Demre Myra Kekova from Alanya

Discover the Charm of Demre, Myra, and Kekova from Alanya

If you’re looking for a day filled with history, stunning views, and a little adventure, the Demre, Myra, Kekova tour from Alanya might just be worth considering. This full-day trip offers a mix of cultural exploration and scenic beauty, all wrapped into a well-organized package. While it’s quite a long day—about 12 hours—the experience can be very rewarding, especially if you enjoy historical sites and boat rides.

What stands out for us are the knowledgeable guides who bring the stories to life and the opportunity to see the sunken city of Kekova from a boat, which feels a bit like stepping into a movie scene. Plus, the visit to the Church of St. Nicholas offers a meaningful glimpse into the life of the saint behind Santa Claus. That said, the early start—imagine a 2 a.m. pickup—might be a challenge if you’re not an early riser or don’t like long travel days.

A potential drawback is the sheer length of the trip; 7 hours of travel before actually reaching the destinations can feel tiring. However, the tour’s structure—an efficient itinerary with a mix of sightseeing, boat trips, and free time—aims to make the most of the day. This tour is best suited for those who love history, scenic boat rides, and don’t mind a long day on the road.

If you’re comfortable with early mornings and want a comprehensive look at some of Turkey’s notable sites, this trip could give you a good balance of cultural insights and beautiful landscapes without the hassle of planning everything yourself. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who enjoy guided excursions and value good value for money.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip that covers multiple historic and scenic highlights.
• Includes boat trip, lunch, and guided commentary, making it a convenient package.
• Long travel hours (about 7 hours) before reaching the main sites.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local knowledge.
• Great for history buffs and those who enjoy boat adventures.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, which we find helps streamline the whole experience. The early start—most likely around 2 a.m. pickup time—can be a surprise, but it ensures you maximize your day. From there, the journey takes you through scenic mountain roads, giving you a taste of Turkey’s landscape even before reaching your first stop.

Stop 1: Church of St. Nicholas

Your first destination is the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre. This site is a must-see for those interested in the origins of Santa Claus. The church is built on the grave of Saint Nicholas, a bishop born in Patara, and it’s a quiet but powerful place. The setting feels almost sacred, and the nearby museum adds context to his life. Most visitors find this a meaningful stop, though it’s worth noting that admission tickets are not included, so plan accordingly.

One reviewer, Nina, describes her experience as “an awesome place to visit,” emphasizing how the site was “just amazing” and that the guided commentary made the visit even richer. It’s a peaceful spot that helps you appreciate the historical figure behind the modern Santa myth.

Stop 2: Kekova and Its Sunken City

Next up is the highlight for many—a boat trip near Kekova. This area is famous for its partially sunken Lycian city, which you can observe from the boat or even swim near if conditions allow. The boat ride lasts around two hours, giving you ample time to soak in the views and take some photos.

The boat trip is a calm, scenic experience; you’ll love the gentle movement of the water and the chance to see the ruins from a different perspective. Plus, the lunch break in Kekova offers a taste of local cuisine, with an open buffet (beverages are extra). According to reviews, the boat trip and lunch are good value, especially considering the scenery and the unique experience of being on the water near ancient ruins.

Stop 3: Demre (Kale) and Ancient Myra

The final leg takes you to Demre (Kale), where you can enjoy some free time and visit the local museum. You’ll also explore the impressive Roman Theater and Lycian Cave Tombs at the ancient city of Myra. These ruins are well-preserved and provide a tangible connection to the past.

Most travelers find this part of the tour rewarding, appreciating the chance to walk among ancient amphitheaters and tombs. The site visit lasts about 30 minutes, so it’s a quick but informative stop. Again, tickets are not included, which means you’ll need to budget for that if you want to go inside.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides quite a few essentials, making it a practical choice. With lunch, a guided tour, boat trip, and hotel pickup and drop-off, it simplifies your day. The tour guide is a highlight, often praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.

However, keep in mind that drinks (besides water, perhaps) are not included, so you should bring some money if you want beverages during stops. Also, any private expenses or additional fees for site entries are on you.

Pricing and Value

At about $83.81 per person, this tour offers good value considering the transportation, guided experience, boat trip, and meals included. For a full day of sightseeing—covering multiple sites and offering transport logistics—it’s a reasonable price. Many travelers, including Nina, felt it was worth the long travel time and early start because the experience was so comprehensive and enjoyable.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Expect around 12 hours from pick-up to return.
• Group Size: Max 48 travelers, so it’s relatively intimate.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent; if it’s canceled due to bad weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.
• Comfort: Prepare for a lot of sitting and some early mornings; pack snacks and water for the bus.
• Booking: Confirm your spot in advance and cancel free up to 24 hours before if needed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re into history and archaeology, this trip provides a layered view of ancient civilizations. Those who enjoy boat rides and scenic landscapes will find the Kekova area particularly captivating. It’s a good fit for travelers who don’t mind long travel days and want a guided experience that minimizes planning stress.

This trip might not be ideal if you prefer shorter outings or aren’t comfortable with early mornings and lengthy travel. But if you’re up for a full immersion into Turkey’s coastal history and enjoy a mix of land and sea adventures, this tour hits many of those marks.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within the area.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, including travel time.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Many find the boat trip near Kekova and the visit to the Church of St. Nicholas to be the most memorable parts.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch buffet is included, though beverages are extra.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees?
Yes, entrance fees to sites like the church and museum are not included, so plan some extra cash.

Is the tour suitable for families?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the early start and long hours—best for those comfortable with that schedule.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered an alternate date or a full refund.

How many people are on the tour?
Maximum group size is 48 travelers, which balances a social atmosphere with comfort.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is it worth the price?
Most travelers agree that the combination of sites, boat trip, and guided insights offers good value for the cost.

Final Thoughts

This Demre, Myra, Kekova tour offers a well-rounded day packed with cultural sights, scenic boat rides, and historical landmarks. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting to see a mix of ancient ruins and natural beauty without the hassle of organizing separate excursions. The guide’s local knowledge and the inclusion of lunch and transportation make it a practical, hassle-free way to explore Turkey’s southern coast.

While the length of the trip may be challenging for some, those with a keen interest in history and stunning landscapes will likely find it rewarding. It’s also a good option if you prefer guided tours that cover a lot in one day, especially with the peace of mind that comes from having transportation and logistics sorted out for you.

Ultimately, if you’re comfortable with long days and eager to explore some of Turkey’s most meaningful sites, this tour can give you a memorable and enriching experience that balances history, scenery, and relaxed boat time—all in one package.