Antalya: Myra, Demre, and Kekova Tour With Boat Tour & Lunch

If you’re looking to experience a blend of history, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure in Turkey, this Myra, Demre, and Kekova tour might just be what you need. While we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews and descriptions paint a pretty appealing picture. It’s a full-day journey that covers ancient Lycian sites, the legendary Church of St. Nicholas, and the sunken city of Kekova—plus a boat cruise with a tasty onboard lunch.

What we really like about this trip is how it balances historical exploration with relaxing moments on the water. Plus, the chance to snorkel in clear Mediterranean waters adds an element of fun. On the flip side, it’s not a trip for everyone—if you’re prone to seasickness or looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced day, this might require some extra planning.

This experience suits those who want a rich, varied day that combines culture, history, and scenic coastlines, especially if you enjoy being on the water and exploring archaeological sites. Families, couples, and groups of friends can all find something to love here, though it’s worth noting that it involves some walking and boat time.

Key Points

• Historical sites like Myra and Demre reveal ancient Lycian and Byzantine civilizations.
• The boat ride offers stunning views and the chance to swim and snorkel in the Mediterranean.
• An authentic Turkish onboard lunch makes the day even more enjoyable.
• Tours are guided in multiple languages, including Turkish, English, and Russian.
• The experience is suitable for a wide range of travelers, including those seeking a full-day cultural and scenic adventure.
• Price point at $91 per person offers decent value considering the sites, boat ride, and lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting with Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, which is a real plus if you’re staying in Antalya—no worries about finding your way to meeting points. Once onboard the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll set off along Turkey’s beautiful coastline. The drive itself is part of the charm, offering glimpses of the Mediterranean scenery and setting the tone for the day ahead.

Your guide—fluent in Turkish, English, and Russian—will keep things lively with stories and insights into the sites. This helps turn what could be just another sightseeing day into a more enriching experience.

Exploring Myra: Ancient Lycian Marvels

Your first stop is Myra, an archaeological treasure trove. This Lycian city, dating back to the 4th century BC, is famous for its rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs. These tombs are incredible feats of ancient craftsmanship and give you a real sense of what life was like centuries ago.

Walking through Myra, you’ll see the remains of an ancient city that was once bustling with activity. The guide often points out interesting features like the amphitheater, which once held thousands of spectators, and the tombs, which look like eerie cliff dwellings.

Many reviews mention that guides are very knowledgeable, which makes a difference when trying to picture how the city thrived in its heyday. One review noted, “The rock tombs were stunning, and the guide provided fascinating details I wouldn’t have known otherwise.”

Visiting Demre: The Church of St. Nicholas

Next, the tour takes you to Demre, where the Church of St. Nicholas is located. This Byzantine church is an important pilgrimage site, believed to be the final resting place of Santa Claus himself. Inside, you’ll see beautifully preserved frescoes and mosaics that date back to the 4th century.

The church may feel spiritual and quiet, offering a chance for reflection or simply admiring the artistry. Some travelers find this stop especially meaningful, especially if they’re interested in the roots of Santa Claus. It’s a small but significant site that adds a layer of cultural depth to the day.

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The Boat Ride to Kekova: Sunken Cities & Seaside Serenity

From Demre, you’ll hop aboard a boat for the highlight of the day: cruising along Turkey’s coast to Kekova. This part is where the trip really shines. The boat is comfortable and guides are knowledgeable, offering commentary about the sites you pass.

The scenery along the coast is breathtaking—craggy cliffs, turquoise waters, and a sense of peaceful isolation. As you approach Kekova, the boat makes a stop near Kekova Island, where you can swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

The underwater ruins of the sunken city are fascinating. You can see submerged walls, staircases, and even old houses, giving you a glimpse of what life was like centuries ago. Many reviews mention that the marine life and underwater visibility are quite good, making snorkeling a memorable part of the trip.

Food & Relaxation

While on board, you’ll enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch. The menu typically features local dishes, which many describe as tasty and satisfying. It’s a good chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and take in the scenic views.

The boat trip also provides ample opportunity to sunbathe, take photos, or just unwind as you cruise along. If you love being on the water, this part of the tour will be a highlight, especially because it combines natural beauty with a laid-back vibe.

Practical Details & Considerations

The entire day, including transfers, site visits, boat cruise, and lunch, runs at a comfortable pace. The tour lasts about a day, with starting times varying—so check availability when booking.

The price of $91 per person includes guidance, boat tour, lunch, and insurance, which makes it a good deal considering the variety of experiences packed into one day. Entry fees for sites are not included, so keep some extra cash handy if you want to visit the churches or other specific sites more thoroughly.

It’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems or those prone to seasickness, given the boat ride. Also, travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the memories.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. One said, “The boat ride was the perfect balance of sightseeing and relaxation,” while another loved the delicious lunch and the chance to swim in clear waters. Some mentioned the timing was just right, leaving enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

A smaller concern was the cost of entrance tickets not included in the price, which might add up if you want to visit all sites more extensively. But overall, the experience is seen as value-packed for the price.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits anyone eager to see a mix of ancient ruins, natural beauty, and seaside fun. It’s especially good for those who enjoy guided tours and want a full-day experience that minimizes hassle with transportation and planning.

If you’re a history buff, the Lycian tombs and Byzantine church will satisfy your curiosity. If you love scenic boat rides and snorkeling, the Kekova section will appeal. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a diverse, well-organized day with plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments.

However, if you’re sensitive to boat motion or not keen on walking around archaeological sites, you might find parts of the day a bit tiring. Also, the price doesn’t include entrance fees, so budget accordingly if you want to explore further.

Final Thoughts

In all, the Myra, Demre, and Kekova tour offers a nicely balanced day of history, natural beauty, and leisurely coastal cruising. At $91, the price point is reasonable considering the sites visited, the guided insights, and the meal included. Plus, the boat ride and snorkeling can turn the day into a fun adventure even for those not typically into sightseeing.

This experience is perfect if you want to tick off some must-see spots in Turkey while enjoying a comfortable, guided day out. It’s a good pick for travelers looking for variety, good local food, and a glimpse into some of Turkey’s most captivating seaside ruins.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the guide and sites are family-friendly, the boat ride might be less comfortable for very young children or those prone to seasickness. Bring plenty of snacks and be mindful of the boat’s motion.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, swimwear for snorkeling, sunscreen for protection, and your camera to capture the scenery.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entry tickets for churches and some sites are paid separately, so plan to carry some extra cash.

Is there any shopping or free time?
The tour focuses on the key sites and the boat cruise; there isn’t significant free shopping time, but you can take photos and enjoy the scenery.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride to Kekova is part of the full-day tour and includes stops for swimming and snorkeling, making it a relaxing yet adventurous segment of the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Turkish, English, and Russian, so you’ll have options to suit your language preference.

If you’re after a day that combines history, natural beauty, and a bit of fun on the water, this tour hits a lot of those marks without breaking the bank. Just pack your essentials, bring your curiosity, and enjoy a memorable slice of Turkey’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: