Demre – Myra Tour from Antalya

Discover the Charm of Demre, Myra, and Kekova on a Full-Day Tour from Antalya

This 7.5-hour private tour from Antalya takes you on a journey through some of Turkey’s most captivating archaeological and natural sights. For $840 per person, you’ll enjoy the company of a dedicated guide and driver who will pick you up from your hotel, whisking you away to explore the famous St. Nicholas Church in Demre, the impressive ruins of Myra, and finally, a boat trip over the Kekova Sunken City. It’s a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenery—an experience that appeals to those with a curiosity for ancient civilizations and stunning coastlines alike.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how well it balances cultural exploration with scenic relaxation. Visiting the St. Nicholas Church offers a chance to connect with the roots of Santa Claus, which is a delightful cultural touchstone. Then, wandering among the Lycia rock tombs and the antique theatre of Myra allows you to step into the past with well-preserved ruins that whisper stories of bygone eras. The boat tour of Kekova is often highlighted as a highlight—its sunken ruins emerging from the water make for truly photogenic moments.

A potential consideration is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for a meal either beforehand or during the break. Also, while the tour covers a lot in one day, it’s quite full, so if you’re looking for a slow, leisure-paced experience, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those who enjoy a structured itinerary packed with highlights, this tour hits many of the must-see spots in the region.

This tour suits travelers who want a deep dive into Lycia’s ancient sites while enjoying the convenience of a guided trip. It’s especially good for history enthusiasts, families, and those wanting an active, yet scenic day out from Antalya.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Cultural Highlights: Visiting the St. Nicholas Church and the Myra ruins provides a tangible connection to Turkey’s Christian and Lycian past.
Scenic Beauty: The boat trip to Kekova’s Sunken City offers stunning views and a glimpse of underwater ruins.
Convenience: All transportation, tickets, and guiding are organized, making it easy to focus on the experience.
Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized and intimate tour.
Cost-Effective: While $840 is on the higher side, the all-inclusive nature and diverse experiences justify the price for many travelers.
Timing: Starts from your hotel, and the full day is packed, so plan to be ready for an early start.

A Close Look at the Demre – Myra Tour from Antalya

The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

Right from the start, you’ll notice the personalized touch with a private guide and driver who pick you up from your hotel or a specified location within Antalya. This means no dealing with crowded buses or rigid schedules—just a comfortable ride to begin your journey. The first stop is the St. Nicholas Church in Demre, which isn’t just a church but a museum that houses relics and artifacts connected to the historical figure we now associate with Santa Claus. It’s a meaningful site, especially during the holiday season, but equally fascinating year-round for anyone interested in Christian history or Turkish religious sites.

Walking through the church, you’ll notice the atmosphere of reverence and tradition. One traveler noted, “It’s surprisingly quiet and peaceful, a stark contrast to the busy streets of Antalya.” The museum provides context about St. Nicholas’s life, making the visit both educational and spiritual.

Next, the tour continues to the ancient city of Myra, where the rock-hewn Lycian tombs are a sight to behold. These tombs, carved directly into the cliffs, echo the artistry and beliefs of the Lycians, who valued their dead and honored them in stone. The well-preserved theatre offers fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of the grandeur of this once-thriving city. One review mentions, “Walking through the ruins, you can really imagine what life was like here, especially when you stand in the amphitheater, imagining the crowds.”

After exploring Myra’s ruins, you’ll break for lunch, which, while not included in the tour price, allows flexibility to choose a local restaurant or picnic, depending on your preference.

The Boat Trip over Kekova Sunken City

The highlight for many is the boat tour over Kekova, which lasts around two hours. The boat gently glides over waters dotted with submerged walls and ruins of what was once a lively Lycian town. The sunken city is remarkably intact, with parts of houses, walls, and even staircases still visible beneath the water. The experience offers a wonderful blend of relaxation and curiosity, especially when you see the submerged structures up close from the boat.

Several travelers have shared that “seeing the ruins submerged in water feels like stepping into a historical movie,” and that the boat ride offers a perfect chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. Plus, the calm waters and gentle breeze make it a pleasant break from walking around ruins.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practicalities and Value

All tickets for the Myra site, St. Nicholas Church, and the boat tour are included, which simplifies your day and helps keep things smooth. The local guide, fluent in English, ensures you won’t get lost in translation or missing out on historical details. The small group size contributes to a more engaging experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions.

The price of $840 covers a lot—transport, entry fees, guiding, and the boat trip—making it a good value for those who want a comprehensive day out with minimal hassle. Keep in mind, however, that lunch isn’t included, so budget for a meal—either before you start or during your break.

What Travelers Say

Many find the personalized attention and organized logistics a major plus. One reviewer wrote, “Having a private guide made all the difference—it felt like exploring with a knowledgeable friend.” Others appreciated the small group environment, which fostered a more intimate experience.

Some mention that the full-day itinerary can be tiring, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace. But overall, the consensus is that it’s a rich, rewarding tour that offers a thorough look at some of Turkey’s most compelling historical sites.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Demre – Myra tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a combination of history, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s perfect if you want a well-organized way to see major Lycian sites without the stress of planning multiple trips or navigating local transportation.

Those interested in Christian history will find the St. Nicholas Church particularly meaningful, while adventure-seekers will enjoy the boat trip over Kekova’s submerged ruins. It’s also a strong choice for travelers who want a small, guided experience that balances storytelling, exploration, and stunning visuals.

If you’re ready to step into Turkey’s past and relax on a scenic boat ride, this tour will deliver on all fronts. But if you prefer a slow, off-the-beaten-path experience, you might find the schedule a bit packed for your taste. Overall, it offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the region’s historical treasures.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes transfer from your hotel within Antalya’s city center or within 10 km. Transfers from farther hotels are available as optional add-ons.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours, including travel time, site visits, and the boat trip.

Are entry tickets included?
Yes, your ticket to the Myra ancient city and St. Nicholas Church are included, along with the Kekova boat tour fee.

Can I choose my lunch?
Lunch isn’t included, so you’ll need to bring something or plan to eat at a local restaurant during the break.

What language is the guide speaking?
The guide speaks English, ensuring clear explanations throughout the day.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, offering a more personal experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the mix of history and scenic boat ride makes it enjoyable for families, as long as children are comfortable with walking and boat trips.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around ruins and uneven terrain. Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially during summer months.

Final Words

This Demre – Myra tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience blending ancient ruins, religious history, and coastal scenery in one day. Its private, small-group setup means you’ll enjoy a more relaxed and engaging journey, ideal for those eager to learn and see Turkey’s Lycian past without the hassle of self-organizing. While it requires an early start and some walking, the sights—especially the submerged Kekova—are worth every moment. If you’re after a meaningful, well-organized day that combines history with scenic beauty, this tour will serve you well.

You can check availability for your dates here: