Demre: Day Trips and Tours from Side

The unassuming town of Demre unlocks a pathway to the past, taking you on a journey through ancient times with its impressive ruins and stirring structures that have stood the test of time.

A day trip to Demre from Side takes you along the coast of the Turkish Riviera with several stops filling up your itinerary. Between the unspoiled beauty of the natural landscape and the impressive remnant of Demre’s ancient roots, you will be left in awe.

Here's all you need to know about Demre, one of the most exciting day trips from Side.

How to get to Demre from Side?

Demre is around 3.5 hours southwest of Side, one of the most southern areas of the Turkish Riviera.

From Side to Demre by car

The distance between Demre and Side is just under 220 kilometers. You will drive along the scenic D400 that passes through Antalya and Kemer.

Guided tour to Demre from Side

Considering the far driving distance between Side and Demre, you will be much better off considering a guided tour.

An organized excursion to Demre allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive while a dedicated guide takes you to all the fabulous sights in and around the town.

What is the typical itinerary?

Your day trip to Demre and beyond will have you up at the crack of dawn with a 4 AM departure from your hotel in Side. You will drive along the spectacular coast passing some unimaginably beautiful views as you set course for Demre.

You will first visit the town's main attraction, the ancient city of Myra. This impressive attraction consists of cave houses carved from an imposing rockface, many with intricate detailing decorating the facades and the walls of the houses.

Explore the ancient site and amphitheater before moving into the city of Demre to see St. Nicholas Church and explore more of the historic significance of this corner of Turkey.

You will also sink your teeth into a delectable traditional lunch before heading back to the coast to explore Kekova Island. A boat will take you across the splendid azure water to see the sunken city of Simena on the way to Kekova Island.

Your day draws to a close as you take on the scenic road back to Side and you will be dropped off at your hotel just after 7 PM.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Demre?

Day tour to Demre plus Kekova and Myra from Side

To step back in time through the ancient treasures in Demre you will have to join a guided tour. This day trip to Demre includes several stops, making the journey well worth it.

You will be picked up from your hotel and the tour lasts between 13 and 15 hours. The tour includes lunch to keep you energized and a boat tour in Kekova to show off the immense natural beauty of the Aegean too.

Private tour to Demre

If you are seeking a private experience or if you are traveling as a group, book a private tour to Demre that can accommodate up to 10 people.

You will have the luxury of a slightly later start time of 6.30 AM, a private vehicle and a guide and your itinerary is slightly more flexible as you set the pace.

How much does a day trip to Demre from Side cost?

Day tours to Demre from Side cost between $60 and $75, depending on the group size and what the tour operator offers.

If you are traveling with children, you might want to seek out a tour operator that offers a discounted fee for children. You can expect to pay around $30 for children aged 4-11 and toddlers under 4 can join for free.

If you want to opt for a private tour to Demre you can book a package for up to 10 people, costing $920.

Day tours to Demre are usually all-inclusive and your transportation, entry fees and lunch are covered in the price. Read the fine print of the tour you book as some tour operators expect you to pay for entrance to St. Nicolas church separately as not all participants want to enter the building.

You have to bring your own snacks for breakfast and purchase all beverages on your own account.

What will you see and do?

You will be spoiled with a jam-packed itinerary on a jaunt to Demre with multiple captivating sights along the way. These are some of the most prominent locations you will visit:

Church of Saint Nicolas

Saint Nicolas Church, located in Turkey, holds immense significance not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of cultural heritage and historical reverence. Dating back to the 4th century, this ancient Christian church stands as a testament to the rich history of the region.

It is widely known as the birthplace of the legendary figure of Santa Claus, who was inspired by the acts of charity performed by Saint Nicolas, the patron saint of children. Pilgrims from around the world visit this sacred site to pay homage to Saint Nicolas and seek blessings.

Myra

Visitors can explore the remnants of this once-thriving city, known for its remarkable rock-cut tombs and well-preserved theater. The most striking feature of Myra is its necropolis, a vast collection of elaborately carved tombs that adorn the cliffside.

Additionally, the well-preserved Roman theater in Myra stands as a testament to the city's cultural and artistic heritage, with its seating area and stage still intact. Beyond the tombs and theater, one can wander through the ancient streets, where the outlines of houses, shops, and public buildings can still be seen.

Kekova Island

Your boat trip to Kekova Island promises an enchanting journey through history and natural splendor. As you glide over the crystal-clear waters, you will be captivated by the island's most iconic feature, the submerged ruins of a sunken ancient city.

These submerged structures offer a mesmerizing sight, with ancient walls, staircases, and even doorways visible beneath the water's surface.

The boat trip also grants you the opportunity to explore the island's rocky coastline, where you can witness the intriguing Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs.

When is the best time to visit Demre?

The best time to visit Demre, located in Turkey, is during the spring from April to May and autumn from September to October seasons.

During these times, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and less tourist crowds. It allows for comfortable exploration of the region's historical sites and natural beauty.

Are there any tours to Demre from other cities in Turkey?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Turkey:

• Day Trips to Demre from Alanya
• Day Trips to Demre from Antalya
• Day Trips to Demre from Kemer
• Day Trips to Demre from Belek

Travel tips

• Dress modestly and appropriately, ensuring your clothing covers your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious places.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be exploring archaeological sites and walking around.
• Don't forget your camera to capture the beautiful landscapes and historical sites.
• Respect the sites and avoid touching or climbing on the ruins to preserve them for future visitors.
• Take the opportunity to try local dishes and specialties as Demre offers delicious Turkish cuisine.