Temple of Apollo, Side

Historic Site in Side

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Maksym Kozlenko

The Temple of Apollo in Side is one of those rare places where time seems to pause. Set dramatically at the edge of the Mediterranean, this ancient sanctuary dedicated to Apollo-the god of light, music, and prophecy-stands as a symbol of beauty and endurance. As you approach, the five gleaming white marble columns rise against the sky, creating a striking contrast with the deep blue sea behind them. This spot is one of the best places to see in Side and a highlight of any walking tour of Side, especially as the sun dips low over the horizon.

Visiting at dusk feels like stepping into a postcard. The golden light catches the ruins and the waves shimmer below-making it one of the top attractions in Side for travelers who love both history and photography. Locals often gather here in the evening, couples come for the sunset, and street performers add a lively touch. Just a short walk from the harbor, the temple's setting perfectly combines ancient grandeur with the easy charm of modern coastal life.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
Practical Tips
How to Get There
Is the Temple of Apollo Worth Visiting?

History and Significance

Built in the 2nd century CE during the Roman period, the Temple of Apollo once formed part of Side's main temple complex, which also included a shrine to Athena. It was constructed to honor Apollo, whom the people of Side regarded as their protector deity. Although much of the structure was lost over time due to earthquakes and invasions, its remaining columns and carved capitals continue to showcase the elegance of Roman architecture. Archaeologists have carefully restored and stabilized parts of the site, allowing visitors to imagine its former splendor.

Things to See and Do

Besides admiring the temple itself, visitors can explore the nearby remains of Side's ancient harbor and other ruins scattered around the peninsula. The best time to visit is at sunset when the columns glow in the fading light-many photographers come specifically for this view. It's also a great place to visit on a walking tour of Side, as it's located near other landmarks such as the ancient theater and the city's main gate.

Ancient Harbor of Side - Located right beside the temples, this historic port once served as the hub for Roman trade and naval activity. Today, it’s a tranquil marina filled with fishing boats and yachts, ideal for a leisurely stroll.

Side Lighthouse - A short walk along the harbor, the lighthouse offers sweeping views of the coastline and the shimmering sea. It’s an especially peaceful spot in the early morning or at twilight.

Harbor Promenade and Cafés - The promenade that curves around the peninsula is lined with charming cafés, bars, and restaurants. It’s a great place to unwind with Turkish tea or seafood while watching the temples light up after dark.

Side Old Town Streets - Just a few minutes inland from the temples, these narrow cobblestone lanes are filled with boutiques, art galleries, and traditional houses. Look for glass panels in the pavement revealing the ancient ruins beneath.

Side Museum (Roman Baths) - Only a 10-minute walk from the temples, the museum displays statues, mosaics, and artifacts discovered across the site. Housed in a restored Roman bath complex, it offers a deeper understanding of the city’s golden age.

Practical Tips

Best time to visit: Late afternoon to sunset for the best light and cooler temperatures
Entrance fee in Euros: Free (open-air site)
Opening hours: Accessible 24 hours, though lighting is best before dusk
How long to spend: 30-45 minutes
Accessibility: Easy to reach on foot from Side’s old town; uneven terrain near ruins
Facilities: Cafes, restrooms, and souvenir shops nearby
Photography tip: Position yourself slightly east of the temple at sunset for a perfect silhouette shot
Nearby food options: Try local seafood restaurants along the harbor promenade

How to Get There

The Temple of Apollo is located at the southern tip of Side's old town, about 1 kilometer from the main entrance gate. From Antalya, it's roughly an hour's drive along the coastal highway, or you can take a bus to Manavgat and then a short taxi or dolmuş ride to Side. Once in town, it's an easy stroll through narrow cobbled streets to reach the temple.

Is the Temple of Apollo Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Its setting by the sea, historical depth, and unforgettable sunset views make it one of the must-see places in Side. Even if you've seen ancient ruins elsewhere in Turkey, few can match the atmosphere here-where history meets the horizon in a view you'll never forget.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.8 (38,537)

Apollon Temple in Side sits on a scenic waterfront where striking ancient columns and stone remains create a dramatic coastal ruin to explore; visitors praise sunset views and recommend arriving by early evening to avoid crowds and capture photos, note pleasant walkways and signage, easy access from nearby hotels or dolmuş stops (or by scooter or taxi), and a lively harbour with shops, restaurants and bars nearby, while some warn of occasional aggressive stray dogs.

Phebe

a month ago

"Beautiful sunset views!!! Recommend trying to get here for 5.30pm the latest so you fully catch the sunset. We walked down from our hotel ArnorDeluxe in Side which was roughly a 35minute walk. Around the corner is the Side sign and harbour with lots of little shops. The prices are a bit steep as you can get much cheaper elsewhere. Worth the time if you’re going out for a stroll. There were some quite vicious stray dogs who kept fighting around this area so beware of that...."

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Seb Carmichael

3 months ago

"A Must-Visit Gem on the Turkish Coast 🇹🇷 Side is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. This coastal town offers a stuing mix of history, culture, and vibrant modern life that makes it truly unforgettable. The Temple of Apollo is a breathtaking highlight — a magnificent tribute to a lost empire. Standing among its ancient columns, you can truly appreciate the grandeur and power of the civilizations that once thrived here. It’s a must-see for history lovers and photographers alike. The town itself is exceptionally clean, with fantastic shopping, charming streets, and a wide range of bars and restaurants catering to every taste. It also feels incredibly safe, with a noticeable and reassuring police presence throughout the area. If you’re holidaying anywhere along this part of Turkey, Side is absolutely worth the trip. I personally recommend visiting in the early evening — it’s quieter, the buses are less crowded, and you can enjoy the beauty of the town as it begins to come alive. That said, the later it gets, the more vibrant and energetic the atmosphere becomes, making it perfect for a lively night out as well. In short — don’t miss it!..."

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Viorel Grosu

a month ago

"Short visit in Side for 5 hours- taxi transfer from hotel to Side and back (in our opinion better than by exchanging buses from hotel-Manavgatcenter-Side center-return). Harbour area is really nice to be visited, for shopping and eating- many alternatives to be choosed..."

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The Temple of Apollo appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Side!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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