Side is located on a peninsula, on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, in the Antalya province of Turkey. Alexander the Great occupied Side in 333 BC after which Side fell under control of Ptolemy I. In the days of Emperor Augustus, Side often had games, competitions and gladiator fights. Many of the ruins in Side are from this period. Today, Side is also a resort town with modern architecture, trendy shops and many restaurants and bars. Side is a popular destination for history enthusiasts, honeymooners and holiday goers from around the world.

Temple of Apollo
Located near the Side harbor, this temple was presented to Cleopatra as a gift from Antony. Dedicated to the God of Light, Beauty and Art, it measures 17 x 30 meters and has Corinthian columns that stand 8.90 meters tall. Constructed completely out of marble, the Temple of Apollo was built in the 2nd century A.D.

Aspendos Theatre
This Hellenistic theatre was constructed in 167 A.D. by the architect Zenon. Aspendos is the best preserved theatre of antiquity and seated 15,000 people in its prime. The stage’s backdrop is still intact today. Keeping with Hellenistic traditions, a part of the theatre leans against the hill upon which the Acropolis sits. Nearby ruins include an agora, a basilica, a Roman aqueduct and a nymphaeum. Close by is Eurymedon Bridge, reconstructed around the 13th century.

Beaches of Side
Spending time on the golden sand beaches of Side is another great way to spend the day. Besides swimming, there is waterskiing, fishing, parasailing, sailing, boat excursions and banana boat rides. Waterside restaurants are plenty as are bars to quench one’s thirst.

Side has many more attractions, including the Roman Bath that was converted into a museum, a Byzantine Hospital from the 6th century BC and Manavgat Waterfall.