Places to Visit in Demre

Antalya Located approximately 2,5 hours from the city center Demre, is an important destination that stands out with its historical and natural riches. Demre, one of the important port cities of the Lycian civilization with its deep-rooted history dating back to the 5th century BC, is also internationally recognized as the place where St. Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus, lived.

The district, which draws attention with its clear sea and preserved natural structure, offers the opportunity to taste fresh seafood and local delicacies in fish restaurants located on the coast. In addition, it offers unforgettable experiences to visitors with different activities such as boat tours and diving events. Now, let's discover the unique beauties of Demre together.

Historical Places to Visit in Demre

Demre is a region that offers one of the most special heritages of the Lycian civilization with its historical riches and natural beauties. The magnificent cities of the Lycian civilization, Rome With its ancient structures and unique landscapes bearing traces of the 1st and Byzantine periods, Demre is like an open-air museum for history enthusiasts. These ancient cities, stretching from Myra to Andriake, from Aperlai to Trysa, not only offer visitors fascinating traces of the past, but also promise a unique discovery experience where nature and history meet.

Andriake Ancient City

The Ancient City of Andriake is an important archaeological site in the Demre district of Antalya, a must-see for history and culture enthusiasts. Founded in the 5th century BC as the port settlement of the Ancient City of Myra, Andriake became one of the most important trade centers of the Lycian Union. The city, which continued its importance as a strategic port during the Roman and Byzantine periods, sheds light on the rich past of the region with thousands of historical artifacts unearthed during excavations.

One of the most striking structures of the ancient city is Hadrian's Gate, built to commemorate the visit of the Roman Emperor Hadrian to the city in 130 AD. In addition, the ancient shops, baths and stoas located in the agora, which was the center of commercial and social life, give visitors a sense of the atmosphere of antiquity. The Granarium (granary), one of the best-preserved structures from the Roman period, and the monumental tombs from the Lycian, Roman and Byzantine periods are important elements that enrich the historical texture of Andriake. It is easy to reach the ancient city by bus or minibus from Demre and Antalya city centers.

Aperlai Ancient City

Aperlai Ancient City, is a historical region located approximately 27 kilometers from the Demre district of Antalya and was one of the important settlements of the Lycian civilization. Aperlai, a busy port and trade center in ancient times, continued its existence in the Roman and Byzantine periods and was later abandoned. Today, it offers its visitors a journey into the past with its historical ruins under the sea and the surrounding walls.

The ancient city can be explored with nature walks, boat tours and diving activities, and provides a unique experience with its underwater ruins, especially for scuba diving enthusiasts. You can relieve the tiredness of the year by swimming in its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, and take unforgettable photos by watching the unique views from the city walls at sunset. Aperlai Ancient City is an important discovery point that offers the historical and natural beauties of the region together.

Isinda Ancient City

The ancient city of Isinda is an important historical settlement belonging to the Lycian civilization, located within the borders of Belenli Village, approximately 40 kilometers from the Demre district of Antalya. The ancient city, thought to have been founded in the 4th century BC, is located on a hilly area and attracts attention with its inscriptions written in the Lycian language and sarcophagus tombs.

Surrounded by untouched nature and pine forests, the ancient city of Isinda can be explored with guided tours or nature walks. From its acropolis, impressive views of the green forests meeting the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean can be watched and unforgettable photographs can be taken. The ancient city of Isinda is a unique discovery point for those interested in the history and culture of the Lycian civilization.

Kyaneai Ruins

Kyaneai Archaeological Site is an important archaeological site located in the Demre district of Antalya and is considered one of the most developed cities of the Lycian civilization. This historical treasure, which has survived from the 4th century BC to the present day, attracts attention with its impressive views and rich historical texture from the hilly areas where it is located.

Sarcophagi, rock tombs and relief figures in the ancient city are among the valuable works reflecting the art and architecture of the period. In Kyaneai Archaeological Site, you can also visit the ancient theater, which was actively used in the Byzantine and Roman periods and has been largely preserved to this day. The region offers a unique discovery opportunity for both history, nature and photography enthusiasts.

Myra Ancient City

The Ancient City of Myra is located in the Demre district of Antalya, one of the most important cities of the Lycian civilization. Founded in the 5th century BC, this ancient city stood out as one of the most strategic and developed settlements in the region during the Roman and Byzantine periods. Myra, which came under Roman control in 43 BC and served as the capital of Lycia for a long time, fascinates its visitors with its rich historical past.

The ancient city is notable for its impressive rock tombs, a 13.000-person theater from the Roman period, and a Roman bath from the 1st century AD. Located near the Church of St. Nicholas, Myra today welcomes both history enthusiasts and pilgrims. This unique city, bearing traces of the ancient period, is waiting to be discovered with its excavations and preserved structures.

Ancient City of Trysa

The ancient city of Trysa is located in the Demre district of Antalya, Eyebrow and is located on the Kale road and is an important historical site belonging to the Lycian civilization. The ancient city, which is estimated to have been founded in the 2nd century BC and is known to have been a member of the Lycian Union, stands out with its rich cultural heritage despite its scant mention in historical sources.

Trysa Ancient City, which is a part of the Ancient Lycian Way, can be explored with guided nature walks and offers visitors an experience intertwined with nature and history. Trysa Heroon, one of the most striking structures of the city, provides the opportunity to take a historical journey with an impressive view on the mountain slopes. You can find the opportunity to rest and renew yourself in the fresh air of the region by staying in the camping areas located among the pine forests. Trysa Ancient City is a destination worth exploring for nature and history enthusiasts.

Discovering the historical riches of Demre is not just a trip, but a journey through time that goes back thousands of years. These ancient cities, inherited from the Lycian civilization, impress every visitor with their cultural values ​​and unique atmosphere. A paradise for history and nature enthusiasts, Demre is an unforgettable destination for those who want to follow the traces of the past and discover the fascinating beauties of the Mediterranean.

Natural Areas to Visit in Demre

Demre is a paradise that fascinates its visitors not only with its historical richness but also with its natural beauty. With its coves hidden in the clear waters of the Mediterranean, untouched beaches, hiking trails surrounded by pine forests and natural areas with rich biological diversity, Demre offers a unique experience for nature lovers. With its impressive natural areas from Andrea Doria Bay to Beymelek Lagoon, from Tersane Bay to Üçağız Village, Demre is a destination worth exploring.

Andrea Doria Koyu

Andrea Doria Bay is a unique destination located in the Demre district of Antalya and attracts attention with its natural beauty. Located approximately 25 kilometers from the center of Demre, this small bay fascinates its visitors with its clear turquoise sea, surrounding historical ruins and natural structure. Surrounded by steep rocky areas and pine forests, Andrea Doria Bay is one of the indispensable stops of organized boat tours and nature walks.

Named after the Andrea Doria ship that sank in the region in 1956, the bay is an ideal spot for snorkelers and scuba divers. The underwater caves around the bay in particular stand out with their impressive beauty. Andrea Doria Bay, which can be explored together with the Kekova Sunken City, offers a safe swimming experience for families with children with its calm and calm waters. An indispensable address for nature lovers and underwater enthusiasts, this fascinating bay showcases the unique views of the Mediterranean.

Demre Beymelek Lagoon

Beymelek Lagoon is located in the Demre district of Antalya and is a destination that stands out as one of the most striking natural beauties of Turkey. With its turquoise clear waters, fine sandy shores and untouched natural structure, Beymelek Lagoon is a special spot to be discovered for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

The lagoon, which is approximately 1 kilometer long and 500 meters wide, offers a safe swimming environment for families with children thanks to its shallow sea. The walking paths and picnic areas around the lagoon allow visitors to both enjoy nature in a peaceful environment and discover the impressive views of the region. Beymelek Lagoon, which also has country gardens and cafes in its vicinity, is approximately 7 kilometers from Demre city center and is in an easily accessible location.

Demre Cayagzi

Çayağzı is a peaceful area located in the Demre district of Antalya, attracting attention with both its natural beauty and historical ruins. Its fine sandy beach is of great ecological importance as one of the rare nesting areas of sea turtles. Its crystal clear blue sea offers visitors a pleasant swimming experience, while the region is an attractive spot for history enthusiasts as it was founded on the ruins of Andriake, known as the port city of Myra.

Abandoned after the Byzantine period and later used by Greek settlers, Çayağzı fascinates its visitors with its unique atmosphere of stone houses and ancient structures. Boat tours organized to Kekova Island and Likya way Activities such as walking on the lake offer unforgettable experiences to those who want to explore Çayağzı. You can easily reach Çayağzı, which is located approximately 5 kilometers from the center of Demre, by bus, taxi or car rental options.

Demre Bird Sanctuary

Demre Bird Paradise is a unique destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts in the Demre district of Antalya. This natural habitat, spread over an area of ​​approximately 200 hectares, is home to more than 300 species of birds and is also important as a stopover point for migratory birds. Bird watching tours and nature walks organized throughout the year offer visitors the opportunity to discover the biodiversity of the region.

Bird Paradise has a rich ecosystem with large and small lakes and marshlands. The region, which offers the opportunity to observe many different bird species such as flamingos, pelicans, herons, ducks and geese in their natural habitats, also attracts attention with its postcard-beautiful landscapes. You can easily reach Demre Bird Paradise, which is approximately 15 minutes away from the center of Demre, by bus or taxi.

Demre Ucagiz Village

Üçağız Village is a unique settlement in the Demre district of Antalya, where history and nature intertwine. Üçağız, which stands out with its historical ruins belonging to the Lycian civilization, untouched natural beauties and deep blue sea, is an ideal destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Known as Teimiussa in ancient times, this village also played an important role as the port settlement of the Ancient City of Myra. Today, it invites visitors to a journey through time with works belonging to the Lycian period, such as necropolises, agoras and bath ruins.

One of the indispensable stopover points of Kekova Island trips, Üçağız offers the opportunity to discover the historical and natural beauties of the region with boat tours and diving activities. You can also go on nature walks to see the ancient structures on the mountainside and enjoy fresh seafood and local flavors at the fish restaurants lined up by the beach. Offering a peaceful atmosphere in every season of the year, Üçağız Village is one of the hidden paradises of the Mediterranean.

Kalekoy

Kaleköy (Simena) is a unique destination in the Demre district of Antalya, where historical riches and natural beauties intertwine. Located just across from Kekova Island and built on steep cliffs, this ancient Lycian city fascinates visitors with both its historical ruins and deep blue sea. Founded as a trade center in the 4th century BC, Kaleköy was abandoned after the Byzantine period and was re-used as a settlement by the Greeks in the 19th century.

You can watch the panoramic views of the region from Simena Castle and experience the unique atmosphere of the village by walking among the stone houses. Diving tours and boat trips organized to the sunken city offer unforgettable memories to visitors. You can enjoy local flavors accompanied by the unique view of the Mediterranean at the restaurants and cafes on the coast of Kaleköy. You can easily reach Kaleköy, which is approximately 25 kilometers from the center of Demre, by bus or taxi.

Kekova Island

Kekova Island is an important destination located off the coast of Demre district of Antalya and stands out with its historical and natural beauty. Home to ancient ruins from the Lycian period, the island is also known as the “Sunken City” due to a portion of it being submerged under water as a result of an earthquake in the 2nd century AD. Kekova Island, one of the most popular boat tour routes in Turkey, welcomes visitors throughout the year with its turquoise clear sea and historical texture.

The bays surrounding the island provide an ideal environment for swimming and sunbathing, while the highest point, Mount Teke, offers sunset views. Kekova Island can be easily reached by boat tours from Demre, which provide a unique experience for visitors wishing to explore the rich history and impressive natural beauty of the region.

Old Wife's Cove

Kocakarı Bay is a coastal destination located near Üçağız Village in the Demre district of Antalya and attracts attention with its natural beauty. Located approximately 40 kilometers from the center of Demre, this hidden paradise is a spot that nature and sea lovers should discover with its clear sea and peaceful atmosphere.

Easily accessible through nature walks, boat tours and diving activities, the bay offers a delightful swimming experience in its deep blue waters. Kocakarı Bay, which is suitable for camping, also offers a unique discovery opportunity for culture and history enthusiasts with its historical sites such as the Aperlai Ancient City in its surroundings. One of the popular stops on the blue cruise routes, the bay provides an ideal environment for scuba and non-scuba diving, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience.

Tersane Koyu

Tersane Bay is a peaceful corner of paradise located in the Demre district of Antalya and attracts attention with its natural beauty. Offering a peaceful atmosphere to its visitors with its clear turquoise sea and untouched nature, the bay stands out as one of the indispensable stops of boat and yacht tours.

You can enjoy the sun and the sea on the fine sandy shores of the bay, and you can set up a tent and experience camping under the stars. The lush pine forests surrounding it offer a unique environment for nature walks and photography enthusiasts, while you can explore ancient ruins by snorkeling, scuba diving and diving without tanks in the clear waters of Tersane Bay. Easily accessible by boats departing from Demre every day, Tersane Bay is an ideal destination for both nature lovers and underwater enthusiasts.

Demre's fascinating natural areas, with their calm and peaceful atmospheres, offer ideal options for those who want to relax and have a holiday full of discovery. With its deep blue sea, lush green nature and beautiful bays, Demre offers all the beauties of the Mediterranean together. For those who want to spend time in nature, take walks or explore the underwater world, this unique region promises an experience full of unforgettable memories. Demre is a natural wonder waiting to be discovered in every season.

Demre Beaches

Demre is a holiday paradise that draws attention with its fascinating beaches for those who want to discover the unique beauties of the Mediterranean. These special beaches, where the calmness of nature meets the deep blue sea, offer their visitors the opportunity to relax and have a fun holiday in a peaceful atmosphere. Demre's beaches, extending from Çağıllı Beach to Sülüklü Beach, from Taşdibi Beach to many more hidden paradises, promise unforgettable experiences for holidaymakers of all ages.

Cagilli Beach

Çağıllı Beach is a special destination between Antalya's Demre district and Finike, combining the tranquility of nature with the clarity of the sea. Surrounded by pine forests and with a mixture of pebbles and sand, this small beach is an ideal choice for visitors looking for a peaceful seaside experience away from the crowds.

Surrounded by limestone rocks extending in an arc, the beach offers impressive views especially at sunset, and provides the opportunity to swim with schools of fish in its clear sea. Çağıllı Beach, which is also a suitable area for campers, offers an unforgettable camping experience under the starry sky. The beach, which has small touristic businesses around it for basic needs, is also one of the popular stopping points for boats and yachts. For those looking for the peace of nature, Çağıllı Beach is one of the most special corners of Demre.

Sülüklü Beach

Sülüklü Beach is a unique coastal destination located in the Demre district of Antalya, reflecting the untouched natural beauty of the Mediterranean. The beach, which stands out with its clear turquoise sea and fine sandy shore, offers a peaceful environment to its visitors with its length of approximately 1 kilometer. Thanks to its shallow sea, it provides a safe swimming area especially for families with children.

In addition to the basic needs of the beach such as showers, toilets and changing cabins, there are also facilities for renting sun umbrellas and sun loungers. You can explore the impressive underwater landscapes of the beach by snorkeling, and you can enjoy nature by walking on the famous Lycian Way that stretches around it. At sunset, you can take unforgettable photos with the fascinating views offered by the beach, and you can have pleasant moments in the unique atmosphere of the Mediterranean in the surrounding restaurants and cafes. Sülüklü Beach is an ideal choice for those looking for a peaceful holiday experience.

Tasdibi Beach

One of the most preferred beaches in Demre, Taşdibi Beach offers its visitors a pleasant holiday experience with its clear sea and fine sandy shore. The beach, which is approximately 3 kilometers long, is an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy the sea in a calm and peaceful environment. Thanks to its shallow sea, which is a mixture of pebbles and sand, it provides a safe swimming area especially for families with children and novice swimmers.

The beach is equipped with various facilities such as showers, toilets, changing cabins, sunbeds and umbrella rentals, and offers visitors a comfortable experience. There are also water sports such as canoeing and snorkeling. You can walk on Taşdibi Beach and discover the natural beauties around, Mediterranean You can have a pleasant dining experience at the restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies from the cuisine. The beach is an ideal option for those who want to both relax and spend an active day.

The beaches of Demre offer a unique experience to those who want to enjoy the Mediterranean with their clear seas, calm environments and natural beauties. Each of these beaches has its own unique characteristics and is a perfect choice for visitors who want to relax and spend time in nature. You can enjoy a peaceful holiday by exploring these unique beaches in Demre and create unforgettable memories with the natural beauties of the Mediterranean.

Museums to Visit in Demre

Demre is a region that fascinates its visitors not only with its ancient cities and natural beauties, but also with its cultural richness. For those who want to see the traces of the Lycian civilization and the historical heritage of the region up close, the museums offer a unique opportunity for discovery. These museums, such as the Lycian Civilization Museum, reveal the deep-rooted past of the region and provide an unforgettable experience for history and art enthusiasts.

Lycian Civilizations Museum

The Museum of Lycian Civilizations is an important cultural center located in the Demre district of Antalya, shedding light on the history of the Lycian civilization. Opened to visitors in 2016, this museum is considered one of the most valuable archaeological museums in Turkey. The museum, which exhibits many remarkable works such as sculptures, reliefs, mosaics, pottery and coins belonging to the Lycian civilization, also contains ethnographic collections reflecting the cultural and artistic richness of the region.

One of the most striking works of the museum is the sarcophagus brought from the ancient city of Myra and thought to belong to St. Nicholas (Santa Claus). Located approximately 5 kilometers from the city center of Demre, the Lycian Civilizations Museum offers visitors the opportunity to gain in-depth information about the Lycian civilization and embark on an impressive historical journey. The museum is located in a location that is easily accessible by taxi or bus.

Demre's museums offer visitors a unique journey by presenting the historical and cultural richness of the region together. With their stories dating back to the Lycian civilization, these museums are an ideal destination for those who want to both learn and get to know the historical heritage up close. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the cultural depth of this fascinating geography by visiting Demre's museums.

Religious Buildings to Visit in Demre

Demre is of great importance with its religious structures as well as its historical and cultural riches. The region offers both a spiritual pilgrimage center and a cultural discovery point, especially with structures such as St. Nicholas Church, which has an important place in Christian history. These structures, which attract attention with their architectural details and historical values, make Demre one of the centers of attraction for religious and cultural tourism.

st. Nicholas Church

St. Nicholas Church is a basilica built over the tomb of St. Nicholas and is located in the Demre district of Antalya, dating back to the Eastern Roman period. This structure, which has an important place in Christian history, is both a religious pilgrimage center and a cultural and touristic attraction. Built in the 4th century AD and restored by the Byzantines in the 11th century, the church attracts attention with its architectural details, mosaic decorations and frescoes. This historical structure, which keeps the memory of St. Nicholas alive, hosts thousands of visitors every year.

The religious structures of Demre offer visitors an unforgettable experience with their historical and spiritual significance. Unique structures such as St. Nicholas Church provide an ideal opportunity to understand the rich past of the region and discover its religious heritage. For those who want to embark on a journey that is both religious and cultural, Demre is a must-see destination.

Demre is one of the most special destinations in the Mediterranean with its historical, natural and cultural riches. Offering a wide range of discovery opportunities from ancient cities to peaceful beaches, museums to religious structures, Demre promises each visitor unforgettable experiences. This guide titled Places to Visit in Demre offers a comprehensive resource for you to get to know the unique beauties of the region. For more detailed information Demre Travel Guide You can check out our article or visit our website to discover other attractions in the area. Places to Visit in Antalya You can review our article. Discovering this historical and natural paradise of the Mediterranean will give you both an enjoyable and educational holiday experience.