Located in the southern Mediterranean coast of Turkey, Side is a beautiful resort town. It is known for its Greco-Roman ruins and long beaches.
Ancient ruins
Located on Turkey's beautiful Mediterranean Coast, Side is an important archaeological site. The ancient city was built on a peninsula in the coastal area of Manavgat District. The city was founded in the 7th century BC by Greek settlers from Cyme in Aeolis. It was a cultural centre and a trade centre in the Pamphylia region.
In the second century BC, the Seleucid Empire occupied Side. The city was later sacked by an Arab fleet. The Arabs ransacked most of the city and the local population moved to Antalya. In 78 BC, the Roman consul Publius Servilius liberated the region from the pirates.
A few years later, Alexander the Great occupied the city without any trouble. He was the first ruler to introduce the people of Side to Hellenistic culture.
Manavgat waterfall
Located in the region of Manavgat, Turkey, Manavgat Waterfall is a popular attraction for tourists. The waterfall is surrounded by pine trees and is a popular recreation area for visitors. It is also a part of a broader region of archeological interest.
The waterfall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a popular stop on tours of ancient cities, such as Side, Antalya, and Aspendos. Aside from the waterfall, visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the local landscapes. During high season, the waterfall is open daily.
To visit the waterfall, tourists can choose to travel by minibus, taxi, or public transport. Taxis are the cheapest and most convenient way to get to the waterfall. The trip takes about an hour. The cost of a taxi can range from $12 to $15, depending on the number of passengers.
Roman bathhouse building
Besides the obvious purpose of bathing, Romans had an entire complex of facilities to help them maintain their health and fitness. These facilities included palaestra gymnasiums, saunas, massage rooms, libraries, sports fields, and shops.
Most cities had Thermae, public baths that were open to visitors. In many places, the water was heated by a log fire under the floor. The walls of the bathhouses were also constructed with hollow spaces, called hypocausts, which were able to channel the hot air through the walls. The heated water was then distributed through special chambers.
There were three main entrances to the bathhouse. The principal entrance was located in a narrow footway, separate from the street. There were two women's baths and one men's bath. There was a separate entrance for slaves. The slaves carried the master's towels and oil.
White-water rafting
Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just want to get a taste of the action, white-water rafting in Side, Turkey is the perfect adventure. From class II to IV rapids, there's something for everyone.
First, make sure you have a life vest. You don't want to be thrown out of the raft and into the river! Wear one that fits your body type and is rated for your height and weight.
If you're not a seasoned paddler, you'll need a guiding partner to make sure you don't miss a trick. You'll need to be prepared to ask questions, learn how to use your equipment and follow safety instructions.
You should also wear a helmet. If you fall out of the raft, you'll be in serious trouble. A helmet can protect you from injuries that can cause a fatality.
Day trip to Antalya
Located on the Mediterranean Coast, Antalya offers many day trips to explore the surrounding area. Among these day trips are those to the ancient ruins in Kaleici, the Taurus Mountains, Side, and Manavgat Waterfalls.
The Taurus Mountains span 350 miles and offer some of the best hiking and climbing destinations in Turkey. The Tunektepe cable car will take you to the top of the mountain and you can enjoy cafes and restaurants at the top.
You can also visit the famous Aspendos archaeological site, which was built in the second and third centuries. This is one of the most important tourist attractions in Turkey. There is a theater here which is said to seat up to 15,000 people.
Antalya's old harbor is full of boutiques and cafes. The city was once one of the biggest ports in the Byzantine period. It is home to the Clock Tower, which is the only remaining tower from over 80 that once surrounded the town.