Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Tour from Antalya

Exploring Ancient Wonders and Sunken Cities from Antalya

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines history, breathtaking scenery, and a splash of the Mediterranean waters, the Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Tour from Antalya might just be what you’re looking for. For around $74.52 per person, you’ll spend approximately 10 hours exploring some of Turkey’s most fascinating sites, with the added thrill of a glass-bottomed boat cruise. Led by knowledgeable guides like Mustafa, this tour offers a balance of culture, history, and scenic beauty that appeals to those who love a well-rounded, authentic experience.

What we love about this tour is its focus on seeing the sunken city of Kekova from the water, which offers a unique perspective of ruins that lie beneath the sea. The lunch included ensures you’re fuelled for the day’s activities, and the guided visits to Myra’s rock tombs and Demre’s Santa Claus church give a tangible connection to the past. However, some travelers note that hotel pickups can be time-consuming, and there’s a bit of a trade-off between seeing multiple sites and the pace of the day. This tour suits those who enjoy historic ruins, scenic boat rides, and a bit of a journey—those prepared for a long day with some bus transfers.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience covering Kekova, Myra, and Demre in one day.
• All entrance fees included for Demre and Myra, plus lunch, providing good value.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insight into local history and culture.
• Scenic boat trip on Kekova’s sunken city with views that are as impressive as the ruins themselves.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, though it can add to transit time.
• Mixed reviews about the speed of site visits and transfer times, so be prepared for a busy schedule.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Bright and Early
The tour kicks off at 7:00 am, which might seem early but is necessary to fit everything into a 10-hour window. The pickup service, offered from your hotel, can sometimes take over two hours, especially if you’re staying outside Antalya’s city center—an annoyance some reviewers pointed out. If your hotel isn’t centrally located, plan for this extra time. Once everyone is aboard, the journey begins through the Turkish countryside, giving you a glimpse of rural life along the way.

Kekova Island and the Sunken City
The highlight for many is the boat trip to Kekova. The boat is glass-bottomed, a clever feature that lets you peer into the waters to see what remains of the ancient city that partially sank centuries ago. The ruins are impressive, and the crystal-clear waters allow for great views. Expect about an hour on the boat, and many travelers find this to be the most memorable part of the day. The cruise offers stunning views of the coastline, with some reviews mentioning that the boat ride can be crowded, and the glass bottoms may not be as extensive as some expect—just a couple of windows in the hull.

Myra’s Rock Tombs and Ancient Theatre
Next, the tour visits Myra, with its well-preserved rock tombs carved into the cliffs. The tombs are intricate, and if you love ancient Lycian architecture, you’ll appreciate the craftsmanship. The theatre, also in good condition, adds another layer of historical intrigue. The visit lasts approximately an hour—not enough to explore every detail, but enough to get a sense of this once-thriving city. Several reviews mention that the tombs are impressive and that the rock carvings are intricate, offering a tangible connection to the past.

Demre and Saint Nicholas
Later, the group heads to Demre, home to the church of Saint Nicholas, the real-life inspiration for Santa Claus. Entrance fees aren’t included here, but the site is worth a quick visit—although a few travelers found the church’s interior crowded and the building somewhat unimpressive as a structure. Still, the religious and cultural significance makes it a meaningful stop. Many visitors also enjoy the market stalls nearby, perfect for picking up souvenirs or local treats.

Additional Stops and Considerations
Some reviews mention an unplanned visit to a gem or onyx shop, which can feel like a distraction if you’re expecting a pure historical tour. Also, the length of bus transfers can be long, with some travelers noting up to 9 hours of transit, which can feel tiring—especially if the boat ride or the site visits are rushed. The bus itself is sometimes described as outdated and small, which might impact comfort, especially during the climb from Antalya to Myra.

Authenticity and Practical Tips

Guides make a difference. Many reviews praise the guides—such as Mustafa—who are knowledgeable, engaging, and multilingual. They add context that helps you understand what you’re seeing, especially at sites like Myra and Demre. Conversely, some travelers express frustration about poor communication or inconsistent service, especially regarding hotel pickups and site visit durations.

Value for money is generally good, considering that admission fees and lunch are included. The boat trip itself is a major highlight, offering a special perspective on the sunken remains of Kekova that you can’t get from land. If you’re someone who values historical sites and scenic cruises, the tour delivers well on these fronts.

Timing and pacing are crucial. Expect a long day, with many stops and some bus transfers. If you’re prone to fatigue or dislike rushing, this might be a consideration. However, if you’re keen to see multiple highlights in one trip, it’s a sensible choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for history buffs, boat lovers, and curious travelers eager to see both ancient ruins and scenic water views. It’s ideal if you don’t mind a full schedule and some long bus rides. If you’re traveling with kids or prefer a more relaxed pace, some reviews suggest the day can feel rushed or crowded. On the plus side, the guides’ expertise and the diverse sites will keep most engaged.

Final Thoughts

The Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s ancient past and coastal beauty. The boat cruise stands out as a highlight, providing a perspective you can’t get elsewhere. The stops at Myra and Demre add a tangible sense of history, especially if you enjoy exploring rock tombs and early Christian sites.

While some travelers find the transfers lengthy and the site visits rushed, the overall experience is rewarding for those with a genuine interest in history and scenic landscapes. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge make a tangible difference, turning what could be a whirlwind day into an enriching journey.

If you’re looking for a value-packed, culturally immersive day trip from Antalya that combines sea, history, and a touch of legend, this tour should be on your radar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, although some reviews mention that pickups can take over two hours, particularly if you’re staying outside Antalya’s city center.

What is the duration of the boat trip at Kekova?
The boat trip lasts about 1 hour, offering a scenic view of the sunken ruins from the water. Keep in mind that this is a popular attraction, so expect some crowding.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers all entrance fees for Demre and Myra. However, entrance fees to St. Nicholas Church are not included.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The boat ride at Kekova, visits to Myra’s rock tombs and theater, and the church of Saint Nicholas in Demre are the main attractions, each offering a different flavor of history and scenery.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a long day with some bus transfers. It’s best suited for those comfortable with long hours on a bus and walking through historical sites.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring cash for souvenirs or extras, sun protection, and your swimsuit or towel if you plan to swim during the boat trip. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around sites.

This tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty, perfect for those eager to explore Turkey’s coastal treasures with knowledgeable guides and a bit of sea air. Be prepared for a full day, but rest assured, the memories of Kekova’s sunken ruins and the ancient city of Myra will stay with you long after you return home.