Kemer Demre Myra Kekova Tour

If you’re planning a day trip from Kemer to uncover some of Turkey’s most intriguing ancient sites, the Demre-Myra-Kekova tour might catch your eye. It promises a blend of history, scenic boat rides, and a dash of legend—specifically the story of Santa Claus. But like any tour, it’s worth understanding what’s really on offer, what you’ll get, and what to watch out for.

We’ve looked into this experience, weighing the positives like knowledgeable guides and stunning views, against potential downsides like logistical hiccups or misleading descriptions. The goal? Help you decide if this tour fits your travel style and expectations. Whether you’re a history buff, a family seeking an educational outing, or someone wanting a relaxing day on the water, this trip has something for you.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour can be quite packed and sometimes disorganized—some travelers found the boat ride lacking the glass-bottom feature promised and experienced long waits. However, if you enjoy guided storytelling, historic sites, and scenic boat excursions, it could be worth considering. It’s a good fit for those interested in Turkey’s ancient civilizations and legends, especially if you’re okay with a full-day, sometimes hurried schedule.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day of history and scenic views without breaking the bank. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided excursions with a knowledgeable guide, and if you’re prepared for a busy schedule and some unpredictable moments. It’s not perfect for travelers seeking a more relaxed experience, those with mobility issues, or anyone expecting a flawless, luxury-style trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Historical richness: Visit ancient Lycia sites, old Roman ruins, and the legendary St. Nicholas church.
• Scenic boat ride: Experience a cruise over the sunken city of Kekova with potential views of underwater ruins.
• Guided insights: Guides are praised for their knowledge, adding depth to the experience—though language barriers may be an issue.
• Logistics vary: The tour is long (about 11 hours), with some travelers reporting delays or organizational issues.
• Value for money: At $66, it’s an affordable way to see multiple sites in a day, but some features like the glass-bottom boat may not always be available.
• Mixed reviews: Experiences range from enjoyable and well-organized to disappointing, especially regarding the boat trip and language.

What You Can Expect from This Tour

Starting Point & Transport

The tour begins early from your hotel in Kemer, with pickup from the main security gate (not the hotel lobby). The drive to Demre covers approximately 116 kilometers and takes about two hours. The journey is comfortable, with scenic views on the way, giving you a chance to relax before the historical immersion begins.

Visiting Demre & St. Nicholas Church

Your first stop is Demre, the town that hosts the famous Church of St. Nicholas, the burial site of the saint who inspired Santa Claus. This church is a major pilgrimage site; inside, you’ll find ancient murals, mosaics, and icons, along with a sarcophagus believed to hold relics with miraculous powers. It’s a highlight for those interested in religious history and legends.

Be aware, though, that the entrance fee to the church is not included in the tour price, and some travelers have been surprised by additional costs. Still, the chance to stand where Saint Nicholas once served is quite special.

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Exploring Myra

Next, you’ll visit Myra, the ancient city founded in the 5th century BC. It was once the provincial capital of Lycia and today offers a fascinating glimpse into its past. The main highlight here is the Roman amphitheater, which could seat around 10,000 spectators. The amphitheater is impressive and offers a chance to picture the vibrant life of ancient times.

Nearby, you’ll see the Lycia tombs carved into the rocks—some quite large—reflecting the wealth and status of their owners. These tombs are painted, showcasing the craftsmanship of antiquity. Many visitors find the scale and artistry of these tombs just breathtaking.

The Sunken City of Kekova

One of the most talked-about parts of this tour is the boat trip over Kekova, a city that sank due to earthquakes in the 2nd century AD. Today, it’s partially submerged, and its ruins—stone stairs, walls, household items—are visible beneath the water.

The boat ride often features a glass-bottom section, allowing you to see the ruins underwater. However, some recent reviews mention that there was no glass bottom on the boat, which was disappointing. The guide might point with a mirror or give a verbal description instead, but if seeing the submerged city is your main reason for this part of the trip, it’s worth confirming beforehand.

Scenic & Practical Considerations

• The boat cruise sometimes includes a stop for swimming, which many travelers enjoy. Bring your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen.
• The tour lasts about 11 hours, so be prepared for a full day of activity.
• Lunch is included, typically a pre-packed meal or simple buffet, giving you energy for the day ahead.
• The guide will provide commentary in English, and sometimes Russian, but some travelers have noted that language barriers can make understanding difficult, especially if the guide’s German skills are lacking (as one reviewer pointed out).

Additional Costs & Limitations

• The Church of St. Nicholas has an entrance fee not covered by the tour.
• Personal spending, photos, and drinks are extra.
• The glass-bottom boat features are not guaranteed.
• The tour isn’t suitable for those with heart problems or wheelchair users, due to the long hours and uneven terrain.

The Realities of the Experience: Pros & Cons

Positives:
– Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides who share interesting insights into the sites.
– The scenic views during the boat trip and the impressive ancient ruins make for memorable moments.
– The price point ($66) offers access to several major sites in one day, providing good value if you’re interested in history and scenery.

Drawbacks:
– The organization can be inconsistent; some travelers report long waits and delays.
– The boat ride may not include the glass-bottom feature as advertised, which can be a letdown.
– Some reviews mention language issues, with guides not speaking German, making it harder for non-English/Russian speakers to follow along.
– The duration can be tiring, with a lot packed into a single day.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys guided explorations with a dose of history mixed with natural beauty, this trip can be a good fit. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in ancient ruins, legends of Saint Nicholas, and scenic boat rides. The price makes it accessible, but keep in mind the schedule is full and sometimes chaotic.

If you’re expecting a smooth, perfectly organized experience, or particularly want to see the glass-bottom boat in action, you might want to manage your expectations or consider other options. The tour suits those who are flexible, curious about history, and comfortable with some unpredictability.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is full-day and involves a lot of walking, boat rides, and historical sites. While not explicitly designed for children, families with older kids who enjoy history and outdoor activities might find it interesting. Always consider your child’s stamina and interest level.

What should I bring for the boat ride?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera. The boat offers a stop for swimming, so be prepared.

Are the entrance fees included?
The entrance fee to the Church of St. Nicholas is not included, so you might need cash for that. Other site fees or personal expenses are also extra.

Will I see the sunken city of Kekova?
You will get to see the ruins from the boat, but some reviews mention that the glass-bottom feature was missing, so visibility might be limited.

How long is the drive from Kemer to Demre?
The drive takes about two hours, covering approximately 116 kilometers. It’s a comfortable coach journey, with scenic views.

Is the tour available in other languages?
The live guide speaks English and Russian. There are audio guides in Turkish, English, and Russian, but some travelers noted that guides might not speak all languages fluently.

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

In all, this tour offers a mix of history, scenery, and a bit of legend—perfect if you’re eager to tick off important sites in Turkey’s south and enjoy a day on the water. Just keep your expectations in check regarding organization and features, and you’ll likely have a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: