Kekova Sunken City, St.Nicolas Demre, Myra Tour From Antalya, Alanya & Side

Explore the Ancient Treasures of Western Antalya with a Full-Day Guided Tour

This full-day tour offers a comprehensive look into some of Turkey’s most captivating historical sites, all from the comfort of air-conditioned transport. Priced at $75.63 per person, it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a tasty lunch, and guided commentary on the rich history of Myra, Demre, and Kekova Sunken City. It departs from Kas, with pick-up options from Antalya, Alanya, and Side, making it accessible to travelers staying in these popular destinations.

While the tour covers several iconic locations, it’s important to note that entrance fees to Myra and the St. Nicholas Museum are not included, and the boat cruise at Kekova is optional. The tour caters best to those interested in history and archaeology, but some may find the long bus rides and timing constraints a bit challenging.

Key Points

• Full-day experience covering Myra, Demre, and Kekova Sunken City in one trip
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off with air-conditioned transportation
• Guided commentary provides context on Lycian tombs, St. Nicholas, and the Sunken City
• Lunch at a local restaurant in Demre is part of the package
• Boat cruise at Kekova is available but not included in the ticket price
• Most bookings are made 9 days in advance, highlighting popularity

Pickup from Multiple Locations for Convenience

The tour starts with hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward for visitors. The pickups are arranged from Alanya, Antalya, and Side, with the tour generally lasting around 12 hours. The transportation is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the long ride to the ancient sites. The group size is capped at 100 travelers, allowing for a manageable and engaging experience.

Visiting the Ancient City of Myra with Its Lycian Tombs and Amphitheater

The first major stop is Myra, an influential city once part of the Lycian League. Here, visitors find an ancient Greek amphitheater and rock-cut tombs that date back to the 1st and 2nd centuries BC. Myra’s historical significance is highlighted by its mention by Strabo as a large city with self-rule. As part of this stop, travelers will see some of the best examples of Lycian tombs in the region.

The site’s archaeological remains are a highlight, but access to the museum of St. Nicholas in Demre, which houses relics of the bishop known as Santa Claus, is not included in the tour fee. Still, the guidance provides ample historical context to appreciate the importance of these sites.

Visiting Demre and the Church of St. Nicholas

Next, the tour visits Demre, where the Church of St. Nicholas stands as a focal point. This church offers insight into the religious history surrounding the figure of St. Nicholas, the historical bishop of Myra, who later became the basis for Santa Claus. A visit here enriches understanding of both early Christian traditions and local history.

Guests can expect to see the church’s architecture and learn about its significance, although entrance fees to the church are not included. The tour also provides time to enjoy a lunch in Demre’s city center, with a tasty meal included, giving travelers a chance to relax and sample regional cuisine.

The Fascinating Kekova Sunken City and Underwater Ruins

One of the tour’s most captivating features is the boat cruise to Kekova Sunken City. The earthquake in the 2nd century led to the destruction of this ancient Lycian city, leaving submerged ruins that are visible from boats. The crystal-clear waters allow for memorable views of underwater remains and rock formations.

While the boat cruise itself is not included in the ticket price, it’s a popular addition that offers a unique perspective on the submerged city. The cruise provides a relaxing experience amid stunning views, with the option to swim if travelers bring their swimsuits—a detail noted by previous participants.

The Amphitheater and Rock-cut Tombs in Myra

The visit to Myra highlights its amphitheater, which is one of the most impressive features of the ancient city. The rock-cut tombs are carved into the cliffs, showcasing the Lycians’ craftsmanship and architectural style. These tombs are considered some of the best-preserved examples in the region and serve as a window into the funerary customs of antiquity.

Guides explain the historical context behind these structures, making it a compelling stop for history buffs. The site overall offers a glimpse of Lycia’s influence and the city’s prominence during classical antiquity.

Practical Tips and Limitations Noted in Reviews

While the tour offers valuable insights and access to several key sites, some practical considerations are worth noting. The bus rides can be lengthy, with long hours on the road between stops. One review mentions that the rides back and forth are quite long, which might challenge those less tolerant of extended travel.

Another point is that entrance fees to certain sites, like Myra and the St. Nicholas Museum, are not included—so travelers should budget accordingly if they wish to visit these attractions. The boat cruise is not part of the standard ticket but remains a popular optional activity to enhance the experience.

The Tour’s Overall Value and Suitability

Priced at $75.63, this tour offers a comprehensive view of western Antalya’s ancient sites with guided commentary, air-conditioned transport, and a local lunch. While some reviews highlight long travel times and crowded buses, the quality of the sites visited, especially the Lycaian tombs and Kekova’s submerged ruins, make it worthwhile for history enthusiasts.

It may be less suited for visitors primarily interested in leisure or those who prefer shorter, more relaxed trips. The non-inclusion of entrance fees and optional boat cruise means travelers should prepare for additional costs if they wish to explore more.

Kekova Sunken City, St. Nicholas Demre, Myra Tour: A Solid Choice for Historical Exploration

This tour stands out with its focus on highlighting ancient Lycian and Christian sites in a single day, making it ideal for those eager to learn about Turkey’s historical layers. The guided explanations deepen understanding of the archaeological remains and cultural significance of each stop.

Though the long bus rides and additional expenses for certain attractions are limitations, the overall experience delivers a well-rounded introduction to the region’s fascinating past. It’s best suited for history buffs or adventure seekers prepared for a full day of sightseeing and travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, guided commentary, and a lunch at a local restaurant. Boat cruise and entrance fees to sites are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day activity packed with visits to Myra, Demre, and Kekova.

Is the boat cruise optional?
Yes, the boat cruise at Kekova is not included in the ticket price but is a popular add-on. Travelers should bring swimsuits if they wish to swim.

Are entrance fees paid separately?
Correct, entrance fees for Myra and the St. Nicholas Museum are not included, so plan for additional costs if visiting these sites.

Who is this tour best suited for?
This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts interested in Lycian tombs, ancient amphitheaters, and sunken cities. It is also suitable for those who enjoy guided excursions and comfortable transport but may be less suitable for those seeking shorter or more leisurely trips.