Gemiler Turkey: visit the island of St. Nicholas
May 23, 2022
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The very pleasant Mediterranean climate, expansive beaches and poopy resorts make Side in Turkey a popular vacation destination for true sun worshippers. But did you know that this archaeological pearl with its atmospheric city center is also more than suitable for a nice day trip? For example, as a trip from the Turkish resort of Alanya. In this article I give you my best tips to do in Side!
1. Visit Side as a day trip from Alanya
Are you staying in Alanya And want to discover more of the Turkish Riviera? Take the bus! Every half hour a shuttle bus leaves from Alanya, which takes you for 80 Turkish lira (converted about €4, -) to Side. Super convenient and a lot cheaper than taking a cab.Â
Also read: The most beautiful sights in Alanya
A sun vacation to Alanya is very popular among the Dutch. You will find fine beaches and can enjoy many hours of sunshine, but did you know that there are also many particularly beautiful sights?
2. Imagine yourself in classical antiquity
Today Side is one of the most popular seaside resorts on the Turkish Riviera, but did you know that it has a rich history dating back to the seventh century BC? Ancient Side was founded by Greek settlers, but later came into the hands of the Persians, Alexander the Great and the Romans respectively. Precisely this mishmash of peoples and cultures has given the port city a magical and extremely interesting character. And although unfortunately not everything has been preserved, you can still find countless archaeological treasures in and around the city center. So there is plenty to admire, but the ancient amphitheater and the famous Temple of Apollo are particularly worth a visit.Â
3. Dining in Side during sunset
Traveling with a true history freak (and I mean that affectionately) means getting history facts thrown at your head all the time, which is how I know that Apollo was a multi-faceted god. The Greek sun god, who was also worshiped by the Romans, also ruled over shepherds, with their flocks, the good, the beautiful, (poetry) art, music, culture, prophecy, medicine and healing. He ensured order and peace, administered justice and, as if his duties were not extensive enough, he also proved to be a skilled war god. Right next to the ruins of "his" temple you will find Liman, where you can not only dine (romantically) in the light of the setting sun, but also sample Side's nightlife.Â
Another fun historical fact: Side means pomegranate in Anatolian. And no, this name was not chosen at random; in fact, pomegranates represent fertility and abundance.Â
4. Explore off the beaten path
In the city center of Side there is no shortage of tourist stores and terraces, but be sure to take a walk around the old center. For me the perfect way to escape the bustle of the day and not only that: everywhere you can find hidden gems, such as the beach at Zula Side.Â
5. Dining out at Dedem: a heaven for carnivores
Just a stone's throw from Side, you'll find under a sea of bougainvillea: Dedem, a traditional Turkish meat restaurant with a unique concept. You choose a piece of meat from the showcase and it is prepared for you on the spot. Can't choose from all this deliciousness? Ask for a combination of different meats and the chef will prepare a nice sharing plate for you.Â
Our favorite places to stay in Side
Side is without a doubt a wonderful resort to stay at during a well-deserved sun vacation. The range of hotels in Side is therefore very large. You will find large all-inclusive resorts, but also cozy and cute hotels. A fine travel company with a wide range of vacations to Side is Corendon. View their complete range of hotels in Side.
Marlissa de Kok
A traveling master of law with a passion for writing and a hefty dose of aesthetics. Captures enviable images with her overpriced iPhone and drags her baby blue Polaroid camera everywhere she goes. Started her travel adventure in luxury all-in resorts and occasionally ends up under a starry sky in the Sahara.
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