Colonnaded Street of Side

Historic Site in Side

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Dosseman

The Colonnaded Street of Side is one of the most atmospheric walks in the ancient city, stretching from the Vespasian Monumental Gate through the heart of the archaeological zone. Once lined with elegant marble columns, fountains, and shops, it served as the city's main thoroughfare—a place where merchants, citizens, and travelers mingled beneath the Mediterranean sun. Today, wandering this ancient avenue feels like stepping into a living museum, with the worn paving stones still echoing the footsteps of Roman citizens. This spot is one of the best places to see in Side and a highlight of any walking tour of Side, blending stunning ruins with a sense of timeless serenity.

As you stroll through, the air carries a mix of sea breeze and history. Broken columns lie where they fell centuries ago, and remnants of mosaics glint in the light. It's one of the top attractions in Side for visitors who love to explore at their own pace, discovering details that textbooks can't quite capture—like the grooves left by ancient chariots or the outlines of old shops and taverns. The Colonnaded Street perfectly encapsulates the city's layered past, connecting key landmarks like the Nymphaeum, Roman Theatre, and agora.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
Nearby Attractions
Practical Tips
How to Get There
Is the Colonnaded Street Worth Visiting?

History and Significance

The Colonnaded Street was built during the Roman period, around the 2nd century CE, as part of a broader urban plan that showcased Side's prosperity. It ran for nearly a kilometer from the main gate to the central forum, lined with colonnades on both sides that sheltered pedestrians from the sun and rain. Water channels ran beneath the paving stones, supplying fountains and baths along the way. The street was not only a hub of commerce but also a showcase of architectural artistry—columns, marble facades, and statues celebrated the wealth and sophistication of the city. Despite centuries of decay, many sections remain remarkably well-preserved.

Things to See and Do

Take your time walking along the street and admire the layout of the ancient shops and colonnades. Many of the columns still stand, and their carved bases and capitals reveal exquisite craftsmanship. The central section near the Nymphaeum and the Roman Theatre is particularly striking, where you can photograph rows of columns leading into the distance. At sunset, the warm light adds a magical glow to the stone, making it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Side. Look closely and you'll spot decorative carvings and the faint outlines of mosaics that once adorned the floors of homes and businesses.

Nearby Attractions

Vespasian Monumental Gate – The grand entrance that marks the beginning of the street.
Nymphaeum – A monumental fountain once supplied by the street's water channels.
Roman Theatre – One of Turkey's largest and most impressive ancient theatres.
Agora – The city's commercial heart, located just off the main avenue.
Ancient City Walls – Framing the northern entrance to the old town.
Side Museum – Housing statues, inscriptions, and mosaics found along the Colonnaded Street.

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: Early morning or evening for soft light and fewer crowds
Entrance fee in Euros: Included in the general archaeological area (around €3–€5)
Opening hours: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm (may vary by season)
How long to spend: 30–60 minutes, depending on your pace
Accessibility: Moderately easy; uneven stone surfaces in some sections
Facilities: Cafes, rest areas, and shops at both ends of the street
Photography tip: Capture the columns in perspective for a dramatic leading-line composition
Guided tours: Available from local guides, often combined with nearby ruins
Nearby food options: Restaurants and snack stands inside the old town

How to Get There

The Colonnaded Street begins at the Vespasian Monumental Gate, the main entrance to the ancient city of Side. From Antalya, it's about an hour's drive or bus ride to Manavgat, followed by a short dolmuş or taxi journey into Side. Once at the gate, simply follow the wide stone avenue—impossible to miss—as it leads you through the heart of the archaeological zone toward the Roman Theatre.

Is the Colonnaded Street Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Colonnaded Street is one of the must-see places in Side for history lovers and photographers alike. More than just a ruin, it's a tangible connection to everyday life in an ancient Roman city—where trade, conversation, and culture once flourished. Whether you walk its length under the morning sun or linger among the columns at dusk, it remains a timeless journey through Side's golden past.

The Colonnaded Street of Side appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Side!

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