Antalya Myra Kekova & St Nicholas Daily Tours

Discover the Antalya Myra Kekova & St Nicholas Daily Tour

At $65.85 per person, the Antalya Myra Kekova & St Nicholas Daily Tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into some of Turkey’s most fascinating sights. This 12-hour tour departs early at 6:30 am, making it ideal for travelers eager to explore multiple historical and scenic locations in one day. The tour includes hotel transfers, a guide, lunch, and a boat tour of Kekova Island with summer swimming opportunities.

What really sets this tour apart is its focus on iconic sites like Kekova Island’s sunken city, Myra’s ancient ruins, and the Church of St. Nicholas. While admission tickets for Myra and St. Nicholas are not included, the overall experience combines historical discovery with beautiful sea views and a relaxed pace. The group size is limited to 16 people, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Despite some minor limitations, such as separate ticket purchases for certain sites, this tour provides a well-rounded day trip for those interested in history, stunning scenery, and a taste of local culture.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day experience for $65.85 with hotel transfers included
• Visits to Kekova Island’s sunken city with a boat tour and swimming options
• Exploration of Myra’s ancient Lycian ruins and the Church of St. Nicholas
• Tour departs early at 6:30 am and lasts approximately 12 hours
• Group size limited to 16, ensuring a more intimate experience
• Admission tickets for Myra and St. Nicholas are not included in the price

Visiting Kekova Island’s Sunken City by Boat

The tour’s first stop is at the sunken city of Kekova Island, accessible by a boat ride lasting about 2 hours. During this time, travelers can admire the submerged ruins that have fascinated visitors for years. Swimming in the waters near Kekova is possible during a 30-minute window, offering a refreshing break amid ancient remains.

This boat tour is a highlight, providing a passenger-friendly view of the underwater city combined with scenic vistas of the surrounding coastline. Since admission tickets are not included, visitors should plan to pay separately if they wish to enter sites around Kekova or purchase additional souvenirs.

Exploring Myra’s Ancient Lycian Ruins

The journey continues to Myra Antik Kenti, which takes approximately 45 minutes. Known as one of the best Lycian antique sites, Myra features impressive ruins, including ancient theaters, tombs, and rock-cut chapels. Visitors get a taste of Lycia’s history and architecture, with the guide explaining the significance of the site.

Admission to Myra’s archaeological remains is not covered in the tour price, so travelers should be prepared for this additional expense. The site’s historical artifacts and ruins offer a compelling window into the ancient past, making it a key stop for those interested in archaeology and history.

Visiting the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre

The tour’s final main site is the Church of St. Nicholas, a 30-minute visit located in Demre. This antique church is a focal point for fans of St. Nicholas’s story and Christian heritage in Turkey. Here, visitors can appreciate the historical architecture and learn about the origins of the saint’s legacy.

Like the other sites, admission tickets for the church are not included in the tour fee. This stop provides a spiritual and historical perspective, complementing the day’s exploration of ancient civilizations and religious history.

The Experience of the Boat Tour at Kekova

The boat tour of Kekova Island is a key feature, offering a relaxing ride through the scenic waters of the Lycian coast. The boat slices through the calm sea, giving travelers a chance to enjoy the stunning views of the sunken city, the rocky coastline, and the turquoise waters.

The 30-minute swimming stop provides an opportunity for some summer fun or simply to take in the beautiful surroundings. The boat operator ensures a comfortable and safe environment, making this part of the tour both enthralling and rejuvenating.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour starts early at 6:30 am from Antalya, with hotel pickups arranged. The group size is capped at 16, allowing for personalized attention from the guide and smoother logistics throughout the day. The tour includes transfers from and back to the hotel, removing the hassle of transportation planning.

Travelers should note that the tour lasts approximately 12 hours, so comfortable footwear and sun protection are recommended. The tour is suitable for most travelers, given the moderate physical activity involved at the archaeological sites and during the boat ride.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price includes a guide, transfers, a lunch, and the boat tour of Kekova. However, admission tickets for Myra and St. Nicholas are not included, so travelers should budget for these separately.

This arrangement offers flexibility but requires some prior planning. The lunch provided typically offers local Turkish dishes, adding a culinary touch to the day.

Reviews and Service Quality

While only two reviews are available, both give high marks for the professionalism of Gref Travel. One emphasizes how the guide Durali went out of his way to assist, making the experience memorable despite initial logistical issues with the pickup. The other review highlights the breathtaking views and beautiful ruins, affirming the tour’s appeal for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The operator’s responsiveness and the small group size contribute to a personalized and engaging experience, making this tour a reliable choice in Antalya.

Cancellation and Weather Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund if canceled early. If the weather conditions are poor, the tour is canceled or rescheduled, ensuring safety and comfort. No refunds are provided if canceled within 24 hours of the start time, so timely planning is advised.

Summary of Who Should Consider This Tour

This full-day excursion suits travelers interested in history and archaeology, especially those eager to explore Lycia’s ancient ruins and learn about St. Nicholas. The boat ride and scenic views also appeal to nature lovers and those seeking a relaxed yet informative experience.

The limited group size and inclusion of hotel transfers make it a convenient choice, though visitors should be prepared for some additional costs for entry tickets. It’s a good value for an immersive day of sightseeing around Antalya’s nearby attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including families, as long as they are comfortable with walking and boat rides.

Are meals included in the price?
Yes, lunch is included, offering a local Turkish meal during the day.

Do I need to buy tickets for Kekova, Myra, and St. Nicholas?
Admission tickets for Myra and the Church of St. Nicholas are not included; these must be purchased separately.

What should I bring for the boat ride?
Bring swimwear, towel, sun protection, and sunscreen for the swimming stop at Kekova.

Is early morning start necessary?
Yes, the 6:30 am start time helps maximize the day, given the 12-hour duration.

How many people will be in the group?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsuitable, and a full refund is offered if canceled.

Can I join the tour if I don’t stay in Antalya?
Yes, the tour departs from Antalya, but it’s most convenient for those staying nearby with access to hotel pickup options.

Is physical activity required?
The tour involves some walking at archaeological sites and a boat ride, but it’s generally manageable for most travelers.