Antalya: Demre Myra Kekova Tour w/Boat Trip

A Comprehensive Look at the Antalya: Demre Myra Kekova Tour with Boat Trip

If you’re visiting Antalya and craving a day packed with history, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure, the Demre Myra Kekova Tour is worth considering. At $79 per person, this roughly 8 to 10-hour excursion takes you to some of the most captivating archaeological sites in the region, capped with a relaxing boat trip.

What we love is how smoothly everything is organized — your transport, tickets, and itinerary are all handled, freeing you up to focus on enjoying the experience. Especially appealing are the impressive Lycian rock-cut tombs in Myra and the mysterious submerged ruins of Kekova’s sunken city, Simena. Plus, the tour includes a delicious lunch and convenient pickup, making it a hassle-free way to explore.

One thing to keep in mind is that the early start — with a pickup at 5:30 am — might be challenging for some travelers, particularly those who prefer a more relaxed morning. Also, some reviews mention long bus rides and multiple hotel pickups, which can feel tiring if you’re not a fan of early starts or extensive sitting. Still, for those interested in authentic history and scenic views, this tour offers solid value.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a combination of history, natural scenery, and hassle-free logistics. If you’re eager to see Lycia’s ancient tombs, explore a sunken city from the boat, and prefer having a well-planned day without much fuss, this trip should meet your expectations.

Key Points

• Rich historical sites: Visit Lycian rock-cut tombs and the ancient city of Myra.
• Unique boat experience: See the submerged ruins of Kekova from the comfort of a boat trip.
• Convenience: Includes pickup, transportation, and tickets, so you don’t need to plan every detail.
• Value for money: At $79, it packs in multiple sites, a meal, and a full day of exploration.
• Early start: Be prepared for a 5:30 am pickup, which might be tiring but allows more sightseeing time.
• Guided insights: Expect knowledgeable guides who enhance the story behind the sites.

Exploring the Itinerary in Depth

Start at the Church of St. Nicholas and Myra Antik Kenti

Your day begins early, with a pickup around 5:30 am. The first stop is the Church of St. Nicholas — the real-life figure behind Santa Claus. Although entry tickets are not included, you’ll get a glimpse of this historic site with its ruins and views. The church is central to understanding the religious tapestry of the region and is a must-see for history buffs.

Next, you’ll visit Myra Antik Kenti, the ancient Lycian city whose name means “Land of the Sun.” This site is where the real treasures lie — the Lycian rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs. These tombs, dating back to the 4th century BC, showcase a unique funerary tradition of the Lycian people. We loved how the tombs are carved directly into the rock, giving the whole area an otherworldly atmosphere. You’ll also see the well-preserved ancient amphitheater, which hints at the vibrant life once enjoyed here.

Many travelers, like McKinley_M, mention that the rich historical insights provided by guides make these sites come alive, making the early start worthwhile. However, some, like rt968tpgzg, find the extensive bus rides and multiple hotel pickups a bit exhausting. Still, the effort pays off when you stand amid centuries-old tombs and ruins.

Boat Trip to Kekova Island and Sunken City

After exploring Myra, you’ll board a boat for Kekova Island, where the highlight is the sunken city of Simena. Due to earthquakes and rising sea levels over centuries, parts of this once-thriving city now lie beneath the water, visible from boat or snorkeling. The boat cruise lasts around three hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery.

As you glide over the water, you’ll see remains of ancient walls, pathways, and even boats from the submerged city. Many visitors find this experience enchanting — the idea that history lies just beneath the surface. Sadha_M appreciated the beautiful views during the boat ride, and the fact that all fees for the boat are included makes it straightforward.

Visiting the Surroundings and Practical Details

Throughout the day, your guide ensures smooth transitions between sites, while the air-conditioned vehicle keeps you comfortable on the longer drives. The included lunch adds convenience and a taste of local cuisine, rounding out your day.

While the trip covers a lot, some guests suggest that longer time at each site would be ideal. For example, one reviewer wished they had more time at the rock tombs, while others appreciate that the itinerary is well-planned to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is conducted in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long drives more bearable. The group size is capped at 45 travelers, keeping the experience relatively intimate but still lively. The early pickup and sizable group mean you’ll be sharing the journey with fellow travelers, which can be fun but also means some waiting or sitting in transit.

Cost and Value

At $79 per person, including all entrance fees and lunch, this tour offers good value for those interested in history and scenic locations. The price covers a lot — transportation, site entrances, and a meal — reducing the hassle of organizing multiple tickets and meals independently. However, be mindful that some sites, like the Church of St. Nicholas, do not include an admission fee, so you might want to bring some extra cash if you wish to explore further.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history enthusiasts who want to see Lycia’s ancient tombs and experience the thrill of a boat over a sunken city. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate comfortable logistics and don’t mind early mornings for a full day of sightseeing.

If you’re someone who prefers a slow-paced, relaxed start or has limited time, this might feel too packed. But if you’re excited about discovering Antalya’s archaeological gems and don’t mind a bit of travel fatigue, this tour offers a well-rounded day.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $80, you’re getting a comprehensive look at some of Turkey’s most intriguing sites — from Lycian tombs to a sunken city. The guides’ knowledge and the scenery consistently impress, making this a worthwhile choice for those eager to combine history, nature, and a boat cruise in one day.

The early start and long bus rides are the main trade-offs. But for travelers who value expert insights, comfortable transport, and a well-organized itinerary, this tour strikes a good balance. It’s a solid option if you want a meaningful glimpse into Antalya’s ancient past without the stress of planning.

If you’re after a day that’s engaging and educational, with plenty of scenic and historic highlights, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

What sites are included in this tour?
You visit the Church of St. Nicholas, the ancient Lycian city of Myra with its rock-cut tombs and amphitheater, and take a boat trip to Kekova Island to see the sunken city of Simena.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, starting early at around 5:30 am and returning in the evening.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll be transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup from your hotel included.

Are entrance tickets included?
All fees for Myra’s ancient city are included. However, admission to the Church of St. Nicholas is not included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and some cash for optional extras or tips. Also, consider bringing a camera for the scenic boat trip and ruins.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for an early start and some walking around ruins.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
While the tour involves walking around archaeological sites, some parts may be uneven or involve steps; check with the provider if you need special accommodations.

What’s the food like?
A included lunch offers a taste of local cuisine, providing both convenience and nourishment for a full day.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Antalya Demre Myra Kekova Tour offers a compelling mix of history, scenery, and relaxation, especially for those eager to see iconic Lycian tombs and the mysterious underwater ruins. The knowledgeable guides and seamless organization make it a good value for a full day’s adventure. While the early start and long bus rides aren’t for everyone, they are balanced by the depth of experience and stunning sights you’ll encounter. Perfect for history lovers, scenery seekers, and those who want to explore Turkey’s ancient past without the stress of planning every step themselves.