Things To Do
in Demre
Demre is a coastal town in Antalya Province, Turkey, perched along the turquoise Mediterranean with a backdrop of rugged hills. It is renowned for the Lycian-era ruins of Myra and the St. Nicholas Church in Kale, alongside the Kekova sunken city accessible by boat. The area blends ancient history, dramatic coastlines, and a relaxed Aegean-Turkish vibe, making it ideal for archaeology buffs, hikers, and seafood lovers.
Expect tranquil beaches, pristine coves, and memorable boat trips that reveal Lycia’s maritime past.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by visiting the ancient ruins of Myra, where you can marvel at the well-preserved rock-cut tombs that date back to the Lycian period. Stroll through the remnants of the Roman theater and soak in the historical ambiance. The peaceful surroundings and gentle breeze provide a perfect setting for photography and reflection.
After lunch, make your way to the charming village of Demre to explore local shops and taste authentic Turkish cuisine. Don't miss the chance to visit the St. Nicholas Church, dedicated to the beloved saint and a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture. The lively town atmosphere will have you immersed in the local culture and history.
As night falls, enjoy a delightful dinner at a seaside restaurant, where the fresh catch of the day is sure to impress. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, listening to the sounds of the waves lapping against the shore. The stunning sunset views will create unforgettable memories of your first day in Demre.
Set off on a scenic boat tour of the Kekova coast, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes. The ride takes you through quaint villages and past the impressive ruins of the sunken city of Kekova, giving you a unique perspective on this historical gem. Keep your camera handy for the breathtaking views that blend history with nature.
Stop at the island of Kaleköy, where you can hike up to the castle for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Take time to explore the village and enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local café, sampling homemade dishes from the region. Engage with the friendly locals to learn more about their traditions.
Return to Demre in the late afternoon and unwind with some leisure time at the beach. As twilight approaches, find a cozy spot to watch the vibrant colors of the sunset reflecting on the water. Top off the evening with a traditional Turkish tea or coffee at a local café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi (1 km) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $20-50 |
| 🧴Bottled water (1.5 L) | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich ancient sites and a pristine coastline
- Accessible day trips to Kekova and Kaleköy
- Limited nightlife and crowds in peak season
- Some rural services fewer options than larger cities
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Hesap lütfen" - The check, please
- "İyi günler" - Good day
- "İngilizce konuşabilir misiniz?" - Can you speak English?
- "Burası nerede?" - Where is this place?
Places to Visit in Demre
Visit one of these nice places.
Carved into sheer cliff faces, these ancient Lycian tombs offer dramatic morning or golden-hour silhouettes above the Demre River.
A historic church with an atmospheric interior and candle-lit ambiance, set against the town’s harbor and mountains.
Harbor views with museum artifacts and a sense of ancient maritime life; best at sunrise or late afternoon glow.
Ruins perched above Kekova Bay, with panoramic sea views and the turquoise coastline stretching to the islands.
From Üçağız or Kaleköy, sea-level vantage points reveal the submerged Lycian ruins, creating dramatic waterline photos.
A traditional harbor village with pastel boats and rocky hills; sunset light adds warm tones to the coast.
Food in Demre
Demre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught fish from the Mediterranean, typically served grilled with lemon and olive oil; best found at seafood restaurants by the harbor.
Must-Try!
A staple fish dish in coastal towns; usually filleted and served with a light herb oil, perfect with a side of salad and rice.
Assorted dips and small items, such as hummus, tabbouli, dolma, and grilled vegetables; widely available at seaside eateries.
Turkish dumplings typically served with yogurt and garlic; available at casual restaurants in Demre.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly fish market and stalls selling olives, cheese, honey, herbs, and local produce; great for fresh ingredients and snacks.
Nearby market areas where you can sample seasonal fruit, nuts, and regional snacks; look for freshly baked bread and lokum.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting mosques or religious sites, dress modestly; remove hats and shoes where required, and women may need head coverings in some places.
Turkish hospitality is strong; accepting tea or coffee when offered is common and polite.
Bargaining at markets is common; tipping for services and guides is appreciated but not mandatory.
Safety
Tipping in Demre
Ensure a smooth experience
If service charge is not included, consider leaving around 5-10% in restaurants; small tips for guides and taxi drivers are appreciated.
Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted; many places also take debit/credit cards, especially in larger towns and tourist facilities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with sea temperatures in the high 20s to low 30s°C; peak tourist season; carry sunscreen, water, and a hat.
Milder temperatures and calmer seas; great for hiking Lycian Way sections and boat trips without the crowds.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; some accommodations and services reduce hours, but coastal scenery remains beautiful.
Blooming flora and comfortable temperatures; ideal for outdoor activities, photography, and longer walks.
Demre at Night
Hiking in Demre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal and hillside trails near Demre, offering views of Myra, Andriake, and Kekova.
Short coastal hike with sea views and photo opportunities near the Kekova region.
Airports
How to reach Demre by plane.
The closest international gateway to the region; roughly a 3–4 hour drive to Demre depending on traffic and routes.
Major international hub serving the region; typical drive of 4–5 hours to Demre.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Traditional families and working residents of the Demre district; predominantly Turkish-speaking.
Tourism-related staff who arrive in summer to support boat tours, restaurants, and hotels.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played in local leagues; fans gather at matches and in bars during competitions.
Swimming, snorkeling, and boating are popular along the turquoise coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Demre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian visitors can enjoy mezze plates, salads, grilled vegetables, and cheese-filled pastries; tell servers in Turkish (Sebze) so they can tailor options.