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Demre (Myra)
Demre, Antalya, 07570
The basics
Visit the enchanting allure of Demre. Known alternatively as Myra, this Turkish town is a treasure trove of fascinating sights and experiences, including the ancient city of Myra, whose defensive wall dates are some 2,500 years old, and the sunken city of Kekova Island. For the design geeks among us, we highly recommend exploring the stunning Greco-Roman architecture of Kaleköy (Simena), while Christmas lovers will want to check out St. Nicholas Church, which honors the Greek Christian bishop that inspired Santa Claus. With so much to explore, you'll find yourself faced with the delightful challenge of choosing which sites to visit first. While you can explore the town independently, there are also guided tours of Demre that depart from Antalya, Kemer, and Kas.
Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Tour from Antalya
$60.93 per adult
Traveler Favorite
Great locations and value for money
Not quite what we expected (same as other reviews) but had a great time with amazing locations and a lovely guide. Very glad we went.
Celia_Q, May 2024
Things to know before you go
When visiting St. Nicholas Church, it’s important to dress appropriately by avoiding shorts, tank tops, and other revealing clothing.
As there are not many places to buy food and drink in Demre, plan to bring your own water and snacks.
To avoid the heat and crowds, it’s best to visit Demre early in the day. This way, you’ll be able to explore Myra’s ruins at your own pace without feeling rushed.
Hiring a local guide will give you a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the town. Guides can be hired at the entrance to the ruins of Myra.
How to get there
Located off the dazzling Mediterranean Sea, Demre is 56 miles (140 kilometers) southwest of Antalya and 93 miles (149 kilometers) southeast of Fethiye. You can easily reach the town by bus (the closest bus station is Demre Otogar) or by driving the D400 state road, which takes about three hours from Antalya and Fethiye.
When to get there
While Demre is pleasant all year, the ideal time to visit is during the spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) months, when the temperatures are mild and the crowds are fewer. During the spring, the town is adorned with wildflowers and blossoming trees, making it an ideal season for nature enthusiasts. On the other hand, fall may appeal to those looking to explore the ancient sites without having to jostle through hordes of tourists.
Visit Santa Claus
Many Christians visit Myra on a special pilgrimage honoring Saint Nicholas. He was an early Christian bishop of Myra during the time of the Roman Empire. Now known as Santa Claus, his tomb and church remain sacred sites to celebrate this legendary figure’s life. Myra is bustling with pilgrims on December 6, St. Nicholas Day, which is celebrated with a religious service at St. Nicholas Church.
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