Kemer Demre Myra Kekova Tour

Discover the Historic Sites and Sunken City of Kekova from Kemer

The Kemer Demre Myra Kekova Tour offers an engaging journey through Turkey’s ancient past, combining archaeological marvels with scenic boat rides. Priced at $66 per person and lasting about 11 hours, this tour is designed for those eager to step back in time and see some of the region’s most significant historical landmarks.

The tour includes visits to Demre, home to the Church of St. Nicholas, the ancient city of Myra, and a memorable boat trip to the sunken city of Kekova. While it covers impressive sites and offers a boat cruise with a glass bottom, it’s important to note that the itinerary may feel rushed for some, and certain reviews mention inconsistencies in the experience, particularly regarding the boat’s features.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate history, archaeology, and scenic boat rides, but it may not be ideal for those seeking a leisurely pace or specific amenities like the glass-bottom boat promised in the description.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price: $66 per person, for an approximately 11-hour full-day experience
• Highlights: Visit the Church of St. Nicholas, explore Myra’s Lycian necropolis, and enjoy boat trips over the sunken city of Kekova
• Transport: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Kemer
• Guides: Provided in English and Russian, with live commentary
• What’s included: Entrance fee to Myra, boat cruise, and lunch
• Limitations: No fee for the church, additional costs for photos or personal spendings, and some reviews report the boat lacks a glass bottom

Starting from Kemer to Demre for a Historical Excursion

The journey begins with a 2-hour drive from Kemer to Demre, covering 116 kilometers. During this drive, travelers can enjoy some scenic views of the Turkish countryside before arriving at the historically rich town of Demre. This area is famous for Saint Nicholas—known to many as Santa Claus—and the Church of St. Nicholas, which serves as a major pilgrimage site.

Once in Demre, visitors see the church’s murals, mosaics, and ancient icons, along with the sarcophagus believed to possess miraculous powers. The church of St. Nicholas remains a key attraction, especially for those interested in religious history or cultural heritage. The entrance fee for the church is not included, so travelers should prepare accordingly.

Exploring the Ancient City of Myra and Its Lycian Necropolis

Following the church visit, the tour guides you through the ancient city of Myra, founded in the 5th century BC as the capital of Lycia. The Roman amphitheater here impresses with its capacity of up to 10,000 spectators, and it’s surrounded by lush citrus plantations that add charm to the site.

Nearby, the Lycia tombs—powerful rock carvings—stand as testament to the craftsmanship of Lycia’s ancient artisans. Their scale and elaborate design reflect the social status of those buried within, and the frescoed tombs offer a glimpse into the region’s burial customs. Visitors typically find these tombs breathtaking and a highlight of the day.

The Mystique of Kekova’s Sunken City

The boat trip to the sunken city of Kekova is the tour’s centerpiece. The historical city, once on an island, sank due to earthquakes in the 2nd century AD. Today, the remains lie beneath the water, with ruins, stone stairs, walls of ancient houses, and household artifacts visible through a glass-bottom yacht.

However, some reviews highlight that the boat lacks a true glass bottom, which can be disappointing. Instead, the guide points out features with a mirror, and visibility depends on water conditions. The boat also offers a swimming stop, allowing guests to enjoy the sea, but the duration of this stop may vary.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Church of St. Nicholas for Pilgrimage and Culture

Back in Demre, the Church of St. Nicholas is a significant religious site. Visitors see murals, mosaics, and icons, and learn about St. Nicholas’s role as protector of children, travelers, fishermen, and merchants. The sarcophagus inside the church is believed to have miraculous powers.

This site remains a must-visit for pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike, providing insight into early Christian architecture and devotion. Since the entrance fee isn’t included, travelers should bring cash for entry.

Logistics, Pacing, and Practical Tips

The tour starts with an early pickup, and the hotel pickup is from the main security gate—not the lobby. The total duration is about 11 hours, with a packed schedule that covers long drives, walking tours, and boat rides.

Participants should bring sunscreen, hats, swimwear, towels, cameras, and cash. It’s advisable to bring a lunch from the hotel to enjoy during the day, as the tour doesn’t include a dedicated meal stop. The guides provide explanations in English and Russian, but some reviews note language inconsistencies, especially if the tour was expected to include German.

Experience Quality and Notable Challenges

While the tour covers major attractions, it has faced criticism regarding organization and boat experience. A reviewer mentions that the boat did not feature the promised glass bottom and that the schedule sometimes feels overly rushed.

Some travelers also report long waiting times for transport coordination and a fast-paced loop that limits time at each stop. The guide’s knowledge is acknowledged as good, especially in explaining the sites, but the overall value may depend on expectations of features like the glass-bottom boat.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This full-day tour is best suited for history buffs interested in Lycia, religious sites, and scenic boat rides. It offers a comprehensive snapshot of the region’s ancient and cultural landmarks, making it appealing for first-time visitors.

It’s less ideal for those requiring leisurely pacing, luxury amenities, or specific features like the claimed glass bottom. Physical mobility may be a consideration due to walking at archaeological sites and the full-day schedule.

Final Thoughts on the Kemer Demre Myra Kekova Tour

The $66 price tag provides access to some of Turkey’s most notable archaeological and religious sites, combined with a boat cruise over a historically significant sunken city. The guides are generally knowledgeable, and the visit to St. Nicholas’s church offers a cultural touchstone.

However, travelers should be aware of potential limitations, such as the absence of a glass-bottom boat and quick pacing that might restrict time at each location. The mixed reviews suggest that organization and clarity could be improved, but the tour remains a solid option for history enthusiasts eager to explore the region’s ancient past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the entrance fee to the Church of St. Nicholas included?
No, the entrance fee is not included and should be paid separately.

How long is the drive from Kemer to Demre?
It takes approximately two hours to cover 116 kilometers between Kemer and Demre.

What should I bring for the boat trip?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towels, and cash for personal expenses.

Is the boat cruise comfortable and scenic?
The boat cruise offers views of the sunken city of Kekova, but some reviews mention that the glass bottom feature is missing, which can affect the experience.

Are there any physical restrictions for this tour?
The tour may not be suitable for individuals with heart problems or wheelchair users due to walking and mobility needs at the sites.

Can I cancel this tour later if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, lunch is included in the package.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides lead the tour in English and Russian; some reviews mention difficulties if expecting other languages.

What is the overall rating for this tour?
The tour holds a rating of 3.3 out of 5 based on 9 reviews, reflecting mixed experiences.

Would I recommend this tour?
It depends on expectations: if you value historic sites and scenic boat rides, it offers a good overview, but be prepared for potential schedule rushes and limitations like the missing glass-bottom feature.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby