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Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha) | May 27–30, 2026: One of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar.
Expect family gatherings, a highly festive atmosphere, and bustling evening markets. Note: Ensure you book intercity transport well in advance during these dates.
Side Mythology & Art Festival | Late May 2026: Combining classical theater and local legend, this event features mythology-themed plays, open-air art displays, and interpretive dance shows winding through the ruins of Side.
Summer (June – August)
Side Ancient Theatre Summer Concerts | June – August 2026: This is the crown jewel of the region's cultural calendar. The world-famous Roman amphitheater hosts major international classical soloists, jazz ensembles, and the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet. Watching a performance here under the stars with the ancient stone backlit is unforgettable.
Side Beach Music Festival | July 2026: For a more contemporary vibe, head to Kumköy or Side beach for multi-day electronic, pop, and reggae beach parties featuring local and international DJs.
Manavgat Riverside Summer Events | August 2026: Taking advantage of the cooler evening air by the river, this festival brings pop-up food zones, independent film screenings, and live acoustic sets to the river banks.
Autumn (September – October)
Side Civilization & Culture Festival | September 2026: Focused heavily on the region’s rich archaeological heritage, this event hosts open archaeology workshops, historical lectures, and curated exhibitions near the old harbor.
Side Mediterranean Tastes Festival | October 2026: A food-lover's paradise highlighting Aegean and Mediterranean cuisine.
Expect extra-virgin olive oil tastings, gourmet menus from top local chefs, and workshops on traditional Turkish mezes.
🏛️ Essential Things to Do & Historic Sights
If you want to step away from the festival crowds, Manavgat offers incredible historical and natural landmarks.
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| TOP HISTORIC SITES |
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| Temple of Apollo | Sunset views over the Mediterranean Sea |
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| Side Ancient Amphitheater| Massive Roman-era architecture & concert venue |
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| Lyrbe (Seleucia) | Secluded mountain ruins with panoramic vistas |
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Explore Side Ancient City
Just a 10-minute drive or local dolmuş (shared minibus) ride from the center of Manavgat lies the ancient peninsula of Side. You can walk through massive Roman gateways, explore the old colonnaded streets, and visit the Temple of Apollo. The classic move here is to head to the temple ruins at dusk—the view of the white columns silhouetted against a brilliant Mediterranean sunset is unmatched.
Hide Out in Lyrbe Ancient City (Seleucia)
If you want to escape the main tourist track, head 15 kilometers north into the Taurus Mountains to find Lyrbe. Tucked away inside a peaceful pine forest, these mountain-top ruins are incredibly well-preserved. You can explore the ancient agora, Roman baths, and city walls in relative solitude while taking in panoramic views of the entire valley below.
🌲 Nature & Outdoor Adventure
Manavgat's unique geography—stretching from high mountain canyons down to the sea—makes it an absolute playground for adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts.
Whitewater Rafting in Köprülü Canyon National Park
This is the ultimate day trip from Manavgat. The Köprüçay River cuts through a jaw-dropping, 100-meter-deep canyon surrounded by cedar forests. Local adventure companies offer fully guided whitewater rafting packages that take you paddling through bright turquoise waters.
Most trips also bundle in options for ziplining, ATV buggy safaris through the mud, and a traditional riverside lunch of fresh trout.
Cruise the Manavgat River & Waterfall
The Manavgat Waterfall is a wide, low-dropping cascade that pumps a massive volume of water, creating a cool mist that is incredibly refreshing in the summer heat. Take a riverboat cruise from the town center down to the delta—the unique spot where the cold river water empties right into the warm Mediterranean Sea.
It is one of the few places where you can jump off the boat and swim in fresh and saltwater back-to-back.
🛍️ Local Culture & Shopping
Haggle at the Manavgat Grand Bazaar
To experience local life at its most chaotic and vibrant, visit the Manavgat Market. While a covered market is open daily, the massive open-air market takes place every Monday and Thursday.
Traders from remote mountain villages travel down loaded with fresh figs, heaps of aromatic spices, local cheeses, and textiles.
Pro Tip: Polite bargaining is entirely expected here. If you are looking for authentic souvenirs, skip the generic trinkets and look for high-quality Turkish leather goods, local olive oils, or hand-woven pestemals (Turkish bath towels).
Experience an Authentic Hamam
After a long day of hiking or rafting, book a traditional Turkish bath (hamam).
Local spots like the Ece Hamam offer the classic ritual: relaxing in a high-domed, marble steam room, followed by an intense full-body exfoliating scrub with a raw silk mitt, and finishing with a relaxing olive-oil soap foam massage. It is the ultimate way to recharge before heading back out for an evening concert.