From Alanya: Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Trip with Boat Tour

Discover the stories of ancient civilizations and stunning seaside scenery on the From Alanya: Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Trip with Boat Tour. Priced at $56 per person and lasting 15 hours, this trip takes you through some of Turkey’s most captivating historical sites and beautiful coastal waters. The tour departs from multiple pickup points in Alanya, providing a convenient way to explore the Antalya Province with a professional guide leading the way.

This full-day experience combines guided visits to Myra’s rock-cut tombs, the Church of St. Nicholas, and a scenic boat cruise to the sunken city of Kekova. The tour’s highlights also include exploring the Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa, visiting an ancient Greek amphitheater, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. While the tour offers rich sights and engaging commentary, some reviews note early pickup times and limited time at certain locations, which are worth considering when planning.

Key Points

• Includes visits to Myra, Kekova, and Santa Claus’s church with guided tours
• Boat trip to Kekova’s sunken city and swimming opportunities
• Lunch included, with a tasty buffet meal
• Pickup and drop-off from various Alanya locations included
• Duration of 15 hours makes it a full-day adventure
• Additional costs for entrance tickets to Myra and St. Nicholas Church

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The Tour Starts Early with Convenient Pickup Options from Alanya

This tour begins with pickups from 17 different locations in Alanya, making it accessible regardless of where you stay. The pickup time is quite early, around 3:45 a.m., which some might find challenging but ensures a full day of sightseeing. The transportation is led by drivers who are described as punctual and skilled, providing a safe and comfortable journey to the first stops.

Once on board, travelers enjoy a break for breakfast in Antalya, giving everyone a moment to settle in before exploring. The early start means the day is packed, so packing comfortable shoes, sun protection, and swimwear is advised for maximum enjoyment.

Visiting the Church of St. Nicholas: Santa Claus’s Historic Church

The Church of St. Nicholas in Demre is a key highlight of this trip. Guided tours of this site last around 50 minutes, during which visitors learn about the bishop of Myra, the real-life figure behind Santa Claus. This site is especially meaningful for those interested in religious history and the story behind Santa’s legend.

In addition, the tour includes a photo stop at the Myra ruins, where the rock-cut tombs and the ancient Greek amphitheater await exploration. The guided walk offers insights into the Lycians’ burial traditions and the history of early Christian architecture. Entrance tickets for the church are not included, costing $6, so travelers should prepare for that additional expense.

Exploring the Ruins of Myra: Ancient Greek and Lycian Heritage

The Myra archaeological site provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient Greek and Lycian civilizations. The amphitheater still stands as a testament to the area’s historical significance, and the rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs tell stories of prominent Lycian families. Guided tours last about one hour, giving enough time to appreciate the grandeur and detail of these monuments.

Visitors should note that there is a break for lunch after the site visit, allowing time to relax and enjoy a buffet meal. The historical significance of Myra makes it a favorite for history buffs or those curious about ancient cultures.

Boat Trip to Kekova Island and the Sunken City

The most visually striking part of the tour is the boat cruise to Kekova Island, lasting approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. The boat voyages over the turquoise waters to the sunken city of Kekova, where underwater ruins remain partially visible beneath the surface. This unique site is a highlight for photography, offering spectacular views and opportunities to swim.

The boat trip also includes a visit to Kekova Island itself, where travelers can explore the charming surroundings and learn about the history of the submerged structures. Remember to bring your swimwear and towel for a dip in the clear waters, and enjoy the sea breeze during the cruise.

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Visiting the Lycian Necropolis at Teimiussa

A key archaeological stop is the Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa. During the boat trip, travelers are taken to this noteworthy site, which contains ancient tombs carved into the rocks. The site provides an impressive view of Lycian burial practices, and the scenery around the necropolis offers many photo opportunities.

This stop combines natural beauty with historical intrigue, making it a favorite for those interested in ancient civilizations and scenic landscapes.

Pacing and Duration: Long but Packed with Highlights

With 15 hours of activities, the tour is designed to maximize sightseeing. The itinerary includes timed stops with some free time for photos or brief exploration, but some reviews mention feeling rushed at certain locations, especially at the Sinterklaas Museum. The focus is on efficiently covering major sites while providing enough time to enjoy the boat cruise and swimming.

The day concludes with a return to Alanya, with drop-offs at the same locations where pickups began. The overall pacing is suitable for those comfortable with long days and early mornings, especially given the full schedule of sites and activities.

Value for Money and Additional Expenses

The overall price of $56 includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour, lunch, and the boat trip to Kekova. However, visitors should be aware that entrance fees to the St. Nicholas Church and Myra ruins are not included and cost about $6 and $14 respectively. These additional costs should be factored into the total budget.

The tour offers good value for those interested in combining multiple UNESCO sites, seaside scenery, and boat adventures in one day. Some reviews highlight that similar tours might be cheaper elsewhere, so shopping around could be beneficial for price-conscious travelers.

Considerations Based on Reviews

Most criticisms relate to early pick-up times and limited time at some stops, especially the Sinterklaas Museum. The English guides are appreciated for their knowledge and helpfulness, though some mention their English can be difficult to understand at times. The safety and punctuality of the drivers receive positive remarks, ensuring comfort during the long journey.

The lunch buffet is praised as tasty, providing a satisfying meal after several hours of touring. Despite some organizational hiccups, the tour’s guides are credited for clarifying payment issues and making the experience smooth overall.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour best suits history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and sea swimmers who want a comprehensive day trip from Alanya. The combination of archaeological sites, boat excursions, and swimming makes it ideal for travelers seeking diverse experiences in one day.

Given the early start and packed schedule, it’s best for those who are comfortable with long days and early mornings. It’s also suitable for families or groups who want an organized, guided experience with everything arranged in advance.

Kekova, Demre, and Myra Tour from Alanya: Final Thoughts

This full-day trip offers a solid overview of Turkey’s ancient past alongside beautiful coastal scenery. The guided visits to Myra and Santa Claus’s church provide historical insights, while the boat cruise delivers stunning views and swimming opportunities. The price point is generally reasonable, especially considering transport, lunch, and boat trip included.

However, the early pickup and some time constraints at specific sites are worth noting. Travelers who enjoy structured tours and long days of sightseeing will find this trip a worthwhile adventure. Those seeking more flexible pacing or a more relaxed schedule might prefer alternative options or smaller groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from various locations in Alanya.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 15 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Are entrance tickets to Myra and St. Nicholas Church included?
No, these additional tickets cost about $14 and $6 respectively and are paid separately at the sites.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Key highlights include Myra’s rock-cut tombs, the Church of St. Nicholas, boat cruise to Kekova, and swimming in the sea.

Is swimming in Kekova included?
Yes, swimming opportunities are available during the boat trip, so bring swimwear and a towel.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak Russian, English, German, and Turkish.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s pace and activities make it suitable for families and children, provided they are comfortable with long days.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price, so bring water or purchase at the stops.

Will I have enough time at each location?
Most sites are allocated specific time slots; however, some reviews suggest that time at certain stops may feel rushed.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This guided day trip from Alanya to Kekova, Demre, and Myra offers a good mix of history, scenery, and seaside fun. While early mornings and time constraints are considerations, the comprehensive itinerary and included activities make it a compelling choice for travelers eager to explore Turkey’s ancient sites and beautiful coastlines in one full day.

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