Side (pronounced 'see day') is located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. The resort lies on a small, flat peninsula with golden sandy beaches washed by the clear blue sea on both sides. There is an old fishing harbour, perfect for a meal and a drink in the evenings. Cultural highlights include the Ampitheatre and Forum and Apollo's Temple. The Saturday morning market and many shops will satisfy your shopping needs. With a wide range of accommodation on offer, from budget hotels to luxury resorts, it's easy to see why Side is a popular choice for families and couples looking for a year-round holiday destination.
Side (pronounced 'see day') is located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. The resort lies on a small, flat peninsula with golden sandy beaches washed by the clear blue sea on both sides. There is an old fishing harbour, perfect for a meal and a drink in the evenings. Cultural highlights include the Ampitheatre and Forum and Apollo's Temple. The Saturday morning market and many shops will satisfy your shopping needs. With a wide range of accommodation on offer, from budget hotels to luxury resorts, it's easy to see why Side is a popular choice for families and couples looking for a year-round holiday destination.
Side offer a wide range of outdoor activities. Those who are more energetic would love windsurfing, jet-skiing, parasailing, scuba diving, fishing, sailing and swimming. Whatever your interests, you’ll find an activity just right for you.
Food & Drink
Side has lots of restaurants and cafes offering a variety of food from traditional Turkish fare to international and fast food choices. Seafood is of course a real speciality in Side. Baklava (filo pastry filled with honey soaked pistachios) is perfect for dessert. Local wines, Efes (the national beer of Turkey) and the world famous Raki make an ideal accompaniment for your meal. Turkish coffee is served strong and sweet with some Turkish delight on the side.
In The Evening
Side is fascinating place for the night birds. This beautiful place has numerous pubs, clubs, discos and bars which party on until late that makes you rock. For a quiet meal and drink, the bars and restaurants around the old fishing harbour are a good choice.
Health & Entry Requirements
Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. Dress modestly when visiting mosques or religious shrines. Do not take photographs of or near military and official institutions and always ask permission when taking photographs of people. There is a smoking ban on all forms of public transport and in outdoor venues (including stadiums and playgrounds). By July 2009 this will include cafes, bars and restaurants as well.
Side's weather makes it a popular year-round holiday choice. Long hot summers with little or no rain are the norm with temperatures hitting the mid-30's at the height of the summer months. Winter temperatures are still in the mid-teens but there is a likelihood of rain.