Side Tourism and Travel Library

The vast majority of visitors coming to Side list the ancient theater, the Temple of Apollo, and the beaches; however, this library is often overlooked. Yet nowhere else in Turkey will you find a library dedicated solely to tourism and travel. When you step inside the historic Yağhane building, you feel the atmosphere of the ancient city while coming across a book collection spanning the entire world.

Books translated into 62 different languages give the library an international character. Extremely intriguing for foreign visitors as well, this place reminds us that Side is not merely an archaeological site, but has a cultural depth that should not be overlooked.

Side's tourism season is bustling; in July and August, the streets in the ancient city become quite crowded. If you prefer to visit the library in a quieter setting, you can choose April–May or September–October. The weather during these months is also much more pleasant for walking.

Since the library is open from Tuesday to Saturday, if you arrive in Side on a Sunday or Monday, you'll need to plan your visit accordingly. Going in the morning offers the advantage of better lighting and escaping the crowds.

Side is approximately 65–75 km from Antalya Airport. From the airport, you can take a dolmuş or minibus to Manavgat first, and then transfer to Side. If arriving by private vehicle, you must leave your car at the parking lot at the entrance of Side, as vehicles are not allowed inside the ancient city.

Located right next to the Side Archaeological Museum along the main walking route, the library is easy to find on foot after parking. You can also ask locals for the Yağhane building on Yasemin Street; it is a well-known structure in Side.

The stone facade of the Yağhane building and the library entrance are beautiful photo subjects in themselves. The sight of a library embedded within ancient ruins offers a perfect shot for those wanting to showcase a different side of Side.

Inside the library, corners combining bookshelves with historic stone walls also provide compelling photo opportunities. The surrounding streets retain Side's traditional architectural fabric, so keep your camera ready as you walk over.

Because the library is located near the center of the Ancient City of Side, there are plenty of nearby restaurant and cafe options. Restaurants lining Harbor Street offer fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine, while small cafes inside the ancient city are ideal for a shaded break.

Places serving traditional breakfast are especially worth trying in Side during morning hours. If you head toward the Manavgat market area, you can find more affordable and local flavors.

We recommend placing the library at the beginning or middle of your Side trip. Visit the Side Archaeological Museum early in the morning, then head right next door to the library. From there, walk to the Temple of Apollo, see the ancient theater, and relax at one of Side's beaches in the afternoon.

If staying in Side for multiple days, you can dedicate your second day to Manavgat Waterfall and nearby natural attractions. As the library visit takes less than half an hour, it easily fits into a busy schedule.

The library is closed on Sundays and Mondays; plan your trip accordingly. Keep in mind that operating hours can change, so calling ahead to confirm before visiting is advisable.

The cobblestone streets of Ancient Side are not suitable for walking in high heels; opt for comfortable, flat shoes. Since the summer sun can be quite intense, we recommend bringing a hat and a bottle of water.

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