Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Day Tour from Alanya

Exploring the Sunken City, Demre, and Myra on a Full-Day Tour from Alanya

If you’re visiting Alanya and craving a day packed with history, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure, this Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra tour offers a compelling option. For around $68 per person, you’ll spend roughly 14 hours exploring three of Turkey’s most captivating sites with a friendly guide, enjoy a included lunch, and hop on a glass-bottomed boat to gaze upon ancient ruins beneath the water.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines culture with spectacular views. Visiting the church of Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus, feels both meaningful and fun, especially for history buffs or families. Plus, the boat trip around Kekova—where you’ll peer through a glass bottom to see submerged Lycian ruins—offers an unforgettable glimpse into history that’s accessible without diving gear.

However, a note of caution: the early start at 4:00 am may be a challenge for some, especially since the first few hours involve a lot of time on the bus, with some reviews mentioning long periods of downtime or sleep. This is a long day, and if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Still, for those eager to see multiple sites in one go, this tour packs a lot into a single day.

This tour is an excellent fit for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone interested in Turkey’s ancient past and scenic coastlines. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and want a well-organized, guided experience that covers key highlights, this trip should meet your expectations.

Key Points

• Visit historic sites including Saint Nicholas Church, Myra, and the sunken ruins of Kekova
• Enjoy a boat trip that offers underwater views of ancient Lycian remains
• All entrance fees included, simplifying the logistics
• Hotel pickup and drop-off add convenience, especially for early risers
• Lunch included makes the long day more comfortable
• Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, enriching the experience

In-Depth Review of the Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra Tour

What the Tour Covers and Why It Matters

This full-day excursion from Alanya is designed to showcase Turkey’s diverse history and stunning coastal scenery. Starting early at around 4:00 am, the tour takes you on a journey through some of the most iconic sites of the Lycian region. The itinerary is well-structured to maximize sightseeing while balancing travel time, but be prepared for a long day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Demre (Kale)
Your day begins with a transfer that, while early, gets you to Demre—home to the Church of Saint Nicholas—by mid-morning. This site is especially significant for its association with the real Saint Nicholas, the historical figure who inspired Santa Claus. Although the church’s interior is not included in the ticket price, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the exterior and learn about its history from your guide. Some reviews mention a brief stop here, making it a good introduction to the area’s religious past.

Second Stop: Myra Ancient City
Next, you visit the ruins of Myra, where you’ll see a well-preserved theater, Lycian rock tombs, and ancient city walls. The entrance fee here is included, which simplifies planning. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the Lycian tombs, carved directly into the cliffs—these are some of the most striking features of the site. Expect about two hours to wander and absorb the atmosphere of this archaeological treasure.

Third Stop: Saint Nicholas Church
Though the entrance fee isn’t included, many visitors find it worthwhile to visit the church of Saint Nicholas itself, especially if you’re interested in the history of the man behind Santa Claus. You’ll spend around two hours here, often combining sightseeing with some reflective moments in the churchyard.

The Highlight: Kekova and the Boat Trip

The boat trip around Kekova Island is what makes this tour truly special. For two hours, you’ll board a glass-bottomed boat and cruise along the coast, peering beneath the surface to see sunken Lycian ruins that lie beneath the water. This is a real highlight, offering a tangible sense of how ancient civilizations used to thrive along these shores.

Many reviews praise the boat ride, noting the friendly guide and the stunning views. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the boat trip and seeing the submerged city,” confirming how memorable this part is. Plus, the boat allows you to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenic coastlines that are both rugged and inviting.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers all entrance fees for Demre and Myra, as well as the boat trip. Lunch is also included, which is crucial given the long hours. However, drinks are not, so you might want to bring water or purchase beverages during stops. The hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics smooth, especially if you’re staying in Alanya.

The Guide and Group Dynamics

According to reviews, the guides are informative and friendly, often making the experience more engaging. With a maximum group size of 35, you’ll get a chance to ask questions and connect with fellow travelers. This personal touch is part of what makes guided tours enjoyable, especially when visiting sites rich in history.

The Downsides

The primary concern is the early start—a 4:00 am pickup might not suit everyone. Some travelers found the first few hours on the bus to be lengthy and, at times, uneventful—most people just slept through it. If you’re looking for a super relaxed day or don’t mind waking up early, this won’t be an issue. Also, with a 14-hour duration, it’s a long day, so stamina and patience are key.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to history lovers, families, or adventurers eager to see a mix of archaeological sites and scenic coastlines. It’s also suitable for travelers who want all logistics handled—from entrance fees to transportation—so they can just enjoy the sights. If you’re interested in Turkey’s ancient Lycian civilization, this tour offers a rundown in one package.

Final Words

For those wanting to combine cultural exploration with scenic boat rides, this tour from Alanya provides a well-rounded experience at a reasonable price. You’ll enjoy expert-guided insights, hassle-free transportation, and access to some of Turkey’s most evocative ruins. It’s a full-day commitment, but for many, these sites are worth every minute.

If you appreciate authentic historic sites and don’t mind an early start, this tour offers terrific value—especially with all entrance fees and lunch included. Just be prepared for the long hours and the possibility of a sleepy first few hours on the bus.

In the end, it’s a memorable way to connect with Turkey’s ancient past and stunning coastlines, perfect for those eager to pack in a lot of history and scenery in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at around 4:00 am, so be prepared for an early start.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance fees for Demre and Myra are included in the price. Visiting the Saint Nicholas Church is at your own expense.

What is the length of the boat trip?
The boat trip around Kekova lasts about two hours, during which you can view submerged ruins through the glass bottom and enjoy scenic views.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, a lunch is included in the price, making it easier to enjoy the long day without worrying about meals.

Is transportation comfortable?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with group sizes up to 35. Expect comfortable transport, but keep in mind the early departure.

Who is the guide?
Guides are described as friendly, informative, and professional, enhancing your understanding of each site.

Can children join this tour?
Most travelers can participate, so children interested in history and scenic views should enjoy the experience, but always check with the provider for age restrictions.