Myra and Demre from Antalya: Rock Tombs and the Church of St Nicholas
Demre, the ancient Myra, is best known for two things: the cliff face of Lycian rock tombs above its theatre, and the Church of St Nicholas, the bishop behind the Santa Claus legend. It is about 146 km from Antalya’s old town – a long but rewarding full day.
Distances
- From Kaleiçi: about 146 km, around 2 hours 30 minutes.
- From Antalya Airport: about 154 km, around 2 hours 30 minutes.
- From Kemer: roughly 1 hour 45 minutes.
What to see
At Myra, the Roman theatre sits below a cliff carved with house-shaped tombs – some of the finest in Lycia. A short drive away, the Church of St Nicholas preserves frescoes and the saint’s original burial place. Nearby Andriake, the ancient harbour, has a museum in a restored granary.
A full day
Leave early. The road goes west past Kemer, through the mountains to Kumluca and Finike, and along the coast to Demre. Many visitors combine Myra with a boat trip at Kekova from Üçağız, about 30 minutes further on.
Fares
For the airport, Demre is a fixed-fare zone: €100 per vehicle from Antalya Airport. Day trips from your hotel are priced by distance and shown on the booking form before you pay. Choose “Return” with a time later the same day to book both legs together, with a discount on the return.
Practical tips
The Myra site has little shade, so visit in the morning or late afternoon in summer. The Church of St Nicholas is busy around 6 December, the saint’s feast day, when services are held there. Demre is also a good lunch stop, with simple restaurants around the church square.
The vehicle
A Mercedes Vito for up to 6 passengers, with air conditioning – useful in the heat of the Demre plain. Child seats are free on request. Drivers will stop for a break on the way.
Combine with
See Kekova from Antalya and long-distance journeys from Antalya. If you are staying in Kaş, Demre is only about 45 km away – see transfers from Kaş.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Myra from Antalya?
About 146 km, roughly two and a half hours.
Can I combine Myra and Kekova?
Yes, Üçağız is about 30 minutes from Demre.
How much is the airport transfer to Demre?
€100 per vehicle from Antalya Airport.
Is it a day trip?
Yes, a long one; leave early.
Can we stop on the way?
Yes, agree breaks with the driver.
