Antalya: Demre Myra Kekova Tour w/Boat Trip

Explore the Ancient Lycian Sites of Antalya for $79

The Antalya: Demre Myra Kekova Tour offers a full-day adventure for those interested in Turkey’s ancient civilizations and stunning coastlines. Priced at $79.00 per person, this 8 to 10-hour trip takes you through some of the most remarkable archaeological and natural sites in the region. The tour begins early, with a pickup service, and covers key highlights like the ruined city of Myra, the Church of St. Nicholas, and a scenic boat ride to Kekova Island to see the sunken city of Simena.

This comprehensive package includes admission tickets to the ancient city of Myra, lunch, and comfortable air-conditioned transport. While the tour does not include breakfast, coffee, bottled water, or entry to the Church of St. Nicholas, its well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides make it a worthwhile experience, especially for history buffs and lovers of natural beauty. The tour is best suited for those comfortable with early mornings and a full day of sightseeing.

Key Points

• Full-day tour lasting approximately 8 to 10 hours from Antalya
• Visits to Myra’s ruins, including Lycian rock-cut tombs and the Church of St. Nicholas
• Boat trip to Kekova Island to observe the sunken city of Simena
• Includes admission tickets to Myra and a lunch break
• Convenient pickup and transportation provided
• Suitable for most travelers, but involves early starts and a long day

Starting Early from Antalya for a Day of History and Nature

The tour departs around 5:30 am, giving ample time for a full day’s exploration. After being collected from your hotel, the journey begins with visits to several significant sites in the region. The early start helps maximize your time at each location and avoid the midday crowds, although it does mean a very early wake-up call.

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride through scenic landscapes, with most of the day dedicated to exploring archaeological sites and enjoying the natural beauty of Kekova. The group size is limited to a maximum of 45 travelers, keeping the atmosphere lively yet manageable.

Visiting the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre

The tour’s first stop is the Church of St. Nicholas, an important monument dedicated to the saint who inspired Santa Claus. Although admission is not included for this site, it’s a highlight for many visitors interested in early Christian history. The church ruins are situated in a picturesque setting, and the nearby area offers plenty of opportunities for photography.

While some visitors find the short time allocated for the church a bit rushed, the site’s historical significance makes it worth a quick visit. The guide often shares interesting stories about Saint Nicholas, adding context to the ruins.

Discovering Myra’s Lycian Necropolis and Ancient Atmosphere

Just a short distance from the Church of St. Nicholas lies Myra’s ancient city, where admission tickets are included. This site is renowned for its rock-cut Lycian tombs, carved into the cliffs, dating back to the 4th century BC. The amphitheater at Myra, still partially standing, offers a glimpse into the city’s historical prominence.

Visitors can enjoy wandering through the ruins, soaking in the atmosphere of an ancient civilization that once thrived in this Land of the Sun. The site’s preservation and the dramatic tombs carved into the rocks make it a compelling stop. The guide provides informative commentary, enhancing the experience.

Scenic Boat Trip to Kekova Island and Sunken City of Simena

The boat trip is one of the tour’s highlights, lasting approximately 3 hours. The boat departs from Kekova, where you can relax and admire the stunning coastline. The primary attraction is the sunken city of Simena, which was submerged after earthquakes, turning part of the ancient city into an island.

During this cruise, travelers see the remains of former structures beneath the water, providing a fascinating glimpse into the city that once existed there. The boat trip offers plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and enjoying the sea breeze. The boat is included in the tour, and the experience provides a peaceful contrast to the archaeological stops.

The Significance of Kekova’s Sunken City

The sunken remains of Simena are what make Kekova a uniquely picturesque destination. The area was once a thriving Lycian city, but natural disasters caused parts of it to submerge. Today, the ruins are visible from the water, creating an almost surreal scene.

This part of the tour not only showcases natural beauty but also offers a tangible connection to the region’s geological activity and history. Visitors appreciate the chance to see the remains of an ancient city partially beneath the water, making it a must-see for those interested in archaeology and scenic landscapes.

Included and Excluded Features of the Tour

The package includes a lunch suited to the full-day schedule, as well as all fees and taxes. The entrance ticket for Myra is covered, but the Church of St. Nicholas requires an additional fee if you choose to visit inside.

Excluded from the package are breakfast, coffee and tea, bottled water, and entry to the Church of St. Nicholas. The tour is designed to be hassle-free, with the driver planning the itinerary and handling admissions, allowing you to focus on enjoying each site.

Pacing, Group Size, and Tour Flexibility

Most reviews indicate a well-organized tour, with a maximum of 45 travelers, ensuring the group remains manageable. The timing is structured to give enough time at each stop, although some find the early start and long bus rides tiring.

The itinerary has been adjusted in recent years based on feedback, offering more time at the ruins. The tour’s pace suits those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed, but travelers should be prepared for a long day.

Guide Quality and Tour Experience

The guide plays a crucial role in enriching the experience. According to feedback, guides are knowledgeable, well-prepared, and often add humor and personal stories to the tour. This helps make the archaeological and historical content engaging and accessible.

While some reviews mention that the staff can be strict and that the pick-up process involves a few hours of driving around different hotels, overall, the experience remains positive due to the quality of the sites and the organization.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Since the tour involves early mornings and long hours, travelers should dress comfortably and prepare for variable weather conditions. Bringing bottled water and sun protection is advisable, even though some items are not included in the package.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at the sites. The boat trip is primarily seated, but some walking on uneven surfaces at the archaeological sites may be necessary.

Final Thoughts on the Demre Myra Kekova Tour

This tour offers a solid balance of historical exploration and natural beauty, making it an appealing choice for visitors eager to learn about Turkey’s Lycian past. The inclusion of entrance tickets and lunch adds value, and the organized logistics help reduce the hassle of planning independently.

While the early start and long bus rides might be a challenge for some, the stunning scenery, impressive ruins, and the unique sunken city experience make it worthwhile. Ideal for history enthusiasts and those who appreciate scenic coastal views, this tour provides a comprehensive taste of Antalya’s archaeological treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most ages, but keep in mind the early start and long hours involved. The boat trip might be more enjoyable for older children who can sit comfortably for a few hours.

Are there any additional costs during the tour?
The admission to the Church of St. Nicholas is not included, so there may be an extra fee if you wish to go inside. Other than that, most costs are covered in the package.

What should I bring with me?
It’s wise to carry bottled water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces. Since the tour doesn’t include breakfast or drinks, packing some snacks is also advisable.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the tour, allowing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

How many people typically join this tour?
The group size is limited to 45 travelers, ensuring a balance of social atmosphere and manageable logistics.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
While the tour involves walking at archaeological sites and some uneven terrain, it generally suits most travelers. However, those with mobility concerns should consider the walking involved at ruins and the boat trip.

What makes this tour stand out from others in Antalya?
The combination of ancient Lycian sites, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the sunken city of Kekova offers a rich historical and scenic experience, all organized in a single day with convenient transportation and planned itinerary.