Best places to visit in Side

Side's Timeless Treasures

Side features some of the most significant Roman ruins in Turkey, centered around a 2nd-century theatre that once seated 20,000 spectators. This collection includes the monumental Nymphaeum fountain, the commercial Agora containing the Temple of Tyche, and the extensive remains of the city's ancient aqueduct system. The site is complemented by a museum housed within restored Roman baths, showcasing artefacts excavated from the surrounding archaeological zone, which spans the Pamphylian port city's history from the Hellenistic to Byzantine eras.

Roman theatre

A 2nd-century Roman structure built on vaulted arches rather than a hillside. It once accommodated up to 20,000 spectators for theatrical performances and gladiatorial contests.

Side

An extensive archaeological site featuring the remains of a major Pamphylian port city, including city walls, harbor ruins, and colonnaded streets dating from the Roman and Byzantine periods.

Agora

The ancient city's commercial and administrative center, containing the ruins of the circular Temple of Tyche and remains of the shops that once lined its perimeter.

Nymphaeum

A monumental 2nd-century fountain house located near the main city gate, originally featuring three stories of marble columns and intricate decorative reliefs.

Side Museum

A museum set in the Roman bath ruins displays artefacts excavated in the Side area. Handy English explanations.

Aquaeduct

Remnants of the ancient engineering system that transported water from the Melas River to Side, featuring surviving arched sections of the original masonry.