From Antalya: Day Trip to Demre, Myra and Kekova Boat Trip

If you’re visiting Antalya and looking to pack your day with a mix of natural beauty, history, and unique experiences, this day trip to Demre, Myra, and Kekova might just hit the spot. It’s a full 13-hour journey that promises a good dose of exploration, scenic boat rides, and some relaxing swimming, all without needing to plan too much yourself.

What really works in its favor? First, the trip includes a boat ride around Kekova Island, offering unforgettable views of the Sunken City—that’s a real highlight for any history buff or photo enthusiast. Second, the visit to the archaeological site of Myra gives you a tangible connection to ancient civilizations, with impressive Roman ruins and cliff-carved tombs. But, as with any long tour, it’s worth noting that the stop on Kekova Island is a bit short according to some reviews. If you’re someone who loves to linger or explore at your own pace, this could be a limitation.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded day of sightseeing—especially if you’re into history, scenic boat rides, and swimming in beautiful waters. It’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a more relaxed, leisurely day, or if you prefer shorter excursions. Overall, it offers a solid balance of activity and relaxation at a reasonable price considering all the stops.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Out: Combines boat cruising, archaeological exploration, and scenic hikes.
• Scenic and Historical Balance: Offers both beautiful landscapes and ancient ruins.
• Includes Lunch and Water Activities: With seasonal salad, fruit/dessert, and options for swimming and water sports.
• Long but Full: About 13 hours, so comfortable shoes and stamina help.
• Group Experience: Shared transfers and tours mean you’ll meet fellow travelers.
• Some Short Stops: Kekova Island’s visit is brief, but scenic.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour from Antalya is designed as a full-day adventure, starting early with pickup from several convenient meeting points. The journey to Demre takes under 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the ride through Turkey’s beautiful countryside. The transportation is included, so you don’t have to worry about navigating or driving yourself, which is a plus if you’re not keen on self-driving in unfamiliar territory.

The Boat Trip and Kekova Island

Once at Demre Harbour, the highlight begins: a 7-hour boat cruise around Kekova Island. The boat ride is the centerpiece, offering a chance to see the Sunken City of Kekova from the water—a truly unique sight. The submerged ruins, just beneath the surface, make for some fantastic photo opportunities. According to reviews, the landscapes are truly sublime and the view of the ruins from the boat is a major draw.

However, one reviewer noted that the boat features no glass bottom, which might be disappointing if you were hoping for a clear view of the underwater remains without getting in the water. Still, the closeness to the ruins and the opportunity to photograph them from the water’s edge makes it worthwhile.

Exploring Kaleköy (Simena Castle and Village)

The boat anchors at Kaleköy for about an hour—enough time to walk around this charming, authentic village. It’s one of those places where you can imagine real local life, with narrow streets, castle ruins, and a small necropolis carved into the cliffs. For those who like a bit of a hike, there’s a hillside trail that offers spectacular vistas of the Kekova region. It’s worth taking the time to climb if you’re up for it, as the views are a real highlight.

Swimming at Gökkaya Bay and Karemlik Bay

Gökkaya Bay is a designated swimming stop, giving you a chance to cool off and enjoy the clear blue waters. Water sports are available, which can add some fun to your day if you’re feeling active. The tour also visits Karemlik Bay, where you might see five of the eight turtle species known to inhabit the area, making it a highlight for wildlife lovers.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Pirates Cave and Natural Wonders

A visit to the Pirates Cave is included, notable for its large size and curved entrance. It’s a natural formation that adds a sense of mystery and adventure to the day. Whether you opt to explore inside or just admire it from the boat, it’s a neat natural feature.

Demre and the Ancient City of Myra

After the boat cruise, the tour continues with a trip to Demre to visit the ancient city of Myra. These ruins date back to at least the 5th century B.C., and you’ll get to see a Roman-style theatre—the largest in Lycia—as well as cliff-carved tombs that evoke a sense of ancient grandeur. Many visitors find these ruins fascinating, and they provide a tangible connection to the past.

A tour of Myra is typically accompanied by a museum visit, giving context to the archaeological sites and letting you see artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the region.

The Return and Overall Pace

After a day packed with sightseeing and activities, you’ll head back to Antalya in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on the day’s schedule. The return trip offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Price & Value: At $123 per person, this tour offers a lot in terms of diverse experiences. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a full boat trip, lunch, and entrance to the archaeological sites. When you consider the length of the trip, multiple stops, transportation, and meals, the value is quite fair.

Timing: The tour lasts about 13 hours, so start early, around 6:45 or 7 a.m., to make the most of the day. The early pickup ensures you arrive at Demre with plenty of daylight.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the ruins and hiking hills. Swimwear and a towel are recommended for the swimming stops, and sunscreen is a good idea given the outdoor activities.

Group Size & Languages: The tour is hosted in English and Turkish, which caters well to a broad audience. Group sizes can vary but expect a typical group setting, so it’s a good idea to be comfortable with sharing the day with others.

Extras Not Included: Additional food or drinks beyond what’s provided aren’t included, so you might want to bring some snacks or extra water. Entrance fees for archaeological sites aren’t covered, so keep a bit of cash handy if you wish to explore further or buy souvenirs.

What the Reviews Say

One reviewer summarized the experience well: “The experience is very interesting, the stop on the island of Kekova a little short but the landscapes are sublime.” The main critique was about the short duration at Kekova Island, which might leave some wanting more time to explore or relax. Also, the absence of a glass-bottom boat disappointed a few, but the close-up views of the ruins still make it worthwhile.

Another comment points out that the boat trip is a highlight, with natural beauty and historical intrigue blending seamlessly. The mix of scenery, archaeological sites, and swimming makes for a well-rounded day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a full-day, multi-faceted experience that combines history, nature, and leisure. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic boat rides and are keen to see ancient ruins in a picturesque setting. It suits those looking for a structured, guided day rather than a freeform exploration, as the schedule is quite packed.

If you’re traveling with kids or simply prefer a more relaxed pace, consider that the day is long and active. The stops, while scenic and interesting, are fairly brief, so patience and comfort with group tours are key.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this tour from Antalya offers a good balance of adventure and history in one seamless package. For around $123, you’re getting a full day filled with swimming, scenic views, and some of the most notable archaeological sites in the region. It’s a practical choice for those who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning multiple outings or transport.

If you love combining outdoor activities with cultural insights, this trip will likely satisfy your curiosity and leave you with plenty of memories. Just be prepared for a long day, and bring your sense of adventure and curiosity—you’re in for a varied and rewarding experience.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire day lasts about 13 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening, so plan accordingly.

What is included in the price?
Your package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a 7-hour boat trip, lunch with seasonal salad and fruit or dessert, and entrance to the archaeological sites.

Are there water activities?
Yes, you can swim in Gökkaya Bay and participate in water sports. The trip also includes stops where you can enjoy the waters.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat for sun protection.

Is the boat ride suitable for everyone?
Most travelers should be fine, but it’s a long trip, so stamina helps. The boat doesn’t feature a glass bottom, and some might find the ride slightly choppy depending on weather.

Can I skip the archaeological sites?
The tour includes a visit to Myra, which is part of the scheduled activities. If you prefer not to visit, you might look for other options, but it’s generally part of the experience.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as a family trip, the activities are generally suitable for most age groups. Just consider the length and activity level for young children.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check availability, but generally, the tour runs during warm months when swimming and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.

Are there any restrictions on taking pets?
Pets are not allowed on this tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your schedule.

If you’re after a full, varied day exploring some of Turkey’s most iconic sites and landscapes, this trip from Antalya is worth considering. It’ll give you a taste of history, nature, and adventure—all in one seamless package.

You can check availability for your dates here: