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Side or Kemer: which side of Antalya?
Side and Kemer lie on opposite sides of Antalya, both about an hour from the airport. Side, to the east, has wide sandy beaches and a Roman old town; Kemer, to the west, has mountains rising straight out of clear pebble bays.
| Side | Kemer | |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer from Antalya Airport | 1 h 10 min · 65 km | 1 h · 55 km |
| 4★ all-inclusive resort, high season, per night | €170–260 | €160–250 |
| Beaches | Wide, sandy and shallow | Pebble and shingle, very clear water |
| Scenery | Flat coastal plain, pine forest at Sorgun | Taurus mountains straight down to the sea |
| History | Temple of Apollo and theatre in town; Aspendos 35 min | Phaselis 20 min, Olympos 1 hour |
| Families | Ideal for small children: sand and gentle slopes | Good, but pebbles and deeper water need more care |
| Activities | Manavgat river boats, market, Green Canyon | Hiking, canyoning, Tahtalı cable car, boat trips |
| Evenings | Old town harbour and restaurants | Kemer marina and Moonlight Park |
Transfer times and prices come from the same data as our transfer guides and budget calculator; prices are typical ranges per room or villa in June–September, not quotes.
Choose Side if…
- You have small children and want soft sand
- You enjoy history on your doorstep
- You want an easy, flat place to walk around
Choose Kemer if…
- You love mountains and very clear water
- You want to hike or try canyoning
- You prefer smaller bays to long open beaches
Also consider
If you want sand and a short transfer, compare Belek or Side.
Frequently asked questions
Is Side or Kemer better for a beach holiday?
For soft sand and shallow water, Side. For snorkelling and clear water, Kemer.
Which is closer to Antalya Airport, Side or Kemer?
Both take about an hour. Kemer can take longer at rush hour because the road passes Antalya city.
Is Side or Kemer better for families?
Side, especially with small children, thanks to its sandy, gently sloping beaches.