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
Plan your visit to the Temple of Apollo
Combine Side Ancient City, the harbour, and the temple in one unforgettable half-day walking tour.
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.
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.
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 Season
June – August
Peak season with vibrant harbour life. Visit at sunrise or after 18:00 to beat the heat.
Peak Season
September – October
Warm seas, fewer tourists, and spectacular amber sunsets over the Mediterranean.
Shoulder Season
November – March
Quiet and atmospheric. Cooler days but the temple is yours alone at sunset.
Quiet Season
Free Entry
The Temple of Apollo is completely free to enter. No tickets, no queues, no closing gates — walk in anytime.
Open 24 / 7
Visit at sunrise, midday, or under the stars. The temple is never closed, making it perfect for spontaneous sunset trips.
How 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.
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.
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 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
Sarah & Tom
Apollo Sunset Photo Tour
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
Hans & Family
Ancient Side Walking Tour
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
Elena & Marco
Private Harbour Boat Tour
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 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
Time18:30 – 19:15
AngleLow, sea-level
ModePortrait / 2x zoom
TipWait 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
Time08:00 – 09:30
AngleSide-light, close-up
ModeMacro / Pro mode
TipUse 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
Time19:00 – 19:45
AngleFrom water / boat deck
ModeWide / 0.5x zoom
TipInclude 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 & 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.
