Demre Myra Kekova Sunken City

Explore the Highlights of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast for $85.98

This full-day tour from Antalya offers a well-rounded experience of some of Turkey’s most captivating historical and scenic sites. Priced at $85.98 per person, the trip is designed for travelers eager to see Demre, the Sunken City of Kekova, Lycian rock-cut tombs, and St. Nicholas Church with minimal hassle thanks to hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, making it a full day packed with sights, stories, and an enjoyable boat ride.

While the tour is accessible to most, it’s important to note that some reviews mention issues like bus comfort and language barriers, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with longer travel days and varied group dynamics. Overall, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a mix of history, nature, and coastal charm along Turkey’s famed coast.

Key Points

• Full-day experience covering Demre, Kekova, and Myra
• Includes boat tour of the Sunken City with swimming opportunities
• Visit Lycian rock-cut tombs and St. Nicholas Church (optional entrance fee)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, with a departure time at 7:00am
• Guided tour with multilingual commentary (mainly Russian and English)
• Price of $85.98 per person offers a comprehensive sightseeing day

Starting the Day with Hotel Pickup at 7:00am in Antalya

The tour begins early in the morning at 7:00am, with hotel pickup for most participants. This scheduled start makes it convenient for travelers staying in Antalya, especially as the group size is limited to 27 people to ensure a more intimate experience. The transportation involves traveling along Turkey’s scenic coast, with some reviews noting that pickups and bus comfort can vary, especially outside the city center.

The journey includes traveling through small villages, which some find charming, while others mention that transfers can take up to an hour before reaching the main sites. The guide is typically multilingual, providing explanations in English and Russian, which adds value for international visitors.

Discovering Demre (Kale) and the Ancient Ruins

The first stop on the tour is Demre, where visitors explore the Kale area and the Myra ancient city. This site features Lycian rock-cut tombs that date back thousands of years, showcasing impressive ancient craftsmanship. The entry ticket to Myra is included in the tour price, allowing a generous amount of time—about 1 hour and 15 minutes—to wander and take photos.

The stone tombs carved into cliffs stand out as a highlight, with many visitors appreciating the chance to see ancient Lycian architecture firsthand. The location is rich with history, and guides often share stories about the tombs and the significance of Myra in early Christianity.

Boat Trip to Kekova Sunken City and Swimming Stops

A defining feature of this tour is the boat tour to Kekova’s Sunken City. Departing from Demre, the boat ride takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering a relaxing way to see the partially submerged ruins. The Sunken City of Kekova is notable for its preserved Lycian remains visible just below the water’s surface.

Passengers get a chance to swim in designated areas, with time allocated for a swimming stop. The boat is equipped for comfort, and the views of the calm turquoise waters and ancient ruins create a memorable backdrop. The boat fee is included, making this a hassle-free addition to the day’s activities.

Visiting the Church of St. Nicholas (Optional Entrance Fee)

After the boat trip, there is an opportunity to visit the Church of St. Nicholas, the historical site dedicated to the patron saint of sailors. Entry to the church is not included in the tour price, meaning visitors can choose whether to pay the additional fee.

This site attracts many for its historical and religious significance, and guides often share stories connecting the church to the saint. Those interested should plan for additional time and cost if they wish to explore this landmark.

Lunch in Demre and Local Cuisine

A buffet lunch in Demre provides a chance to relax and enjoy local Turkish cuisine. The meal is included in the tour package, offering a variety of dishes suitable for most tastes. Some reviews mention that the lunch service can be rushed, but overall, it offers a satisfying break amid the busy day.

The restaurant setting allows for a quick refuel before continuing to the next stops. Drinks are not included, so travelers should plan to purchase beverages separately if desired.

Exploring Lycian Rock-Cut Tombs and Other Ruins

Back on land, the tour offers a more detailed exploration of Lycian tombs and other ancient landmarks. The rock-cut tombs are the main attraction here, with their impressive architecture and historical significance. Visitors have ample time—around 1 hour—to photograph, walk around, and soak in the atmosphere of these archaeological wonders.

Guides provide insight into the Lycians’ burial practices and the historical context of the site, enriching the experience for history enthusiasts. The site’s open-air setting allows visitors to enjoy the scenic surroundings along with the ancient monuments.

Return Journey and Additional Site Visits

After completing the main stops, the group begins the return journey to Antalya. Depending on the day’s flow and group preferences, there may be time for a brief stop or additional sightseeing, but the focus remains on the core sites.

Some reviews note that transport conditions can be less comfortable, with reports of air conditioning issues and dirty seats, which can affect overall enjoyment. Still, the trip’s value lies in the combination of sites, boat ride, and cultural insights.

Tour Group Size, Guide Quality, and Language

The tour generally operates with up to 27 travelers, which allows for more personalized attention. Guides are often described as friendly and knowledgeable, with some speaking multiple languages. This can enhance the experience, especially when visiting sites with rich histories.

However, some guests mention that language barriers may occur, as the tour primarily operates in Russian and English. The guide’s storytelling style is appreciated for its friendliness and effort to include everyone, though some critics note that not all explanations are equally detailed.

Practical Considerations: Timing, Comfort, and Booking

Starting early at 7:00am, the tour spans roughly 11 hours, making it suitable for those comfortable with long days. Travelers should be prepared for bus travel, which may involve long hours on the road and variable comfort levels.

The tour is popular, with an average booking window of 55 days in advance, emphasizing its appeal. As drinks are extra and entrance fees optional, budget planning is straightforward. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility for unplanned changes.

Final Thoughts on the Demre Myra Kekova Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Turkey’s coastal archaeology and scenic beauty. Its highlights—Kekova’s Sunken City, Myra’s ancient tombs, and St. Nicholas Church—are well-chosen and give a good taste of regional history. The boat trip adds a relaxing element, with chances to swim and enjoy the water.

While the logistics and comfort may vary, the guided commentary and site access make it a worthwhile option for those interested in history, scenic coastline, and cultural landmarks. The included lunch and hotel transfer streamline the experience, making it suitable for travelers seeking convenience.

This tour is most suitable for history enthusiasts, coastal scenery lovers, and those comfortable with longer group excursions. For visitors who value local cuisine, engaging guides, and scenic boat rides, this full-day adventure delivers a balanced and memorable exploration of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Antalya hotel are included, simplifying transportation logistics.

Can I visit the St. Nicholas Church?
Yes, you can choose to visit the church; however, entrance is optional and requires an additional fee.

What should I bring for the boat trip?
It’s advisable to bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat for comfort during the swimming stop.

Are the guides bilingual?
Most guides operate in Russian and English, with some providing explanations and storytelling in both languages.

How long is the total travel time?
The entire tour lasts approximately 11 hours, including all stops, transfers, and sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
While most travelers can participate, some sites involve walking and uneven terrain. Check with the provider for specific accessibility questions.