From Alanya: city of Side Highlights Walking Tour

Exploring ancient ruins and historic landmarks can be one of the most rewarding ways to connect with Turkey’s deep past. This guided walking tour from Alanya to Side promises a full day of discovering some of the region’s most iconic archaeological sites. While it’s a relatively short six-hour excursion, it packs enough history, stunning views, and cultural insights to make it worth your while—especially if you’re keen to see the Roman and Greek remnants that dot the landscape.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are its professional guide who brings history vividly to life and the convenience of transportation included in the price. It’s an easy way to visit Side without worrying about navigating unfamiliar roads or missing key highlights. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour is quite structured and busy, which may leave little room for spontaneous wandering or in-depth exploration at each site. Yet, if you prefer a well-organized, informative experience that covers the main sights with expert commentary, this tour can be a good fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who love history, enjoy walking tours, and want a hassle-free way to explore Side’s archaeological treasures.

Key Points

• Comprehensive sightseeing of Side’s most important ruins in a single day.
• Included transportation from Alanya simplifies logistics.
• Expert guide offering insights into the history behind the landmarks.
• Historic sites like the Temple of Apollo, Roman Theater, and Temple of Athena.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later.
• Suitable for those interested in history, archaeology, and scenic views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: A Short Ride from Alanya to Side

The tour kicks off in Alanya, where you meet your guide at the Dolmus Bussiasema near the fountain. From there, you hop on a comfortable bus operated by Domus, which whisks you away to Side—roughly a short ride away. During the journey, you get a peek of the Turkish coast and the hills that give way to the historic town. This transportation arrangement is a real plus—no need to rent a car or navigate unfamiliar roads, and it ensures you arrive ready to focus on the sights.

The timing of the tour is flexible, with starting times depending on availability, so you can choose what works best. The total duration is about six hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that won’t wear you out but still leaves time to relax afterward.

Walking into History: Exploring Side’s Main Sites

Once in Side, the real fun begins. You’ll enjoy a guided walk through the town’s archaeological sites, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get detailed explanations from your knowledgeable guide. Here’s what you can expect:

The Temple of Apollo and Athena

An absolute highlight is the Temple of Apollo, with its distinctive standing columns that overlook the bay. Imagine the ancient worshippers who once gathered here thousands of years ago. The view from the temple area is particularly spectacular—look out to sea and see the horizon stretch beyond the ruins. Right next to it is the Temple of Athena, which is smaller but equally significant, with its ruins still standing tall. Climbing around these temples gives you a real sense of stepping back in time and imagining what life was like in ancient Side.

The Roman Theater

The Roman Theater is a massive and well-preserved structure that once hosted performances and gatherings. The theater’s state of preservation allows you to walk through its tiers, and if you climb to the top row, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Taurus Mountains. Many reviews mention how striking the theater is—one said it offers a “magnificent view” that makes the climb worth it. Standing amidst the ancient stones, you can almost hear echoes of centuries past.

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The Side Museum and Other Ruins

Your ticket includes access to the Side Museum, where the guide will fill you in on local history and artifacts uncovered from the ruins. It’s a good way to contextualize the outdoor sights and learn about the civilizations that once thrived here. Walking through the narrow streets between ruins, you get a sense of the town’s layered history—Greek, Roman, and Byzantine influences all visible in the architecture and layout.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides entrance fees for the Side Museum and the Roman Theater, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs at these sites. Plus, the guide helps interpret what you see, making the experience much richer than wandering on your own.

However, lunch and drinks are not included, though you’ll find options nearby starting from 25 TL (about 4 EUR). This gives you flexibility to choose what suits your palate and budget. Also, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of the package, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point in Alanya. This is a minor inconvenience, but it’s good to plan for.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Many travelers praise the clarity and enthusiasm of the guide, noting that they appreciated the detailed stories behind each ruin. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide explained each site’s history—it made everything come alive.” The inclusion of transportation and entrance fees offers strong value for a full-day adventure.

On the downside, some might find the schedule a bit tight, with limited time at each stop to explore freely. If you’re a history enthusiast who wants to linger or take countless photos, you might feel rushed. Also, since this is a private group tour, the group size remains small, which enhances interaction but also means you’ll need to confirm availability ahead of time.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be on uneven ancient surfaces.
• Bring weather-appropriate clothing, especially in summer when it can get quite hot.
• Carry water because exploring in the heat can be draining.
• Arrive a few minutes early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start.
• If you’re interested in more free time or deeper exploration, consider supplementing this tour with additional visits.

The Sum Up

This From Alanya: City of Side Highlights Walking Tour offers a solid way to see some of Turkey’s most impressive archaeological sites without the hassle of planning a separate trip. It’s ideal for history buffs, photography lovers, and anyone keen to walk among ancient ruins and learn about the past from a knowledgeable guide. The inclusion of transportation and entrance fees makes it a practical, good-value option for a half-day outing.

While it may not be the best choice for those wanting a leisurely, in-depth exploration or plenty of free time at each site, it offers a well-organized and insightful experience for most travelers. If you’re curious about Turkey’s ancient civilizations and want an efficient way to see key sights, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable walking and exploring historic ruins, this tour suits most age groups. Just be mindful of the walking involved.

How long is the bus ride from Alanya to Side?
It’s a short ride with scenic views, operated by Domus, making the journey comfortable and quick.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers entrance fees for the Side Museum and the Roman Theater.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is food included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but options are available nearby at reasonable prices.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially for walking outdoors.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included; you need to meet at the designated point in Alanya.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is operated as a private group, which allows for personalized interaction.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately six hours, including transportation and guided visits.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English, Turkish, German, and Russian.

This tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenic views, and convenience—perfect for those who want to make the most of a day exploring Side’s ancient treasures without the fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: