Planning a trip to Demre? This coastal gem offers rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. To help you make the most of your visit, here are essential travel tips tailored for a smooth and enriching experience.
🧳 What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothing for hot Mediterranean days.
- A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen – the sun can be intense, especially in summer.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring ancient ruins like Myra and Andriake.
- Swimsuit and water shoes if you’re heading to the beaches or taking a boat to Kekova.
- Light jacket or shawl for cool evenings or visits to religious sites like St. Nicholas Church.
- Power adapter (Turkey uses Type C and F plugs, 230V).
⚕️ Health & Safety
- Demre is considered very safe for travelers, including solo visitors.
- Tap water is generally safe for brushing teeth, but bottled water is recommended for drinking.
- Pharmacies (“eczane”) are well-stocked and easy to find.
- Bring basic medications and mosquito repellent, especially if exploring coastal or rural areas.
- Always wear sun protection—UV levels can be high even in spring or autumn.
- Emergency number in Turkey: 112
🤝 Local Etiquette
- Turkish people are friendly and welcoming. A simple “Merhaba” (Hello) goes a long way.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites—cover shoulders and knees.
- Remove shoes before entering a mosque or private home.
- Tipping (5–10%) is appreciated but not always expected.
- Respect local customs, especially during Ramadan—avoid eating or drinking in public during fasting hours.
đź’° Money & Language Tips
- Local currency: Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small shops or markets.
- ATMs are available in Demre center.
- Basic Turkish phrases can help:
- Hello – Merhaba
- Thank you – Teşekkür ederim
- Yes/No – Evet / Hayır
- How much? – Ne kadar?
- English is spoken in most tourist areas, but a translation app is helpful in rural parts.
You can also check our Basic Turkish Phrase Guide for Travelers in Demre for more detailed language tips.
You can use our live currency converter to see how much Turkish Lira you get for your money:
You can see how much 100 Turkish Lira worth in your currency:
👩‍🦰 Solo & Female Travel Advice
- Demre is safe for solo travelers, including women. Locals are respectful and used to visitors.
- It’s best to dress modestly, especially when walking in town or visiting villages.
- Women traveling alone are unlikely to face issues, but use common sense: avoid isolated areas at night and watch your belongings.
- Public transportation is safe and reliable—dolmuş (shared minibuses) are a common and budget-friendly way to get around.
Want more personalized tips or help planning your trip?
Contact us – we’re happy to help with anything you have in mind!
