Discovering the Sunken City, Myra, and St. Nicholas in a Day from Kemer
Imagine a day filled with history, stunning boat rides, and authentic Turkish flavors—all within a manageable nine-hour itinerary. For around $57, this full-day tour from Kemer takes you to three of Turkey’s most captivating sites: the Sunken City of Kekova, the ancient Lycian ruins of Myra, and the church of St. Nicholas in Demre. Led by knowledgeable guides like Alp, this tour combines storytelling, scenic views, and culture, making it a favorite choice for curious travelers.
Two things we really appreciate? First, the glass-bottom boat trip offers a spectacular view of the partially submerged city of Kekova—a sight that’s both eerie and beautiful. Second, the visit to St. Nicholas’s tomb provides a tangible connection to the roots of Santa Claus, adding a layer of spiritual history that’s rare to find elsewhere.
One potential downside? It’s a long day, with some reviews mentioning that the transportation can be a bit cramped or that the itinerary’s timing could be clearer. So, if you’re prone to travel fatigue or prefer a more leisurely pace, be prepared for a full and busy schedule.
This tour suits travelers who love history, scenic boat rides, and cultural stories. It’s especially ideal for those wanting a well-rounded day out that mixes landmarks with the sea—and for anyone interested in the legend of St. Nicholas.
Key Points
- Comprehensive Experience: Combines boat cruise, land exploration, and cultural visits in one day.
- Authentic Sites: Visit Kekova’s sunken city, Myra’s rock tombs, and St. Nicholas’s church.
- Value for Money: At just under $60, including lunch and hotel pickup, it offers a lot for a reasonable price.
- Small Group Feel: Many reviews mention a friendly, knowledgeable guide making the experience more personal.
- Flexible for Families: The tour is generally accessible, and some reviews mention children enjoyed the boat ride.
- Consider the Pace: It’s a full schedule, so be ready for a long day with some travel.
Planning more time in Kemer? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Deep Dive into the Sunken City, Myra, and Demre Tour
Let’s walk through what you can expect when you sign up for this tour, and how each part adds to the whole experience.
Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Early Departure
The journey begins early, with hotel pickup in Kemer around 8:00am. This means a prompt start, but it also means you’ll want to be ready on time so you don’t miss the bus. Many reviewers mention that transportation is comfortable enough, with air conditioning, but some note the coach can be a bit cramped, especially during peak hot days. The overall size of the group is generally kept manageable—around 10 to 20 people—ensuring a more personal experience with your guide.
Myra’s Rock-cut Tombs and Ancient Necropolis
The first stop, Myra, is famous for its well-preserved Lycian tombs cut into the cliffs. These towering rock tombs are striking—some resemble ancient apartment buildings, carved directly into the limestone. It’s a 2-hour visit, giving you plenty of time to walk among the ruins, take photos, and listen to your guide (often a multilingual expert) share stories about the Lycian civilization.
Reviews praise guides like Alp for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. One reviewer noted, “He was a very skilled and nice person and I learned a lot about the history of the places.” While admission fees are not included, the site itself offers a fascinating glimpse into Turkey’s ancient past, with the tombs being the highlight.
The Boat Cruise to Kekova’s Sunken City
Next, the highlight for many: a 2-hour cruise in a glass-bottom boat around Kekova Island. The boat ride offers a chance to see the partially sunken Lycian city, which gives the tour its name. Though some reviews mention that only a small part of the city is visible in the water—”the sunken city is not as impressive as I thought it would be”—others found the experience charming, especially with turtles spotted in the harbor.
We loved the way the boat ride combines scenic views with the intrigue of underwater ruins. The transparent glass floors give a glimpse of submerged walls and foundations, making it feel like you’re peering into a different world. Some travelers mentioned that swimming off the boat is possible, so don’t forget your swimsuit if you want to take a dip.
However, a few reviews point out that the visibility of the ruins can be limited and that the boat isn’t the newest or most modern, which slightly affects the experience. Still, the overall impression is that this unique perspective over an ancient city is well worth the time and cost.
Visiting Demre and the Church of St. Nicholas
After the boat, the tour takes you to Demre, a town famous for its St. Nicholas Church, where the bishop’s tomb resides. The stop lasts about 2 hours, and while the admission fee to the church itself is not included, the site holds deep historical and spiritual significance, especially for those interested in the legend of Santa Claus.
Reviews highlight that guides often share enthralling stories about St. Nicholas, enhancing the visit. One traveler noted, “The tomb of St. Nicholas is a tangible connection to the Santa legend,” and many appreciate the opportunity to see the actual site rather than just read about it.
Some reviews mention that the visit to the church can involve additional costs and that the timing can be tight, so plan accordingly. Also, if you decide not to visit the church, you might prefer some time in a local café—many reviewers enjoy relaxing with a cold Ayran and soaking in the local vibe.
Lunch and Practical Details
Lunch is included in the tour, typically served at a local restaurant offering Turkish dishes. Reviewers frequently mention that the lunch is delicious, providing a welcome break and a chance to recharge before heading back. Drinks are not included, so bring some cash or your preferred beverage if you want something extra.
The entire trip lasts about 9 hours, so expect a long but rewarding day. Some travelers mention that depending on where you’re staying in Kemer, the drive can be lengthy, and the schedule might feel packed, but most agree the sights make it worthwhile.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for history buffs, sea lovers, and those interested in mythical stories like Santa Claus. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy small-group tours and appreciate guided storytelling. Families with children also find it manageable, though small kids might need extra patience for the long day.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re looking for a full, engaging day of exploring Turkey’s unique coastal and archaeological sites, this tour offers excellent value. It combines scenic boat rides, ancient ruins, and cultural insights—all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.
While it’s a long day with some time on the road, the quality of guides and the diversity of sights make it a worthwhile choice. It’s especially suited for history enthusiasts, families, and travelers craving a mix of land and sea experiences.
If you prefer a more relaxed pace or only want to visit one site, this tour might feel a bit rushed. But for those eager to see the highlights of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast in just one day, it delivers a memorable, authentic journey.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Kemer.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, making it a full but manageable day.
Are entrance fees included?
Entrance fees to Myra and Demre are included, but not for the St. Nicholas Church itself.
Can I swim during the boat trip?
Yes, reviews indicate there’s an opportunity to swim off the boat, so bring your swimwear.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, water, and swimsuits if you want to swim.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most reviews mention it’s manageable for families, but keep in mind it’s a long day.
What about the group size?
The tour generally involves small groups (around 10-20 people), making it more personal.
What language is the tour guided in?
Guides are often multilingual, and many reviews mention guides speaking fluent English.
Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You might want to bring some or buy at stops.
What’s the main highlight?
Many travelers say the boat cruise over Kekova’s sunken city and the visit to St. Nicholas’s tomb are the most memorable parts.
This full-day tour from Kemer offers a well-rounded mix of history, scenic beauty, and cultural stories, all at a reasonable price. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Turkey’s past while enjoying its stunning coastline—ideal for curious, adventure-loving travelers eager for a meaningful day out.