The south coast of Turkey is a stellar natural beauty in its own right, but its vast array of ancient ruins spread across the region leaves an equally lasting impact.

One of the most fascinating attractions is Myra. Located in modern-day Demre, Turkey, this ancient Lycian city is renowned for its well-preserved rock-cut tombs and amphitheater.

With a Myra day trip from Antalya, you can easily visit this historic city along with other enchanting locations such as Demre and the sunken city of Kekova.

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

How to get to Myra from Antalya?

Myra is located in the town of Demre, approximately 140 kilometers southwest of Antalya.

From Antalya to Myra by car

The scenic coastal route between Myra and Antalya is easy to navigate. Simply follow the D400 for 140 kilometers until you reach Demre. At the roundabout in town, take the first exit onto Ertuğrul Günay Cd and drive about 2 kilometers north to Myra.

Guided tour to Myra from Antalya

A trip to Myra is an all-day adventure and a guided tour is the best way to make the most of it. Let your tour guide take care of the driving and arrange the itinerary while you sit back and enjoy the experience.

How much does the entrance ticket to Myra cost?

Myra entrance tickets cost TRY 180, or about US$7 per person.

What is the typical itinerary?

Day tours to Myra from Antalya are multi-stop excursions with many fascinating places on the itinerary. The day will start early with pickup from your hotel in Antalya around 7 AM. You will drive along the magnificent coastal route towards Demre. This charming area is home to St. Nicholas Church, an important pilgrimage site that is believed to be linked to the legend of the modern-day Santa Clause.

After seeing the city you will enter the ruins of Myra to turn back the hands of time and see where ancient civilizations thrived. You will marvel at the carved cave houses and tombs and imagine the roar of the crowd as you stand in the Greco-Roman amphitheater that has miraculously stood the test of time.

After an interesting guided tour through Myra and a hearty traditional lunch, you will move on to another unreal ancient attraction, Kekova. A boat will take you on a scenic cruise to the sunken city of Simena where you can swim or simply admire the ruins under the azure surface. You will return to Antalya at the end of the day and be dropped off at your hotel around 6 PM.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Myra?

Guided tours to Myra plus Kekova and Demre from Antalya

Day tours to Myra will keep you going all day with one adventure after another. Group sizes differ from around 15 to 30 people and you will enjoy convenient transportation, lunch, and a dedicated tour guide to keep you informed. This tour offers great value for money with many inclusions and affordable price points.

Private tour to Myra from Antalya

Visitors who prefer more intimate traveling will enjoy the options for private tours to Myra. You can book a tour for only one or two people or a private van for up to 10 people if you are traveling with friends or family. You will still enjoy excellent value for money and stop at all the spots listed in group tours but have the convenience of your own guide who allows you to set the pace for the excursion.

How much does a day trip to Myra from Antalya cost?

You can expect to pay between US$60 to US$100 per person for day tours to Myra from Antalya. Toddlers under the age of 4 can join most free of charge and some tours also offer discount rates of around US$30 for children between 4 and 11.

The price for private day trips to Myra is dependent on the number of participants. Some tours charge around US$350 per person for a small booking of only 2 people while others bring the price to around US$150 per person if you book for 6 people.

Your tour price will include transportation for the whole day as well as hotel pick-up and drop-off. You will be treated to lunch and a boat ride in Kekova too. Entry fees are usually covered but some tour operators expect visitors to pay separately to enter St. Nicolas Church.

What will you see and do?

These are some of the best attractions you can look forward to when visiting Myra and the town of Demre:

Lycian Rock Tombs

The Lycian Rock Tombs in Myra are an iconic part of Turkish history. Carved into the rocky cliffs, these ancient tombs feature intricate facades and ornate details. They are a testament to the Lycian civilization's rich history and architectural prowess.

St. Nicholas Church

St. Nicholas Church, also known as Santa Claus Church, is a significant religious site located in Demre. The church dates back to the 4th century and is believed to be the final resting place of Saint Nicholas, the inspiration behind the modern-day figure of Santa Claus. The church is best known for its well-preserved frescoes and holds great cultural and historical importance.

Roman Theater

The Roman Theater in Myra is a magnificent structure that once served as an entertainment venue for the ancient Romans. With a seating capacity of approximately 11,000 people, the theater features remarkable architectural elements and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

What are the opening times?

Myra is open every day between 8 AM and 8 PM. The ticket office closes at 7:30 PM.

When is the best time to visit Myra?

The best time to visit Myra is between April and October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, offering ideal conditions for exploring the archaeological sites.

The peak summer months of July and August can be particularly hot and also tend to draw the largest crowds. If you prefer a more relaxed and comfortable visit, consider planning your trip during the shoulder seasons.

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

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

Travel tips

It can get hot in Myra, especially in the summer. Carry water, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen as the grounds are also exposed.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothes as you'll be exploring this ancient city on your feet.
Myra is an important archeological site and it's important to follow all guidelines to help preserve it for future generations.
Don't forget your camera. The rock-cut tombs and ancient theater provide incredible photo opportunities!
If your trip includes stops in Kekova, take along your swimwear and a towel in case you have a chance to dip the waters.

Myra: Day Trips and Tours from Antalya