Myra Demre Antalya
Explore the ancient Lycian marvels of Myra, featuring stunning rock-cut tombs and a grand Roman theater, plus the historic Church of St. Nicholas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Myra Demre Antalya
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the ancient Lycian marvels of Myra, featuring stunning rock-cut tombs and a grand Roman theater, plus the historic Church of St. Nicholas.
"The rock-cut tombs of Myra are truly breathtaking, a must-see for any history lover!"
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ancient city involves uneven terrain and walking. :athletic_shoe: Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Myra's ruins.
Combine with Kekova
Many tours and independent travelers visit Myra and Kekova together. :world_map: It's a popular day trip from Antalya.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lycia's Rock-Cut Tombs
Myra Ancient City
Marvel at the intricate facades carved directly into the cliff face, showcasing Lycian artistry.
Ancient Roman Theater
Myra Ancient City
Imagine ancient performances in this well-preserved amphitheater with stunning views.
St. Nicholas Church
Demre
Visit the historic church dedicated to the original Santa Claus, a significant pilgrimage site.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ancient city involves uneven terrain and walking. :athletic_shoe: Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Myra's ruins.
Combine with Kekova
Many tours and independent travelers visit Myra and Kekova together. :world_map: It's a popular day trip from Antalya.
Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry plenty of water. :droplet: The sun can be intense while exploring the open-air site.
Go Early or Late
To avoid midday crowds and heat, aim for early morning or late afternoon visits. :clock1: Enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ancient city involves uneven terrain and walking. :athletic_shoe: Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Myra's ruins.
Combine with Kekova
Many tours and independent travelers visit Myra and Kekova together. :world_map: It's a popular day trip from Antalya.
Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry plenty of water. :droplet: The sun can be intense while exploring the open-air site.
Go Early or Late
To avoid midday crowds and heat, aim for early morning or late afternoon visits. :clock1: Enjoy a more peaceful experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the dramatic Lycian rock tombs and the well-preserved Roman theater at Myra Ancient City. The historical significance of the site, coupled with its scenic beauty, makes for a memorable experience. Some find the midday heat challenging and recommend visiting during cooler hours.
"Archeological site. Not that much to see, not that well maintained, no explanations. Artefacts are publicly exposed and degraded by touching. Entrance fee €13 for non-Turkish citizens. Total rip-off"
Rogier Holla
"Very interesting place but I think €13 per person is a bit too much for a short walk around the amphitheater and towards the tombs. There’s also no information about the history of the monuments anywhere, so you don’t really know what you’re looking at if you haven’t done some research about it before. Unfortunately this is the standard for most historic sites in Turkey."
Dominika Zgoda
"Really nice ancient ruin tombs with a good bit of history. It is just what you see in the pictures but only £11 per person so worth a visit if you're nearby."
Matt Barretto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Myra Demre from Antalya is by renting a car or joining an organized tour. Driving takes approximately 2-3 hours. Public buses are available but can be less direct and more time-consuming. 
Yes, Myra Demre is a popular day trip destination from Antalya. Many tour operators offer combined trips that include Myra, the Church of St. Nicholas, and Kekova.
Myra Ancient City and the Church of St. Nicholas are located in the same town of Demre, about 2 km apart. You can easily walk between them or take a short taxi ride.
While public buses run from Antalya to Demre, they are not always direct and can take longer than driving. For a more efficient visit, consider a rental car or a guided tour.
The roads from Antalya to Demre are generally well-maintained. The drive offers scenic views of the Mediterranean coast and surrounding landscapes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Myra Ancient City typically opens around 8:00 AM and closes in the early evening, with hours varying slightly by season. It's advisable to check the latest hours before your visit.
Admission fees for Myra Ancient City are generally affordable, often around 70 Turkish Lira (under £2), but prices can change.
Tickets for Myra Ancient City can usually be purchased on-site. However, if you are part of a tour, your ticket will likely be included.
While separate, visiting both Myra Ancient City and the Church of St. Nicholas is common. Some tour packages may offer combined entry or transport.
The ancient city has uneven terrain and steps, which may pose challenges for visitors with mobility issues. The Church of St. Nicholas is generally more accessible.
📸 📸 Photography
The rock-cut tombs offer dramatic backdrops, especially when framed by the sky. The Roman theater also provides excellent photographic opportunities, particularly from the upper tiers.
Photography rules inside the Church of St. Nicholas may vary. It's best to check for signage or ask staff before taking pictures to respect the sacred nature of the site.
The golden hours of early morning and late afternoon provide the most flattering light for photography at Myra Ancient City, casting long shadows and warm tones.
Drone usage is typically restricted at archaeological sites and religious locations. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the theater and tombs. A telephoto lens can be good for details on the rock carvings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several local restaurants and cafes in Demre town, offering traditional Turkish cuisine. You can find places to eat near the Church of St. Nicholas.
Look for fresh seafood, mezes, and local vegetable dishes. Demre is also known for its tomatoes and citrus fruits.
Most Turkish restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian dishes, including salads, vegetable stews, and mezes.
While there isn't a full cafe inside the ancient city itself, there might be small refreshment stands. It's best to bring your own snacks and water.
Many day tours from Antalya include lunch at a local restaurant as part of the package. Confirm this when booking your tour.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and plenty of water, as facilities within the ancient city are limited. The Church of St. Nicholas, while a place of reverence, can also be a point of interest if you share the story of St. Nicholas and his connection to Santa Claus.
Opting for an organized tour might simplify logistics and keep younger travelers entertained with guided commentary.🏛️ History Buffs
+1Beyond the main attractions, exploring the remnants of the agora and other civic buildings allows for a more comprehensive understanding of Myra's significance as a prominent city in antiquity. The connection to St. Nicholas adds another layer of historical intrigue, bridging ancient history with later religious traditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient City of Myra
+1Dominating the lower part of the site is a large Roman theater, which was once capable of seating thousands of spectators. Though partially ruined, its grandeur is still evident, and you can climb to the upper tiers for panoramic views of the ancient city and the surrounding valley. The theater's preservation allows visitors to imagine the spectacles that once took place here.
+1Myra was a significant city in the Lycian League and later a Roman provincial center. Its strategic location and fertile lands contributed to its prosperity. Exploring the remnants of the agora, temples, and other civic structures provides a comprehensive understanding of its historical importance.
+1The Legacy of St. Nicholas
While the modern image of Santa Claus is a festive figure, the historical St. Nicholas was known for his generosity and kindness, particularly towards children and the poor. Visiting the church offers a chance to connect with the origins of this beloved figure and understand his historical context.
Many tours to Myra Ancient City also include a visit to the Church of St. Nicholas, making it a convenient addition to your itinerary. It provides a different, yet equally compelling, historical and cultural dimension to your exploration of the Demre region.
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