Side Expands Evening Museum Routes and Night Tours
Side Launches New Evening Museum Routes for Visitors
The ancient city of Side, one of Türkiye's most famous archaeological destinations, is welcoming visitors with expanded evening museum routes that allow tourists to explore illuminated ancient monuments and historic streets after sunset.
The initiative offers a unique opportunity to experience Side in a different atmosphere while avoiding the intense summer heat that often exceeds 40°C during the day.
The evening museum program has become increasingly popular among both domestic and international visitors, making nighttime tours one of the highlights of the summer tourism season.
A Historic City That Comes Alive After Dark
Archaeological excavations in Side began in 1947 under the leadership of Professor Arif Müfid Mansel. Today, the project is directed by Professor Feriştah Alanyalı of Anadolu University.
Side is considered one of Türkiye's most important archaeological sites, where modern urban life coexists with remarkably preserved ancient ruins. Restoration and conservation work has accelerated under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's "Heritage for the Future" project.
Comfortable Evening Visits During the Summer
With daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C, evening tours provide a far more comfortable way to discover the city's rich history.
According to Professor Alanyalı, the 2026 season marks the third year of the nighttime museum program, and visitor interest continues to grow as temperatures rise.
"Side is one of the most visited ancient cities in Türkiye because modern life exists alongside the ancient settlement. What once seemed like a challenge has become one of the city's greatest strengths, with cultural heritage and everyday life complementing each other."
New Attractions and Visitor Facilities
As part of the long-term archaeological project, several improvements have been completed.
- The archaeological park has been expanded.
- New visitor walking routes have been created.
- A modern visitor reception center has opened.
- Historic monuments along the routes have been restored.
- Public streets surrounding the archaeological zone have been renovated.
One of the most significant additions for the 2026 season is the opening of the Arif Müfid Mansel Archaeological Museum, giving Side two museums for the first time.
Growing Interest in Night Tourism
Professor Alanyalı noted that Side has become one of the most visited destinations participating in Türkiye's Night Museum Program.
Evening tours allow visitors to discover the ancient city after the daytime heat subsides, offering a unique perspective on Side's illuminated temples, streets, and archaeological monuments.
