Kalkan: Day Trip to Demre, Myra and Kekova Island

Experience the beauty and history of Turkey on the Kalkan: Day Trip to Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island. Priced at $79 per person and lasting around 12 hours, this guided tour takes you through stunning waters, ancient ruins, and charming villages within the Antalya Province. The tour is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of cultural exploration and scenic relaxation, with convenient transportation and well-planned stops. While the itinerary offers a rich variety of sights, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of activity and boat cruising.

The tour features visits to several highlights, including the famous Sunken City of Kekova, Simena Castle, and historical sites of Myra. The boat cruise is a major focus, providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the Pirates Cave. The lunch is included, along with tea, fruit, and water served onboard. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful vistas, and organised schedule, though the full day may be tiring for small children or travelers with limited mobility.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour covering Kekova, Demre, and Myra, departing from Kalkan.
• Includes boat cruises with stops at Sunken City, Pirates Cave, and Gokkaya Bay for swimming and sightseeing.
• Visit historic sites such as Simena Castle and Myra ruins, with optional stops at the Santa Claus Museum.
• All transportation, boat rides, and a hearty lunch are included, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Tour duration is approximately 12 hours, with pick-up details sent one day prior.
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with long days and boat excursions, less ideal for small children.

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Starting Point and Logistics of the Tour

This full-day excursion departs from Petrol Ofisi in Kalkan, with pick-up times communicated one day before via WhatsApp or email. The tour includes transportation in a van, with a brief stop in Van during the day. The return is direct to the original meeting point, making it easy to plan your day.

Participants are advised to bring a towel and sunscreen, as much of the day involves outdoor activities and swimming. The tour’s language options include English and Turkish, with guides providing clear explanations and assistance throughout the day.

Exploring Kekova’s Sunken City by Boat

The highlight for many travelers is the boat cruise across Kekova to view the Sunken City, which was submerged after a powerful earthquake. This scenic site features underwater ruins visible from the boat or during snorkeling. The boat gently cruises past the ruins, offering breathtaking views of the submerged structures.

The boat trip also includes a visit to Gökkaya Bay, where visitors can swim and relax amidst nature. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and paddleboarding, with water sports available at this stop. The Pirates Cave provides a chance to swim and marvel at its size and natural curved entrance.

Exploring Simena Castle and Kaleköy Village

One of the notable stops is at Kaleköy port, also called Simena. Here, travelers enjoy free time to explore the castle ruins, necropolis, and quaint village streets. The views from the hillside are spectacular, offering panoramic scenes of the region.

For those interested in walking, a hike up the hillside is rewarded with stunning vistas, while others prefer to relax and take photos from below. The area is also good for shopping or self-guided exploration, with local shops selling souvenirs and crafts.

The Charm of Esmeralda Bay and Gokkaya Bay

The tour includes stops at Esmaralda (Esmeralda) Bay and Gökkaya Bay, both known for peaceful natural surroundings and crystal waters. At Esmeralda Bay, the cooler waters benefit from natural cold springs beneath the surface, providing a refreshing swim.

Gökkaya Bay is another ideal spot for swimming and relaxation, with water sports options available. These stops give travelers time to unwind, enjoy the scenery, and take photos of the lush coastline.

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Visiting Demre, Myra, and the St. Nicholas Church

After the boat cruise, the tour heads to Demre, where a museum visit is included, showcasing artifacts from the region. An optional stop is the Santa Claus Museum, located centrally in Demre, dedicated to St. Nicholas, the historical figure behind Santa Claus.

The Myra ruins are a must-see, with the Roman-style theatre being the largest in Lycia. The rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs provide a striking visual and a glimpse into ancient burial practices. These sites date back to the 5th century B.C. and highlight the area’s historical significance.

Practical Details and Tour Duration

The 12-hour tour is packed with sightseeing, boat cruising, and walking. The itinerary includes multiple stops, with enough free time at each location to explore or relax. The lunch served onboard is typically well-received, offering a satisfying meal after the morning’s activities.

The group size tends to allow for a smooth experience, with English and Turkish-speaking guides leading the way. The tour is designed to balance scenic enjoyment, historical exploration, and relaxation, making it suitable for those eager to see many highlights in one day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This trip appeals most to history enthusiasts, water lovers, and scenic admirers. The boat segments are ideal for those who enjoy swimming and snorkeling, with turtles often spotted at certain stops.

It’s also a good fit for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip without worrying about logistics, thanks to the included transportation and lunch. However, travelers with small children or limited mobility should consider the full day’s schedule and boat excursions, which may be tiring.

Final Thoughts on the Kalkan: Day Trip to Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island

This well-organized tour offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and maritime fun, with many highlights packed into one day. The boat cruise across Kekova’s sunken city and the visits to ancient ruins create a memorable experience.

The $79 price point includes lunch, boat rides, and transportation, making it a good value for those interested in exploring the Antalya region’s cultural and coastal treasures. Reviewers praise the professional guides, breathtaking views, and delicious meals, though the full schedule demands stamina and interest in outdoor activities.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want to cover a lot of ground in a single day, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring some of Turkey’s most captivating sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $79 fee covers boat cruises, lunch, transportation, guides, and entry to sites. Water, tea, fruit, and a snack are also provided on the boat.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, with scheduled stops and activities throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is generally not recommended for small children, as the schedule involves a full day with boat rides and walking. Travelers should consider their child’s comfort with long outdoor days.

Do I need to bring anything special?
It’s best to bring a towel and sunscreen for outdoor and water activities. The tour provides a fridge for storing drinks if you bring your own non-alcoholic beverages.

Can I visit the Santa Claus Museum?
Yes, there is an optional stop for visiting the Santa Claus Museum in Demre, which is separate from the main sightseeing at the ruins.

This guided tour provides a full day of discovery in the Antalya Province, blending ancient history with scenic boat rides and relaxing swimming stops. With a warm, knowledgeable guide and a carefully curated itinerary, it offers a meaningful way to experience Turkey’s coastal treasures.

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