Set inland from the coast, tranquil Manavgat is the perfect springboard for those looking to explore the ancient site of Side. Founded between 200-150 BC, the small town of Manavgat lies on a sweeping plain flanked by the verdant forests of the Taurus Mountains. The River Manavgat actually runs through the town, dividing it into two, and not far away lie the idyllic Manavgat waterfalls. Although these crescent-shaped falls are not especially high, they are broad, and white, foaming waters gush over the smooth rocks and boulders. Shaded by overhanging trees, this pleasant resting spot is especially welcome after a day's sightseeing - roll up your trousers and feel the cool, refreshing water splash between your toes as you paddle in the river.
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Manavgat hotels and apartments
Our hotels and apartments in Manavgat include Iberotel Palm Garden.
More Turkey (antalya) holiday destinations
Looking for holidays in Turkey (antalya)? Our Turkey (antalya) holiday destinations include Alanya, Antalya, Belek, Denizyaka, Incekum, Kemer, Lara Beach, Manavgat and Side.
Beaches
While Manavgat isn't far from the sea, if you're looking to relax out on fine, golden sands, head to nearby Side where you'll find over 10km stretch of beach.
Eating out
Pack yourself a picnic and head up to the Manavgat Waterfalls for a relaxed afternoon by the riverside. There are also a number of teahouses, snack bars and restaurants where you can sample Manavgat's local specialty - grilled trout plucked fresh from the river.
Nightlife
Manavgat is the ideal choice if you're looking to escape the crowds and experience the 'real' Turkey. As such, most evenings are spent enjoying a traditional 'meze' meal in one of the town's restaurants or a shot of strong, hot coffee in a local cafe. If you're looking for something a little more vibrant, however, head to Side, home to an array of discos and seafront bars where you can dance the night away.
Shopping
From fruit and vegetables to clothes and shoes, you'll find everything and anything at Manavgat's weekly market. Each Monday, the town explodes into life as hundreds of merchants and traders come down from the mountains to sell their wares - the perfect opportunity for you to put your bartering skills to the test! Look out in particular for traditional Turkish handicrafts including leather goods and gold jewellery.
Local information
One of Turkey's best-known Classical sites, Side - meaning 'pomegranate' - was once an ancient Mediterranean harbour. Today it's a pretty resort town renowned for its ruins, sandy beaches and narrow streets filled with shops and stalls. The focal point of the city is a magnificent ancient theatre, built on a series of colonnaded arches. Other impressive monuments include the mighty city walls, the 'agora' - Side's 2nd-century slave market - and the Temples of Apollo and Athena, which look out over the sea. The archaeological museum is set within Roman bathhouses and boasts one of Turkey's finest collections of ancient artefacts.
Location
6km northeast of Side
Transfer time
About 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
Recommended
Luxury
