Explore the Antalya: Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Guided Tour, a full-day experience designed for those eager to see some of Turkey’s most captivating ancient sites and underwater wonders. Priced at $65 per person and lasting 9 to 10 hours, this tour covers a diverse set of highlights along the Turkish Riviera, including Myra’s Lycian necropolis, the Sunken City of Kekova, and the church of St. Nicholas in Demre.

The tour begins with hotel pick-up from several locations such as Antalya, Belek, Kemer, Side, and Alanya, making it flexible for travelers based in nearby resorts. It includes a guide, lunch, and a boat trip to Kekova, offering a balanced mix of history, scenery, and water activities.

However, the experience may vary depending on individual expectations, as some reviews mention long travel times and issues with transportation. This tour is an excellent choice for those interested in ancient ruins and underwater sights, but travelers should be prepared for a full day of activity.

Key Points

Full-day tour combining history, scenery, and underwater exploration
Includes boat trip to the Sunken City of Kekova with snorkeling opportunities
Visits Myra to see Lycian rock-cut tombs and the ancient amphitheater
Stops at Demre to explore St. Nicholas Church
Price of $65 covers guide, lunch, hotel pickup, and boat trip
Some reviews note long travel times and transportation issues

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Discovering Demre and Its Ancient Roots

The tour starts with hotel pickup in the early morning from Antalya, Belek, Kemer, Side, or Alanya. From there, the journey takes you to the ancient town of Myra, located on the banks of the River Myros. Here, the guide leads you through the Lycia necropolis, where rock-cut tombs carve into the cliffs, and the Greek amphitheater offers a glimpse into the area’s historical significance. The guide’s storytelling is often praised for its humor and knowledge, making this segment both educational and engaging.

After exploring Myra, the tour proceeds to Demre, home of the church of St. Nicholas. This small town’s stunning church draws visitors for its religious and historical importance, as it is believed to be the former home of St. Nicholas of Myra. The visit provides a chance to appreciate the town’s charming atmosphere and learn about its religious heritage.

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Relaxing with a Complimentary Lunch

Before heading out on the water, the tour includes a complimentary lunch. Though the menu details are not specified, the inclusion of lunch is seen as a valuable part of the experience, providing a break before the afternoon activities. The lunch sets the tone for the day, giving travelers a chance to relax and prepare for the boat trip ahead.

Sailing to Kekova and Visiting the Sunken City

The highlight of the tour is the boat trip to the Turkish island of Kekova. The boat sails across crystal-clear waters, offering striking views along the coast. At Kekova, travelers have the opportunity to explore the underwater ruins of the Sunken City of Simena, which is renowned for its ancient structures submerged beneath the water. Snorkeling in these waters is specifically mentioned as a memorable activity, with the calm and transparent sea making it perfect for underwater viewing.

The boat journey also takes you to the Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa, where rock tombs remain visible on the shoreline. Visitors appreciate the spectacular scenery during the sail and the chance to swim and snorkel in the crystal waters, making it a highlight of the day.

The Long Travel Time and Transportation Concerns

Some reviews highlight that the journey to and from the sites can be quite lengthy, with pick-up times starting early in the morning and returning late in the evening. One review mentions a total duration of 15 hours, despite the tour advertising 9 hours. The transportation quality also receives mixed feedback, with some travelers describing the van as cramped, especially for taller individuals, which could be uncomfortable during the long drive.

It’s worth noting that the tour includes a substantial amount of time on the road, so travelers who prefer shorter transit periods or are sensitive to long bus rides should consider this aspect.

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Visiting the Lycian Necropolis at Teimiussa

Near Kekova, the tour stops at the Lycian necropolis of Teimiussa, where travelers can see rock-cut tombs that radiate the ancient civilization’s artistry. This site provides a quiet, scenic spot to appreciate Lycian culture and architecture from a distance. The view of the ruins from the boat or shoreline offers a compelling glimpse of antiquity submerged in water and history.

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The Experience of Swimming and Snorkeling

Along With sightseeing, swimming and snorkeling are core activities on this tour. The crystal clear waters surrounding Kekova offer an excellent environment for underwater exploration. Travelers often find this part of the tour rewarding, especially as the waters are calm and inviting, allowing for a closer look at underwater ruins.

The snorkeling opportunity is included in the boat trip, making it ideal for those who enjoy water-based activities. Visitors should bring comfortable shoes for walking and swimming gear if they wish to maximize their underwater experience.

Visiting the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre

The day concludes with a visit to the church in Demre, which is a significant site for history and religion enthusiasts. The church’s stunning architecture and its association with St. Nicholas give it a special charm. The visit is often described as a peaceful and beautiful way to end the day, with ample opportunity for photos and reflection on the area’s religious history.

Practical Aspects: Guides, Meals, and Additional Costs

This tour is led by a live guide, available in English and Russian, who shares insights about the sites visited. The guide’s humor and knowledge are often praised, enhancing the experience.

Included in the price are hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and the boat trip. However, drinks and entrance fees (which are 30) are not included. Travelers should budget extra if they wish to visit additional sites or purchase drinks during the day.

Suitability and Recommendations

This tour suits those interested in ancient ruins, underwater exploration, and unique landscapes. It is best for travelers comfortable with long bus rides and full-day outings. The inclusion of snorkeling and the scenic boat trip make it particularly appealing for water lovers.

However, those seeking a more relaxed pace or with transportation sensitivities may find the lengthy travel time and bus comfort issues challenging. The value is good, given the extensive itinerary, but travelers should be prepared for a long day.

Final Thoughts on the Demre, Myra & Kekova Tour

The Antalya: Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Guided Tour offers a rich combination of history, scenery, and underwater adventure for $65. Its key strength lies in the diverse stops—from Lycia tombs to sunken ruins—and the knowledgeable guides who bring the sites to life.

The boat trip to Kekova remains a highlight, especially for snorkeling enthusiasts. Yet, the long travel times and transport concerns noted in reviews mean that this tour is most suited for active travelers who enjoy a full, immersive day.

This tour provides good value for those keen on Turkey’s ancient sites and marine scenery, but it’s wise to be prepared for the long hours on the road.

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Antalya: Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Guided Tour

3.8

(37)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes guide services, lunch, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and a boat trip to the sunken city of Kekova.

How long is the entire trip?
The duration is generally 9 to 10 hours, but some reviews mention longer travel times, up to 15 hours total.

What are the main highlights?
The main highlights are visits to Myra, with its Lyric tombs and amphitheater, the boat trip to Kekova with snorkeling, and the church of St. Nicholas in Demre.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch is included in the tour, but drinks are not.

What should I bring?
Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes and swimming gear for snorkeling.

Is transportation comfortable?
Some reviews point out cramped vans and long bus rides, so travelers should be prepared for a full day with extensive travel.

Can this tour accommodate children?
While no specific age restrictions are noted, the long travel times and full-day schedule may be less suitable for very young children.

How are the guides?
Guides are often praised for their knowledge and entertaining style, especially in English and Russian.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs with hotel pickup from Antalya, Belek, Kemer, Side, and Alanya.