Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Tour from Antalya

Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Tour from Antalya: An Honest Look

If you’re considering taking a day trip from Antalya that mixes history, scenery, and a bit of adventure, this Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra tour might be just what you’re after. It promises a blend of ancient ruins, a boat cruise over a sunken city, and a visit to the birthplace of Santa Claus. With a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating from 73 reviews, it seems to hit the right notes for many travelers.

What we love about this experience is how it combines a variety of sights in one day— from the stunning boat trip on Kekova to the historic sites of Myra. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and entrance fees simplifies planning and adds value. However, a potential snag is the long hours of transfers and pickups, which some may find tiring. This tour is most suited for those interested in history, scenic boat rides, and exploring multiple sites without the hassle of organizing transportation themselves.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience covering multiple key sites in one day
• All entrance fees included, simplifying costs and planning
• Knowledgeable guides help enhance understanding of the locations
• Long transfer times can be a downside, especially for those less patient
• Good value for money considering the inclusions and sights
• Suitable for those with an interest in history, ruins, and scenic boat trips

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers a well-rounded look at some of the most interesting parts of the Antalya region. It’s designed to give you a taste of ancient civilizations, natural beauty, and local culture, all in a single day. You’ll be traveling comfortably via bus with hotel pickup and drop-off, making it ideal for visitors who prefer to avoid the logistics of organizing individual excursions.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Kekova Island and Sunken City

The highlight for many is the 1-hour boat trip to Kekova, which includes a glass-bottomed boat to view the submerged ruins of a Lycian city. Travelers often rave about the breathtaking views and the chance to see underwater remnants of a city that was lost to natural changes over time. As one review mentions, “The boat trip to Kekova was absolutely stunning, with breathtaking views of the sunken city and crystal-clear waters.” If you love scenic boat rides and history, this part of the tour is a real treat.

However, some reviews note that the boat’s glass bottom may not be as impressive as expected, with only a few windows. The experience is more about the overall ambiance and the chance to cool off with a swim in the Mediterranean.

Demre and Saint Nicholas Church

Next, the tour takes you to Demre, where you’ll visit the church of Saint Nicholas—the historical figure behind Santa Claus. Entrance fees aren’t included here, so be prepared for a small additional cost. While some travelers find the church’s structure unimpressive, most agree that its historical significance makes it worth a quick visit.

A few reviews mention that the site can be crowded, especially with local visitors. Still, it’s a fascinating peek into the roots of the Santa legend, and many find it a charming addition to the day.

Myra Ancient City and Rock Tombs

The ancient city of Myra is next, with its remarkable Lycian necropolis and rock-cut tombs. You’ll get about an hour here, which some find enough to appreciate the intricate carvings and impressive ruins. As one reviewer put it, “The tombs and amphitheater were impressive and well-preserved, giving a real sense of history.”

The amphitheater, in particular, is a highlight — a grand structure carved into the hillside, underlining the area’s historical importance. The rock tombs are beautifully preserved, and the detailed carvings offer insight into Lycian craftsmanship.

How the Day Unfolds

The tour starts early at 7:00 am, with hotel pickup included, which is a big plus for convenience. Expect a long day— roughly 10 hours— due to the travel times and multiple stops. Some travelers mention that pickup delays can extend the morning, with one review quoting a wait of over 2 hours just to start the journey.

Once on the road, the scenery is often praised for its beauty, with Turkish countryside views providing a scenic backdrop. The bus is generally comfortable, though some mention that the buses might be a bit outdated or underpowered on steep mountain roads, especially during the ascent to Myra.

The Boat Trip: Highlights and Caveats

The 1-hour boat cruise to Kekova is usually the most talked-about part. The waters are clear, and the ruins beneath the surface are intriguing. Many reviews describe it as a beautiful and relaxing experience, perfect for taking photos and enjoying the tranquility of the Mediterranean.

However, a few reviews point out that the glass bottom isn’t as extensive as imagined, with only a couple of windows, so don’t expect a full underwater viewing experience. Still, what matters most is the overall vibe— the peaceful cruise and the chance to swim if weather allows.

Visiting the Sites: Time and Experience

Most travelers will find the site visits well-organized, with about an hour at each major stop. Yet, some express dissatisfaction about the limited time— particularly at Myra and the churches— feeling rushed through the ruins. One reviewer said, “We only had about 20 minutes in Myra, which felt too short to appreciate the site fully.”

There’s also mention of an unscheduled stop at a gem shop, which some saw as a tourist trap and a distraction from the main sites. If you’re not keen on shopping stops, this is worth keeping in mind.

The Food and Value

Lunch is included in the ticket price, which is convenient and saves money. The reviews are mixed; most say the meal was good or adequate, but a few call the lunch “factory-style with little taste.” For the cost of around $74.52 per person, the overall value is decent, especially since entrance fees and the boat trip are included.

The Guide and Group Size

Guides generally receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness. Several reviews mention guides like Mustafa and Davud, calling them engaging, informative, and helpful. A good guide can make or break this kind of tour, and it seems the majority are pleased with the service.

The tour group size, capped at 45, helps keep things manageable but still lively. Some reviews remark that guides do their best to accommodate different languages, with guides speaking English, Turkish, German, and even Russian.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you’re craving a mix of history, scenic cruising, and cultural highlights in a single day. It’s particularly suited for travelers who prefer a guided experience, want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and entry tickets, and are comfortable with a full, sometimes lengthy day of sightseeing.

It’s also a good option if you’re interested in learning about Santa Claus’s roots or want to see Lycian ruins and sunken cities without a separate planning headache. That said, if you dislike long bus rides or prefer more time at fewer sites, this might feel a bit rushed.

Practical Considerations

• The tour starts early at 7:00 am, so be prepared for a long day.
• Pickup times can vary; delays of over two hours have been reported.
• Bring extra cash for optional entrance fees (like the Saint Nicholas church).
• The boat trip can be crowded; don’t expect a private or very exclusive experience.
• The included lunch is decent, but don’t expect gourmet food.
• The group size is moderate, and guides tend to be attentive and multilingual.
• Weather affects the boat trip; it may be canceled or partially canceled if rain intervenes.
• Expect about 10 hours of travel and sightseeing, so this is best for those comfortable with full days on the move.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it convenient to start your day without extra planning.

How long does the tour last? The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, from early morning pickup to late afternoon return.

Are entrance fees to sites included? Entrance fees for Demre and Myra are included. However, the Saint Nicholas Church does require paying an admission fee onsite.

What should I bring? Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, water, and some extra cash for optional fees. Swimsuits might be nice if you want to swim during the boat ride.

Can I expect to see the sunken city? Yes, the boat trip offers views of the submerged ruins, but some reviews mention that the glass bottom isn’t very extensive.

Is this suitable for those with limited mobility? The tour involves walking and some uneven ruins, so it may not be ideal for mobility-restricted travelers.

What’s the group size? Group sizes are capped at 45 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable.

Is the tour family-friendly? It’s suitable for most travelers interested in history and scenery; note that time on foot and boat rides are involved, so adjust expectations for very young children.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a satisfying mix for those eager to see Antalya’s archaeological treasures, enjoy a scenic boat cruise, and learn about local lore. While it’s not without its long hours and some rushed moments, most travelers seem to walk away with a fuller appreciation of the region’s history and natural beauty. It’s a strong choice for history buffs, curious travelers, and anyone who enjoys combining outdoor activities with cultural exploration.