Demre Myra Kekova Sunken City

Touring Turkey’s Turquoise Coast: Demre, Myra, Kekova Sunken City

This full-day excursion from Antalya offers a compelling blend of history, stunning scenery, and unique maritime sights, all for about $86 per person. The tour, usually booked 55 days in advance, takes roughly 11 hours and covers some of the most iconic points along Turkey’s renowned coastline. You’ll be picked up directly from your hotel, making logistics straightforward, and the tour includes a boat ride, a buffet lunch, and visits to ancient sites like Myra and the Kekova Sunken City.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see Lycian rock-cut tombs and walk through historic Demre, all while enjoying the comfort of a guided trip that takes care of transportation and entry fees. Plus, the boat trip over the Sunken City of Kekova offers a rare glimpse into submerged ruins that are usually only visible by boat. The combination of land and sea makes this tour a well-rounded way to experience some of Turkey’s most treasured sights.

One potential downside to consider is the length of the day. Some reviews mention long hours on the coach and variable comfort levels, especially if the bus air conditioning isn’t working perfectly. Also, while the guide is generally praised for knowledge, a few travelers found the communication in English somewhat limited, especially for those in predominantly Russian-speaking groups.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, scenic beauty, and leisure. If you’re eager to see ancient ruins, like the Church of St. Nicholas, and love boat rides with swimming stops, this will likely be a highlight of your trip. Just prepare for a full day and potential language barriers if your group isn’t multilingual.

Key Points

• Stunning Highlights: The tour covers top sights like Kekova Sunken City, Myra, and St. Nicholas Church.
• Convenient Transport: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify your day, especially if you’re staying in Antalya or nearby.
• Authentic Experiences: The boat ride and walking tours provide an immersive look at ancient Lycian sites and underwater ruins.
• Value for Money: Including lunch, boat fees, and entry tickets, the price of $85.98 offers a balanced cost for a full day of sightseeing.
• Group Size: With a max of 27 travelers, the experience avoids feeling overly crowded but still offers social opportunities.
• Mixed Reviews on Comfort: Some guests mention bus conditions and the need for patience during transfers, so be prepared for a full-day journey.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Demre (Kale): The Gateway to Ancient Myra

Your day begins with a hotel pickup around 7:00 am, heading along Turkey’s picturesque coast. The first significant stop, Demre, is famed for its Lycia-style rock tombs and the Church of St. Nicholas—the inspiration for Santa Claus. Most travelers find the visit to Myra quite rewarding; the well-preserved Lycian rock-cut tombs are carved directly into cliffs, creating an oddly haunting yet beautiful sight. One reviewer noted, “The rock cut graves at Myra are fantastic and we had plenty of time to explore the site,” illustrating how the visit is paced comfortably.

Kekova: The Sunken Mystery

Next, the tour moves to Kekova, a small island known for its partially submerged ruins. Here, you’ll board a boat to see the Sunken City, where ancient structures peek out from beneath the water. The boat ride lasts about an hour, and you’ll have a chance to swim if you’re comfortable. Travelers have described the experience as “beautiful” and “a rare glimpse into underwater history,” which makes it one of the tour’s standout moments. The boat trip also offers excellent views of the coastline, with some reviews praising the crew’s service.

St. Nicholas Church and Local Lunch

After the boat ride, there’s a visit to the Church of St. Nicholas, where the real-life saint’s relics are said to be kept. Entrance is optional and paid separately if you choose to go inside. The tour includes a buffet lunch in Demre, offering local Turkish cuisine. Some reviews mention the lunch as “subpar and rushed,” so if you’re a foodie, you might want to arrive with modest expectations. Still, it provides a much-needed break and a chance to relax after a busy morning.

Additional Notes on Logistics and Experience

The tour operates with a multilingual guide, primarily in Russian and English, which can be a challenge for English-only speakers, according to some reviews. The group size is capped at 27 travelers, helping foster a friendly, manageable atmosphere. The transportation involves a coach, with some travelers noting issues like broken air conditioning or uncomfortable seats, so bringing a fan or water might enhance your comfort.

What’s the Real Value?

At $86, this tour offers an impressive value considering the included activities—boat tour, entry tickets, lunch, and hotel transfers. The experience of floating above submerged ruins and walking among ancient Lycian tombs is genuinely memorable. While some reviews mention long hours and logistical hiccups, most agree that the sights and the guide’s knowledge make up for these minor inconveniences.

Authenticity and Personal Touches

Many travelers appreciate guides that go beyond mere narration—sharing stories and insights that deepen their understanding of the sites. One reviewer emphasized, “The woman was very knowledgeable and knew many languages,” which adds to the tour’s credibility. The boat captain’s professionalism also enhances the experience, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Considerations for a Smooth Trip

If you’re sensitive to bus comfort or are traveling with young children or elderly guests, note that some reviews mention discomfort and bus breakdowns. Arriving prepared with snacks, sunscreen, and patience can make the day more enjoyable. Also, the timing is strict; early departure and a full schedule mean you need to be ready for a long, busy day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for travelers who crave a mix of history, scenic boat rides, and a taste of local culture. If your interest lies in real, tangible ancient relics and underwater archaeology, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also suited for those who appreciate organized, guided experiences that take care of logistics.

However, if you’re a light traveler or prefer a more relaxed, flexible pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, if you’re not comfortable with long coach rides or have language preferences outside Russian or English, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Antalya hotel, making the day easier to manage without worrying about transportation.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, from early morning departure to late afternoon return.

What sites do I see on this trip?
You’ll visit Demre (Kale) for Lycian tombs, cruise to see the Sunken City of Kekova, and can optionally visit the Church of St. Nicholas.

Does the tour include entry fees?
Yes, the entry ticket to Myra is included. Visiting the church is optional and paid separately if chosen.

Is swimming included?
Yes, there is time for swimming during the boat trip, so bring your swimwear and towel if you’d like to take a dip.

What about the guide’s language?
Guides operate mainly in Russian and English. If your language isn’t covered, you might find some information less accessible, as some reviews have noted.

How comfortable is the coach?
While most travelers find the bus acceptable, some mention issues like broken air conditioning or uncomfortable seats. Bringing water and comfort items can improve your experience.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, hat, swimwear, camera, and patience for a long day on the road.

Final Thoughts

This Demre, Myra, Kekova Sunken City tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s ancient civilizations and scenic coastline. The combination of historic ruins, underwater archaeology, and maritime scenery makes it a memorable outing—especially if you’re eager to see unique sites that few travelers get to experience firsthand. The included lunch and transportation give good value, even if you should expect a full day and some logistical quirks.

It’s particularly suited for history buffs, boat lovers, and travelers who enjoy guided tours with enriching commentary. Despite a few hiccups reported by some guests, most find the experience rewarding and worth the effort.

If you’re ready for a day of exploration that blends culture, history, and natural beauty, this tour will serve you well. Just come prepared for a busy schedule and a full taste of Turkey’s coastal treasures.

Final Recommendations

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially in peak season.
• Set expectations for long hours and variable bus comfort—bring water and snacks.
• Engage with your guide for insights into the sites, especially if language is a concern.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking and sun protection for outdoor sites.
• Consider your pace and interests—this tour is packed with sights, so it’s best suited for energetic travelers eager for a full day.

Enjoy your journey along Turkey’s stunning coast, discovering stories buried in stone and sunken beneath the waves. This tour offers a rich, authentic taste of the region’s heritage and natural beauty.