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

Exploring the Cultural Highlights of Kekova, Demre, and Myra from Alanya

The From Alanya: Kekova, Demre, and Myra Tour with Boat Trip offers an engaging blend of history, scenic beauty, and maritime adventure. Starting from Alanya, this 1-day tour takes you through some of Turkey’s most fascinating archaeological sites and picturesque bays. The journey includes visits to the sunken city of Kekova, the Lycia tombs, the ancient city of Myra, and the church of Saint Nicholas, with a memorable boat tour around Kekova that lasts 2 hours.

This tour is perfect for those eager to explore Turkey’s maritime mysteries and historic ruins in a well-organized day. The package includes transportation, lunch, and a professional guide, making it a convenient way to see multiple sites in one trip. However, travelers should be aware that museum entrances are not included, and drinks are extra. The tour runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Alanya.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration: Full-day tour lasting approximately 1 day
• Starting points: Pickup from hotels in Alanya
• Main sights: Sunken city of Kekova, Lycian rock tombs, Myra’s ancient theater and cemetery, Saint Nicholas Church
• Boat tour: 2-hour cruise around Kekova with swimming stops
• Includes: Insurance, guided tour, lunch, and boat trip
• Not included: Drinks and museum entrance fees

Departing from Alanya to the Coastal Treasures of Kekova

This tour begins with pickup from your accommodation in Alanya, after which travelers head toward Antalya Province. The first major stop is a break in Antalya, giving everyone a chance to relax and prepare for the day ahead. The journey then continues to Demre, where the ancient city of Myra awaits.

This organized transfer ensures smooth travel, and the entire day is designed to maximize your sightseeing time, starting early and ending back in Alanya later in the afternoon. The scheduled pickups are arranged after booking, and travelers are advised to be ready in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the designated time.

Discovering the Ruins of Myra and the Church of Saint Nicholas

In Demre, the tour visits the famous church of Saint Nicholas, also known as Christmas Baba. This site is one of Turkey’s most significant Christian landmarks, attracting visitors interested in religious history. Nearby, the ancient theater and rock cemetery in Myra give a glimpse into the city’s Lycia past.

The Myra archaeological site provides a chance to walk among ancient Lycian tombs carved into cliffs, which still impress with their detailed craftsmanship. The theater offers a view into ancient entertainment and civic life, with its well-preserved stonework. The combination of religious relics and archaeological remains makes this stop a highlight for history enthusiasts.

The 2-Hour Boat Trip around Kekova’s Sunken City

The centerpiece of the tour is a 2-hour boat cruise around the island of Kekova. The boat takes you directly over the sunken city, where submerged ruins are visible from the vessel. During the trip, there are swimming stops at various bays, allowing guests to cool off and take photographs of the magnificent scenery.

Travelers appreciate the charming views of Kekova, with its calm waters and historic wreckage emerging from the sea. The boat ride offers a relaxing break from walking, with plenty of photo opportunities of anchorages, bays, and ruins. The guide explains the stories behind the sunken city, making the experience both scenic and educational.

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Lunch at Myra and the Significance of Saint Nicholas

After the boat trip, the group visits Myra again for a lunch stop. The meal provides a chance to sample local cuisine, often featuring Turkish specialties. Following lunch, travelers can explore Saint Nicholas Church, where the tomb of Saint Nicholas is believed to be located.

The church is a focal point for religious pilgrims and history buffs alike, as Saint Nicholas is associated with the origins of Santa Claus. Learning about his historical presence in the region adds a cultural dimension to the visit, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

Visiting the Sunken City and Its Unique Maritime Heritage

The sunken city of Kekova is a major draw for this tour. It lies off the coast, partly submerged due to earthquakes and subsidence over centuries. From the boat, you can observe the ruins of ancient houses and walls, which seem to float just beneath the water’s surface.

The swimming breaks allow for closer inspection or a refreshing dip, but even from the boat, the views of the sunken structures are striking. The area’s natural beauty combines with the archaeological intrigue, creating a scene that feels both mystical and historic.

Logistics and Practical Details of the Tour

The tour duration is approximately one day with a well-paced schedule. The pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying planning, and the tour guide offers commentary in English, Russian, Polish, and Turkish. The lunch is provided as part of the package, but drinks are not included, so participants should consider bringing water.

The boat trip is organized with safety in mind, and insurance is included in the price. Travelers should note that museum entrances are not covered, so additional fees may apply if they wish to visit interior exhibits. The tour is cancellable up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility to your plans.

Comparing This Tour with Similar Options

This Kekova, Demre, and Myra tour is similar to other excursions available in the region, such as those from Kemer, Kusadasi, or Kas. However, its specific itinerary and inclusion of a boat cruise make it stand out. The 2-hour boat trip directly over the sunken city offers an immersive experience that many other tours do not include.

Plus, the combination of archaeological sites and scenic boat rides provides a well-rounded day. The small-group format and guide services ensure informative commentary and personalized attention. Travelers seeking a comprehensive cultural day trip from Alanya will find this tour offers good value and memorable sights.

Final Thoughts on the Kekova, Demre, and Myra Tour

This tour delivers a meaningful glimpse into Turkey’s ancient past while offering stunning views of Kekova’s bays and the sunken city. The guided visits to Myra and Saint Nicholas Church deepen the experience, especially for those interested in history and religious heritage.

The boat cruise stands out as a highlight, giving a unique perspective on the maritime archaeology of the region. The lunch and transport logistics are well-organized, making the tour suitable for travelers looking for a full-day cultural adventure.

However, travelers should be prepared for additional costs for museum entries and bring drinks for the day, as these are not included. The tour suits history enthusiasts, photographers, and those craving scenic sea views. Its moderate pace and comprehensive itinerary make it a satisfying way to explore this part of Turkey’s coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes insurance, pickup and drop-off in Alanya, a professional guide, lunch, and a 2-hour boat trip around Kekova.

Are museum entrance fees included?
No, museum entrance fees are not included in the price. Visitors should budget extra if they wish to visit interior sites.

What languages does the guide speak?
The tour guide speaks English, Russian, Polish, and Turkish.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat ride lasts approximately 2 hours, with swimming stops at various bays.

What are the main sites visited during the tour?
Stops include Myra’s ancient theater and rock cemetery, Saint Nicholas Church, the sunken city of Kekova, and scenic bays around Kekova Island.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Alanya hotel are included.

When does the tour run?
It operates on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

How far in advance can I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring drinks, sun protection, and swimming gear if you plan to swim during the boat trip.

Is the tour suitable for all physical levels?
The activities involve some walking at archaeological sites and boat boarding, so travelers should have moderate mobility.

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