Ancient Side is one of the most rewarding day trips from Alanya, and November is a comfortable time to walk among its ruins without the summer heat. The town lies roughly 60 to 70 km west of Alanya, about an hour along the coastal road. The real question is how to get there: join a guided tour or take the wheel yourself? Both work well, but they suit different kinds of travellers.
The guided tour: everything in one day
On our Hidden Paradise and Ancient Side tour, you are collected from your hotel and travel to Manavgat by open-top bus. The day includes:
- A visit to the Manavgat Külliye Mosque.
- A guided walk through ancient Side of about 1 hour 15 minutes, followed by about 45 minutes of free time.
- Lunch and a forest walk at the three-tier Hidden Paradise waterfall in the Taurus foothills.
The whole trip takes about 8 hours, with guiding in Turkish, English, German and Russian. Hidden Paradise also has a swimming break, although in November the water will be for the brave, and many guests may prefer simply to enjoy the scenery. Bring a warm layer for the open-top bus.
The rental car: your own timetable
With a car you decide when to leave and how long to stay. You can linger around the Temple of Apollo at sunset, take a long lunch at the harbour or add a stop at Manavgat Waterfall on the way. For families with small children, or for anyone carrying extra bags, having your own vehicle also makes the day simpler. Keep in mind that the old town of Side is largely pedestrian, so plan to park outside the centre and walk in. You can see the available models on our rent a car page.
Which one should you choose?
- Choose the tour if you want a guide to explain the history, prefer not to drive and would like to see the waterfall and Side in a single, organised day.
- Choose the car if you value flexibility, travel with children or want to explore several places around Manavgat at your own pace.
A few tips for November
Wear comfortable shoes for the uneven ancient stones and pack a light rain jacket, as autumn showers are possible. Days are shorter, so if you drive, leave early enough to finish your sightseeing in daylight. Tour days and current prices are shown on the booking page, and the same applies to car availability, so check the dates that suit you before making your plans.