Swap Turkey’s much-loved resort Antalya for a less-crowded spot that’s just as nice

ANTALYA welcomes more than one million Brits annually – making it the country’s top destination for UK holidaymakers.

Although its charm and popularity make it appealing, the destination can become overcrowded during the peak summer.

But, just east of Antalya, Side is less crowded but just as nice.

Thanks to the resort town’s smaller size and more intimate surroundings, this might be a far better option for Brits looking to enjoy all that Turkey has to offer but without the crowds.

Side has the perfect balance of beachside leisure and cultural discovery – although laying by the beach for the whole day is very much an option.

The beach resort is also conveniently located within a short trip from Antalya Airport, so it only takes four to five hours from the UK.

The sandy beaches here are rarely overcrowded, and Side ‘East Beach’ is a favourite with tourists and locals.

The water is said to be warmer here compared to other beaches in Side, and holidaymakers can also partake in watersports like waterskiing, parasailing, and even fishing sometimes.

Not far from there is the ‘picturesque’ Kumkoy beach, which is characterised by shallow water, where kids can safely swim.

Compared to Antalya’s premium resorts, Side offers a more budget-friendly stay without sacrificing quality.

The holiday resort has hundreds of holiday packages available over the spring and summer seasons next year, starting from just £250pp:

• 7 nights self-catering at Melissa Garden Apart Hotel Side, Antalya, Turkey –
• 7 nights self-catering at Hanay Suit Hotel, Side, Turkey –
• 7 nights all-inclusive at Sun Beach Park Side, Turkey –  
• 7 nights self-catering at Sun City Apartments Side, Turkey –
• 7 nights all-inclusive at Sunlight Garden in Side, Turkey –
• 7 nights all-inclusive at TUI MAGIC LIFE in Jacaranda in Side, Turkey –

The ancient port town is filled with picturesque streets, historic ruins that border the shoreline, and plenty of hotels and restaurants.

Side is also usually described as a walkable resort, which makes it extremely family-friendly.

The town’s marketplaces and bazaars provide an authentic shopping experience with unique souvenirs from local artisans.

That said, the Turkish town is also a hit with groups of mates thanks to its nightlife and affordability.

There are many beachfront bars and clubs, which are smaller and offer a more relaxed vibe to Antalya, but they’re still open until the early hours of the morning.

What makes it even better is that Side is relatively close to Antalya, so holidaymakers could visit the big resort for a day and enjoy some of its world-renowned facilities without paying higher accommodation costs.

For instance, fans call a huge family hotel ‘Turkish Disneyland’ with on-site waterparks, a theme park and arcades, and one-day admission costs around £20.

Due to both destinations being close to each other, they both benefit from a Mediterranean climate, so Side is not an ideal destination to visit in winter.

April through June and September and October are the finest times to visit Side, as temperatures average 25C.

Summertime temperatures can reach the high 30s, which is nice for spending the day by the beach but less so for those wishing to explore what Side has to offer beyond the seaside.

For more deals, Tenerife is home to TripAdvisor’s ‘best waterpark in the world’ – and it’s open all year round.

Elsewhere, we found the short-haul island destination with 300 days of sunshine and holidays for under £150.

And three Italian summer holiday destinations just got new Jet2 flights from eight UK airports.