Temple of Apollo, Side — Sunset Ruins & Visitor Guide 2026
Iconic seaside columns of ancient Side — best at sunset.
Temple of Apollo: entrance fee free (open site), opening hours Open 24/7; illuminated at night. Suggested time: 30–45 minutes. Best time to visit: Sunset.
Rising at the tip of the Side peninsula beside the harbour, the Temple of Apollo — one of the top things to do in Side, Turkey — dates to the 2nd century BC. Its five re-erected marble columns with Corinthian capitals, set against the open sea, form the most iconic silhouette on the Turkish Riviera.
The temple honours Apollo, god of light; the foundations of a twin temple to Athena lie right beside it. The site belongs to the open-air museum of ancient Side, and at sunset — when the columns glow gold — it is simply magical.
Temple of Apollo opening hours and visitor information (2026)
| Entrance fee | Free (open site) |
|---|---|
| Opening hours | Open 24/7; illuminated at night |
| Suggested time | 30–45 minutes |
| Best time to visit | Sunset |
Prices are approximate for the 2026 season; check current rates at the ticket office.
Last updated:
How do I get to Temple of Apollo?
Ancient Side is closed to cars. Park at the entrance lot and walk 10–15 minutes along the shore road towards the harbour, passing the theatre and the colonnaded street. Dolmuş minibuses from Manavgat run to the final stop by the old town.
Distances and driving times to Temple of Apollo
| From Antalya Airport (AYT) | 67 km · about 1 h 1 min by car |
|---|---|
| From Side | in town |
| From Manavgat | 7 km · about 9 min by car |
| From Alanya | 66 km · about 53 min by car |
Road distances and driving times calculated on the OpenStreetMap road network (OSRM), without traffic or stops. Compare all attractions →
Tips for visiting Temple of Apollo
- Arrive 30–40 minutes before sunset; the best angle is from the southwest.
- Combine with the Side Theatre and the colonnaded street in one walk.
- Have dinner at the harbour restaurants with a view of the columns.
Where is Temple of Apollo?
Temple of Apollo — frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee for the Temple of Apollo?
No — the temple stands on an open site and can be visited free of charge at any hour.
When was the Temple of Apollo built?
It was built in the 2nd century BC; the five columns you see today were re-erected during restoration work in the 1980s.
What is the best time for photos?
Sunset is the classic moment; come at sunrise instead if you want the site almost to yourself.
How far is Temple of Apollo from Alanya?
Temple of Apollo is 66 km from Alanya by road — about 53 min by car without stops.
How far is Temple of Apollo from Antalya Airport?
Temple of Apollo is 67 km from Antalya Airport (AYT) by road — about 1 h 1 min by car without stops.
