Side is one of the most popular tourist areas in Antalya, known as the pearl of the Mediterranean. This lovely seaside town welcomes thousands of local and foreign tourists every year with its historical richness and natural beauty. So, what can you do in this paradise without spending too much money?
Swimming at Side Halk Beach
Swimming in Side's blue sea, with its golden sands and warm sun, is one of the must-do pleasures of a holiday. Swimming in the clear waters is also good for your health. Sea water helps remove toxins from your body, and swimming in gentle waves exercises and relaxes your muscles. Even just listening to the sound of the waves can reduce stress. Enjoy nature with long walks on the beach, or collect sea shells and stones in rocky areas for unique memories.
Side Beach is a great place for families. You can build sandcastles with your kids, boosting their imagination while having fun together. Playing by the sea helps kids develop motor skills, and you can stay fit with plenty of walks on the shore. As you walk, take in the natural beauty around you for peaceful moments. Most beaches offer free parking, which means you don’t need to pay extra to park your car, making it a big plus.
For those who love sports on holiday, the beach volleyball courts are very tempting. You can play fun games with friends or new acquaintances for free. Playing volleyball is enjoyable and also helps keep your body fit by working different muscles.
Visiting Side Ancient City
Side Ancient City offers a great opportunity with free entry for Museum Card holders. This card allows you to take a free journey into the past. In the fascinating atmosphere of the ancient city, you can explore traces of old civilizations without any cost. Free entry offers a unique experience for those interested in history and culture.
Walking through the narrow streets of the ancient city, you can experience the grandeur of the buildings for free. This area is filled with structures from the Greek and Roman periods, providing visitors with a free history lesson. You can look at the ancient theater, temples, and agora without paying a fee to understand how time has passed.
Additionally, free information boards around the ancient city give you detailed information about the historical buildings. These boards guide you during your visit, offering free insights about the structures. Thus, you can gain a deep understanding of the glory and richness of Side Ancient City at no cost.
Apollo Temple
You can enter the Apollo Temple for free with a MüzeKart. Cardholders can explore this fascinating temple and its surroundings without any cost. Known as the symbol of Side, the Apollo Temple is famous for its sunset views and offers a peaceful atmosphere. Examining the temple's architectural details and experiencing the grandeur of ancient times provides an unforgettable experience for those interested in history. Taking photos from outside the temple is also a fun activity, making your time in Side even more special.
The area around the temple is ideal for nature lovers and walkers. A walk along the coast will relax both your mind and body. While wandering among ancient ruins, you have the chance to dive into history. You can enjoy a simple picnic with a sandwich you bring and enjoy spending time by the sea. While enjoying the natural beauty, you can also have pleasant conversations with other visitors nearby.
Close to the Apollo Temple, the historic lighthouse is another site you can visit for free. Walking around the lighthouse allows you to enjoy both the sea and the historic atmosphere. The views from the top of the lighthouse offer perfect shots for photography enthusiasts. Exploring among the historical buildings lets you witness Side's rich past, all for free.
Walking at Side Harbor
Side Harbor is famous for offering some of the most beautiful views of the Mediterranean. One of the most enjoyable activities here is taking a long walk along the harbor. During the walk, the blue sea and anchored boats accompany you. You can sit at many cafes surrounding the harbor and enjoy this unique view for free. Breathing in the sea air and spending time with the sounds of boats provide peaceful moments for visitors. Walking at the harbor during sunset creates a great opportunity for taking photos and lets you experience the magical moments when the sun meets the sea without any cost.
Side Harbor is also a unique place for photography lovers. Photos taken at the harbor, especially during sunset, will become the most beautiful memories of your vacation. Watching the fishing boats at the harbor lets you witness the daily lives of sailors. You can observe the preparations boat owners make before setting out to sea and gain insights into their connection with the sea. This experience is both educational and entertaining, offered for free. For those who love taking photos, the harbor and its surroundings offer countless composition opportunities.
One of the unique experiences the harbor offers is the free boat tours. These tours departing from the harbor are a perfect opportunity for those who wish to explore Side's view from the sea. Especially enjoyable for children, these tours will be among the most unforgettable memories of your vacation. During the tour, you can learn from guides about the region's historical and natural beauties and encounter breathtaking views in the middle of the sea. These free activities offered by Side Harbor will make your vacation more special and meaningful.
Side Aspendos Bridge
Side Aspendos Bridge, also known as the Side Ancient Bridge, is one of the most famous structures in Side. Built in the 2nd century BC over the Köprüçay River, this ancient Roman bridge has stood for over 1800 years. It was an important trade route connecting Side with other ancient cities, making it fascinating for its historical value. Today, visitors can closely observe the traces of the past and discover the details of Roman architecture.
Side Aspendos Bridge captivates not only because of its history but also for the stunning views it offers. Walking or cycling across the bridge, you can enjoy the scenery with the peaceful sound of the river flowing beneath. The natural surroundings provide a perfect spot for a picnic or a peaceful walk in nature. Plus, there is no entrance fee for this experience.
Visitors can access Side Aspendos Bridge at any time of the day, and it is free to enter. It is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to capture beautiful photos. The natural beauty and historical setting around the bridge make it an ideal choice for those seeking a free cultural and nature experience.
Walking in the Historic Streets of Side
The historic streets of Side offer a magical atmosphere for visitors. Various free events and shows held in these streets help you understand the local culture better. Street performers bring these historic places to life, while musicians and dancers turn the streets into a lively stage. These artists accompany you as you explore Side, adding a unique touch to your holiday.
Free tasting events in the street markets are a great way to discover Side's local flavors. Olives, cheese, and various local spices offer visitors a chance to explore the area's rich food culture. These free tastings make your holiday not only relaxing but also an exciting culinary experience. These events also give you a chance to meet local producers and hear their stories.
Additionally, free concerts and theater shows held occasionally in Side’s streets allow you to enjoy pleasant times outdoors. These events offer both locals and tourists a chance to gather and have fun. They help you create unforgettable memories, experience cultural richness, and make your holiday more special. These activities make every moment in Side more meaningful and will make your holiday unforgettable.
State Agora in Side
You can enter the State Agora for free with a Museum Card. Agora, the ancient trade center of Side, is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture. Walking among the ruins of this ancient structure, you can find valuable clues about the trade and social life of that time. The large courtyard and columned galleries of the Agora show how it functioned as a trade center back then. Each corner of this massive structure, which silently witnesses the past, offers a unique atmosphere. You do not need to pay any fee to explore this historical site; visitors can freely wander among the ruins, imagining the rich cultural events that took place in this area throughout history.
Exploring other historical ruins around the Agora can help you gain a deeper understanding of Side's past. From the ancient theater to Roman baths, there are many free historical sites to discover around Side. While walking among these ruins, you can learn more about the architectural styles and ways of living of the time. Strolling among the ruins not only relaxes your mind but also lets you feel the traces of the past more closely. For researchers and archaeology enthusiasts, these unique opportunities offer a fantastic way to explore the rich history of Side for free.
Additionally, you can walk for free in the park areas around the Agora and enjoy nature. These areas, full of various shades of green, are ideal for visitors who want to escape the stress of city life and spend a day in nature. While walking in the parks, you can listen to the birds chirping and rest in the shade of the trees. Sitting at the nearby cafes offers a great chance to be in the midst of history and have a peaceful time in nature. For those who love photography, the area where the Agora is located is perfect for capturing stunning shots at sunset or early in the morning. All these activities are attractive options for those who want to experience the historical and natural beauty of Side for free.
Day Trip to Titreyengöl
Titreyengöl, near Side, is a wonderful place for those who want to be close to nature. Around the lake, there are many free activities to enjoy. Going for walks is one of the best ways to explore the lake's beauty. These walks allow you to enjoy the view and breathe in fresh air. As you walk around the lake, you'll be surrounded by unique plants and the sounds of birds, making time fly by. Morning walks offer peace with the magical colors of sunrise. During these walks, you can listen to the sounds of nature and discover the plants and animals around the lake. You can also watch the birds you meet on your walk, strengthening your connection to nature.
For nature lovers, there are many free places to explore around the lake. Titreyengöl is a paradise for bird watchers, as many bird species live here. You can observe different kinds of birds throughout the year. During migration times, you might even see rare birds. Listening to the bird songs lets you witness their natural lives. Taking photos of the wildlife around the lake creates unforgettable memories while spending time in nature. While birdwatching for free, you can bring your binoculars and camera to capture these moments and add nature's beauty to your special memories.
Another free activity at Titreyengöl is having a picnic. The picnic areas around the lake provide perfect spots to enjoy with loved ones. You can pack a picnic basket and enjoy nature by the lake. Lying on the green grass and watching the sky, you can observe the calm waters of the lake. During the picnic, you can explore the walking paths around the lake, find new routes, and find peace by reading a book in nature's quietness. Sitting on benches and listening to nature's sounds helps relax your mind and refresh your spirit. Through these activities, you can spend quality time for free among Titreyengöl's natural beauty and feel the peace nature offers.
Side offers an unforgettable holiday with its history and natural beauty. In this lovely seaside town, there are many free activities you can do without spending much. You can swim at Side's beaches, explore its ancient city, and enjoy the sunset. Create unforgettable memories with your family and friends in this beautiful place. Enjoy a free holiday in Side and make the most of this charming town.