Antalya/Kemer: Kekova Sunken City, Demre & Lycia Day Tour

Antalya/Kemer: Kekova Sunken City, Demre & Lycia Day Tour is a well-rounded journey through some of Turkey’s most captivating historic and scenic sites. For $77 per person, you’ll spend approximately 12 hours exploring Lycia’s ancient tombs and amphitheaters, visiting St. Nicholas Church, and sailing across Turquoise waters to see the famous sunken city of Kekova. It’s a full-day adventure that combines history, nature, and a touch of maritime fun.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances cultural insights with relaxing moments—from walking through ruins to jumping into the sea for a swim. The comfortable transportation and professional guides make the long day manageable, and the boat trip offers some of the best views of the coast. The only thing to consider is that the schedule is quite packed, so if you’re prone to fatigue or want more time at each stop, it’s worth planning accordingly.

This experience suits history buffs, curious travelers eager for authentic cultural sites, and anyone who loves a good scenic boat ride. It’s particularly popular among those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and beach time, with plenty of positive reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and the overall value.

Key Points

Diverse itinerary: Covers Lycian tombs, Roman theater, St. Nicholas Church, and a yacht cruise.
Authentic sites: Visit historic ruins and the burial place of St. Nicholas, inspiring the Santa legend.
Scenic boat ride: Glass-bottom yacht offers underwater views of the sunken city, with swimming opportunities.
Expert guides: Multiple reviews highlight knowledgeable, friendly guides who enrich the experience.
Good value: All-included price covers transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and the boat tour.
Long but rewarding: About 12 hours, so be prepared for a full day, but most find it worthwhile.

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A Detailed Review of the Kekova Sunken City, Demre & Lycia Tour

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Starting Point: From Antalya to Ancient Lycia

Once we’re picked up from our hotel, the journey begins with a comfortable drive through the scenic landscape of Antalya Province. The route takes us past lush mountains and small villages, setting the tone for a day filled with history and nature. The transportation is described as smooth, with many reviews praising the drivers’ professionalism and comfort.

Exploring Myra and Demre

Our first stop is the ancient city of Myra, famous for its rock-cut tombs and impressive Greco-Roman amphitheater. Walking among these ruins, it’s easy to feel transported back in time. The tombs carved into cliffs showcase Lycia’s unique way of honoring its dead, and the amphitheater hints at a once-thriving cultural life. One reviewer notes, “We had a great time exploring the tombs and the theatre, which was absolutely breathtaking.”

Next, we visit the Church of Saint Nicholas in Demre. This 4th-century site is both a religious relic and a charming village hub. The church sits atop the burial site of St. Nicholas, the real inspiration for Santa Claus. While many visitors find the visit enriching, some mention that the entry fee (around 790 Turkish Lira) is not included in the tour price. Still, most feel that the chance to stand where the saint’s remains are buried is worth it. As one reviewer put it, “It’s a brief visit, but it’s meaningful, especially if you’re interested in the roots of Santa Claus.”

Lunch and Culture

After a morning of walking through ancient streets, the tour provides a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Several reviews mention the food as satisfying, with options like grilled chicken and other Turkish favorites. The meal is not just nourishment but also a chance to experience local flavors in a convivial setting.

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Heading to Kekova: The Sunken City and the Yacht Cruise

The highlight of the day is the sail across the clear waters of Kekova Island on a glass-bottom yacht. This boat cruise is where many travelers say the experience truly shines. The boat’s glass panels allow you to glimpse the sunken city ruins, a Lycian settlement destroyed by an earthquake and now lying beneath the waves. The water is stunningly clear, so even the underwater views through the glass are quite special, although some reviews mention the view can be somewhat limited depending on the weather and boat conditions.

You’ll have the chance to jump into the sea for a swim, and many reviewers rave about how refreshing and enjoyable it is. “Swimming in the Mediterranean was amazing,” one traveler reflects, emphasizing how the cool waters offset the long day of sightseeing.

From the boat, you can also see Simena Castle and the ruins of Kekova’s ancient structures, which lend a mysterious air as they emerge from the water. The panoramic views combined with the storytelling from guides make this segment a real standout.

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Authenticity and Tour Quality

Throughout the day, guides like Levenet, Ismail, and others are singled out for their knowledgeability and friendliness. They narrate stories, explain the significance of each site, and answer questions, making the experience more than just sightseeing—it becomes a lesson in local history and culture.

One reviewer from Hungary, for example, praised her guide, “Mrs. Ece was very considerate and kind, and we learned a lot about Turkey’s history and culture.” Her warmth and expertise seemed to make everyone comfortable, even when the schedule was tight.

The Long Day and Practicalities

With a start early in the morning and a return around evening, the tour is quite a commitment, but most find the experience worth every hour. The transportation is described as comfortable, which helps when you’re sitting for a long time. Be sure to bring essentials like comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, and sunscreen.

Some reviews mention a desire for a bit more free time—particularly at the church—so if you want to linger longer or explore more deeply, you might need to plan for that independently.

Who this Tour Is Perfect For

This trip appeals most to those interested in history, archaeology, and cultural stories of Turkey, combined with scenic boat rides and relaxing swims. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a full day of diverse activities without feeling rushed. The knowledgeable guides and included lunch add value, making it a good option for those who want a comprehensive experience without extra planning.

However, it’s not suited for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the nature of site access and movement. It’s also quite a long day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are prone to fatigue, this might be a good thing to consider.

The Sum Up

This tour from Antalya offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and leisure. You’ll walk in the footsteps of Lycian kings, stand in the church that inspired Santa Claus, and cruise over waters dotted with ancient ruins. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude consistently earn praise, enhancing the experience. Plus, the value for money is high given that it includes transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and a scenic boat trip.

For travelers who are eager to explore Turkey’s past, love a good boat ride, and want a day filled with authentic sites and stunning views, this tour hits all the right notes. Just be prepared for a full day, and bring your sense of curiosity and adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with guides waiting at the outdoor security gate of your accommodation.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 12 hours, so it’s a full-day experience—starting early and ending late.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash are recommended for comfort and convenience.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance fees to Kekova Sunken City and the Amphitheater are included. However, the entrance fee for St. Nicholas Church (around 790 TL) is not included.

Can I swim during the boat trip?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to jump into the water for a swim near Kekova Island.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users and pregnant women, mainly due to walking and site access. Children should be comfortable with long days and boat rides.

What is the tour’s weather contingency?
If weather conditions prevent the boat from sailing, guides will do their best to adapt the schedule, but some activities might be affected, as noted in reviews.

This tour offers a practical, engaging, and authentic way to experience Turkey’s ancient sites and stunning coastlines. With friendly guides and a good mix of activities, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to get a real feel for this historically layered region.