My girlfriend Anja and I spent two wonderful weeks in Side, a sunny resort town on Turkey’s southern coast. The weather was perfect for long beach days and strolls along the ancient harbor, and we loved sampling authentic Turkish food at seaside restaurants and family-run cafés.
Side’s mix of golden beaches and archaeological sites made the trip feel both relaxing and culturally rich. We wandered past the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, watched spectacular sunsets over the Mediterranean, and explored the old town’s narrow streets and lively promenade.
A highlight was a day trip to the Manavgat Waterfalls. The short drive from Side delivers a refreshing contrast to the beach—lush scenery, cool mist, and photo-ready viewpoints. Boat trips on the Manavgat River are also a great way to unwind and take in the scenery