Holidays in Side, Turkey: The Ultimate Guide to Sun & Resorts
Side, located in the Antalya region of Turkey, has long been a favourite for British holidaymakers seeking a reliable blend of sunshine, sandy beaches, and high-quality resort living. Whether you are flying out from Manchester or Liverpool for a week of relaxation, this stretch of the Mediterranean coast offers the kind of convenience and comfort that makes a package holiday truly stress-free.
Couples and families are drawn to the area for its warm, predictable climate and the vast selection of beachfront hotels. With its mix of historic charm and modern tourism infrastructure, it is a destination that balances the ease of an all-inclusive stay with enough local character to keep things interesting during your time away.
Top Beachfront Resorts in Side
Side is famous for its collection of premium accommodation, much of which is situated directly on the water’s edge. If you are travelling with children, the VONRESORT Golden Beach in the Colakli area is a fantastic choice, as it features a dedicated aqua park close to the Mediterranean coast. For those who prefer a five-star experience with direct access to the sea, the Royal Dragon Hotel in the Antalya region is a standout resort choice. Those staying in the Kumköy area will appreciate the Villa Side Residence, a luxurious beachfront resort hotel perfect for a more refined break. If you are looking for a four-star option, the Turan Prince Hotel offers a great beachfront location within the Colakli district. For guests wanting to stay in the serene Titreyengöl area, both the Kaya Side and the Linda Resort Hotel provide excellent beach-focused accommodation options near Manavgat.
Getting There and When to Go
The vast majority of holidaymakers reach Side by flying into the main airport in the Antalya region. From there, transfers are generally quick and well-organised, meaning you can be checked into your resort and poolside within a couple of hours of landing. The prime season runs from late spring through to early autumn, with July and August offering the hottest temperatures for sun-seekers. If you prefer to avoid the peak heat, May, June, and September are ideal for enjoying the beaches while still benefiting from plenty of sunshine.
Beaches and Resort Life
The defining feature of a holiday here is the coastline. Side is widely known for its sandy beaches that shelve gently into clear, turquoise waters, making them particularly safe and inviting for families. Most of the resorts, such as Paloma Finesse Side and Paloma Perissia, are designed to keep everything under one roof, with sprawling pools, expansive buffet dining, and direct access to their own private stretches of sand. Whether you are at the Trendy Verbena Beach in Çolaklı or the Trendy Aspendos in Gündoğdu, the focus remains firmly on relaxation, with most hotels providing everything you need without having to venture far from your sun lounger.
Food and Local Activities
While the all-inclusive experience is the primary appeal for many, the area around Manavgat and the wider Antalya region provides plenty of opportunities to explore. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the old town to admire the local architecture, or spend your days sampling fresh Mediterranean cuisine at a local eatery. Watersports are widely available along the beachfronts, and for those who enjoy a bit of local culture, the proximity to various historical points of interest makes it easy to add a dash of sightseeing to your beach holiday.
Who Should Choose Side?
Side is an excellent fit for travellers who want a hassle-free holiday. It excels for families who need the security of a well-equipped hotel complex with kids' clubs and pools, as well as for couples looking for a romantic setting at a high-end resort like Paloma Orenda. It is a destination that offers high standards of service and beautiful surroundings, ensuring that your getaway is as easy as it is memorable.
Ready to secure your escape to the sun? Take a look at the live package deals below to compare flights and hotel combinations from Manchester or Liverpool and find the perfect match for your next getaway.
Photos from Side, Turkey