From Alanya: city of Side Highlights Walking Tour

From Alanya: City of Side Highlights Walking Tour — A Deep Dive into Ancient Turkey

If you’re looking for a way to connect with Turkey’s long-standing history without feeling like you’re trudging through a museum on your own, this Side Highlights Walking Tour offers a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and manageable walking. Starting from Alanya, a lively coastal town, the tour takes you to the ancient city of Side, where Roman-era ruins sit just a short drive away. The highlight is the guided exploration of Side’s most iconic monuments like the Temple of Apollo, the Ancient Theater, and the Temple of Athena.

What really makes this experience stand out? First, the opportunity to see Side’s archaeological sites with an expert guide—their insights bring the stones to life. Second, the chance to combine a cultural walk with some time on the Mediterranean beaches, adding a relaxing seaside vibe to your historical sightseeing.

A potential consideration is the price, which includes transportation and entrance fees but does not cover lunch or drinks, so you’ll want to factor that into your planning. Also, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to meet your guide at the designated starting point in Alanya. Still, for a full-day, well-structured tour, the value here can be quite good, especially if you’re keen on authentic ruins and historical stories.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Expert Local Guides: The guides offer detailed insights into Side’s history, making the ruins more meaningful.
• Comfortable Transportation: The bus ride from Alanya to Side is short, with scenic views of the bay en route.
• Historical Highlights: Focus on key sites like the Temple of Apollo, Roman Theater, and Temple of Athena, with plenty of time for photos.
• Includes Entry Fees: Entrance to the Side Museum and the Ancient Theater are covered, helping to keep costs transparent.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later, adds peace of mind.
• Group Size: Private groups mean a more tailored experience, avoiding large tour crowds.

Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Side

The tour kicks off in Alanya at the Dolmus Bussiashina, right next to a fountain, which is a straightforward meeting point. When I read that the tour is a 6-hour journey, I appreciated how the timing allows for a thorough yet relaxed exploration. You’ll hop on a comfortable bus from the renowned Domus bus company, making the transfer from Alanya to Side quick and hassle-free.

Once in Side, the first stop is the Temple of Apollo, famous for its impressive standing columns facing the sea. This is arguably the most iconic symbol of the city, and I love how the guide might tell stories about how this temple once served as a religious center. You’re encouraged to climb to the top tier of the Roman Theater, which rewards visitors with sweeping views of the Taurus Mountains—a perfect backdrop for photos. Several reviews mention that the theater’s vantage point alone is worth the trip.

The temples of Athena and Apollo are within easy walking distance, and the guide’s commentary helps situate these ruins in their historical context. A nice touch is the inclusion of the Side Museum entrance, where you can see artifacts from the area, adding depth to your understanding. One visitor noted, “The guide, whose name I believe was Serdar, made the history engaging and accessible.”

What to Expect During the Day

The guided walk around Side’s ruins is quite manageable, even for those who don’t consider themselves particularly fit. The streets are cobbled and ancient, but not overly strenuous. Expect to stroll through a lively town filled with small shops and cafes, giving you a sense of daily life in an ancient city.

Aside from the ruins, the tour includes time at the Mediterranean beaches—a chance to dip your toes in the sea if the weather permits, or just relax and enjoy the view. This is a good way to break up the sightseeing and add a leisure element to the day.

While the lunch and drinks are not included, the tour suggests that you budget around 25 TL (about 4 EUR) per person if you want to grab a meal or refreshment. There are plenty of cafes nearby, so it’s easy to find a spot for a quick bite after the historical walk.

The Value of Guided Exploration

The cost of $816 for a group of up to 10 might seem steep at first glance, but it’s important to consider what’s included: transportation, entrance fees, and an expert guide. For travelers who want an informative, hassle-free experience that covers the key sites efficiently, this tour offers solid value.

The private group aspect means you won’t be jostling with large crowds, and your guide can tailor the narrative somewhat to your interests. Plus, the small group size often leads to more meaningful conversations and questions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts eager to see Side’s Roman and Greek ruins with an insightful guide. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate a structured tour that takes care of logistics but still offers a personal touch. If you’re on a tight schedule but want a rundown of Side’s highlights, this tour fits the bill.

However, keep in mind it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. It’s best for those who don’t mind a full day’s outing and are comfortable with a bus ride from Alanya.

Practical Tips and Final Thoughts

The meeting point in Alanya at the bus station is easy to find, but double-check the starting time when booking, as they vary. I recommend bringing a hat, water, and sunscreen for the walking portions, especially in summer. The guide’s insights about the ruins and local stories can turn a simple walk into a memorable history lesson—just ask questions if you’re curious.

While the price doesn’t include lunch, the overall expense is quite reasonable given the included entrance fees and transportation. If you’re traveling with family or a small group, splitting the cost can make it even more attractive.

This tour isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about experiencing the essence of Side—its ancient stones, seaside views, and stories told with passion. For those interested in history, archaeology, or just soaking up authentic local culture, it offers a value-packed, enjoyable day.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, transportation by the Domus bus company from and back to Alanya is included.

What is the meeting point?
You’ll meet your guide at Dolmus Bussiasema, right next to the fountain in Alanya.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, it includes entrance to the Side Museum and the Ancient Theater.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You might want to budget around 4 EUR per person for lunch.

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 6 hours.

Is this a private group?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups of up to 10 people for a more personalized experience.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Turkish, German, and Russian.

Do I need to book early?
Yes, it’s advisable to check availability and reserve ahead, especially during peak season.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, and sunscreen are recommended.

In the end, this Side Highlights Walking Tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to see some of Turkey’s most captivating ancient ruins without the fuss of planning every detail yourself. Whether you’re a history lover or just curious about the Roman and Greek past of this coastal town, it delivers a meaningful glimpse into the life and architecture of ancient Side.