Saints & Sunken Cities: My Solo Trip to Demre

#mytraveldiary

I just explored Demre—a quiet town where ancient history, spiritual legacy, and Mediterranean beauty blend seamlessly. Known as the home of St. Nicholas (the real Santa Claus!), and as the gateway to the Kekova Sunken City, Demre offered a deeply meaningful and relaxing solo escape.

What Makes Demre Special?

· Church of St. Nicholas: Where the beloved saint served as bishop—a site of pilgrimage and ancient frescoes.
· Kekova Sunken City: Swim or kayak above the haunting underwater ruins of an ancient Lycian city.
· Lycian Tombs & Myra: Explore the magnificent rock-cut tombs and grand theater of ancient Myra.
· Local Greenhouses: Famous for its tomatoes and citrus—colorful, fragrant, and photogenic!

Why Demre for Solo Travelers?

· Safe & Compact: Easy to navigate on foot or by local dolmuş (minibus).
· Rich in Meaning: Perfect for history buffs, spiritual seekers, or anyone who loves stories.
· Authentic Vibe: Far from the crowds of Antalya or Kaş—peaceful and real.
· Boat Trips Galore: Join a group tour to Kekova—easy and social for solos.

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My Solo Itinerary

Day 1: Ancient Myra & St. Nicholas

· Morning: Visited the Church of St. Nicholas—admired the Byzantine frescoes and learned about the saint’s life.
· Afternoon: Explored the Ancient City of Myra—climbed among the stunning Lycian rock tombs and sat in the grand Roman theater.
· Evening: Tried Demre’s famous tomato salad and fresh seafood at a lokanta near the center.

Day 2: Kekova Sunken City & Simena

· Morning: Joined a boat tour from Demre harbor to Kekova—snorkeled over submerged ruins and walked through the quaint village of Kaleköy (Simena).
· Afternoon: Hiked up to Simena Castle for breathtaking views of the turquoise coast.
· Evening: Relaxed with çay at a waterfront café in Üçağız harbor.

Day 3: Local Life & Lycian Way

· Explored Demre’s bustling Monday Market (if timed right) for spices, textiles, and local produce.
· Took a short walk on a section of the Lycian Way near town.
· Visited the Andriake Ancient Port and the Lycian Civilizations Museum.

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Solo Traveler Tips

1. Wear Comfortable Shoes: Myra’s tombs involve climbing; Kekova has uneven paths.
2. Carry Swimwear & Towel: You’ll want to swim at Kekova!
3. Respect Sacred Sites: Dress modestly at the Church of St. Nicholas (shoulders and knees covered).
4. Try Tomato Everything: Demre is famous for its tomatoes—juice, soup, salad!

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Final Thoughts

Demre was a surprise—a place where ancient rocks tell stories, where a saint’s generosity is still felt, and where the sea hides mysteries. As a solo traveler, I loved reflecting in quiet churches, swimming over history, and tasting the freshest food right from the soil.

#solotravel #demre #stnicholas #kekova #lycianheritage