HOLIDAY IN SIDE WITH OWN TRANSPORT, SUMMER 2025

The drive from Sofia to the Antalya region takes between 14 to 18 hours, depending on your final destination. Reaching Kemer is the quickest (around 14-15 hours), while driving to Alanya can take up to 17-18 hours. An overnight stop is highly recommended.

The main route is via the Kapitan Andreevo/Kapıkule border crossing, following motorways towards Istanbul, Ankara, and then south to Antalya. An alternative route is via Bursa, Afyonkarahisar, and Burdur. Once you reach Antalya city, you follow the coastal D400 highway to your chosen resort.

Having a car gives you freedom in any resort! In Kemer, you can explore mountain roads and wild beaches. In Lara and Belek, a car is perfect for day trips to Perge and Aspendos. In Side, you can easily reach the ancient town. In Alanya, a car is a must to drive up to the castle and explore Cleopatra Beach.

Yes, an HGS sticker is absolutely mandatory, as the entire motorway route to Antalya is tolled. Purchase and load credit onto the sticker immediately after the border at a PTT (Turkish Post Office) branch or a designated gas station to avoid fines.

For the car, you need the registration certificate (in the driver's name) and a valid 'Green Card' insurance policy. For passengers, valid international passports or national ID cards are required. Always check the latest entry requirements before traveling.

The D400 highway, which connects all the resorts in Antalya, is in excellent condition, with two or three lanes in each direction. Traffic is well-organized, but it can get busy in the summer. Be mindful of speed cameras.

With a car, you can access everything! The most popular destinations are the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos, the Düden Waterfalls, rafting in the Köprülü Canyon, and The Land of Legends theme park. All are easily accessible from any resort.

Fuel prices in Turkey are higher than in the Balkans – refuel before crossing the border. Most hotels offer free parking. In town centers like Alanya and Side, parking is mostly paid (otopark).

Definitely! A car gives you the freedom to visit a local market, see a landmark for a few hours, dine at an authentic restaurant outside the hotel, or simply discover a neighboring beach. It turns your holiday into a real journey.

Plan an overnight stop in a city like Bursa, Afyonkarahisar, or even Ankara. Take turns with another driver if possible. Take frequent breaks at the well-equipped roadside service areas. Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas.