Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Day Tour from Kemer

A full-day exploration of Turkey’s historic Turquoise Coast awaits with this Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Tour from Kemer. Priced at $56.89 per person, this guided journey lasts approximately 9 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a lunch, and entrance fees for key sites like Myra and Demre. The tour features a glass-bottom boat cruise to the Sunken City of Kekova, where you can marvel at the Lycian ruins lying beneath the sea surface, and visits to rock-cut tombs and the church of Saint Nicholas. It’s an engaging outing that combines history, scenic views, and some relaxing sea time, making it particularly suitable for those interested in ancient sites and coastal landscapes.

While the tour offers excellent value and well-organized logistics, it’s worth noting that entrance fees for St. Nicholas’ Church are not included, and a swimming opportunity is available but not explicitly advertised. The group size is limited to 35, ensuring a more comfortable experience, and a multi-lingual guide is often available to enhance your understanding of the sites.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour from Kemer with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Cruise on a glass-bottom boat to view the Sunken City of Kekova
• Visit Myra’s rock-cut tombs and necropolis
• See the Church of Saint Nicholas in Demre
• Includes lunch and entrance fees to Myra and Demre
• Optional swimming in Kekova’s waters, so bring swim gear

Starting with the Coastal Cruise to Kekova’s Sunken City

The tour begins with a boat trip on a glass-bottom vessel, which lasts about 2 hours. During this time, you’ll see the ruins of Kekova’s ancient Lycian city lying beneath the sea, a scene that’s both intriguing and picturesque. Many reviews highlight the small group size aboard the boat, which makes for a comfortable and intimate experience, and some mention the thrill of spotting turtles during the cruise. Keep in mind that the view of the sunken city may be limited depending on the weather and sea conditions, and the boat is not modern, with some guests expecting more transparency in the glass floor.

The scenic cruise offers a unique perspective of Kekova’s underwater ruins, and the calm waters often make for gentle sailing. A swimming stop is available, so pack your swimsuit and towel if you want to enjoy some time in the sea—though this is not prominently advertised, it’s a definite perk for water lovers.

Exploring the Rock Tombs of Myra

Next, the tour visits Myra, one of the region’s most remarkable ancient sites. This stop lasts about 2 hours and features the rock-cut tombs carved into cliffs, which date back to Lycian times. Entrance fees are included for visiting these tombs, and the guide provides insightful commentary about their history and significance. Myra’s necropolis is a highlight, with its imposing tombs and the ancient theater, which is also part of the archaeological site.

Guests often find the architecture and carvings impressive, and the guide’s knowledge brings the history alive. Be aware that access inside some tombs may be limited due to preservation efforts, but the exteriors and the overall site remain captivating. The site’s atmosphere offers a tangible connection to the Lycians who once inhabited the region.

Visiting the Church of Saint Nicholas in Demre

The third main stop is Demre, home to the Church of Saint Nicholas, where his tomb rests. This visit takes about 2 hours, and entrance fees are not included—so check ahead if you wish to go inside. The church itself is a historic Byzantine structure with significant religious importance, and many visitors enjoy the opportunity to see Saint Nicholas’ tomb.

The church complex is often appreciated for its peaceful ambiance and historic architecture. Some reviews note that additional charges may apply for inside visits, which can be a surprise if not pre-notified. After exploring the church, there’s typically some free time to relax at a local café or shop before returning to Kemer.

The Logistics: Transfers, Timing, and Group Size

The tour departs from Kemer at 8:00 am, with hotel pickup included for convenience. The group is limited to 35 travelers, helping maintain a personalized atmosphere. The coach ride to Demre takes approximately 2 hours and is described as comfortable with air conditioning. Some reviews mention that long travel times can be tiring, especially if starting from a farther hotel or if the coach experiences delays.

The entire day covers about 9 hours, making it a comprehensive experience that balances sightseeing, boat cruising, and relaxation. Pacing is generally well-received, although some reviews suggest that timings could be clearer and that beverages and optional activities like the church visit may entail extra costs.

The Culinary Aspect: Lunch Included

A lunch is included in the tour price, offering a convenient way to refuel after the morning’s activities. While the specific menu isn’t detailed, guests have described the meal as delicious. The lunch break provides a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy some local flavors before heading to the final sites.

The Guide’s Role and Tour Experience

A knowledgeable guide often leads the tour, with some guests praising Alp for his friendly demeanor and informative commentary. The guide enhances the experience by sharing historical insights and answering questions, creating a more engaging journey. Some reviews mention that the guide’s language skills and storytelling style add value to the trip.

However, there are mixed reviews about communication, particularly regarding language options. Some guests have been booked in English but received Russian-speaking guides, which can be frustrating. It’s advisable to confirm language preferences ahead of time.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour is well-organized and popular, a few drawbacks exist. Entrance fees for St. Nicholas’ Church are not included, which could lead to unexpected expenses. The boat’s glass floor may not meet expectations for transparency, and some guests note the boat is somewhat aged.

The long travel time and the curvy roads on the way to Demre** may cause discomfort for some. Plus, the timing of stops might be tight for those wishing to explore at a leisurely pace, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a structured day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This full-day trip is perfect for history enthusiasts, scenic lovers, and families looking for a mix of cultural visits and relaxing sea time. It’s suitable for most travelers, provided they are comfortable with a full schedule and moderate walking. Remember to bring swim gear if you want to take advantage of the swimming opportunity during the boat cruise.

Final Thoughts on the Kekova, Myra, and Demre Tour

Offering a balanced blend of archaeological sites, scenic cruise, and cultural highlights, this tour from Kemer holds good value for its price of $56.89. The well-organized schedule, hotel transfers, and lunch make it a convenient option for those eager to see the best of Turkey’s ancient coastal towns.

While some extra costs and potential delays are worth noting, the knowledgeable guides and stunning views generally make this a worthwhile experience. It’s especially suitable for history buffs, families with kids, and anyone interested in discovering the stories behind the sunken city and Saint Nicholas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Kemer are included, making the journey smooth and hassle-free.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts around 9 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance fees for Myra and Demre are included, but fees for St. Nicholas’ Church are not included and must be paid onsite if you wish to enter.

Can I swim during the boat trip?
Yes, there is an opportunity to swim off the boat, but it is not explicitly advertised—bring your swimwear if interested.

What should I bring for this trip?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, and swimsuit and towel for swimming. Also, carry water and any personal items needed for a long day of sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children find the tour manageable, especially since it’s organized into manageable stops and includes easy boat cruising. However, keep in mind the long travel time and walking involved.

What languages are available for the guide?
Most tours feature multi-lingual guides, with English being common. Some reviews mention guides speaking Russian as well, so confirm your language preference when booking.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most sites involve some walking and stairs; accessibility may be limited, so guests with mobility concerns should check with the tour provider beforehand.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, for those interested in ancient ruins, scenic boat rides, and St. Nicholas’ history, this tour offers a well-rounded experience with positive reviews supporting its value.