Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Day Tour from Alanya

Explore Turkey’s Historic Treasures on the Kekova and Demre Day Tour

This full-day tour from Alanya offers a compelling blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. For $67.92 per person, travelers enjoy visits to Demre, where the Church of Saint Nicholas stands; the ancient ruins of Myra, with its impressive Lycian tombs; and a boat trip from Kekova that reveals the submerged remains of an ancient Lycian city. The tour lasts approximately 14 hours, making it a full-day adventure designed for those eager to uncover Turkey’s layered past in a single trip.

What makes this experience appealing is the inclusion of all entrance fees and lunch, alongside free hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour is led by a professional, friendly guide—a key factor that enhances the overall experience. Still, it’s worth noting that some reviews point out the early start and long travel hours might not suit everyone, especially those less inclined toward early mornings or lengthy bus rides.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Alanya visiting Demre, Myra, and Kekova
• Price of $67.92 includes entrance fees and lunch
• Approximately 14 hours in duration with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Highlights include Saint Nicholas Church, ancient Myra ruins, and a boat trip around Kekova
• Guided experience with a professional and friendly guide
• Some travelers find the early start and long travel times challenging

Pickup from Alanya and Early Morning Start

This tour departs from Alanya with a hotel pickup included, starting as early as 4:00 am. The early start is designed to maximize your day, but it does mean a very long day on the road. The pickup service ensures convenience, so guests do not need to worry about transportation logistics. The tour group is limited to 35 travelers, helping maintain a comfortable, small-group atmosphere.

The long drive begins with some downtime for most, as the first few hours involve a brief stop in Antalya and a chance for the group to rest or sleep. This early morning start suits those prepared for an early rise, but it can be tiring for some, especially if traveling with young children or if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Visiting Demre and the Church of Saint Nicholas

The first major stop is Demre, where visitors spend around 2 hours exploring the Church of Saint Nicholas. This church is notable for being associated with the historical Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus. Admission to the church is not included, but the tour’s price covers other entry fees and highlights.

The site is a peaceful place, and the guide shares interesting stories about Saint Nicholas and the historical significance of the church. This stop provides a glimpse into early Christian architecture and the religious history of the region. Visitors appreciate the mix of spiritual and historical insights offered here.

Discovering the Ruins of Ancient Myra

Next, the tour takes you to Myra, also allocated 2 hours for exploration. The Myra Antik Kenti features well-preserved Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs and impressive Roman ruins, including an ancient theatre and basilica. The entrance fee is included in the tour price, making this a hassle-free experience.

Walking through these ruins, you’ll see the intricate Lycian tombs, some of which date back to the 4th century BC. The guide explains the significance of the tombs and how they reflect the rich history of the Lycian civilization. The site offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to step back into antiquity.

Visiting the Church of Saint Nicholas (Optional Stop)

While the Church of Saint Nicholas is part of the itinerary, some travelers may choose to spend their additional 2 hours here or at nearby sites. The church holds cultural importance, and although the admission fee is not included in the tour, it is worth a visit if you’re interested in religious history.

Guides usually provide enough context to appreciate the church’s role as a pilgrimage site, and the peaceful setting allows for reflection. Since the tour includes visits to other significant sites, this stop offers a chance to connect with the region’s spiritual heritage.

Sailing Around Kekova and Visiting the Sunken City

The highlight for many is the boat trip from Kekova, lasting around 2 hours. During this cruise, travelers can view the sunken remains of an ancient Lycian city through the glass-bottomed boat windows. The waters around Kekova hide submerged ruins, including houses and walls, visible without diving.

The boat trip offers a relaxing break from the bus ride and a chance to enjoy scenic views of the coastline. The opportunity to see the underwater ruins adds a unique, visual dimension to the tour. This part is suitable for all ages and provides memorable photo opportunities of the clear waters and historic remnants.

Lunch and Included Amenities

As part of the tour, a lunch is provided, ensuring travelers are well-fed after a busy morning of sightseeing. The meal is included in the price, making this a convenient, budget-friendly option. The tour also features entrance fees to the key sites, simplifying logistics and avoiding extra charges.

The guide, described as informative, friendly, and professional, helps make the experience engaging and comfortable. The tour’s value is enhanced by these included amenities, making it a practical choice for those seeking a comprehensive day of exploration without hidden costs.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour involves some walking around ancient sites like Myra and Demre, and the boat trip, while relaxing, requires sitting for extended periods. It is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with a long day on the move. There is no specific information about accessibility, but the itinerary’s nature suggests some physical activity is involved.

Participants should be prepared for early mornings and a full day of discovery, with opportunities to rest during travel breaks. The group size of up to 35 helps ensure manageable walking distances and guided support.

Pricing, Value, and Potential Limitations

At $67.92 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering the included entrance fees, lunch, and hotel pickup. However, some reviews highlight the long transit times and early start as potential drawbacks. The initial hours involve a lot of travel with limited activity, which might not appeal to everyone.

Despite some criticism, the tour delivers a balanced mix of history, scenic views, and relaxation. It’s particularly suited to those interested in Turkey’s ancient past and looking for an efficient, guided experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour attracts travelers eager to see Demre, Myra, and Kekova in a single day. It’s ideal for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and those wanting a scenic boat cruise combined with archaeological exploration. The inclusion of lunch and entrance fees simplifies the day, making it accessible for most.

However, those sensitive to early starts or long bus rides might find the schedule demanding. The tour is best suited for visitors who want a comprehensive, guided day out without worrying about logistics or extra costs.

Final Thoughts on the Kekova and Demre Tour

The Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Day Tour from Alanya offers a solid experience, combining historic sites, scenic boat rides, and cultural insights. The value for money is clear, with all key entrance fees and lunch included, and the professional guide adds depth to the visits.

While the long travel hours and early start may not suit everyone, this tour remains a good choice for those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing and are prepared for a busy schedule. It delivers on its promise of exploring some of Turkey’s most important ancient sites and the captivating sunken Lycian city viewed from the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees to Demre and Myra, lunch, and a boat trip from Kekova.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 14 hours, starting early around 4:00 am and ending late in the evening.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the long hours and early start may be tiring for some, especially those with mobility issues or young children.

What should I bring on this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera for scenic photos are recommended. Drinks are not included, so bring water or purchase at stops.

Will I visit the Church of Saint Nicholas?
Yes, there is a 2-hour stop at the Saint Nicholas Church in Demre, although admission fees are not included in the tour.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done in advance, with most bookings made 27 days ahead. The tour is operated by Tourmania.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Key highlights include Demre’s Saint Nicholas Church, the ancient ruins of Myra, and the sunken Lycian city viewed from a glass-bottom boat at Kekova.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the boat trip and outdoor activities are affected by weather conditions, so check the forecast and be prepared for possible changes.

Is there a limit to the group size?
Yes, the maximum group size is 35 travelers, which helps maintain a comfortable and personal experience.

This Kekova and Demre day tour from Alanya offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s historic and maritime attractions, making it a worthwhile choice for those prepared for an early start and a full day of exploration.