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Side is easy to reach from Antalya Airport and simple to get around by dolmus bus. This guide covers the practical details: transfers, money, tipping, visas, safety, and answers to the questions travellers ask most. It is part of our Side travel guide.
Side Travel Tips: Getting There and Airport Transfers
Antalya Airport (AYT) is the main gateway, about 65 km (40 miles) west of Side, roughly a one-hour drive. A private transfer costs about 45 to 60 euro, a shared shuttle around 15 to 20 euro per person, and a public bus via Manavgat is cheaper but slower with luggage. Gazipasa Airport (GZP), about 90 km east, serves some budget flights. Manavgat is the nearest of the Side neighborhoods to the airport bus routes. There is no train to Side; buses and transfers are the only airport options.
Side Travel Tips: Getting Around
Dolmus minibuses run the coastal road constantly, linking Side to Kumkoy, Titreyengol, and Manavgat for about 30 TL a ride, with services every 10 to 15 minutes in season. The old town is pedestrian-only and small enough to walk. Taxis are metered and readily available at the harbour. A rental car is useful for the things to do in Side day trips to Aspendos, Perge, and Koprulu Canyon, from about 35 euro a day.
Side Travel Tips: Money, Tipping, and Costs
Turkey uses the lira (TRY), and cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, though small shops and the dolmus prefer cash. Tip 10 percent in restaurants if service is not already included, round up taxi fares, and leave 50 to 100 TL for hotel staff at the end of a stay. A mid-range dinner for two in the old town runs 600 to 1,000 TL, and a large bottle of water costs about 10 to 15 TL. For cheaper travel months, see the best time to visit Side guide.
Side Travel Tips: Safety, Health, and Visas
Side is a safe, low-crime resort town, but watch your belongings on crowded beaches and in markets. Tap water is treated but most visitors drink bottled water. July and August sun is intense, with highs of 33 C and frequent heatwaves, as the Side weather by month page details, so use high-factor sunscreen and avoid the midday heat. Most visitors enter Turkey with an e-Visa obtained online (about US$50 for US and UK passport holders), while EU and several other citizens enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
Side Travel Tips: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Side safe to visit?
Yes. Side is a busy resort town with low crime rates and a heavy police and gendarme presence in season. Normal precautions, watching bags at the beach and in the market, are all you need.
Can I drink the tap water in Side?
Tap water is treated and safe for brushing teeth, but most residents and visitors drink bottled water, which costs around 10 to 15 TL for 1.5 litres. Use bottled water for drinking.
How far is Side from Antalya Airport?
About 65 km, or roughly one hour by car or private transfer. A shared shuttle takes around 90 minutes with hotel drop-offs.
Do I need a visa for Turkey?
Many nationalities need a Turkey e-Visa, applied online before travel and valid for 180 days. EU citizens and several others enter visa-free. Check the official e-Visa site for your passport before booking.
Suggested Hotels in Side
Many visitors book their September stay early to catch the Side events and festivals season. For the full area-by-area breakdown, see the where to stay in Side guide; these three hotels cover the luxury, mid-range, and budget ends of the market.
Barut Hemera – Ultra All Inclusive
A five-star ultra all-inclusive near Kumkoy Beach with multiple pools, restaurants, and a spa. Best for families and couples who want a top-end all-inclusive. Check rates and availability
Side Amour Hotel
A four-star boutique in the old town, close to the ancient theatre and harbour. Best for couples who want to stay inside the ruins. Check rates and availability
Merve Sun Hotel & SPA
A three-star with a pool and private beach section about 2 km from the centre. Best for budget-conscious beachgoers. Check rates and availability
