Side, located in Antalya’s Manavgat district, is one of the region’s most popular holiday destinations, known for its ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, luxury hotels and lively town centre. Many travellers visiting Side arrive via Antalya Airport.
So, how do you get from Antalya Airport to Side? In this guide, you can explore all available transport options, including private VIP transfers, taxis, public transport and car rental.
How Far Is Side from Antalya Airport?
The distance between Antalya Airport and Side is approximately 65–70 kilometres, depending on the location of your hotel or accommodation. A journey by private vehicle usually takes around 60–75 minutes.
Traffic conditions, roadworks and increased activity during the summer season may affect the total journey time.
Approximate distances from Antalya Airport to popular areas around Side are:
- Side town centre: 65–70 kilometres
- Kumköy: 60–65 kilometres
- Evrenseki: 58–63 kilometres
- Çolaklı: 55–60 kilometres
- Sorgun: 70–75 kilometres
- Titreyengöl: 75–80 kilometres
- Kızılağaç: 80–85 kilometres
The distance and transfer time may vary if your accommodation is located outside Side town centre.
Transport Options from Antalya Airport to Side
You can travel from Antalya Airport to Side by private transfer, taxi, public transport, rental car or hotel shuttle. The best option depends on your budget, the number of passengers, the amount of luggage you have and the level of comfort you expect.
1. Antalya Airport to Side VIP Transfer
One of the most comfortable ways to travel from Antalya Airport to Side is to book a private VIP transfer in advance. After your flight lands, your driver meets you at the airport and takes you directly to your hotel or chosen address without waiting for other passengers.
Handsome Travel’s Antalya Airport to Side VIP transfer service is particularly suitable for families, passengers travelling with children, larger groups and anyone looking for a comfortable journey.
The main advantages of a VIP transfer include:
- Personal meet-and-greet service at the airport
- Direct transportation to your hotel or address
- A private vehicle that is not shared with other passengers
- Clean, comfortable and well-maintained vehicles
- Professional driver service
- Sufficient space for your luggage
- Flight monitoring
- Reservations suitable for flights at any time of day
- Optional extras such as child seats upon advance request
If you do not want to deal with public transport connections or search for a vehicle after landing, you can reserve your transfer before your journey. This allows you to begin your holiday in Side comfortably and without unnecessary delays.
2. Taxi from Antalya Airport to Side
Taxis are available outside the terminals at Antalya Airport. Taking a taxi can be a convenient option for passengers who want to leave immediately without making a reservation.
However, Antalya Airport to Side is a relatively long journey compared with a typical city-centre taxi ride. Before departing, it is advisable to ask the driver about the estimated fare, accepted payment methods and your exact destination.
You should also be aware that taxi queues may form during the summer season and at busy flight times. With a pre-booked private transfer, your vehicle and driver are arranged according to your scheduled arrival time, providing a more organised experience—especially during peak season.
3. Public Transport from Antalya Airport to Side
It is possible to travel from Antalya Airport to Side by public transport, but most routes require more than one vehicle. Passengers generally need to travel from the airport to Antalya Bus Station or another suitable connection point before taking a bus or minibus towards Manavgat or Side.
Depending on the selected route, the journey may involve the following steps:
- Travel from Antalya Airport to Antalya city centre or Antalya Bus Station.
- Take a bus travelling towards Manavgat.
- Continue from Manavgat to Side by minibus or taxi.
Public transport can be an economical choice, but waiting times and connections may make the overall journey considerably longer. It may also be inconvenient for passengers with large suitcases, families with young children or travellers arriving late at night.
As departure times may change seasonally, you should check the latest schedules before travelling.
4. Car Rental
If you would like to explore Side and the surrounding region according to your own schedule, you can rent a car at Antalya Airport. Car rental offers flexibility for travellers planning to visit attractions such as the Ancient City of Side, Manavgat Waterfall, Köprülü Canyon and nearby beaches.
Before renting a car, remember to check:
- Insurance coverage
- Fuel policy
- Deposit and credit card pre-authorisation requirements
- Mileage limits
- Additional driver charges
- Vehicle collection and return conditions
- Parking availability at your hotel
If you only need transportation between the airport and your hotel, a private transfer may be more convenient than dealing with rental procedures and parking.
5. Shared Shuttle or Hotel Transfer
Some tour operators and hotels offer shared shuttle services. Because these vehicles carry several passengers staying at different properties, they may stop at multiple hotels along the route. The journey to Side can therefore take longer than a private transfer.
If your hotel offers an airport transfer service, ask whether the vehicle is private or shared, what the price includes and where the meeting point is located at the airport.
What Is the Easiest Way to Get from Antalya Airport to Side?
In terms of comfort, time and convenience, a private VIP transfer is one of the best ways to travel from Antalya Airport to Side. Passengers who do not want to make connections after a long flight can travel directly from the airport to their accommodation.
By booking with Handsome Travel in advance, your vehicle can be arranged according to your flight time. When you arrive at Antalya Airport, you can begin your journey to Side without spending additional time organising transportation.
How Do I Book an Antalya Airport to Side Transfer?
To arrange your transfer, you will usually need to provide the following information:
- Flight date and arrival time
- Flight number
- Number of passengers
- Arrival terminal
- Hotel name or full address in Side
- Luggage details
- Special requests, such as a child seat
- Return date and flight time if you require a return transfer
Providing the correct flight number makes it easier to monitor your arrival and plan the airport meeting. Sharing your hotel’s full address or location in addition to its name also helps ensure a smooth journey.
What Should You Consider When Booking a Side Transfer?
When planning your transfer, you should consider the full service provided rather than focusing only on the price. Before booking, confirm whether the vehicle will be exclusively for your group, how the total price is calculated, how much luggage the vehicle can carry and where you will meet your driver.
Vehicle availability may be limited during the busy summer season, so booking as early as possible is recommended.
For your return journey, the hotel collection time should be planned according to your flight departure time, possible traffic conditions and the amount of time you need at the airport before check-in.
Why Choose Handsome Travel?
Handsome Travel offers private transfer solutions designed to make your journey between Antalya Airport and Side comfortable and well organised. The meet-and-greet and transportation process is arranged according to your booking details, helping you enjoy a relaxed experience from the first moment of your holiday.
Whether you are travelling alone, with your family or as part of a group, you can reach your hotel in Side comfortably in a vehicle suitable for your passenger and luggage requirements.
Book your Antalya Airport to Side VIP transfer with Handsome Travel and enjoy a smooth, comfortable start to your holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to travel from Antalya Airport to Side?
Under normal traffic conditions, the journey by private vehicle takes approximately 60–75 minutes. Summer traffic and the location of your hotel may affect the journey time.
How far is Side from Antalya Airport?
Side is approximately 65–70 kilometres from Antalya Airport, depending on your exact destination. The distance may vary for areas such as Çolaklı, Kumköy, Sorgun and Titreyengöl.
Is there a direct transfer from Antalya Airport to Side?
Yes. By booking a private transfer with Handsome Travel, you can travel directly from Antalya Airport to your hotel or chosen address in Side.
Are transfers to Side available at night?
A transfer can be arranged according to your flight time when booked in advance. If you are arriving at night, you should confirm availability during the reservation process.
Do I need to provide my flight number when booking?
Your flight number is important because it allows your arrival time to be monitored and helps ensure that the airport meeting is planned correctly. You should provide your latest flight information when making a reservation.
What is the best way for families with children to travel from Antalya Airport to Side?
A private transfer is a convenient option for families because it does not require connections and provides direct transportation to the hotel. If you require a child seat, make sure to request one when booking.
Can I book a return transfer from Side to Antalya Airport?
Yes. A return transfer can be arranged from your hotel or address in Side to Antalya Airport. Your collection time will be planned according to your flight schedule and expected traffic conditions.
