From Antalya: Full-Day Tour to Demre, Myra and Kekova

Experience the Hidden Gems of Antalya: Full-Day Tour to Demre, Myra, and Kekova

If you’re visiting Antalya and looking to explore beyond the city’s lively beaches, this full-day tour offers an excellent way to see some of Turkey’s most captivating sights. Priced at around $75.60 per person and lasting approximately 14 hours, the tour guides you through iconic archaeological sites, stunning bays, and colorful villages. The journey begins early in the morning, giving you plenty of time to soak in the area’s history, natural beauty, and peaceful waters.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to cruise along the Kekova region on a glass-bottom boat—an ideal way to view submerged ruins without getting wet—and the opportunity to visit the ancient city of Myra, with its impressive rock-cut tombs and Roman theater. The mix of history, scenery, and water activities makes for a genuinely memorable day.

A potential consideration is the long day’s duration, which might be tiring for some travelers, especially those not used to early mornings or full schedules. Also, some key sites like the Castle of Simena and Myra require small entrance fees, so it’s good to budget a little extra.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors in Antalya who want a comprehensive, yet manageable, taste of the region’s treasures. It’s also well-suited for water lovers and history buffs eager to see both underwater ruins and ancient architecture in one outing.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Kekova, Demre, Myra, and local bays.
• Stunning boat cruise offering views of sunken cities and ancient ruins.
• Rich archaeological sites like Roman theater, rock tombs, and Santa Claus Museum.
• Varied water activities including swimming at multiple bays and potential water sports.
• Good value for a full-day tour with lunch included.
• Long duration means a full, busy day but highly rewarding for curious travelers.

Exploring Comprehensively: What to Expect on This Antalya Tour

Starting Early in Antalya

Your day begins with a prompt 7:00 am pickup from your chosen meeting point in Antalya. The journey to Demre takes around 2.5 hours, giving you time to relax, perhaps enjoy some morning coffee, and get excited for the day ahead. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a smooth ride, and with a maximum group size of 50, it remains intimate enough to feel personalized.

First Stop: Demre and the Boat Excursion

Arriving at Demre harbor, you’ll board a boat that’s ready to whisk you off to explore the Kekova region. The highlight here is the cruise on Kekova Island, known for its sunken ruins of ancient Dolchiste, submerged after a 2nd-century earthquake. From the boat, you’ll have an incredible vantage point to photograph the underwater remnants, as swimming isn’t permitted in this protected area.

One of the best parts of this cruise is the opportunity to photograph the submerged remains, which create a surreal scene. You’ll also visit Simena’s ruins—including a castle and necropolis—with time to wander the narrow streets of this authentic village. If you’re up for a short hike, you can climb to the hilltop castle for sweeping views of the surrounding turquoise waters and islands.

The Beautiful Bays for Swimming and Relaxation

After the historic sights, it’s time to unwind at Esmeralda Bay, where you can enjoy a peaceful lunch and take a swim. The bay’s tranquil waters make for a relaxing break, and you might even see some sea turtles—five types are known to inhabit the Mediterranean and are often spotted at Karemlik Bay.

Next, the tour visits Burc Bay, famous for its cooler waters thanks to natural springs underneath, offering a refreshing swim. The water here is said to be invigorating, and the quiet surroundings make it a perfect spot for a peaceful pause.

The last swimming stop is Gökkaya Bay, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and take part in various water sports, which are available if you’re feeling adventurous. The clear waters and scenic backdrop make this a highlight for water enthusiasts.

Returning to Demre and Exploring Ancient Myra

After a day on the water, the boat drops anchor in Demre harbor for a visit to the Demre Museum—free of charge—and then proceeds to Myra. This archaeological site is a treasure trove of history, with ruins dating as far back as the 5th century B.C.

Here, you’ll see the rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs, and the Roman theater, which is the largest in Lycia. The tombs are especially eerie and photogenic, giving you a glimpse into the funerary practices of ancient Lycian civilizations and Romans. Your guide might point out the unique features of these tombs, such as their distinct facades and inscriptions.

The Church of St. Nicholas and Santa Claus Connection

Your tour continues with a visit to the Santa Claus Museum in Demre. Originally built in 520 A.D., the church-turned-museum is dedicated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children and sailors. Walking through the remains of this ancient church, you’ll understand why this site is a pilgrimage for many.

This stop is a charming way to connect the historic and mythic aspects of Turkey—especially if you’re traveling with children or have an interest in Christian history.

Final Return and Reflection in Antalya

After a full day of exploration, the return journey to Antalya takes about 2.5 hours. You’ll arrive back in the city in the evening, tired but filled with a sense of achievement and new knowledge. Many guests have expressed how stunning the views and interesting the ruins were, with some calling it their “best day in Turkey.”

Analyzing the Value: How Good Is This Tour?

For $75.60, you’re getting a lot of diversity—historic sites, scenic boat rides, and water activities—all in one trip. The price includes lunch and transportation, which simplifies planning and makes it easier to enjoy without extra fuss. The small group size (max 50 travelers) helps ensure a more personal experience, and the flexibility of stops like the optional hill climb at Simena means you can tailor your visit.

The long duration might seem daunting, but it’s worth it for the range of sights and experiences packed into one day. The itinerary is well-paced, with enough time at each location to enjoy without feeling rushed, according to reviews. The boat cruise is a standout feature, providing unmatched views of underwater ruins and the chance for multiple swim stops.

However, keep in mind that some important sites like the Castle of Simena, Myra, and Church of St. Nicholas require small entrance fees (around 1-4 euros), so bring some cash. Also, the early start and the full schedule mean this tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with long days and active exploring.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs keen to see ancient Lycian and Roman sites, and water lovers eager to swim in inviting bays. It’s perfect if you want a balanced mix of cultural discovery and natural beauty. If you’re visiting Antalya for the first time and want a full-picture day that combines archaeology, scenic boat rides, and relaxing waters, this tour checks all those boxes.

Travelers who appreciate authentic experiences—like wandering small villages and spotting wild turtles—will find it especially satisfying. Just remember, it’s a busy day, so if you prefer relaxed, slow mornings, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 14 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a lunch is provided as part of the tour, making it convenient to enjoy a meal without extra planning.

Are entrance fees included?
No, several sites like the Castle of Simena, Myra, and the Church of St. Nicholas require small additional fees—roughly 1 euro each.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and extra cash for small entrance fees or souvenirs.

Can I swim in all the bays?
Swimming is permitted at Esmeralda Bay, Burc Bay, and Gokkaya Bay. Kekova itself is a protected area where swimming isn’t allowed.

How is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, providing a lively but manageable atmosphere.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially if they enjoy boat rides, beaches, and exploring ruins, but keep in mind the full day’s length.

Final Words

This Antalya day trip offers a well-rounded dose of history, scenery, and water fun—perfect for travelers who want to see a rich slice of Turkey without sacrificing comfort or variety. The combination of stunning boat cruises, ancient ruins, and peaceful bays makes it a standout choice for those looking for memorable adventures.

While it’s a full day packed with activities, many travelers find the value and diversity make it worthwhile. If you love history and natural beauty and are comfortable with a busy schedule, this tour will likely be one of the highlights of your trip.

For those seeking a balanced, authentic, and scenic experience that captures the essence of the Turkish coast, this tour hits the mark—just be ready for a full day of discovery and delight.