From Alanya: city of Side Highlights Walking Tour

Exploring Side: A Guided Walking Tour Full of History and Scenic Views

If you’re visiting the Antalya region and craving a taste of ancient history, the From Alanya: City of Side Highlights Walking Tour promises a well-paced, engaging introduction to one of Turkey’s most fascinating archaeological sites. This full-day excursion takes you from Alanya to Side, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way through centuries of history, impressive ruins, and stunning coastal vistas. It’s a smart choice if you prefer to see the highlights on foot with some local insights rather than a rushed bus tour.

One of the things we really like about this experience is how it combines educational moments with enough free time to soak up the atmosphere of Side’s ancient streets and beaches. Plus, transportation is included, making logistics straightforward. However, keep in mind that the tour requires comfortable walking shoes, since you’ll be exploring on foot for about six hours total. This tour suits history buffs, culture lovers, and anyone who appreciates a relaxed, guided exploration with a small group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: This is a guided walking tour, offering in-depth insights from a local expert.
• Historic Highlights: You’ll see the Temple of Apollo, the Roman Theater, and other Roman-era ruins.
• Convenient Transportation: Included round-trip bus transfer from Alanya simplifies logistics.
• Cost-Effective: For a full-day, small-group experience with entrance fees included, the value is quite good.
• Flexible & Easy Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours and pay later options provide peace of mind.
• Limited Time for Lunch: Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or purchase nearby.

An Honest Breakdown of the Side Highlights Walking Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins in Alanya at the Dolmus Bussedama, right next to the fountain – a familiar and easy-to-find meeting spot. From there, a short bus ride whisks you along the scenic route toward Side, with views of the bay and Taurus Mountains along the way. This part of the journey adds some anticipation, as you can start soaking in the approaching historical treasures even before you step off the bus.

The transportation is provided by the Domus bus company, which means you don’t need to worry about navigating or organizing separate transport. The round-trip transfer is included in the price, making the overall cost more reasonable when you consider the skip-the-stress convenience.

Walking Through Ancient Side

Once in Side, your guide — who is typically fluent in multiple languages including English, Turkish, German, and Russian — will lead you through the city’s most iconic sites. Expect to spend about six hours total, including breaks, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized insights.

We loved the way the guide’s commentary brought the ruins to life. They shared stories about the city’s evolution from a Hellenistic settlement to a Roman hub, adding context that makes the stones more meaningful. Reviewers mention guides like “Ayla,” whose storytelling was both engaging and informative, helping to connect the dots of history in a way that felt accessible and fascinating.

Main Highlights in Side

The Temple of Apollo is a striking sight, situated right by the sea. Its tall, standing columns have survived centuries and still evoke the grandeur of ancient worship. Standing there, you’ll get a sense of what it was like to worship gods in a city that once thrived as a maritime center.

Next, the Temple of Athena offers a picturesque scene, with its ruins perched on a hill overlooking the coast. From here, you get panoramic views of the bay, perfect for photos or just soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

The Roman Theater is a highlight for many visitors. It’s a vast, well-preserved structure that once hosted theatrical performances and gatherings. Climbing to its upper tiers rewards you with sweeping vistas of the Taurus Mountains and the city below. One reviewer noted, “Climbing up the theater was physically demanding but totally worth it for the view.”

Ancient Ruins and City Streets: Walking through Side’s streets, you’ll see Roman baths, aqueduct remnants, and bustling marketplaces that have been repurposed into modern shops and cafes. It’s a delightful blend of the old and new — perfect for those who love authentic, lived-in historical sites.

Entrance Fees and What’s Included

The tour includes entrance to the Side Museum and the Ancient Theater. These tickets are part of the package, so you avoid the hassle of lining up or paying extra on the day. The museum houses artifacts from the city’s past, providing a deeper understanding of Side’s history.

One reviewer pointed out that “the entrance fee to the museum was quite reasonable,” and appreciated that it was included in the overall cost. The museum’s exhibits help contextualize the ruins, making the visit more meaningful.

Food, Drinks, and Additional Considerations

Food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase snacks or small meals during the free time in town. Expect to pay around 25 TL (~4 EUR) for a typical meal or snack. Bring some water, especially if visiting during the warmer months, as there’s limited shade during walks.

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point in Alanya. This is generally straightforward given the central location, but it’s worth factoring into your plans.

Duration and Group Size

The 6-hour duration is well-balanced, allowing enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The group is private, which means you’ll get a more tailored experience compared to larger tours. Reviewers say this makes the experience more intimate and allows for better interaction with the guide.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, photography lovers, and travelers who enjoy walking and exploring at a relaxed pace. Since it’s a small-group experience, it offers more personalized attention. It’s ideal for those who want to discover Side’s highlights without the chaos of large bus trips or hectic schedules.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a more cushioned experience, consider the amount of walking involved. Also, if you’re looking for a comprehensive day with multiple activities beyond history and ruins, this might feel a bit light.

Final Thoughts

This walking tour from Alanya to Side offers a solid mix of history, scenic vistas, and cultural insights—all within a manageable six-hour window. The inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and an expert guide makes it a good value for those who want to maximize their time and learn meaningful stories behind the ruins.

The relaxed pace and intimate group setting mean you can truly soak in the atmosphere of Side’s ancient streets and impressive temples. While lunch and drinks aren’t included, the nearby options and the sightseeing itself make up for it, especially considering the overall affordability.

If you’re a traveler eager to see the key highlights of Side on foot, enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides, and prefer a flexible booking with cancellation options, this tour offers a balanced, engaging experience.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the meeting point in Alanya and does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to make your own way to the meeting location.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is around 6 hours, including transportation and sightseeing.

What language is the guide available in?
Guides are available in English, Turkish, German, and Russian, offering a multilingual experience.

Is this a private group?
Yes, the tour is designed for private groups, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What is the starting point?
You meet your guide at Dolmus Bussedama, next to the fountain in Alanya.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers entrance to the Side Museum and the Ancient Theater.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch and drinks are not included but can be purchased separately during free time in Side.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to ensure a comfortable day exploring.

This guided walking tour offers a well-rounded taste of Side’s archaeological treasures, perfect for those who want to connect with history while enjoying scenic coastal views. It’s a flexible, thoughtfully organized experience that balances education and leisure—ideal for curious travelers eager to learn and explore at a relaxed pace.