Things To Do
in Demre
Demre is a small coastal town located in southwestern Turkey, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. It is famous for being the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, the original Santa Claus. Demre is home to the ancient Lycian city of Myra, which features impressive rock-cut tombs and a well-preserved Roman theater.
Visitors can also explore the charming streets lined with traditional Turkish houses and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of this seaside destination.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the ancient ruins of Myra, where you can explore Lycian rock-cut tombs. Don’t forget to check out the well-preserved Roman theater nearby.
After lunch, take a short trip to the enchanting Church of St. Nicholas, the original Santa Claus. Learn about his life and significance in the town's history.
Relax at a local café and enjoy traditional Turkish tea. The pleasant atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
Head to Çayağzı Beach and enjoy a peaceful morning by the sea. Take a stroll along the shoreline and soak up the sun.
Try some water sports or relax with a good book while enjoying views of the Mediterranean. The beach offers a variety of eateries for a delicious lunch.
As the sun sets, take a walk along the beach and watch the colors change over the ocean. Dinner at a seaside restaurant will cap off your perfect day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, including ancient ruins such as the Lycian rock tombs and St. Nicholas Church.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including stunning Mediterranean coastline and picturesque landscapes.
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate, ideal for tourism and outdoor activities.
- Less crowded compared to major tourist destinations, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and traditional Turkish dishes.
- Limited public transportation options, making it difficult to explore the surrounding areas without a car.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to fluctuations in local economy and employment.
- Some amenities and services may be less developed compared to larger cities.
- Inconsistent availability of English speakers, which may pose challenges for international visitors.
- Potential for high temperatures during the summer months, which may be uncomfortable for some travelers.
Best Activities in Demre
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the well-preserved Lycian rock-cut tombs and amphitheater in this historic site.
Enjoy the stunning turquoise waters and picturesque scenery of this beautiful beach.
Discover the underwater ruins of this ancient Lycian city, which was partially submerged by a series of earthquakes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Demre with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Demre
Visit one of these nice places.
Visit the Kekova region for stunning views of the sunken city and a picturesque coastline, perfect for photo opportunities.
Head to Demre Harbor for a beautiful waterfront view and the chance to capture photos of traditional Turkish boats and the surrounding landscape.
Explore the St. Nicholas Church and enjoy panoramic views of the city of Demre from this historical site, offering ample photo opportunities.
Food in Demre
Demre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin, round piece of dough topped with minced meat, vegetables, and herbs, baked to perfection. Must-try at 'Giritli Restaurant' or 'Demre Pidecisi'.
Must-Try!
A traditional Turkish meze made with fresh barbunya beans, olive oil, garlic, onions, and tomatoes. Best experienced at 'Demre Balıkçısı' for an authentic taste.
Fresh anchovies from the Mediterranean, often enjoyed grilled or fried. Visit the local seafood markets for the freshest catch or try 'Kordon Restaurant' for a delectable hamsi dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Demre better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Demre market where vibrant stalls offer a wide range of fresh produce, herbs, local cheeses, olives, and even handmade breads. Don't miss the chance to savor a variety of delicious street foods such as gözleme (thin dough filled with various ingredients, folded, and cooked on a griddle) and midye dolma (stuffed mussels).
This charming street is lined with quaint tea gardens and vendors selling delectable treats like simit (circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds) and Turkish delight.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Demre, it is important to show respect for elders through polite greetings and deference to their wisdom and experience.
It is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with the local community.
Visitors should observe respectful behavior when visiting mosques or other religious places, such as removing shoes and speaking softly.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Demre with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Demre
Ensure a smooth experience
In Demre, Turkey, tipping is generally not expected, but it is appreciated for exceptional service in restaurants, hotels, and other service industries. A tip of 5-10% of the total bill is considered generous.
In Demre, Turkey, cash is widely used for daily transactions, although larger businesses and hotels may accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and to inquire about payment methods before making a transaction.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Demre.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Demre, with mild temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites.
Warm and sunny weather, perfect for beach activities and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea. Expect crowded tourist sites during peak summer months.
Mild weather with less crowds, great for visiting historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. The sea is still warm for swimming.
Cool and rainy weather, with fewer tourists. Ideal for those interested in experiencing the local culture and exploring ancient ruins without the crowds.
Demre at Night
Hiking in Demre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hiking spot that offers stunning views of ancient ruins and the surrounding landscape. The trail winds through the famous Lycian Way.
A vast national park featuring numerous hiking trails that lead through lush forests and along stunning coastal vistas. It is rich in biodiversity and historical significance.
This trail takes you from the charming town of Kalkan to the impressive Patara Beach, passing by breathtaking landscapes and ancient ruins.
An impressive gorge where you can hike along the river, enjoying the cool water and stunning rock formations. It's a popular spot especially during the warmer months.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding mountains. The trail can be accessed via a cable car for easier access.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Demre through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Demre by plane.
The main international airport serving the Antalya Province, located approximately 150 km from Demre.
An international airport located near Dalaman, about 205 km from Demre, serving the southwestern coast of Turkey.
A smaller international airport located approximately 150 km from Demre, serving the Alanya region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Demre, comprising a significant percentage of the population.
A smaller ethnic group present in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A historical community in the area, though their numbers have decreased over time.
Includes smaller groups such as Greeks and Circassians, each with unique cultural contributions.
Including expatriates and seasonal residents, contributing to the multicultural environment.
The Soul of Demre
Discover the essence of Demre through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Demre, like in many parts of Turkey, with local teams and a strong community following.
Basketball enjoys a growing popularity in Demre, with various local teams and youth programs.
Volleyball is also popular, especially among women and youth, with local leagues and recreational play.
Due to its coastal location, swimming is a popular sport in Demre, with many residents and tourists enjoying the sea.
Athletics, including running and track events, is encouraged in local schools and community programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Demre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Demre's cuisine prominently features seafood, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan dishes made from fresh, locally sourced produce and aromatic spices. Look for options like mercimek köftesi (red lentil kofte) and vegetable güveç (a slow-cooked casserole).
Visitors with gluten restrictions can savor delectable dishes like kısır (a type of bulgur salad), grilled meats, and a variety of flavorful mezes made from gluten-free ingredients at several local eateries.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Demre with these cultural adventures.
