What's the weather like in Side in January
Visitors to Side (pronounced as "see-day") enjoy a typical cold Mediterranean climate in January, which is relatively mild compared to much of northern Europe. This small town in Turkey lies on the south coast of the Province of Antalya. After touching down from Antalya Airport, it will take you less than an hour of travel to reach the picturesque Side sites. This small town offers a rich history and provides the perfect relaxing holiday.
Average Sunshine Hours
In the beginning of January, the average amount of daily sunshine is eight hours.
Temperature
At this time of year, Side is at its coldest and wettest with an average daily temperature that lingers around 11°C, which includes a range from a low of 6°C to a high of up to 15°C. The warmest day that you will experience in January in Side is 15°C at high noon on any given day, while the coldest temperature will be at 6°C, occurring at night.
Rain
The expected rainfall for this month is about 238mm of rain, spread out over the course of 12 days. Moderate rain is the most likely type of precipitation during late January, which is expected from the 28th to the 30th.
Throughout the month of January, there is an average of 12 rainy days which can range from light to moderate, and at times can be thunderstorms. Due to the rain, if you decide to visit the ruins of the city, the palace of the Bishop and its basilica, the Fountain of Vespasianus, and other historical monuments, be sure to bring an umbrella with you. There is 40% chance that it will rain.
Average Sea Temperature
The average sea temperature this month is 17°C, which remains practically the same until April.
Humidity
Humidity in Side averages 82% for the month, which slowly rises as the month goes on. The highest recorded humidity in Side was 90%, which happened on February 2, 2007.
Wind
The average wind speed for the month is at 4.0 m/s coming from the North and North West.
Despite being the coldest month of the year, January in Side still has plenty to offer such as Temples of Apollo and Athena, the Walls of the Ancient Theatre of Side, and the Vespasian Gate. As with most cities in Turkey, Side's Byzantine and Ottoman architecture has survived the test of time, and it's well worth putting a day or so aside to take in some cultural sights.
Over the course of the month, temperature, weather, and the rainfall forecast will basically remain the same until the winter season ends. Winter in Side is generally warmer than in the UK, which makes this small town the perfect place to enjoy a quick January escapade.
Side Hotels in January
As a resort town, there are more than 200 hotels to choose from, most of which are by the beach. The accommodations range from either large hotels near the sea, or small hotels inland.
You can choose to pick hotels according to budget, self catering options, all inclusive options, location (such as on the beach), high-end hotels, hotels with a spa, family friendly spa, and romantic retreat hotels.
If you are looking for a budget hotel, the Safari Suit Hotel is a good option and has free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and is close to the beach. The Tuana Pension also offers budget friendly rates. Barut Hemera, along with AliBey Resort, are on the opposite side of the spectrum as they are two of the high end, all-inclusive hotels in Side which are also great for family vacations. For romantic getaways, Crystal Sunrise Queen Luxury Resort and Spa is highly recommended for its amenities, suites, and swimming pool.
If you prefer to cook for yourself, there are a couple of resorts which offer self catering options like the Kentia Apartments and the Sun City Apartments, both of which come with complete kitchen essentials. The Aral Hotel is another option and they have the basic kitchen necessities for your cooking needs.
Side Beach for January
Water sports like riding a banana boat, Jet Ski, or speed boat are also available and can with rented through Sef Water Sports.
Bars and Restaurants
Included in a visit regardless of the destination should be experiencing the food and Turkish cuisine varies in different restaurants throughout Side. You can experience quality Turkey dishes at Ocakbasi, which is located in Opposite Roman Bath. The specialty of this restaurant is their Turkish BBQ. Here, food is not just enjoyed because of how it tastes and its wonderful flavors, but also because dining is done opposite beautiful scenery. Another restaurant, Marina Baron Restaurant, offers meals with views of sunsets. For romantic dinners or family dinners, one of the most visited places to eat is the Aphrodite Restaurant. They offer continental cuisine from breakfast to late night. One of their specialties is the Testi Kebabi, which is a delight for all, but especially meat lovers.
Located near the harbor is Kiss Bar Restaurant, which is great for experiencing the nightlife of Side. Enjoy wine and cocktails served in a chilled glass with impeccable and friendly service. They are known to have the best tequila in town and their pina coladas are also worth a try.
Things to do in Side in January
During this time of the year, when there is 40% chance of rain, visitors might be contemplating not leaving their hotels, but there is still plenty to do even if there is a little rain. The top three sites in Side must be visited by all travelers and they are: The Greek Amphitheater, the Side Museum and the Temple of Apollo. These sites will take you back in time, while offering an enjoyable experience at the same time. The small town of Side is full of history, and one day of sightseeing is not enough to do it justice. In addition to what you'll see at these sites, be sure to check out the exhibits the museum offers as well.
If you prefer to have your days planned in advance and be guided during your visit, Magic Valley Cappadocia Private Day Tours or Vigotour Day Tours can arrange this for you. They offer excursions like a hot air balloon ride, a river rafting activity, or a mountain tour. With outdoor tours from Vigo, you will be able to visit the village and the Taurus Mountains while riding Unimog trucks, which are bright yellow trucks that can go off-roading and were originally built in Germany. Included in tour packages are hotel pick up and drop off, lunch, and a guide.
If you want to do some trekking, biking, or rafting check out Active Nature Tours for the right tour for you. You can visit the grave of Philippus through the famous Way of St. James, or trek the route, which the Apostle Paul took when he journeyed from Perge to Antiochia.
