Side, Manavgat — Antalya
Temple of Apollo, Side
Ancient Roman Harbour Temple & Mediterranean Sunset Icon
Stand where Roman pilgrims once worshipped at the harbour-front Temple of Apollo in Side Ancient City. Five re-erected Corinthian columns from 150 AD frame the Medusa frieze as the sun sinks into the Mediterranean — completely free, open day and night.
Location
Side Harbour
Manavgat, Antalya, Turkey
History
c. 150 AD
Pax Romana Period
Architecture
Corinthian Order
Peripteros, 16×30m
Entry
Completely Free
No ticket required
Opening Hours
Open 24 / 7
Day & Night Access
Best For
Sunset & Photos
Golden Hour Views
The Story Behind the Columns
History & Architecture of the
History & Architecture of the
Temple of Apollo, Side
Discover how this 2nd-century Roman harbour temple rose above the Side Ancient City shoreline to become the Mediterranean’s most photographed ancient ruin — and why its five Corinthian columns still draw travellers from across the world.
Built During the Pax Romana, c. 150 AD
Constructed during the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius around 150 AD, the Temple of Apollo served as the religious and ceremonial heart of Side’s bustling harbour district. Unlike inland sanctuaries, this temple was deliberately oriented to face the Mediterranean — a powerful architectural statement that allowed sailors and merchants to offer prayers to Apollo, the Greek god of light, music and prophecy, upon arrival and departure.
The choice of Apollo reflects Side’s deep Hellenistic roots despite its Roman-era construction. During the Pax Romana, Side flourished as a major port in the Roman province of Pamphylia, and the temple stood as a symbol of the city’s wealth, maritime power and cultural sophistication. For centuries, it dominated the harbour skyline until earthquakes and time reduced it to the evocative ruins visible today.
Corinthian Order, Medusa Frieze & Harbour Alignment
The temple follows a peripteros plan measuring approximately 16 by 30 metres, raised on a stylobate accessible by broad steps. Its most striking surviving feature is the five re-erected Corinthian columns — slender, fluted shafts crowned with elaborate acanthus-leaf capitals that catch the golden hour light in spectacular fashion.
Preserved frieze fragments depict Medusa heads, a common apotropaic symbol in Roman architecture believed to ward off evil. Archaeological evidence suggests the temple originally featured 11 columns on the long sides and 6 on the short sides, creating a grand colonnade visible from the sea. The 2023 restoration of the neighbouring Temple of Athena has renewed scholarly interest in the entire harbour sanctuary complex.
Temple of Apollo vs Temple of Athena
Standing just metres apart in the harbour district, these two temples offer a fascinating comparison of Roman religious architecture in Side. While both share Corinthian elements, their purposes, orientations and preservation stories differ dramatically.
Temple of Apollo
- Position Harbour front
- Orientation Sea-facing
- Built c. 150 AD
- Columns 5 re-erected
- Frieze Medusa heads
- Access Free, 24/7
Temple of Athena
- Position Inland, adjacent
- Orientation Land-facing
- Built 2nd century AD
- Columns 5 restored (2023)
- Frieze Not preserved
- Access Free, 24/7
Quick Facts
- Built c. 150 AD
- Period Pax Romana
- Style Corinthian Peripteros
- Dimensions 16 × 30 metres
- Columns 5 re-erected
- Original 11 × 6 colonnade
- Frieze Medusa heads
- Entry Completely free
- Hours Open 24 / 7
- Location Side Harbour, Manavgat
What to Look For
- 1. Five Corinthian columns at sunset
- 2. Medusa frieze fragments
- 3. Stylobate foundation steps
- 4. Harbour alignment axis
- 5. Adjacent Athena Temple (2023 restored)
Want the full story with a local expert guide?
Book Apollo Temple Tour
Plan Your Visit
Visitor Guide to the
Visitor Guide to the
Temple of Apollo, Side
Everything you need to know before visiting the harbour temple — from the best sunset timing and free entry details to walking routes from Side centre and what to pack for your trip.
April – May
Pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, and golden sunsets without the summer crowds.
Best SeasonJune – August
Peak season with vibrant harbour life. Visit at sunrise or after 18:00 to beat the heat.
Peak SeasonSeptember – October
Warm seas, fewer tourists, and spectacular amber sunsets over the Mediterranean.
Shoulder SeasonNovember – March
Quiet and atmospheric. Cooler days but the temple is yours alone at sunset.
Quiet SeasonHow to Get There
Walking from Side Centre
Follow Harbour Street through the old town gates. The temple sits at the water’s edge, roughly a 10–15 minute walk from Side’s main square. The route itself is part of the experience — ancient cobblestones, Roman ruins, and harbour views line the path.
Dolmuş & Public Transport
From Manavgat, catch any dolmuş heading to Side and get off at the old town entrance. From Antalya, take the Manavgat bus and transfer. The temple is a short stroll from all drop-off points — no vehicle needed inside the peninsula.
Taxi & Private Transfer
Taxis from Alanya or Antalya Airport can drop you directly at the old town car park. From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to the temple. Ideal if you’re combining the visit with a private boat tour from the harbour.
What to Bring & Know
Comfortable ShoesThe ancient cobblestones around the harbour are uneven. Sturdy sandals or trainers are essential.
Sun ProtectionNo shade at the temple. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water — especially between June and August.
Camera & TripodThe sunset alignment is legendary. A tripod helps for long-exposure shots after dusk.
Drone PolicyDrone use is restricted in the archaeological zone. Check local regulations before flying near the columns.
Suggested Half-Day Itinerary
17:00
Temple of Apollo
Arrive early to explore the columns and Medusa frieze before the golden hour crowds gather.
18:00
Temple of Athena
Walk 50 metres inland to see the newly restored 2023 columns — a perfect comparison.
18:45
Harbour Sunset
Position yourself between the columns as the sun sinks into the Mediterranean — the money shot.
19:30
Old Town Dinner
Finish at a harbour-side restaurant in Side’s old town, with the lit columns as your backdrop.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 Is the Temple of Apollo free to enter?
Yes — the temple is completely free. There are no tickets, gates, or closing times. You can walk in at any hour, day or night.
2 How long should I spend there?
Allow 30–45 minutes for a relaxed visit, or up to 90 minutes if you’re photographing the sunset and exploring the adjacent Side Ancient City ruins.
3 Can I visit at night?
Absolutely. The temple is open 24/7 and the columns are beautifully lit after dark. Night photography is popular, though bring a tripod for best results.
4 Is it suitable for children and strollers?
The terrain is uneven ancient stone, so strollers are challenging. Older children will love climbing the ruins, but keep a close eye on them near the harbour edge.
5 How far is it from Side beach?
Most Side hotels are within a 10–15 minute walk. From the eastern beach, follow the coastal path through the old town gates to the harbour.
6 Should I book a guided tour?
While free to explore alone, a guided tour reveals hidden details like the Medusa frieze symbolism and the temple’s precise astronomical alignment. Book here.
Experience the Temple with a Local Guide
Walk through 2,000 years of history with a Side-born guide who knows every column, every carving, and the perfect sunset spot that most visitors miss.
Book Your Apollo Temple Tour
Curated Experiences
Apollo Temple Tours &
Apollo Temple Tours &
Sunset Experiences in Side
Turn your visit into an unforgettable story. From golden-hour photography walks to private yacht cruises with the temple on the horizon — each experience is crafted by local guides who know every secret of Side’s ancient harbour.
Most Popular
Apollo Sunset Photo Tour
€35 per person
- Professional photographer guide
- Best sunset viewpoints mapped
- 10 edited digital photos included
- Tripod & camera tips shared
Full Experience
Ancient Side Walking Tour
€45 per person
- Apollo + Athena temples deep dive
- Side Ancient Theatre & Museum
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Hotel pickup & drop-off included
Premium
Private Harbour Boat Tour
€180 per boat
- Apollo Temple view from the sea
- Swimming stops in turquoise bays
- Sunset cruise with champagne
- Captain, crew & snacks included
Why Book Your Apollo Temple Experience with SideKickTours?
Local Expert Guides
Born and raised in Side. They know every carving, every story, and the perfect sunset angle.
Free Cancellation
Full refund up to 24 hours before your tour. No questions, no hassle.
Hotel Pickup Included
We collect you from any hotel in Side, Manavgat, or Alanya — no extra charge.
Instant Confirmation
Book now, receive your voucher immediately. Show your phone — no printing needed.
Trusted by Travellers
What Guests Say About the
What Guests Say About the
Temple of Apollo Experience
Real reviews from real travellers who walked the ancient harbour, stood before the Corinthian columns, and watched the sun sink into the Mediterranean with us.
ST
Our guide knew exactly where to stand for the golden shot. The columns lit up like fire against the sea. We left with photos that look like postcards — and memories to match.
HF
Finally understood why the temple faces the sea. Our guide brought the Pax Romana era to life — the kids loved the Medusa story and kept looking for her on the frieze all afternoon.
EM
Seeing Apollo from the water at sunset — unforgettable. The way the columns silhouette against the gold sky from the boat is something no land photo can capture. The champagne was a lovely touch.
4.9/5
Average Rating
277+
Verified Reviews
15,000+
Happy Travellers
2026
TripAdvisor Excellence
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots at the
Best Photo Spots at the
Temple of Apollo, Side
Capture the magic of 2,000-year-old Corinthian columns against the Mediterranean. These are the exact angles our guides use — complete with camera settings and timing.
Golden Hour
The Classic Columns
Stand on the harbour promenade and frame all five Corinthian columns with the sea behind. This is the shot that made Side famous on Instagram.
Best Settings
- Time 18:30 – 19:15
- Angle Low, sea-level
- Mode Portrait / 2x zoom
- Tip Wait for sailboat to pass
Macro Detail
The Medusa Frieze
Get up close to the preserved frieze fragments between the columns. The Medusa head carving catches side-light beautifully in the morning.
Best Settings
- Time 08:00 – 09:30
- Angle Side-light, close-up
- Mode Macro / Pro mode
- Tip Use portrait mode for depth
Unique Angle
The Harbour Frame
Capture the temple from the water — either from a harbour café terrace or during a private boat tour. The columns silhouette against the gold sky.
Best Settings
- Time 19:00 – 19:45
- Angle From water / boat deck
- Mode Wide / 0.5x zoom
- Tip Include sail mast for scale
Quick Instagram Tips for the Temple of Apollo
Golden Hour Clock
Arrive 45 min before sunset. The columns glow amber between 18:30-19:15 in summer.
Tripod or Not?
Handheld works for sunset. Bring a mini tripod only if shooting blue hour after 20:00.
Camera Settings
iPhone: Exposure -0.3, Vivid filter. Android: Pro mode, WB 5500K, ISO 100.
Drone Rules
Drone use is restricted in the archaeological zone. Shoot from the harbour wall instead.
Explore the Area
Nearby Attractions &
Nearby Attractions &
Map of Side Harbour
The Temple of Apollo sits at the heart of Side’s ancient harbour district. Walk minutes to discover more Roman ruins, a restored Athena temple, and the turquoise waters of Manavgat.
Side Ancient City
Roman theatre, agora, city walls and harbour street — the temple sits at its southern tip.
Temple of Athena
Neighbouring sanctuary with five columns restored in 2023. A stunning before-and-after comparison.
Side Archaeological Museum
Housed in the old Roman baths. Statues, sarcophagi and artefacts from the harbour temples.
Manavgat Waterfall
Turquoise cascades in a riverside park. Combine with the temple in one half-day trip.