Hotels in Side

Still wondering what to do in Side? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Side and book your hotel today!

Side, a prominent coastal town, boasts a rich tapestry of historical sites set against the Mediterranean. Its ancient theatre, a grand structure, once seated thousands and offers a glimpse into Roman entertainment. Nearby, the Temple of Apollo and Athena stands as a significant landmark, particularly atmospheric at sunset, attracting visitors to witness its enduring columns. The old harbour area, once a bustling port for trade, now presents a more tranquil setting for strolls.

The town is well-known for its extensive Roman ruins, which are spread throughout the modern settlement. Beyond the archaeological park, the Roman baths and the monumental fountain are noteworthy for their scale and preservation. A museum housed in a renovated Roman bath displays a collection of artefacts unearthed locally, providing further context to the area's long history.

For most visitors to Side, the most common area to book a hotel is undoubtedly the vicinity of the Old Town and its immediate beach areas, offering convenient access to historical sites and the Mediterranean.

The Old Town itself, particularly near the harbour, offers a selection of boutique hotels and guesthouses, often renovated Ottoman or Roman-era buildings. Here, you're steps away from the Temple of Apollo and Athena, the Ancient Theatre, and the Side Museum. The promenade hosts numerous eateries, including Aphrodite Restaurant and Lighthouse Restaurant, known for their seafront settings. Just east of the Old Town, the East Beach area provides a blend of smaller hotels and apartments, popular for its slightly quieter atmosphere compared to the west.

Heading west from the peninsula, the Kumköy area stretches along the West Beach. This district is dominated by larger all-inclusive resorts and hotel complexes, catering to families and those seeking extensive facilities. Accommodation here typically features expansive pools and direct beach access. While less focused on historical sites, Kumköy offers a variety of shops and restaurants, and some resorts have their own entertainment venues.

Further inland and north of the main coastal strip, areas like Manavgat provide a different experience. While not directly on the coast, hotels here might offer better value and a more local feel. Manavgat is home to the Manavgat Waterfall and a large weekly market, offering a glimpse into everyday Turkish life away from the tourist hubs.

When considering hotel bookings, transport connections are a key factor. Side does not have its own airport; the nearest major international airport is Antalya Airport (AYT), approximately 65 kilometres away. Many hotels, especially the larger resorts, offer shuttle services, or one can arrange private transfers or taxis. Public transport options include local dolmuşes that connect Side with Manavgat, where further bus connections can be made to Antalya Airport.

Booking your hotel in Side, Turkey, outside the busiest periods can significantly reduce costs. Prices are generally higher during the peak summer months, from June to August, and also around the school holidays in spring and autumn. The most budget-friendly times to visit are typically from November to March, excluding the Christmas and New Year period, when many hotels offer much lower rates due to fewer crowds and cooler weather.

Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons, such as April, May, September, or October. While not as cheap as the deep low season, you'll still find better deals than in summer, and the weather is usually pleasant for exploring the ancient ruins and the Apollo Temple, which are less crowded then. Look for deals online a few months in advance, and bear in mind that many larger all-inclusive resorts in Side might offer special promotions during the quieter times to fill rooms.