Side Harbour

Harbour in Side

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Gottfried Hoffmann

Side Harbour is one of the most picturesque spots on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, where the elegance of antiquity meets the relaxed rhythm of coastal life. Once a bustling Greco-Roman port that connected Anatolia with the wider Mediterranean world, today it's a vibrant promenade filled with yachts, cafes, and the salty scent of sea air. Watching boats bob gently beside the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, it's easy to see why this harbor remains one of the top sights in Side and a favorite for travelers looking to blend history, scenery, and culture in one unforgettable experience.

By day, the harbor sparkles under the Turkish sun, offering leisurely walks, sea excursions, and al fresco dining. By night, it transforms into a romantic setting, with glowing lights reflecting off the water and live music drifting from nearby restaurants. Whether you're savoring fresh seafood, photographing the sunset, or boarding a boat for a coastal tour, Side Harbour is one of the best places to see in Side and a highlight of any walking tour of Side.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
Practical Tips
How to Get There
Is Side Harbour Worth Visiting?
Other Sites Nearby

History and Significance

Side Harbour has been the heart of the city for more than two millennia. Established by Greek settlers around the 7th century BCE, it flourished under Roman rule as one of the most important trade ports in Pamphylia. Ships once docked here carrying goods from Egypt, Greece, and Italy, turning Side into a prosperous cultural crossroads. Over time, the harbor's significance shifted from commerce to defense and, later, to fishing and tourism.

Today, while the ancient stone piers and sea walls remain visible, the harbor has evolved into a beautiful leisure marina. Its blend of history and modernity — with fishing boats moored beside luxury yachts and centuries-old ruins lining the waterfront — makes it a living symbol of Side's enduring spirit.

Things to See and Do

Start your visit with a stroll along the promenade, lined with palm trees and inviting terraces. Enjoy a Turkish coffee as you watch fishing boats and tour vessels come and go, or browse small shops selling local crafts and jewelry. Boat tours departing from the harbor are a must-do, taking you along the coastline toward hidden coves and sea caves.

At sunset, the atmosphere becomes magical. The Temple of Apollo at the harbor's edge glows softly against the evening sky — a view that has inspired countless photographs. You can also enjoy dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants overlooking the water. Freshly caught fish, meze platters, and a glass of chilled wine make for the perfect Mediterranean evening.

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: Late afternoon to evening for the best light and cooler temperatures
Entrance fee in Euros: Free
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
How long to spend: 1–2 hours for a walk or meal, longer if taking a boat trip
Accessibility: Flat promenade suitable for all visitors
Facilities: Cafes, restrooms, shops, and restaurants nearby
Photography tip: Capture the Temple of Apollo framed by the harbor's waters at sunset
Guided tours: Many local tours include the harbor as part of historical or boat excursions
Nearby food options: Seaside restaurants serving fresh seafood and Turkish meze

How to Get There

Side Harbour is located at the southern tip of the old town, easily reachable on foot from most hotels and attractions in Side. From Antalya, it's about a 65-kilometer drive, taking just over an hour along the scenic D400 coastal highway. Buses and dolmuş minibuses from Manavgat also stop near the old town, making the harbor accessible even without a car. Parking areas are available on the outskirts of the historic district.

Is Side Harbour Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Side Harbour is one of the must-see places in Side, combining seaside relaxation with timeless history. Whether you come for a quiet morning coffee, a romantic sunset stroll, or a lively evening meal, the harbor offers something for everyone. Its blend of old-world charm and modern energy captures the very essence of what makes Side such a special destination.

Other Sites Nearby

Temple of Apollo – Iconic marble ruins located right beside the harbor, offering breathtaking sunset views.
Roman Theatre – A short walk inland, this vast amphitheater once held 15,000 spectators.
Nymphaeum – The grand Roman fountain that greeted visitors entering ancient Side, rich in carvings and detail.
Side Museum – Set in a restored Roman bathhouse, featuring statues, inscriptions, and mosaics from the city's ruins.
Colonnaded Street – The ancient main road leading from the city gate to the harbor, lined with impressive Roman columns and shops.

The Side Harbour appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Side!

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