Best Day Trips from Side: Top Excursions & Getaways 2026

No visit to the Antalya region is complete without stepping back in time at the magnificent ancient cities of Aspendos and Perge, often combined into a single, comprehensive day trip. Aspendos boasts one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world, renowned for its incredible acoustics and still used today for festivals. Nearby, the ancient city of Perge offers a fascinating walk through its Roman baths, monumental gates, vast agora, and an impressive stadium. These sites offer an unparalleled glimpse into the grandeur of Roman civilization in Anatolia. Exploring these sprawling ruins is a full-day commitment, but every moment is rewarding. While guided tours are a popular and convenient option, intrepid travellers can also reach these sites using local buses (dolmuş) from Manavgat, though connecting public transport might be intricate. The best season to visit is spring or autumn when the weather is mild and comfortable for extensive outdoor exploration. A travel buddy from urlaubspartner.net can make navigating these historical landscapes even more enjoyable, sharing insights and photo opportunities.

Just over an hour's drive east of Side, Alanya presents a different kind of coastal allure, blending golden beaches with a rich historical backdrop. The most iconic landmark is Alanya Castle, perched dramatically on a rocky peninsula, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Within the castle walls, you can explore the Kızılkule (Red Tower), a formidable octagonal structure that dominates the harbour, and the Tersane (Shipyard), a fascinating piece of Seljuk naval architecture. Beyond the historical sites, Alanya boasts lively markets, a bustling harbour, and the stunning Damlataş Cave with its therapeutic air. A full-day trip is recommended to adequately explore the castle and enjoy the town's atmosphere. Public buses from Manavgat offer a straightforward and budget-friendly way to reach Alanya. Spring and early autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

For a refreshing escape into nature, head inland to the Manavgat Waterfall and the serene Green Canyon. The Manavgat Waterfall, while not exceptionally high, spans a wide area, creating a picturesque cascade of foamy white water. It's a popular spot for picnics and offers pleasant riverside cafes. A short drive further brings you to the truly spectacular Green Canyon (Oymapınar Dam Lake). This vast reservoir, surrounded by towering, verdant cliffs, offers boat tours that navigate its emerald waters, often including swimming stops in secluded coves. The tranquility and sheer beauty of the landscape are awe-inspiring. This can be a half-day or full-day excursion depending on whether you opt for a full boat tour. Reaching Manavgat town is easy by dolmuş from Side. From there, you might need a taxi or a tour package for the waterfall and especially the Green Canyon. Summer is great for boat trips and swimming, but spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and lush scenery.

For a taste of authentic Turkish mountain life and a break from the coastal bustle, a day trip to the villages of Akseki and İbradı provides a fascinating contrast. These traditional villages, nestled in the Taurus Mountains, are known for their unique stone architecture, cedar forests, and a slower pace of life. İbradı, in particular, is famed for its Button Houses {'Düğmeli Evler'), ancient wooden buildings with distinctive stone infill. The drive through the mountains itself is scenic, offering spectacular views. You can explore the narrow cobbled streets, visit local mosques, and perhaps enjoy a traditional meal at a village eatery. This trip is more about immersing yourself in culture and enjoying the serene landscape rather than seeing specific 'sights.' It's best experienced as a full-day trip and definitely works better with a rental car due to the mountainous terrain and limited public transport. Spring and early autumn provide ideal weather for exploring, with vibrant wildflowers in spring and pleasant temperatures for hiking.

For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, combining the ancient ruins of Selge with the natural beauty of Köprülü Canyon offers an exhilarating full-day trip. Selge, clinging precariously to a mountainside, is an ancient Pisidian city accessible via a winding, scenic road. Its remote location means fewer crowds, allowing for a more intimate exploration of its theatre, agora, and temples, often amidst grazing goats. The views from Selge are simply breathtaking. Afterwards, descend into Köprülü Canyon National Park, famous for its magnificent Köprüçay River, perfect for white-water rafting, and its impressive Roman bridges. Even if you don't raft, the canyon offers fantastic opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying pristine nature. This trip is best undertaken with a rental car, as public transport is virtually non-existent. A full day is essential for both sites. Visit in late spring or early autumn for comfortable temperatures for hiking and rafting.

Antalya, the bustling provincial capital, is a vibrant metropolis offering a stark contrast to Side's more relaxed pace. A full-day trip allows you to delve into its rich history and modern amenities. Explore Kaleiçi, the historic old town, with its charming Ottoman-era houses, narrow streets, and the iconic Hadrian's Gate. Visit the Antalya Museum, one of Turkey's largest and most important, housing an impressive collection of artefacts from the region, including many from Side, Perge, and Aspendos. Don't miss strolling along the picturesque Old Harbor or taking a scenic tram ride. Antalya also boasts excellent shopping opportunities and a wide array of dining options. Regular intercity buses from Manavgat offer a comfortable and affordable journey to Antalya. This is a full-day excursion, best enjoyed in spring or autumn to avoid the intense summer heat, allowing for comfortable exploration of the city on foot. It’s also a perfect opportunity to meet up with a travel buddy found on urlaubspartner.net for a city adventure.

For a truly diverse day trip, consider the tranquil beach of Çıralı or the otherworldly beauty of Lake Salda, though these are more extended journeys. Çıralı, nestled between the ruins of Olympos and the eternal flames of Chimera, offers a pristine, laid-back beach experience. It's famous for its protected loggerhead turtle nesting grounds and a remarkably serene atmosphere. This is a full-day trip, approximately 1.5-2 hours drive from Side, best done with a rental car or tour. Lake Salda, often called 'Turkey's Maldives' due to its sparkling turquoise waters and white sands, is a true natural wonder. However, it's a longer drive (around 3-4 hours one way) making it a very long day trip or an overnight stay. It's a full-day exploration once there, focusing on relaxation and photography. Both destinations are best enjoyed in late spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Çıralı can be accessed by regional bus to Olympos junction then taxi, but Lake Salda strongly requires a car or organized tour.