Demre Myra Kekova Sunken City

Exploring Turkey’s Hidden Treasures: Demre, Myra, Kekova Sunken City Tour

If you’re considering a day trip that combines history, stunning scenery, and a splash of adventure along Turkey’s coast, this Demre, Myra, and Kekova Sunken City tour could be just what you’re after. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and descriptions paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect. It promises a full day packed with memorable sights, from ancient Lycian tombs to a mysterious submerged city, all wrapped up with a boat ride and a good dose of coastline views.

What we really like about this tour is how it offers a mix of cultural discovery and scenic relaxation. The fact that hotel pickup and drop-off are included makes the logistics much smoother, especially if you’re not staying right in the city center. Plus, the boat trip to Kekova’s Sunken City sounds like a unique highlight that captures the imagination. The other major plus is the presence of knowledgeable guides, who can help bring these ancient sites to life.

However, it’s worth mentioning that some travelers have noted potential downsides — mainly related to long hours and group logistics. With a typical start at 7 a.m. and an 11-hour duration, this is a full day out, which might be tiring if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing. Also, the reviews highlight issues like uncomfortable transport conditions and language barriers, especially for English speakers in larger groups, so a bit of patience and preparation can go a long way.

This tour tends to be a good fit for history buffs, scenic explorers, and those eager to see a famous sunken archaeological site. If you’re okay with a packed schedule and are curious about Turkey’s ancient past and coastal beauty, it could be a memorable part of your trip.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines ancient ruins, a boat tour, and coastal scenery in one day.
• Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, reducing travel stress.
• Highlights: Sunken City of Kekova, Lycian rock-cut tombs, Myra’s ruins, and St. Nicholas Church.
• Value for money: At around $86, it covers boat fees, lunch, guidance, and entry tickets.
• Group size: Typically up to 27 travelers, fostering a more intimate group feel.
• Considerations: Long day, potential language barriers, and some reported discomfort in transit.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Off: Hotel Pickup & Early Morning Departure

The day kicks off bright and early at 7 a.m., with pickup from your hotel. This is a big plus in our book because it means one less thing to worry about — your guide takes care of the logistics, getting you to the start point without fuss. Expect to be in a small group, usually around 27 people, which helps keep the atmosphere personal even if some reviews mention that larger groups can be a bit chaotic.

The drive itself is part of the journey, offering a chance to see the charming villages and landscapes along Turkey’s coast. Travelers have appreciated the professional driving and friendly guides, with one reviewer mentioning how the guide’s language skills and effort to ensure everyone’s well-being stood out.

First Stop: Demre (Kale)

Your first destination is Demre, famous for its ancient ruins and the Church of St. Nicholas, the original Santa Claus. While the church visit is optional and costs extra if you choose to go inside, the main attraction here is wandering through the ruins of Myra, an old Lycian city.

The site includes impressive rock-cut tombs and well-preserved structures that tell stories of a bygone era. Travelers mention that the time allocated (about an hour and 15 minutes) is enough to get a good sense of the site, though some wish for more time to explore in depth. The entry ticket of the ancient city is included in the package, which adds value and convenience.

Next Stop: Kekova and the Sunken City

From Demre, you’ll head to the coast for your boat tour — a highlight for many. The boat trip to Kekova lasts about an hour and 15 minutes and offers stunning views of the coastline. The main event is seeing the Sunken City of Kekova, a partially submerged Lycian settlement that can be glimpsed from the boat or explored from the water.

According to reviews, the boat ride is relaxing, with ample opportunities for swimming in the clear waters. This stop is perfect if you enjoy a splash and a chance to cool off amid spectacular scenery. The boat fee is included, but remember, drinks and snacks on the boat are extras, so plan accordingly.

Visiting the Lycian Tombs

Back on land, you’ll explore more ancient relics, such as the Lycian rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs. These tombs are quite striking and provide fantastic photo opportunities. The combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue makes this part of the trip a favorite for many.

Lunch Break in Demre

Midday, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch in Demre. While reviews mention the meal can be rushed and subpar at times, it usually provides enough fuel to keep you going for the rest of the day. The lunch is included, which adds convenience, but as with many group tours, the quality can vary — so temper expectations accordingly.

Final Stop: Optional Visit to St. Nicholas Church

After lunch, there’s the option to visit the Church of St. Nicholas, a site of religious and historical significance. Entry costs extra if you choose to go inside, but the exterior view and the story behind it are interesting enough for most visitors. Some reviews mention that the guide may not focus heavily on this stop, so if you’re particularly interested, plan to spend some extra time exploring on your own.

Return Journey

The return trip takes you back to Antalya, usually wrapping up around early evening. The long day can be tiring, but the scenery along the coast and the variety of sights make it worthwhile. Some travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with the bus comfort and air conditioning, especially in warmer months, so packing a fan or cooling towel might help.

The Value of This Tour

At just under $86, this experience offers a fair deal considering that it includes boat fees, entry tickets, lunch, and guided commentary. If you’re into history and scenic coastlines, the cost is reasonable for a full day of exploring multiple sites. The tour’s structure allows for a balance of guided insights and free time to absorb the sights.

However, some reviews highlight that the long hours on the coach and the group dynamics can be a stretch, especially if travel conditions aren’t ideal. The buses are sometimes reported to have issues like broken air conditioning and uncomfortable seats, which can impact the overall comfort. For those sensitive to long travel times or with small children, this is worth considering.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour really attracts those with an interest in archaeology, history, and scenic cruising. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and want a rundown of Turkey’s southern coast highlights in one day. If you’re someone who values guided storytelling and enjoys boat trips, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Demre, Myra, and Kekova Sunken City tour offers a solid, if somewhat packed, way to see some of Turkey’s most captivating sites. The combination of ancient ruins, a scenic boat ride, and a glimpse of a partially submerged city makes it memorable. The inclusion of transportation, guides, and meals makes it convenient, though the experience can vary depending on the day and group.

If you’re curious about Turkey’s archaeological past, love coastal scenery, and are prepared for a full day out, this trip can be a rewarding addition to your itinerary. Just remember to bring some patience, especially if you’re sensitive to comfort or language barriers.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easier to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts approximately 11 hours, so it’s a full day of sightseeing and traveling.

What is the price per person?
It costs around $85.98, which covers boat tour fees, lunch, guide, insurance, and entry tickets for Myra.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are extra and not included in the package. You might want to bring some water or purchase beverages on the boat or at lunch.

Can I visit the Church of St. Nicholas?
Yes, but it’s optional. Entry to the church costs extra if you choose to go inside.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify, but given the long hours and walking involved, it’s better suited for older children or teens interested in history and scenery.

Are the guides multilingual?
Most guides operate in both Russian and English, but some reviews suggest language barriers can occur depending on the group.

What are the transportation conditions?
Transport is usually in small vans for pickup, followed by a larger bus. Some travelers have mentioned issues like broken air conditioning or uncomfortable seats.

Is the boat tour relaxing?
Yes, many reviews describe the boat ride as peaceful and scenic, with swimming opportunities that add to the enjoyment.

What should I pack?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, water, and perhaps a towel. Comfortable shoes are also recommended for walking around ancient sites.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s ancient past and beautiful coastlines, but come prepared for a full and sometimes busy day. It’s a good pick if you’re eager to see multiple highlights in one go and don’t mind the group travel setup.