Current time in Demre, Türkiye

Demre is located in southwestern Türkiye, specifically at GPS coordinates 36.24444, 29.985. It lies within the Antalya Province, along the picturesque Mediterranean coast, making it a notable destination in the region. The city is situated in the Europe/Istanbul timezone.

Demre is well-known for its historical sites, particularly the ruins of ancient Myra, which feature rock-cut tombs and a well-preserved theater. Additionally, the city is associated with Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus, and houses the Church of St. Nicholas, a significant pilgrimage site.

This combination of cultural heritage and scenic coastal views contributes to Demre’s regional importance as a tourist destination in Türkiye.

Timezone in Demre

Demre operates in the Europe/Istanbul timezone, which has a UTC offset of +3 hours. This means that Demre is three hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time. Turkey, including Demre, observes daylight saving time, transitioning to standard time at the end of October.

Specifically, the clocks are set back one hour, but during the summer, the clocks are moved forward one hour at the end of March, maintaining a consistent UTC+3 offset throughout the year. When considering the time difference with the United States, it varies significantly depending on the specific state and time of year. For example, New York operates on Eastern Time, which is UTC-5 or UTC-4 during daylight saving time, making Demre eight hours ahead during standard time and seven hours ahead when New York observes daylight saving time.

The best time to contact someone in Demre is typically between 9 AM and 6 PM local time, which translates to 1 AM to 10 AM in New York during standard time. In comparison to other major cities in the region, Demre shares the same UTC+3 offset as Istanbul and Antalya, making communication straightforward within Turkey. However, cities like Athens and Beirut also operate on the same time, facilitating coordination across these areas without significant time discrepancies.

Attractions and Activities in Demre

Demre, located in southwestern Türkiye, is a town known for its rich historical heritage and natural beauty. It is famously associated with Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus, and features the Church of St. Nicholas, a significant pilgrimage site.

The church, adorned with beautiful mosaics, reflects the town’s historical importance as a center of early Christianity. In addition to its religious significance, Demre is situated near the ancient Lycian city of Myra, where visitors can explore well-preserved rock-cut tombs and a Roman theater, showcasing the region’s ancient history. The surrounding area is characterized by stunning Mediterranean landscapes, with nearby beaches and the picturesque coastline attracting both locals and tourists alike.

The region’s mild climate enhances its appeal, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities and exploration throughout the year. Demre’s blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes it a noteworthy stop in the Lycia region of Türkiye.

Practical Information for Visitors

Demre, located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, is accessible via Antalya Airport, which is about 140 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can take a bus or arrange for a shuttle service to reach Demre. There is also a bus station in Demre with connections to major cities like Antalya and Fethiye, making public transport a convenient option for travelers.

The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures can soar above 30 degrees Celsius during July and August, while the winter months of December and January see cooler temperatures averaging around 10 degrees. The best time to visit Demre is during the spring months of April to June or the fall months of September to October when the weather is pleasantly warm and ideal for outdoor activities.

Visitors should pack sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat, as exploring the ancient ruins of Myra and the nearby sunken city of Kekova can involve significant walking and sun exposure. Additionally, it’s wise to carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards. Being respectful of local customs and trying traditional Turkish cuisine will enhance the travel experience.