The Side Ancient Theatre stands at the heart of the ancient city of Side in Manavgat, Antalya Province, and was the largest theatre in the region of Pamphylia. Built in the mid-2nd century AD over an earlier Hellenistic theatre, it is a rare Anatolian example of a fully Roman-type theatre whose seating rests on free-standing arches and barrel vaults rather than on a natural hillside. It held roughly 15,000-20,000 spectators and preserves a three-storey stage building, later adaptations for gladiatorial and wild-animal shows, and Byzantine traces of its conversion into an open-air church. In 2026 it is open to visitors as part of the Side archaeological site (with conservation work ongoing) and pairs naturally with the neighbouring agora and the Side Museum for a half-day visit.
The three-storey stage building (scaenae frons): a roughly 63 m facade still showing columns, niches and relief decoration
Roman engineering rare in Anatolia: the auditorium raised on arches and barrel-vaulted substructures instead of a natural slope
Steep seating divided by the diazoma walkway, with sweeping views over the peninsula and the Mediterranean
Traces of its late-Roman reuse for gladiatorial and animal games (a protective wall around the orchestra) and its Byzantine open-air church with small chapels
Surviving reliefs and fragments linked to Dionysus and theatrical masks around the stage
Immediate proximity to the monumental gate, the agora and the Side Museum (housed in a restored Roman bath)
Good to know
SeasonAntalya summers (Jul-Aug) are very hot with almost no shade among the ruins; carry water, a hat and sunscreen and visit early morning or late afternoon.
SafetyThe ancient stone steps are steep, worn and can be slippery; wear proper shoes, watch your footing and take extra care with children.
RulesThe MüzeKart (Museum Pass) is for Turkish citizens/residents only; foreign visitors buy a standard ticket. Prices and opening hours change, so confirm the latest information before you go.
MannersDo not cross barriers into areas under conservation, climb on the stones or antiquities, litter, make excessive noise, or fly a drone without a permit.
CautionIn Side old town, expect pushy shop and restaurant touts and unofficial 'guides'; buy tickets only at the official box office and agree a taxi fare in advance or insist on the meter.
SafetyWatch for pickpockets in the busy tourist lanes and keep valuables such as wallet and passport in front of you.
Practical info
The theatre lies in Side old town, about 65-80 km east of Antalya Airport (AYT), reached via Manavgat by dolmuş minibus, rental car or organised tour; much of the old town is pedestrianised, so park outside and walk in. The site is open year-round, roughly 08:00 until evening (with night openings in high season), but fees, hours and any restoration closures should be checked for the latest information before visiting.
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