Demre Guide

Explore ancient Lycian ruins, seaside boat trips, and local seafood in Demre, Antalya.

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Demre Guide38 spotsAntalya, TR

Last updated: Sep 23, 2026

Curated by Shlau

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Demre (Myra) sits on the alluvial plain of the Myros River in Antalya Province, Turkey. The town is built over the ancient Lycian city of Myra and is best known for its well‑preserved Roman theatre, which once seated more than ten thousand people, and the rock‑cut tombs that line the hillside above the village. The Church of St. Nicholas, where the bishop who inspired Santa Claus once served, draws visitors year‑round, especially in winter when the December crowds are thin.

A short walk from town is the ancient harbour of Andriake, the maritime gateway that linked Myra to Mediterranean trade routes. Nearby, Çayağzı beach is a nesting ground for loggerhead turtles; two tides a day allow visitors to see the turtles come ashore and return to the sea.

Why go? Demre offers a quiet, authentic Lycian experience: early‑morning light over the ruins, a historic church without the bustle of peak season, and a beach that feels like a secret hideaway. It is also a convenient base for exploring other Lycian sites such as Kekova, Kaş, and Finike.

What to do? Morning – walk through the Roman theatre and the rock‑cut tombs. Midday – visit the Church of St. Nicholas and stroll along the harbour of Andriake. Afternoon – relax on Çayağzı beach, watching turtles if the season allows. Evening – enjoy a quiet dinner in the town square or take a short drive to the coastal road between Kaş and Finike for sunset.

How long to stay? A single day covers the main sights, but two nights allow time for a second visit to the beach at different tides and an evening in the square. For those linking Lycian sites, a week is ideal to add boat trips to Kekova and leisurely drives toward Kaş.

When to visit? Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot, especially for beach activities.

Transport From Antalya – buses depart every 40 minutes from the main bus station (Otogar) and reach Demre in about 1 hour 45 minutes. A short walk or taxi ride takes you from the bus stop to the town centre. Local travel – dolmuş (shared minibus) services run between Demre, Kaş (≈40 km west), and Finike (≈30 km east). By car – renting a car gives flexibility for day trips to Kekova or the coastal road, but parking in town is limited.

Nearby routes – the D400 runs along the coast, linking Demre to Kaş and Finike. From Demre, a scenic drive north leads to the ancient city of Olympos and the beach town of Kas.

Demre is ideal for travelers who value history, quiet beaches, and authentic Lycian culture over nightlife or resort amenities.

Demre History: From Ancient Lycia to Modern Town

Myra was a Lycian city on the Myros River plain, Hellenised by the third century BC and later folded into the Roman province. Its rock‑cut tombs and theatre still dominate the hillside above modern Demre. Andriake, the harbour five kilometres southwest, moved grain and olive oil through the Mediterranean network. Saint Nicholas served as bishop of Myra in the fourth century; his church remains a pilgrimage site. The town Turks called Kale kept a Greek community until the twentieth‑century population exchange. The district took the name Demre in 2005, after the river.

Eating in Demre | Antalya's Coastal Culinary Delights and Local Favorites

Food in Demre Demre’s culinary scene is a simple, Mediterranean‑style menu that reflects its position between the Aegean and the Mediterranean. The town’s restaurants serve fresh grilled fish—often caught the same day—paired with traditional meze such as hummus, dolma, and a generous drizzle of olive oil. A staple breakfast consists of square coffee served with simit (a sesame‑crusted bagel) and fresh bread. Local produce shines in the summer months: Finike oranges are at their peak from May to October, and many eateries incorporate them into desserts or drinks. The most popular spot for home‑style plates is Demre Maraşım, where diners can enjoy hearty Turkish fare without the tourist crowds. Restaurants cluster around the town centre and along the Çayağzı waterfront, where boats return from the nearby bays. If you’re visiting in August, expect full tables; May and October offer a more relaxed dining experience. For a wider selection of groceries, head to Finike or Kaş on the D400 highway. A single well‑cooked fish dish at any of Demre’s local taverns will give you a satisfying taste of the region’s coastal cuisine.

Getting to Demre

Antalya Airport is the main gateway to Demre, about two hours east on the D400 via Kemer and the coastal Antalya stretch. During the high‑season months, coaches run from Antalya, Fethiye, and Kaş along this highway; be sure to confirm that the bus stops in Demre before boarding. From Kaş, a 40‑kilometre drive west, local dolmuş and buses head inland toward the plain. There is no railway or airport within the district itself. A hired car is useful for reaching sites such as Andriake, Çayağzı, and for late‑night returns from Myra. Taxis operate in the town centre; check fares in advance if you plan a boat day to Kekova. For the most up‑to‑date dolmuş schedules, consult the live board a week before your trip.

Getting Around Demre

Getting around Demre is straightforward once you know the main routes and local transport options. The D400 road runs through the town, linking it to Finike and Kaş; during the high‑season months (April–June and September–October) minibuses depart roughly every 40 minutes along this route, making day trips to nearby coastal towns convenient. Inside Demre, the ancient Myra ruins and St. Nicholas Church are walkable from the town centre, though the walk involves some steep hills and can be hot in summer. For shorter excursions to Andriake, Çayağzı beach, or the view terrace, a taxi or a short drive is advisable. If you plan to explore the Lycian coast or take a boat tour to Kekova, renting a car is the most flexible option. Local desks offer vehicles that can handle the narrow, winding roads of the karst landscape. Alternatively, Bayar Boat Tour provides scheduled water routes from Demre, allowing you to visit nearby bays and islands without needing a car. Because there is no metro or tram system, all travel outside the town relies on minibuses, taxis, rented cars, or boat services. Plan your itinerary around the dolmuş timetable and boat schedules to avoid missing key sights.

Money and staying connected in Demre: Buses run every 20–40 minutes from Antalya’s main station, with a quick 30‑minute walk or taxi to the historic Myra ruins; stay connected via local SIMs or free Wi‑Fi at hotels.

Turkey uses the Turkish lira. Credit cards work in most restaurants and hotels in Demre’s town centre, but it’s wise to carry cash for dolmuş fares, boat excursions, and market stalls. ATMs are located in the main square. The local plug types are C and F, 230 V. The emergency number is 112. The postcode for Demre is 07570. Mobile reception is reliable in town but can be patchy at remote coves; download an offline map before heading out to Kekova. Café Wi‑Fi is available but not suitable for office work.

Practical Guide to Demre: How to Get There, Where to Stay, and What to Do in 2–3 Days

Demre (also known as Myra) sits on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast in Antalya Province. The town is famed for its well‑preserved Lycian ruins, the ancient theatre, the early Christian basilica of St. Nicholas, and the nearby island of Kekova, where a boat trip reveals submerged Roman streets and a famous “ghost” ship. A typical visit lasts two to three days. On day one, explore the Myra archaeological site and the small harbor; on day two, take a ferry or private boat to Kekova for snorkeling, diving, or simply watching the sunset over the turquoise waters. If you have an extra day, consider a side trip to Çayağzı beach, but be mindful of loggerhead turtle nesting regulations that restrict beach access from May to September. The best time to go is spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when temperatures are comfortable and the sea is warm enough for swimming. Summer can be very hot; arrive early in the morning or stay late into the evening to avoid the midday heat. Winters are mild and wet, but the ruins remain accessible. Getting there is straightforward. From Antalya’s main bus station (Otogar) buses to Demre depart every 30–40 minutes during the day; the journey takes about 1½ hours. Once in Demre, local dolmuş (shared minibus) services run to nearby towns such as Kas and Fethiye, but they stop running late in the evening, so plan your return trips accordingly. Taxis are available for short distances, and a rental car is handy if you wish to explore the karst caves or the surrounding countryside at your own pace. Pay in Turkish lira; most shops and restaurants accept cash only. English is widely understood in tourist areas, but it’s courteous to ask permission before photographing turtle nesting zones or private boat decks. The town’s postal code is 07570.

FAQ

1 / 10

What is covered in the Demre guide?

Visit Demre in Antalya: Lycian rock tombs, St. Nicholas Church, Andriake harbour, turtle beach rules, and the Kaş to Finike coastal stop. Updated It includes 38 recommendations across 7 hotels, 5 cafes, 4 restaurants, 2 pharmacies, 2 beaches, 5 places, 1 taxis, 5 car rentals, 7 creator picks.

2 / 10

How many places are in the Demre guide?

The Demre guide lists 38 places: 7 hotels, 5 cafes, 4 restaurants, 2 pharmacies, 2 beaches, 5 places, 1 taxis, 5 car rentals, 7 creator picks.

3 / 10

Where is Demre?

Demre is in Antalya, TR (36.2446, 29.9876).

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How do you get to Demre?

5 / 10

What should you eat in Demre?

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Are there beaches in Demre?

Yes — this guide lists 2 beach spots for Demre.

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Is there camping in Demre?

No camping listings in this pack yet — we do not invent venues. Entries will appear once verified.

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Can you rent a bike in Demre?

No bike rental listings in this pack yet. Verified shops will be added when available.

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Is Demre quieter than kas?

Demre is the modern town over ancient Myra in Antalya, known for Lycian ruins, St. Nicholas, and quiet beaches toward Çayağzı. Two nights, or one long day from Kaş.

10 / 10

What are recommended hotels in Demre?

Highlighted hotels in the Demre guide: Özel Apart Demre (5/5, 6 reviews); Andriake & Çayagzi Beach (5/5, 2 reviews); Santa Center Pansiyon/Apart (4.8/5, 412 reviews).

Özel Apart Demre (5/5) — Özel Apart Demre is a comfortable lodging option located in the heart of Demre.
Andriake & Çayagzi Beach (5/5) — Andriake & Çayagzi Beach offers a peaceful atmosphere in Demre.
Demre Kırmızı Çiğköfte (5/5) — Demre Kırmızı Çiğköfte is known for its fresh çiğ köfte.
Seymen Burger Fastfood (5/5) — Seymen Burger Fastfood offers delicious burgers.
TosTost Cafe & Waffle (5/5) — TosTost Cafe & Waffle is known for its delicious waffles.

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31 spots

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Hotels

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Özel Apart Demre
5.0(6 reviews)
Özel Apart Demre is a comfortable lodging option located in the heart of Demre.
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Andriake & Çayagzi Beach
5.0(2 reviews)
Andriake & Çayagzi Beach offers a peaceful atmosphere in Demre.
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Santa Center Pansiyon/Apart
4.8(412 reviews)
Santa Center Pension is located in a region rich in historical and natural beauty in Demre.
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Beymelek Taşev's (Osman GÜNGÖR)
4.6(133 reviews)
Beymelek Taşev is located in a tranquil village of Demre.
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Demre Apart
4.5(152 reviews)
Demre Apart offers comfortable stays with a modern design.
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Hotel Derin
4.5(4 reviews)
Hotel Derin provides a peaceful stay with comfortable rooms.
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Andriake Camping Demre
4.4(917 reviews)
Andriake Camping offers a natural oasis.
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Cafes

5 · 5 selected · View all Cafes

TosTost Cafe & Waffle
5.0(127 reviews)
TosTost Cafe & Waffle is known for its delicious waffles.
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PataMaya
5.0(13 reviews)
PataMaya is a café offering a friendly atmosphere.
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Meydan Çay & Si̇mi̇t
5.0(3 reviews)
Meydan Çay & Simit offers a friendly atmosphere.
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Şimşek cafe
5.0(3 reviews)
Şimşek Cafe offers a pleasant place for a relaxing break in Demre.
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Greek House Cafe
4.9(589 reviews)
Greek House Cafe serves delicious breakfasts in Demre.
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Restaurants

4 · 4 selected · View all Restaurants

Demre Kırmızı Çiğköfte
5.0(63 reviews)
Demre Kırmızı Çiğköfte is known for its fresh çiğ köfte.
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Seymen Burger Fastfood
5.0(1 reviews)
Seymen Burger Fastfood offers delicious burgers.
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Demre Maraşım Restoran ev yemekleri. еда суп десерт. Home cooking soup dessert . Hausmannskost Suppe Dessert Eis
4.8(348 reviews)
Demre's Maraşım Restaurant is known for its home-cooked flavors.
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Mevsim cafe
4.8(83 reviews)
Mevsim Cafe offers a friendly atmosphere with delicious meals.
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Pharmacies

2 · 2 selected · View all Pharmacies

Ata Eczanesi
5.0(6 reviews)
Ata Eczanesi is a reliable pharmacy offering health products.
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Kayak eczanesi
5.0(3 reviews)
Kayak Eczanesi is a reliable stop for health needs.
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Beaches

2 · 2 selected · View all Beaches

taşdibi plajı
4.7(1371 reviews)
Taşdibi Beach is ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.
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Çayağzı Plajı
4.4(267 reviews)
Çayağzı Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Demre.
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Places

5 · 5 selected · View all Places

Bayar Boat Tour
5.0(25 reviews)
Bayar Boat Tour offers an opportunity to explore Demre's natural beauty.
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Demre Seyir Terası
5.0(8 reviews)
Demre Seyir Terası offers stunning views.
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Demre Çakıllı Plajı
5.0(3 reviews)
Demre Çakıllı Beach is a great place for sunbathing and swimming in clear waters.
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Греко-римский амфитеатр Миры
4.8(39 reviews)
The Greco-Roman Amphitheater in Myra is a must-see for history buffs.
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Myra ruins
4.7(2153 reviews)
The Myra ruins offer a glimpse into the capital of the Lycian Civilization.
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Taxis

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Demre Likya Taksi
5.0(18 reviews)
Demre Likya Taksi offers reliable transportation services.
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Car Rentals

5 · 5 selected · View all Car Rentals

NOEL Rent a Car
4.6(9 reviews)
NOEL Rent a Car offers vehicle rental services.
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KEKOVA Rent a Car
4.6(8 reviews)
KEKOVA Rent a Car offers vehicle rental services in Demre.
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MyraRent
4.3(31 reviews)
MyraRent provides vehicle rental services in Demre.
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Demre Rent a Car
4.1(7 reviews)
Demre Rent a Car offers vehicle rental services in Demre.
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Demre Karabibik Rent a Car
Demre Karabibik Rent a Car provides vehicle rental services in Demre.
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Creator picks

7 · 7 selected

Instagram
Kaleköy: A Hidden Gem in Antalya
Kaleköy features natural beauty and historical ruins.
Open on Instagram
Instagram
Discover the Wonders of Antalya
Antalya is a destination filled with historical and natural beauty.
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Instagram
Discover the Oasis of Usach in Santiago
Usach offers a campus experience filled with green spaces and modern facilities.
Open on Instagram
Instagram
Protecting Antalya's Natural Beauty
The cancellation of the Split Road Project in Antalya contributes to the preservation of natural beauty.
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Instagram
Discovering Antalya: Turkey's Paradise
Antalya is one of Turkey's most popular vacation regions.
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Instagram
Discovering Zümrütkaya: Antalya's Hidden Gem
Zümrütkaya Ancient Quarry offers a unique experience for history lovers.
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Instagram
Finike-Demre: A Scenic Coastal Journey
The Finike-Demre route offers a scenic journey filled with natural beauty.
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Demre Guide

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Overview38 spots · guide notesOpen overview

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Recommended places

Hotels

Özel Apart Demre

Özel Apart Demre

Andriake & Çayagzi Beach

Andriake & Çayagzi Beach

Santa Center Pansiyon/Apart

Santa Center Pansiyon/Apart

Beymelek Taşev's (Osman GÜNGÖR)

Beymelek Taşev's (Osman GÜNGÖR)

Demre Apart

Demre Apart

Hotel Derin

Hotel Derin

Andriake Camping Demre

Andriake Camping Demre

Cafes

TosTost Cafe & Waffle

TosTost Cafe & Waffle

PataMaya

PataMaya

Meydan Çay & Si̇mi̇t

Meydan Çay & Si̇mi̇t

Şimşek cafe

Şimşek cafe

Greek House Cafe

Greek House Cafe

Restaurants

Demre Kırmızı Çiğköfte

Demre Kırmızı Çiğköfte

Seymen Burger Fastfood

Seymen Burger Fastfood

Demre Maraşım Restoran ev yemekleri. еда суп десерт. Home cooking soup dessert . Hausmannskost Suppe Dessert Eis

Demre Maraşım Restoran ev yemekleri. еда суп десерт. Home cooking soup dessert . Hausmannskost Suppe Dessert Eis

Mevsim cafe

Mevsim cafe

Pharmacies

Ata Eczanesi

Ata Eczanesi

Kayak eczanesi

Kayak eczanesi

Beaches

taşdibi plajı

taşdibi plajı

Çayağzı Plajı

Çayağzı Plajı

Places

Bayar Boat Tour

Bayar Boat Tour

Demre Seyir Terası

Demre Seyir Terası

Demre Çakıllı Plajı

Demre Çakıllı Plajı

Греко-римский амфитеатр Миры

Греко-римский амфитеатр Миры

Myra ruins

Myra ruins

Taxis

Demre Likya Taksi

Demre Likya Taksi

Car Rentals

NOEL Rent a Car

NOEL Rent a Car

KEKOVA Rent a Car

KEKOVA Rent a Car

MyraRent

MyraRent

Demre Rent a Car

Demre Rent a Car

Demre Karabibik Rent a Car

Demre Karabibik Rent a Car

Creator picks

Kaleköy: A Hidden Gem in Antalya

Kaleköy: A Hidden Gem in Antalya

Discover the Wonders of Antalya

Discover the Wonders of Antalya