Turkey

How to get from Antalya to Side

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

⏱
FASTEST
0h 57min
💶
From
4€
📍
Distance
62 km
Powered by 12Go system

There are 1 way(s) to get from Antalya to Side

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Antalya
📍The main departure point in Antalya is the Antalya Otogar (Intercity Bus Terminal). It's a large, modern facility with various bus company offices, food stalls, and waiting areas. You'll find it well-organized and easy to navigate, even for first-time visitors.
🚇You can reach the Antalya Otogar from the city center via the AntRay tram line. Take the tram towards Fatih, and get off at the 'Otogar' station. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes and costs a few Turkish Lira. Taxis are also readily available, costing around €5-10 depending on your starting point.
⏰Buses from Antalya to Side run very frequently throughout the day, usually every 15-30 minutes during peak hours. The first departures start early in the morning (around 6:00 AM), and services continue until late in the evening (around 10:00 PM).
💸 Transport from 4€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 0h 57min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

💡
No need to book ahead for Antalya-Side

For this short, frequent route, you can usually just turn up at the Antalya bus terminal (Otogar) and buy your ticket on the spot. Buses depart very regularly, so you won't experience long waits. This flexibility is a great perk for independent travelers.

💡
Identify your bus

Look for buses with 'Side' or 'Manavgat' (Side is a district of Manavgat) displayed on the front window. If in doubt, simply ask the staff or other passengers at the bus station; Turks are generally very helpful.

💡
Keep local currency handy

While some larger operators accept cards, for local routes like Antalya to Side, it's always best to have Turkish Lira in small denominations. This makes transactions smoother and quicker, especially when buying tickets directly from the bus driver or at small kiosks.

💡
Consider a 'dolmuş' for the final stretch

Buses from Antalya will drop you at the main Side/Manavgat Otogar, which is a few kilometers from the ancient city center. From there, you can easily catch a local 'dolmuş' (shared minibus) to take you directly into Side's historical heart or to your accommodation.

💡
Pack light for easy transfers

Since you might be transferring from the main bus station to your final destination in Side via dolmuş, having lighter luggage will make your journey much more comfortable and hassle-free. A backpack or a small suitcase is ideal.

🛣️ The journey experience

Traveling from Antalya to Side? This short hop is a classic example of Türkiye's efficient local bus network. Forget about flights or ferries for this one – the coach is by far your smartest and most practical choice, offering a direct and comfortable ride. You'll quickly see that for many routes along the Mediterranean coast, the bus truly shines, even if you're used to longer hauls across the country.

Your journey from Antalya to Side is straightforward. Expect to pay around €4 for your ticket, and the trip itself takes roughly an hour. Multiple local operators run this route frequently throughout the day, ensuring you won't have long to wait. These buses are designed for short to medium distances, so while they might not have the luxurious 2+1 seating of long-haul coaches, they are perfectly comfortable and reliable for this quick transfer.

While Türkiye has an incredible bus network, it's crucial to know when to stick to the coaches and when a domestic flight makes more sense for those vast distances. For a route like Antalya to Side, the bus is the undisputed champion – it's cheap, fast, and takes you almost door-to-door. Save your flight considerations for the huge eastern journeys like Istanbul to Van, and enjoy the convenience of local buses for coastal connections.

Frequently asked questions — Antalya → Side

✨ Why visit Side?

  • ✓ Explore the majestic Temple of Apollo and Athena at sunset.
  • ✓ Wander through the ancient Roman amphitheater and marvel at its scale.
  • ✓ Relax on Side's beautiful sandy beaches and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.
  • ✓ Visit the Side Museum, housed in a restored Roman bathhouse, to see local artifacts.
  • ✓ Stroll along the charming harbor, lined with restaurants and shops.
🌙
Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights — sufficient time to explore historical sites and enjoy the beaches.

☀️ When to visit Side?

MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATE

April to June or September to October — pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and beach activities without extreme heat.

Jan 😞
Feb 😞
Mar 😐
Apr 😊
May 😊
Jun 😊
Jul 😊
Aug 😊
Sep 😊
Oct 😊
Nov 😐
Dec 😞
📍
In Side — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Side
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Side?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
🏛️
Temple of Apollo and Athena
Witness the iconic columns of the Temple of Apollo, especially breathtaking at sunset. Located right by the harbor, these ancient ruins offer a perfect blend of history and scenic beauty. Arrive just before dusk to capture stunning photos and avoid the main crowds; access is free and open 24/7.
🛕
Side Ancient City Ruins
Explore the extensive archaeological site including the impressive Roman theatre, agora, and city walls. This open-air museum provides a deep dive into Side's rich past. Wear comfortable shoes and allocate at least half a day. Entry to the main theatre and museum is around 10-15€, while walking through much of the city is free.
🛍️
Side Old Town Shopping
Wander through the narrow streets of Side's old town, lined with shops selling souvenirs, local crafts, and textiles. It's a vibrant atmosphere perfect for a stroll and some bargain hunting. Practice your negotiation skills for better prices, especially in the late afternoon when it's cooler and less crowded.
🏖️
Relax at Side East Beach
Enjoy the golden sands and calm waters of Side East Beach, a more tranquil alternative to the busier West Beach. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or a leisurely walk. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, typically costing around 5-10€ for the day.
🍽️
Seafood by the Harbor
Savor fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants overlooking Side Harbor, offering picturesque views, especially during sunset. Choose a place where fish is displayed fresh on ice. Expect to pay around 20-30€ per person for a main course and drinks, a worthwhile treat for the setting.
⛵
Boat Trip Manavgat River
Embark on a relaxing boat trip up the Manavgat River, often combined with a visit to the Manavgat Waterfall and a local bazaar. It's a refreshing escape from the heat and offers different scenic perspectives. Tours typically start from 20€ per person and include lunch; book in advance during peak season.
🚶
Walk to Side Lighthouse
Take a leisurely walk along the coastal path leading to the iconic Side Lighthouse. This offers fantastic panoramic views of the ancient city and the Mediterranean Sea. It's best enjoyed in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun. Access is free and a great photo opportunity.
🏺
Side Museum Exploration
Discover the archaeological treasures of Side at the Side Museum, housed within the ancient Roman bathhouse. It provides excellent context for the ruins you'll visit around the city. Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit. Entry is typically included with the ancient city ticket, or around 5-7€ separately.

⏱️ How long to visit Side?

3 to 5 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 3 to 5 days are ideal to fully explore Side's historical sites, relax on its beaches, and enjoy the local atmosphere. Allocate 2 full days for archaeology and a day for the beach; extend if you plan day trips. Don't rush, immerse yourself.

Related searches

bus Antalya Side how to get from Antalya to Side ticket price Antalya to Side travel time Antalya to Side travel to Turkey

Other trips from Antalya

Book now