Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City — Visitor Guide 2026
A Pamphylian mountain city in the pine forest above Manavgat, with a well-preserved agora and city gate.
The ruins of Seleukeia (Lyrbe) lie in pine forest 18 km north-east of Side — about 30 minutes by car — and 12 km from Manavgat. Entrance fee and opening hours: [DOĞRULANACAK]. The site is best known for its well-preserved agora and the southern city walls with a monumental gate.
Unlike most Pamphylian cities, which were built on the coast, this one sat on a plateau in the hills. The name Seleukeia is traditionally linked to Seleucus I Nicator, one of Alexander the Great’s generals; many scholars today identify the ruins with the city of Lyrbe, which is why both names are used.
Deep ravines protect the city on three sides, so only the southern walls were needed — and they survive remarkably well. The monumental gate in their centre is flanked by two towers. Inside, the agora with its surrounding buildings is the highlight, and the pine shade makes the site pleasant even in summer.
Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City entrance fee and opening hours (2026)
| Entrance fee | [DOĞRULANACAK] |
|---|---|
| Opening hours | [DOĞRULANACAK] |
| Suggested time | 1.5–2 hours |
| Distance | 18 km from Side (about 30 minutes), 12 km from Manavgat |
Prices are approximate for the 2026 season; check current rates at the ticket office or on muze.gov.tr.
Last updated:
How do I get to Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City?
The site is reached from Manavgat through the village of Bucakşeyhler on a forest road. By car it is 18 km from Side (about 30 minutes) and 12 km from Manavgat (about 20 minutes), measured on the road network. There is no regular public transport to the site.
Tips for visiting Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City
- Wear sturdy shoes — the paths between the ruins are uneven.
- Bring water; there are no facilities at the site that we could confirm.
- Combine the visit with the Manavgat Waterfall or a boat trip on the Manavgat River.
Where is Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City?
Tours & tickets
Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City — frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee for Seleukeia (Lyrbe)?
Entrance fee: [DOĞRULANACAK].
How do I get to Seleukeia (Lyrbe) from Side?
By car or taxi: 18 km, about 30 minutes, via Manavgat and the village of Bucakşeyhler. There is no regular public transport to the site.
Is it Seleukeia or Lyrbe?
Both names are used. The city was long called Seleukeia after Seleucus I; many researchers now identify the ruins with ancient Lyrbe.
