Last update February 14, 2026
Demre is a town located in Antalya Province in the Mediterranean Region of Turkey. It is part of the Lycian coast, situated on the southern shore of Turkey near the Mediterranean Sea. The town is known for its historical and archeological sites, coastal features, and connection to ancient Lycia. Demre lies west of the city of Antalya and is accessible by road along the coastal highway.
Demre experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best months for visiting are April through October. During these months, weather is generally warm, with average daily temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. Tourist crowd levels are highest in July and August. From November to March, the climate is cooler and wetter, with reduced tourist activity.
| Season | Months | Typical Weather | Tourist Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | April – June | Temperate, increasing warmth, occasional rain | Low to moderate |
| Summer | July – August | Hot, mostly dry | High |
| Autumn | September – October | Warm, decreasing temperatures, occasional rain | Moderate |
| Winter | November – March | Cool, wetter, mild temperatures | Low |
The nearest major city to Demre is Antalya, which serves as the primary gateway for travel. Transport options include road travel, domestic flights to Antalya Airport, and bus services connecting to Demre. There is no direct train or ferry service to Demre.
A historical religious site dedicated to St. Nicholas, a Christian bishop of the 4th century, known for its Byzantine-era architecture. The church is a museum and heritage site. Average visit duration: 1 to 1.5 hours.
Ruins of an ancient Lycian town, including Roman theater, rock-cut tombs, and Roman baths. The site illustrates Lycian and Roman architecture. Average visit duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.
Local museum housing artifacts from Lycian and Roman periods discovered around Demre. Museum provides historical context for the region. Average visit duration: 1 hour.
A small coastal village reachable by boat or hike, with ruins of the ancient city of Simena and a Byzantine castle. Attraction type: historical site and natural harbor. Average visit duration: 2 hours.
A half day is sufficient to visit St. Nicholas Church and Demre Museum. One full day allows inclusion of Myra Ancient City and local cuisine experiences. Two to three days enable visits to nearby sites like Simena and participation in coastal boat tours or hikes.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Climate | Mediterranean; hot, dry summers; mild, wet winters |
| Seasonality Notes | Peak tourism in summer (July, August); low crowds in winter |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate to high in summer; low in shoulder and off seasons |
| Constraints or Limitations | Limited public transport options; some archaeological sites close during winter |
Travelers interested in historical and archaeological sites, cultural tourism, and coastal nature visit Demre. The town attracts visitors who plan to explore Lycian ruins and visit St. Nicholas Church alongside Mediterranean coastal activities.
Visitors typically spend 1 to 3 days to cover major sites and activities. A minimum of one full day is needed for key historical locations, with two to three days allowing inclusion of nearby villages and coastal tours.
Demre is generally safe for tourists with low crime rates. Standard precautions applicable to travel in Turkey are recommended, such as securing valuables and using registered transportation services.
The period from April to October is best for visiting due to favorable weather conditions. Tourists should note that July and August are peak months with higher temperatures and visitor numbers.