make it legendary. Browse our catalog of
Side Excursions today, pick your adventures, and let us take care of the rest. We look forward to showing you the best of our beautiful country.
