Historical and Natural Places to See During Your Holiday in Side
Day Trips in Side: Surrounding Natural and Historical Beauties
In addition to being a paradise full of historical and natural beauties, Side is also a perfect starting point for day trips with the unique destinations around it. While on holiday in Side, there are many places worth exploring in the surrounding area. Here are the day trips you can take around Side and the natural and historical beauties you can see during these trips.
1. Aspendos Ancient City and Theater
Aspendos Theater
Located only 45 kilometers from Side, Aspendos is home to one of the best-preserved theaters of the ancient world. Aspendos Theatre, built in the 2nd century BC, attracts attention with its capacity of 15,000 people. This theater, which impresses its visitors with its magnificent acoustics and fascinating architecture, still hosts various concerts and events today. During your trip to Aspendos, you can explore the ancient city ruins as well as the theater.
Aspendos Aqueduct
One of the other important structures of Aspendos is the Aspendos Aqueduct. This magnificent structure allowed water to be transported to the city in ancient times. The size and engineering marvel of the Aspendos Aqueduct attracts the admiration of visitors. Other ruins of the ancient city include theatre, agora and stadium.
2. Perge Ancient City
History of Perge
Perge Ancient City, located approximately 60 kilometers from Side, is one of the important centers of the ancient Pamphylia region. Founded in the 3rd century BC, this ancient city is full of ruins from the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods. During your day trip to Perge, you can follow the traces of the ancient world and witness history.
Perge Theater and Stadium
Among the must-see structures in the Ancient City of Perge are the theater and the stadium. While Perge Theater draws attention with its 12,000-person capacity and well-preserved structure, the stadium hosted sports events of the Roman period. In addition, the main street, agora and baths of the ancient city are among other important structures that will attract the attention of visitors.
3. Manavgat Waterfall
The Miracle of Nature: Manavgat Waterfall
Manavgat Waterfall, located only 10 kilometers away from Side, is one of the most popular natural beauties of the region. This impressive waterfall formed by the Manavgat River is an ideal getaway for nature lovers. You can relax in the cool waters of the waterfall and have a pleasant time in the surrounding picnic areas.
Boat Tours on Manavgat River
You can complete your day trip to Manavgat Waterfall with boat tours on the Manavgat River. During these tours, you can observe the natural life and take swimming breaks in the river while exploring the unique views of the river. Boat tours usually include lunch and drinks.
4. Alanya Castle and Dim Cave
Alanya Castle
Located approximately 65 kilometers from Side, Alanya is a holiday destination famous for both its historical and natural beauties. Alanya Castle is one of the most important historical buildings of the region. This castle from the Seljuk period fascinates its visitors with its magnificent sea view and historical texture. When you go up to the castle, you can enjoy the panoramic view of Alanya.
Dim Cave
Another natural beauty of Alanya is Dim Cave. Located 12 kilometers away from the center of Alanya, this cave is the second largest cave in Turkey. Dim Cave, which is 360 meters long, is famous for its stalactites and stalagmites. You can explore this natural wonder by walking inside the cave.
5. Köprülü Canyon National Park
Adventure and Nature: Köprülü Canyon
Located approximately 70 kilometers from Side, Köprülü Canyon National Park is an ideal destination for nature and adventure lovers. The 14-kilometer-long canyon is a perfect place for rafting and nature walks. Rafting tours on the Köprüçay River offer both a fun and adrenaline-filled experience.
Ancient Bridges and Historical Ruins
Köprülü Canyon has not only natural beauties but also historical ruins. Especially Oluk Bridge and Bugrum Bridge, dating back to the Roman period, are among the structures that attract the attention of visitors. These bridges connected the two sides of the canyon in ancient times.
6. Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City
Mysterious Ancient City: Seleukeia
The Ancient City of Seleukeia (Lyrbe), located approximately 15 kilometers from Side, is a mysterious place that offers historical and natural beauties together. This ancient city, hidden in the forest area, offers a peaceful exploration opportunity away from the crowds. In Seleukeia, you can see structures such as the ancient theater, agora, bath and cistern.
An Exploration Intertwined with Nature
Seleukeia Ancient City is also an ideal destination for those who love hiking, as it is located among natural beauties. By walking through the forest, you can discover ancient ruins and enjoy nature.
7. Sagalassos Ancient City
The Fascinating Ruins of Sagalassos
Located a little further from Side, approximately 120 kilometers away, the Ancient City of Sagalassos is an important settlement of the Pisidia region. Perched on a high mountain slope, this ancient city offers impressive views and well-preserved ruins. Structures such as the agora, theater and Antonine Fountain of Sagalassos offer great opportunities to trace the traces of history.
Sagalassos Walking Routes
There are many routes around the Sagalassos Ancient City where you can take nature walks. During these walks, you can both see ancient ruins and discover the natural beauties of the region.
Conclusion: Explore Side with Day Trips
Side, in addition to being a fascinating holiday destination in itself, also offers a rich discovery route with the historical and natural beauties around it. Places such as Aspendos, Perge, Manavgat Waterfall, Alanya Castle, Köprülü Canyon, Seleukeia and Sagalassos are great destinations that you can explore with day trips while on holiday in Side. These trips, intertwined with both history and nature, will add unforgettable memories to your holiday.
