Once the proud capital of Pamphylia, Perge is a dream for hikers and history buffs alike.
Entering through the iconic circular Hellenistic towers, you can walk down a 500-meter-long marble-paved avenue that still features a water canal running right down the middle to keep the ancient city cool. Look closely at the ground along the side streets to spot original Roman floor mosaics in the old shop stalls.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites Near Side (Day Trips)
While Side and its immediate neighbors are currently on Turkey's tentative list for UNESCO status, you can easily visit official UNESCO World Heritage Sites on a full-day excursion from the area.
Hierapolis-Pamukkale (UNESCO Cultural & Natural Site)
Located about a 3.5-hour drive inland from Side, this breathtaking destination combines natural wonders with deep history.
The Travertines: Over thousands of years, calcium-rich thermal springs have created cascading terraces of brilliant white limestone pools that look like an absolute fortress of ice.
Hierapolis: Built right on top of the springs, this ancient Greco-Roman spa city features a massive necropolis (cemetery) with over 1,200 tombs, a grand theater, and the famous "Cleopatra’s Pool," where you can swim in warm mineral waters directly above fallen Roman columns.
Xanthos-Letoon (UNESCO Cultural Site)
Situated further west along the coast, this site represents the heart of the ancient Lycian civilization—the world's first known democratic union. Xanthos serves as the historic capital, showcasing remarkable rock-cut tombs and towering pillar monuments, while nearby Letoon functions as the sanctuary sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Leto.
At-a-Glance Travel Guide
Destination Distance from Side Primary Era Must-See Feature
Side Old Town 0 km Roman / Byzantine Temple of Apollo & Vaulted Theater
Aspendos ~30 km Roman Incredibly intact 15,000-seat theater
Perge ~45 km Hellenistic / Roman Colonnaded street with central water channel
Hierapolis-Pamukkale ~240 km Roman / Natural White mineral terraces & Cleopatra's Pool
