From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova, Demre and Myra

Exploring the Turkish coast from Kas with a day trip to Kekova, Demre, and Myra offers a combination of historical discovery and relaxing waterside stops. Priced at $77.08 per person and lasting approximately 10 hours, this group tour provides a well-rounded experience that includes boat excursions, visits to ancient Lycian sites, and scenic bays for swimming. The tour’s highlights include Kekova’s sunken city ruins, Demre’s Santa Claus museum, and the rock tombs of Myra. It’s a popular choice, often booked about 34 days in advance, and suits those eager to explore Turkey’s rich history while enjoying a leisurely day on the water.

We like how this tour seamlessly combines historical sites, picturesque bays, and a laid-back boat cruise. The hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics straightforward, and lunch is included, saving the hassle of organizing meals. While the overall experience is praised for its stunning views, knowledgeable crew, and good value, it’s worth noting that some stops, like Gökkaya Bay, can get crowded, and entrance fees to certain sites are paid separately.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $77.08, this 10-hour tour provides a full day of sightseeing from Kas.
• Convenient Transportation: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for easy access.
• Boat Exploration: Highlights Kekova’s Sunken City, Kalekoy Harbour, and stops at bays for swimming.
• Historical Sites: Visits to Demre’s Santa Claus Museum, Church of St. Nicholas, and rock tombs in Myra.
• Included Food: A lunch is provided, with options available at local stops.
• Group Size and Flexibility: The tour operates with a maximum of 75 travelers, offering a lively group atmosphere but still manageable.

Starting Point in Kas and Morning Transfer

This tour begins in Kas with a morning transfer from your hotel, setting the tone for a day packed with diverse activities. The town itself boasts boutique shops, vibrant streets, and stunning sunsets, making it a pleasant prelude to the day’s adventures. The transfer to Demre harbor takes about 45 minutes, during which the guides often share insights on the region’s history.

Once in Demre, the boat awaits for the first water-based leg of the trip. The departure point is conveniently located at Demre harbor, where the boat ride to Kekova begins, giving travelers a chance to enjoy the Turkish coastline from the water.

Exploring Kekova’s Sunken Ruins by Boat

The highlight of the trip is the visit to Kekova, renowned for its flooded ancient city of Dolchiste. An earthquake in the 2nd century caused this Lycian city to sink beneath the water, leaving behind submerged walls, staircases, and ruins that are visible during the boat cruise. The 10-minute stop near the sunken city provides excellent photo opportunities, capturing the haunting beauty of these underwater remains.

Since swimming isn’t permitted directly in Kekova, the best way to see the ruins is by cruising alongside them, which still offers fantastic views. The boat’s large windows and open deck areas help all passengers get great angles for photos of the submerged structures, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts.

Visiting Kekova Island and Kalekoy Harbour

Next, the boat anchors in Kekova Island, where views of the ruins from the water are particularly striking. This 10-minute stop is perfect for sightseeing and photo-taking, as the island itself is a protected area with no swimming allowed.

The tour then moves to Kalekoy Harbour (ancient Simena), where an hour-long stop allows visitors to explore this charming village. The castle ruins and necropolis are accessible during this time, enhancing understanding of the area’s ancient past. Visitors can also opt to hike up to Simena Castle or enjoy the panoramic views of the coast from below.

Exploring Simena Castle and Rock Tombs

After the harbor stop, travelers can visit Simena Castle, which offers an authentic Lycian experience. The castle ruins sit atop a hill, with beautiful views and a small, traditional village atmosphere. While the entrance fee to the castle is not included, the 30-minute visit provides insight into the region’s ancient defenses.

The rock tombs in Myra are another major highlight. Carved into towering cliffs, these tombs date from the Lycian period and are easily accessible after a 30-minute exploration. Nearby, the Roman-style theatre, also from the 5th century B.C., is the largest in Lycia and offers a dramatic backdrop for photos.

Visiting the Ancient City of Myra

A crucial part of the tour is the visit to Myra, where antique ruins tell stories of ancient Lycian civilization. The Church of St. Nicholas, originally built around 520 A.D., stands as a testament to the area’s religious history. The Santa Claus Museum, located in the town center, is another interesting stop, dedicated to the legend of St. Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus.

The rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs above Myra are particularly striking. Their eerie, ancient appearance makes this stop a favorite for history and photography fans. The theatre and the archaeological remains provide a vivid sense of the city’s past grandeur.

Scenic Bays for Swimming and Relaxation

After a busy morning of sightseeing, the tour shifts to Gökkaya Bay, Burç Bay, and Esmeralda Bay for swimming and relaxation. Gökkaya Bay features crystal-clear waters perfect for a refreshing swim, while Burç Bay benefits from cooler water, thanks to underwater springs. The two-hour stop here allows plenty of time for water sports, sunbathing, or simply relaxing on the boat deck.

The lunch break also takes place during this period at Esmeralda Bay, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere. The lunch, included in the tour, offers fish or chicken options and is served at a small restaurant during the stop.

Visiting Demre and the Santa Claus Museum

After the water stops, the boat travels to Demre, where the harbor becomes the backdrop for the next set of visits. The Santa Claus Museum—originally a church built in 520 A.D.—holds important relics connected to St. Nicholas, the 4th-century patron saint. The museum entrance fee is not included, but the exhibits offer a fascinating glimpse into the saint’s legacy.

From there, the tour moves to the Church of St. Nicholas, where visitors can explore the remains of the former church and imagine the ancient community that once thrived here. This spot is especially meaningful for those interested in religious history and the origins of Santa Claus.

Discovering the Ancient City of Myra’s Tombs and Theatre

The final archaeological stop is the rock tombs in Myra, carved into the cliffs above the city’s ruins. These tombs are noteworthy for their Lycia-style architecture and the eerie, weathered appearance that makes them a captivating photo subject. Nearby, the Roman theatre, the largest in Lycia, offers a dramatic setting for appreciating the city’s past.

The Myra Antik Kenti site is the biggest highlight for archaeology buffs, with ruins dating back to the 5th century B.C.. Walking through the ancient streets and viewing the remains of temples, tombs, and public buildings helps paint a vivid picture of ancient life.

Returning to Kas and Final Thoughts

After a full day exploring Kekova, Demre, and Myra, the tour concludes with a 45-minute transfer back to Kas. The ride offers a chance to reflect on the variety of sights, from sunken cities to ancient theaters.

This tour offers good value for money, especially considering the included lunch, hotel transfers, and the chance to visit multiple iconic sites in one day. The group size, with a maximum of 75 travelers, ensures a lively atmosphere without feeling overly crowded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, making it convenient to start and end the day.

How long is the boat trip on average?
The boat trip lasts around about 10 hours, including stops for swimming, sightseeing, and lunch.

Are there any additional costs to be aware of?
Yes, entrance fees for Simena Castle ($4), Myra ($9), and St. Nicholas Church ($12) are paid separately if you wish to visit those sites.

What’s included in the tour price?
The tour includes lunch and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. The boat cruise is part of the experience but entrance fees are separate.

Is swimming available during the trip?
Yes, during the stops at Gökkaya Bay, Burç Bay, and Esmeralda Bay, you can swim and enjoy water-based activities.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Most travelers can participate, but some stops, like the hike up to Simena Castle, may require moderate walking.

Can I see turtles during this trip?
Yes, the area around Karemlik Bay is a habitat for sea turtles, and there’s a chance to spot them in the wild.

What are the reviews like?
This tour has a 4.5/5 rating based on 15 reviews, with many praising the stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and delicious food.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the scenic views and ruins. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the ancient sites.

Is there any flexibility to cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing peace of mind in case of change of plans.