Explore Ancient Wonders: Side’s Ruins & Pamukkale Day Trip
Turkey is famous for its rich history, but there are few places where the ancient world feels quite as alive as it does in Side. With its Roman theater overlooking the sea and crumbling columns lining sun-drenched streets, Side is more than just a beach town—it’s an open-air museum. And if you’re up for a day trip, the surreal white terraces of Pamukkale offer yet another window into Turkey’s remarkable past.
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves blending sunshine with storytelling, this one’s for you.
Walk Through History in the Heart of Side
You don’t need to visit a museum to get a sense of the past here. Just take a walk through the center of Side, and you’ll be greeted by ancient Roman roads, temples, and city gates that have stood for nearly two thousand years. The theater, once home to 15,000 spectators, is still remarkably intact—and even hosts performances today.
What makes Side especially captivating is how history and modern life intertwine. You might find yourself sipping a coffee in a café built beside a Roman arch or watching the sunset behind the Temple of Apollo, a spot that becomes almost magical in the evening light.
The Magic of Pamukkale: A Perfect Day Trip
If you’re staying in Side for more than a few days, a day trip to Pamukkale is well worth your time. Known for its terraced white travertine pools, Pamukkale looks like something from a dream. People have come here for centuries to bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters—first the Romans, and now curious travelers from around the world.
But Pamukkale isn’t just about pretty landscapes. Right above the terraces lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, with its vast necropolis, ancient theater, and a “Cleopatra Pool” where you can swim among fallen marble columns. It’s a full-day journey from Side, but one that offers unforgettable contrasts of nature and culture.
How to Make the Most of It
For Side’s ruins, early morning or late afternoon walks are best. Not only is the light beautiful for photos, but the heat is more manageable, especially if you’re traveling with children.
When visiting Pamukkale, consider joining a guided day tour so you don’t have to worry about transport or logistics. Most tours include breakfast, lunch, and entrance fees, and having a guide makes a big difference in understanding what you’re seeing—not just looking at stones, but hearing the stories behind them.
And yes, don’t forget your swimwear if you want to take a dip in the travertines or the Cleopatra Pool!
A Journey That Feeds the Mind
Both Side and Pamukkale offer something rare in modern travel: a sense of awe. These aren’t just “things to see”—they’re places that make you stop, breathe, and imagine the lives of those who walked these paths long before us.
So if you’re visiting Side and want more than beach time, consider carving out a day for ancient wonders. It might just be the highlight of your trip.