Side Dolmuş Guide 2025: Routes, Prices & Travel Tips

10.08.2025 10:26
Side Turkey

Side Dolmuş Guide 2025: Routes, Prices & Travel Tips

Updated: 10 August 2025

Dolmuş — pronounced dol-moosh (the Turkish letter “ş” sounds like “sh” in “shoe”).

Dolmuş is the most popular and affordable way to get around in Side and the surrounding areas. These shared minibuses are used daily by both locals and tourists, connecting hotels, beaches, shopping centers, and nearby towns such as Manavgat, Kumköy, Evrenseki, Çolaklı, and even Antalya.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Dolmuş travel in Side — including the main routes, distances, travel times, 2025 prices, and insider tips to make your journey comfortable and stress-free.

What is a Dolmuş?

A Dolmuş (pronounced dol-moosh) is a shared minibus service that operates on fixed routes but without rigid timetables. You can get on and off almost anywhere along the route, simply by signalling to the driver. The name comes from the Turkish word “dolmak”, meaning “to fill up” — and indeed, Dolmuş vehicles often wait until they have enough passengers before departing.

They are:

Affordable – cheaper than taxis and more flexible than buses.
Frequent – especially in tourist areas during high season.
Local – a great way to experience daily Turkish life.

How to Use a Dolmuş in Side

Find the Route – Look for small signs or ask your hotel reception about the nearest Dolmuş stop.
Flag it Down – Simply wave as it approaches. You don’t always need a marked bus stop.
Get On – Find a seat; if it’s full, you may need to stand.
Pay Your Fare – Usually you pay the driver when boarding. If the Dolmuş is very crowded, you may hand the fare forward or pay when getting off.
Tell the Driver Your Stop – If it’s not an official stop, say “İnecek var” (I want to get off).

Main Dolmuş Routes from Side

Below is a list of the most common Dolmuş routes from Side town center, including distance, average travel time, and 2025 estimated prices.

Side → Manavgat – 6–7 km, 10–15 min, ₺30–40 – Connects to bus station & bazaar.
Side → Kumköy – 3 km, 5–7 min, ₺20–30 – Popular hotel & beach area.
Side → Evrenseki – 6 km, 8–10 min, ₺25–35 – West of Side, many resorts.
Side → Çolaklı – 10 km, 15 min, ₺30–40 – Large resort area.
Side → Gündoğdu – 13 km, 20 min, ₺35–45 – Last tourist zone before Belek.
Side → Sorgun – 3–4 km, 5–7 min, ₺20–30 – Quiet pine forest hotels.
Side → Titreyengöl – 7 km, 10–12 min, ₺25–35 – Lake area with large hotels.
Side → Kızılağaç – 15–17 km, 20–25 min, ₺35–45 – Shopping & resort zone.
Side → Kızılot – 20–22 km, 25–30 min, ₺40–50 – Coastal east of Side.
Side → Antalya (Bus Station) – 75 km, 75–90 min, ₺120–150 – Overland minibus.

Note: Prices may have changed. Euro coins are accepted for payment on Dolmuş services.

Dolmuş Frequency

High season (May–October): Every 5–10 minutes on main routes such as Side–Manavgat and Side–Kumköy.
Low season (November–April): Every 15–20 minutes; some routes have limited service after 8 PM.

Tips for Tourists

Carry Small Change – Drivers prefer coins or small banknotes.
Learn Basic Phrases – “İnecek var” (I want to get off) is useful.
Check Last Departures – Especially if you’re staying in a distant resort area.
Avoid Rush Hours – 08:00–09:00 and 17:00–19:00 can be crowded.
Hold On Tight – Driving style can be fast; always hold a rail if standing.

Example Day Trips by Dolmuş

Side → Manavgat Bazaar: Great for local shopping and fresh produce. Runs all day.
Side → Novamall Shopping Center: Modern mall in Manavgat with international brands.
Side → Çolaklı Beach: Wide sandy beaches west of Side, perfect for a day of sunbathing.
Side → Titreyengöl: Relaxing lake area with walking paths.

Getting from Side to Alanya by Dolmuş

Start: No direct Dolmuş from Side to Alanya. First, go to Manavgat Bus Station (10–15 min, ₺30–40).
Transfer: From Manavgat, Dolmuşes to Alanya run every 15–20 minutes.
Distance & Time: 60 km, 60–75 min.
Fare: ₺90–110 (2025).
Tip: In summer, it’s crowded — board early to get a seat.

Getting from Side to Antalya by Dolmuş

Start: Direct intercity minibuses (Dolmuş-style) run from Side to Antalya, some via Manavgat.
Frequency: Every ~30 minutes.
Distance & Time: 75 km, 75–90 min.
Fare: ₺120–150 (2025).
Tip: Tell the driver your exact stop (bus station, city center, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I take luggage on a Dolmuş?
A: Small bags and backpacks are fine. For large suitcases, it’s better to take a taxi or arrange a transfer.

Q: Do Dolmuş run late at night?
A: Within Side, some routes operate until midnight. Intercity routes often stop by 10 PM.

Q: Are Dolmuş safe?
A: Generally yes, but as with any public transport, keep your belongings close.

Q: Can I pay by credit card?
A: No, only cash in Turkish Lira is accepted.

Q: Do Dolmuş have air conditioning?
A: Some do, but in summer expect open windows for ventilation.

Conclusion

Using the Dolmuş in Side is one of the best ways to explore the area affordably and conveniently. Whether you’re heading to the local market in Manavgat, the beaches of Çolaklı, or just moving between your hotel and the old town, the Dolmuş offers a local experience you won’t get from a taxi.

Tip: If you want to explore more, check out popular day trips from Side with Vigo Tours.

Things to Do in and Around Side, Turkey

Land of Legends Boat Parade Night Show

Experience the magical evening of the Land of Legends Boat Parade Night Show with vibrant lights, music, and performances that will leave you in awe.

Horseback Riding on the Beach in Side

Enjoy a relaxing and scenic ride with horseback riding on the beach in Side and take in the Mediterranean views.

Side Quad Safari Adventure Tour

Join the thrilling Side Quad Safari Adventure Tour and explore the countryside on powerful quad bikes.

Side Rafting Tour

Feel the adrenaline rush on the Side Rafting Tour through scenic canyons and exciting rapids.

Daily Trip to Pamukkale from Side

Discover the natural wonders of Pamukkale with its white terraces and ancient thermal pools.

Green Canyon Boat Trip from Side

Sail into nature’s beauty on the Green Canyon Boat Trip and enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Buggy Safari Tour in Side

Take on the dusty tracks with the Buggy Safari Tour for fun and adventure in nature.

Boat Trip with Manavgat Waterfalls and Bazaar Visit

Enjoy the Boat Trip with Manavgat Waterfalls and Bazaar Visit combining sightseeing and shopping in one day.

Half-Day Fishing Tour in Side

Try your luck at sea with the Half-Day Fishing Tour for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Side Dolphin Island Boat Tour with Lunch

Embark on the Side Dolphin Island Boat Tour for a family-friendly day with lunch included.

Antalya City and Attractions Daily Tour from Side

Explore the highlights of Antalya with the Antalya City and Attractions Daily Tour, including historical sites and vibrant city life.

2-Day Trip to Cappadocia from Side

Witness the otherworldly landscapes on the 2-Day Trip to Cappadocia and experience unique rock formations and cave dwellings.

Excursion to Kekova Sunken City

Take a scenic cruise to the Kekova Sunken City and uncover the mystery of its submerged ruins.

Jeep Safari Nature and Adventure Tour from Side

Go off-road into the Taurus Mountains with the Jeep Safari Nature and Adventure Tour.

3-Day Trip to Cappadocia from Side

Discover Cappadocia in depth on the 3-Day Trip from Side, visiting its most iconic valleys and villages.

Ormana Village and Golden Cradle Cave

Explore local culture on the Ormana Village and Golden Cradle Cave tour through rural Turkey.

Wellness Massage at the Traditional Turkish Bath in Side

Relax and rejuvenate with a Wellness Massage at the Traditional Turkish Bath.

Sightseeing City Tour of Alanya from Side

Enjoy a day of history and scenery on the Alanya City Tour.

Eagle Canyon and Selge Ancient City

Combine nature and history with the Eagle Canyon and Selge Ancient City excursion.

Authentic Turkish Family Dinner near Side

Experience true local hospitality with an Authentic Turkish Family Dinner.

Side Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival

Enjoy world-class performances at the Side Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival set in a historic Roman theater.

The Land of Legends Theme Park Tour from Side

Have a full day of fun and excitement at the Land of Legends Theme Park.

Pamukkale Tour from Side via Salda Lake

Discover two natural wonders in one trip on the Pamukkale Tour via Salda Lake.

Scuba Diving in Side Turkey

Dive into the crystal-clear waters with the Scuba Diving Tour and explore underwater life.

Fire of Anatolia Dance Show from Side

Be amazed by the Fire of Anatolia Dance Show featuring hundreds of dancers.

Alanya, Aspendos, Side and Manavgat Waterfall

Visit four incredible sites in one day on the Alanya, Aspendos, Side and Manavgat Waterfall Tour.

Dolphins Show and Swimming with Dolphins in Side

Meet these incredible marine mammals at the Dolphins Show and Swimming with Dolphins.

Sunset Boat Trip in Side

Relax and admire the colors of the evening on the Sunset Boat Trip.

Paragliding Experience in Side Turkey

Get a bird’s-eye view of the coastline with the Paragliding Experience.

Private Boat Trip along the Coasts in Side

Enjoy a tailor-made experience with the Private Boat Trip.

Aqualand Water World Tour from Side

Spend a day of slides and pools at the Aqualand Water World.

Antalya Aquarium from Side with Transfer and Ticket

Discover fascinating marine life at the Antalya Aquarium.

Top Nature Combo: Jeep Safari, Rafting, Zipline

Get triple the adventure with the Top Nature Combo Tour.

Daily Trip to Suluada from Side

Sail to the “Maldives of Turkey” on the Daily Trip to Suluada.

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Pamukkale from Side

Soar above stunning landscapes with the Hot Air Balloon Ride in Pamukkale.

Big Game Fishing Tour in Side

Experience deep-sea excitement on the Big Game Fishing Tour.

Side Disco Party Night on the Starcraft Yacht

Dance the night away on the Side Disco Party Night.

Sapadere Canyon Tour: Nature and Hiking

Explore the lush beauty of the Sapadere Canyon.

Big Kral Pirate Boat Trip from Side

Join the fun-filled Big Kral Pirate Boat Trip for a family day out.

Excursion to Hidden Paradise of Side

Discover secluded beauty on the Hidden Paradise of Side tour.

Green Canyon and Green Lake Combo Tour from Side

Enjoy two natural wonders in one day with the Green Canyon and Green Lake Combo Tour.

Daily Trip to Istanbul from Antalya

Fly to Turkey’s cultural capital on the Daily Trip to Istanbul.

Day Trip to Alanya Christmas Bazaar

Get into the festive spirit with the Day Trip to Alanya Christmas Bazaar.

Highland Tour in the Nature of the Wild Horses of the Taurus

Witness majestic wild horses on the Highland Tour in the Taurus Mountains.

Ancient Side Theater Art and Culture Events

Enjoy cultural performances at the Ancient Side Theater.

Side Aquapark Waterplanet

Cool off and have fun at the Side Aquapark Waterplanet.

2-Day Trip to Pamukkale from Side

Take more time to explore with the 2-Day Trip to Pamukkale.

Side Troy Dance Show at Aspendos Arena

Be captivated by the Side Troy Dance Show in an impressive open-air venue.

Selge Ancient City at the Taurus Mountains

Step back in time at the Selge Ancient City.

Fly Fishing Tour at the Taurus Mountains from Side

Enjoy the peaceful sport of Fly Fishing in the mountain streams.