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Browse all toursWhat to know about Demre
Demre is a small district with outsized history. In the centre stands the church of St Nicholas, the 4th-century bishop of Myra who became the model for Santa Claus; the building survives with its frescoes.
Two kilometres north lies ancient Myra, where house-shaped Lycian tombs are carved into a sheer cliff above a Roman theatre — the district's most photographed view.
On the shore are the ancient harbour of Andriake and the village of Üçağız. Most boats for the Kekova area leave from the Üçağız jetty; greenhouse farming is the district's other mainstay.
When to go
The ruins are shadeless, so April-May and October are best. Kekova boat trips run from April to November. In winter the church and Myra are comfortable, though boat departures thin out.
Getting there
Antalya Airport (AYT) is 145 km east, about 2.5 hours by road. Kaş is 45 km away and Finike 25 km. Üçağız village is 20 km from the centre on a narrow but paved road.
What to see in Demre
Church of St Nicholas
The church of the 4th-century bishop, preserved with mosaic floors and frescoes. Allow about 45 minutes.
Rock tombs of Myra
Lycian tombs cut like houses into a sheer cliff, with a Roman theatre directly below. Two kilometres from the centre, with no shade.
Üçağız and the Kekova boats
A quiet fishing village and the departure point for the sunken city. Climbing to Simena castle and swimming in the bays are part of the standard trip.
Frequently asked questions
Did Santa Claus really live here?+
St Nicholas was bishop of Myra in the 4th century and lived within what is now Demre. His church stands in the town centre and is open as a museum.
Do Kekova tours leave from Demre?+
Boats leave from the Üçağız and Kaleköy jetties in the district, 20 km from the centre. Tours from Kaş and Kalkan reach the same area.
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