Exploring the Treasures of Demre, Kekova, and Myra: A Day Trip from Antalya
If you’re eager to uncover some of Turkey’s most evocative archaeological sites and enjoy a scenic boat ride, the From Antalya/ Alanya / Side / Kemer Demre Myra & Kekova Tour offers a compelling option. For around $85 per person, this full-day adventure lasts between 10 and 13 hours, making it a sizable chunk of your sightseeing time, but one packed with history, water, and stories. The tour covers Myra’s Lycian tombs, St. Nicholas Church, and the sunken city of Kekova, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
What we love about this tour? First, the opportunity to see the Lycian rock-cut tombs, which are remarkably well-preserved and tell a story of ancient funerary practices. Second, the boat cruise over the Kekova Sunken City provides a rare glimpse into the submerged ruins, blending history with the delight of being on the water.
However, there’s one aspect worth considering: the overall attractions can feel somewhat limited for a full-day journey. The Myra amphitheater, while impressive, isn’t sprawling, and the sunken city offers a view from the boat rather than extensive underwater exploration. Plus, a recent review mentions the snorkeling stop was canceled due to jellyfish, which might disappoint water lovers expecting a swim or snorkel.
This tour is perfect for history buffs, fans of scenic boat rides, and those wanting an overview of the Lycian civilization in a single day. If you prefer deep dives into fewer sites or extensive walking, you might find the pace a bit rushed. Still, for a balanced mix of cultural landmarks, water views, and a taste of authentic Turkish coastal scenery, it hits many marks.
Key Points
- Historical Highlights: Visit the Lycian rock tombs of Myra and the ancient amphitheater.
- Scenic Boat Ride: Sail over turquoise waters to the Kekova Sunken City, with chances to swim or snorkel.
- Cultural Experience: Tour the St. Nicholas Church, gaining insight into local history and religious heritage.
- Time Investment: A long but rewarding 10-13 hour day, including hotel transfers.
- Tour Guide: Expect knowledgeable guides who can bring the history to life, especially for English- and Russian-speaking travelers.
- Value: At $85, it offers a comprehensive introduction to the region’s highlights—though some may prefer more time at each site.
A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
Starting with hotel pickup, the journey kicks off early, usually with a small group, which allows for a more personal experience. The ride to Demre is scenic and gives you a taste of the Turkish coast as you head inland to explore ancient sites.
Myra’s Ancient City is the first major stop. This Lycian city flourished in the 1st and 2nd centuries BC, according to ancient sources like Strabo. Here, you’ll see the rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs, which are some of the best examples of Lycian funerary architecture. The amphitheater nearby adds to the sense of history, though some travelers find it not as extensive as expected. One reviewer noted that the layout was less intuitive, and the site felt somewhat compact, but the overall impression remains impressive for the photo opportunities.
Next, the group visits the Church of St. Nicholas, a basilica dedicated to the saint often associated with Santa Claus. The church’s history is quite fascinating, representing the East Roman era, and provides a tangible link to the region’s religious past. For many, this site is a highlight, blending Christianity’s history with local legends.
Lunch in Demre offers a relaxed break, giving you a taste of local cuisine and time to reflect on the morning’s sights. The included meal provides good value, especially considering the long day and the fact that food in Turkey is often a highlight in itself.
The afternoon features a boat ride across the turquoise waters toward the Kekova Island, famous for its sunken city of Simena. The submerged ruins are a striking sight, with the boat anchoring nearby to give you an unobstructed view of the underwater remains. You might find, as one reviewer did, that the photos from the flyer were more captivating than the visit itself, especially since the snorkeling stop was canceled due to jellyfish. Still, the boat ride offers a peaceful way to enjoy the landscape, and many travelers appreciate the chance to see the ruins from the water.
For those interested in swimming or snorkeling, don’t forget your bathing suit and towel—though it’s wise to check in advance if the stop will be available, especially during jellyfish season. The Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa is also of interest, revealing more about the ancient civilization that once thrived here.
Throughout the day, the guides tend to be knowledgeable, providing context and stories that deepen your understanding of the sites. However, some travelers, like Sven, felt that the attractions were somewhat limited given the long hours, suggesting that those with a particular interest in archaeology might want more time at each spot.
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Transportation, Timing, and Group Size
Transportation is comfortable, with hotel pickups included, which helps avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or rental cars. The group size tends to be small, fostering an intimate atmosphere and easier interaction with guides. Rest assured, departure times are flexible enough to accommodate most schedules, but it’s best to check your specific pickup details.
The entire tour spans between 10 and 13 hours, so be prepared for a full day. The long hours are balanced by the variety of experiences, from walking through ancient ruins to relaxing on a boat.
Pricing and Value
At $85, this tour strikes a good balance for those wanting a rundown without paying for private guides or multiple separate trips. Entrance fees are not included, so you might want to budget extra for site admissions. The lunch is included, which adds convenience and value. For travelers who enjoy a mix of history and scenic water views, this tour offers decent bang for your buck, especially considering the guided insights.
Authentic Experience and Practical Tips
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to see genuine Lycian architecture and underwater ruins, which are often overlooked in favor of more touristy Mediterranean destinations. The inclusion of St. Nicholas Church adds a spiritual dimension, connecting the ancient past with more recent traditions.
To make the most of your day, bring swimwear and a towel if you want to take advantage of any swimming opportunities. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring ruins and bring sun protection, as much of the day is outdoors. Since the tour can be long, pacing yourself will ensure you enjoy each site without feeling rushed.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for travelers interested in history, archaeology, and coastal scenery. It’s suitable for those who enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable guides and don’t mind a long day on the move. If you’re expecting extensive underwater exploration or multiple snorkeling stops, be aware that these might not always be available. It’s a good choice if you want a broad overview of the Lycian region in a single day, with some scenic boat time thrown in.
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The Sum Up
This tour offers a solid introduction to some of Turkey’s most captivating ancient sites and scenic waters. While it may not satisfy those hoping for an in-depth exploration of each location, it balances history, culture, and natural beauty reasonably well, all at a moderate price.
Travelers who appreciate authentic ruins, engaging guides, and scenic boat trips will find much to enjoy here. The inclusion of key sites like Myra’s rock tombs and St. Nicholas Church makes it worthwhile, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of the region’s heritage.
However, if your ideal day involves more time at each location or more adventurous water activities, you might want to consider a more specialized or longer tour. Still, for a practical, well-organized overview, this trip provides a meaningful way to discover Turkey’s coast and its ancient civilizations.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and dropoff, making it convenient and comfortable to start and end your day.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts between 10 and 13 hours, so it’s a long day but full of diverse experiences.
Are meals included?
Yes, lunch is included in the tour, saving you time and money during the busy day.
What should I bring?
You should bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and comfortable shoes for walking around ruins.
Will I get to snorkel or swim?
You might have the opportunity to swim or snorkel, but this can be canceled, as it was due to jellyfish, so check in advance.
Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included; you should budget extra if you want to explore the sites more thoroughly.
Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, guides are generally well-informed and can provide useful historical context, especially in English and Russian.
In the end, this tour is a practical way to see some of the most significant sites along Turkey’s coast without feeling overwhelmed. It offers a good mix of history, scenery, and cultural insight, perfect for travelers with a sense of adventure and curiosity about the ancient Lycian civilization.
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