Demre is a fascinating place to explore, especially if you’re interested in ancient ruins, underwater archaeology, and authentic Turkish coastal scenery. Because of its rich history and access to pristine waters, Demre offers a variety of tours suited to different tastes. We particularly enjoy the full-day boat tours, like the one exploring Kekova’s Sunken City, which combines history, swimming, and scenic cruising — all in one relaxing day. The guided Myra and St. Nicholas Church tours also stand out, giving a deeper understanding of the region’s Lycian past and the legend of Santa Claus. If you prefer a more personalized experience, the private boat and speedboat options let you customize your adventure.
Demre’s tours cover everything from day trips to multi-day cruises. Whether you want to snorkel, explore ancient tombs, or simply relax on a boat, there’s something here for everyone. Below, we’ve broken down the top options, highlighting what makes each one special.
Tours in Demre Overview
The list includes guided day trips, private boat adventures, and multi-day sailing cruises. Many tours focus on Kekova’s Sunken City, with options for snorkeling, kayaking, and private cruising (click here for full details). Others combine visits to Myra’s Lycian rock tombs and the Church of St. Nicholas, perfect for history buffs. Budget-conscious travelers will find group boat trips with swimming and sightseeing, while those seeking exclusivity can opt for private speedboats. Whatever your style, Demre’s tours offer a comprehensive look at the region’s natural and archaeological attractions.
Now, let’s look at each tour in detail.
1. Ucagiz: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat
At number 1, this day trip to Kekova offers a well-rounded experience on a 7-hour boat cruise from Ucagiz. Priced at $59 per person, it’s one of the most affordable ways to see the highlights of Kekova’s Sunken City, Pirates Cave, and the charming village of Simena with its fortress ruins. The tour features a generous one-hour swim break—perfect for cooling off in the clear waters—and a guided visit to the castle ruins and necropolis.
What makes this trip stand out is its detailed itinerary, including stops at Akvaryum Koyu and Esmaralda Koyu for swimming and snorkeling, plus scenic views along the way. The onboard snacks and fruits keep you refreshed while soaking in the scenery. This tour is great for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing with manageable logistics and a friendly, intimate boat experience.
Bottom line: A great value for those seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive Kekova adventure, especially if you enjoy swimming in beautiful bays.
2. From Antalya/ Alanya / Side / Kemer Demre Myra & Kekova Tour
At number 2, this full-day cultural tour combines visits to Myra’s rock tombs, the St. Nicholas Church, and the Sunken City. Costing $85, it’s suitable for those who want a guided, structured experience with a knowledgeable guide. The tour lasts 10 to 13 hours, making it a long but rewarding day.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on historical sites—you’ll hear stories of Lycia, explore ancient ruins, and learn about the connection to Santa Claus. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a rundown with some swimming and free time in Demre village. Reviews indicate a solid, well-organized experience, though it’s more about history and less about water activities.
Bottom line: Best for history and culture enthusiasts who want a guided, full-day look at Demre’s archaeological sites.
3. Antalya: Myra, Demre, and Kekova Tour With Boat Tour & Lunch
Number 3 is a full-day exploration from Antalya, priced at $91. This tour stands out for its included lunch on the boat, offering a relaxed cruise with a delicious onboard meal. You’ll visit Myra’s rock-cut tombs, see the Church of St. Nicholas, and cruise over the Sunken City with a guide. The boat trip allows you to swim and snorkel in the Mediterranean, making it ideal for water lovers.
Guests appreciate the combination of cultural sightseeing and relaxing cruising, with the added bonus of a good-value lunch. The guide’s insights make history come alive while the opportunity to swim offers a refreshing break from sightseeing. It’s perfect for those seeking a balanced day of culture and leisure.
Bottom line: A solid choice for travelers wanting a guided tour with a stress-free cruise and tasty onboard lunch.
4. Demre: Kekova Island and Sunken City Private Speedboat Tour
Number 4 on our list is the private speedboat tour exploring Kekova on a 2-hour cruise. Starting from Demre, you get a personalized experience with your own captain, perfect for up to 6 guests. You’ll pass over the Sunken City, visit Simena Castle, and swim in bays like Aquarium and Tersane.
This tour’s charm lies in its customizability—you decide how long to stay at each spot. Many travelers love the freedom from crowds and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The captain’s local knowledge ensures you see the hidden corners of Kekova. One satisfied visitor noted, “We explored some truly beautiful places and had the chance to swim with turtles.” It’s ideal for those seeking privacy and flexibility.
Bottom line: Perfect for small groups looking for a luxury, tailored experience on the water.
5. Demre – Myra Tour from Antalya
At number 5, this private guided tour costs $840 per person but offers an intimate exploration of Myra’s Lycian tombs, antique theatre, and St. Nicholas Church. The tour includes a Kekova boat trip, making it a comprehensive package.
What makes it stand out is the personalized service—a dedicated guide and driver take you through the archaeological sites with detailed explanations. Reviews highlight its luxury and depth of detail. It’s best suited for travelers wanting an in-depth, private experience and willing to invest more.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for history enthusiasts craving a bespoke, in-depth exploration of Demre and surroundings.
6. From Alanya: Kekova, Demre, and Myra Tour with Boat Trip
Number 6 offers a one-day tour from Alanya that includes Kekova, Demre, and Myra. Priced at an undisclosed rate, it appeals to travelers wanting a comprehensive cultural and coastal experience. Highlights include swimming in the Mediterranean and visiting ancient ruins.
The tour is ideal for those on a tight schedule who want to maximize their time in the region. It combines history, water activities, and scenic drives, providing a good overview, especially for first-timers. Reviewers mention it as a memorable day of exploration and relaxation.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers who want a full, guided day trip covering the highlights of Demre and Kekova from nearby resorts.
7. From Demre: Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour
Number 7 features a guided sea kayaking adventure lasting about 5.5 hours. Costing $57, it’s perfect for active travelers who want to explore the Sunken City, Simena Castle, and Tersane Bay from the seat of a kayak.
The tour includes stops for swimming and photo opportunities, with a scenic drive to get to the kayaking site. Many participants love the chance to get close to the underwater ruins and enjoy the tranquil waters. It’s suitable for those comfortable in water and seeking a hands-on, active experience.
Bottom line: Best for sporty travelers eager to combine adventure with sightseeing.
8. From Demre: St. Nicholas Church and Myra Tour
This short archaeological tour lasts about 2 hours and is priced at $323. It’s focused on exploring the ruins of Myra and visiting the St. Nicholas Church museum. It’s a good pick for those with limited time or interest primarily in cultural and religious sites.
The highlight is the Greco-Roman theatre and rock tombs, along with the story of Santa Claus at the church. Reviewers mention that the guide’s explanations make the history come alive, making it a rich, educational experience.
Bottom line: Strong choice for travelers interested in history and religious heritage without the need for water activities.
9. Kas: Private Kekova Boat Tour including transfers
Number 9 offers a private boat tour from Kas that includes transfers, making it perfect for those basing themselves there. For $567 per group, you get to explore Kekova Island, visit the Sunken City, and see Simena Castle.
The tour’s flexibility allows for customized stops and special requests, like swimming with Caretta Carettas or visiting specific bays. The reviews mention the excellent captain and the opportunity to avoid crowds. It’s ideal for families or groups wanting exclusivity and control.
Bottom line: For those seeking a luxury, personalized boat experience with plenty of time at each stop.
10. Kekova Private Boat Tour from Demre
This private boat tour costs $397 per group and lasts about 7 hours. Starting from Demre, it offers a tailored itinerary including Kekova, Simena, and Pirates Cave. It’s praised for stopping at scenic spots and swimming in crystal waters.
Many travelers appreciate the small group size and the flexibility to choose how long to spend at each attraction. One review states, “We explored some truly beautiful places and had the chance to swim with turtles.” It’s well-suited for those wanting privacy and control over their day.
Bottom line: An excellent option for groups seeking a customized, intimate boat experience.
11. Kekova Small-Group Boat Tour From Demre
Number 11 is a small-group boat tour lasting about 7 hours, emphasizing swimming, viewing Kekova’s sunken ruins, and exploring Gökkaya Bay and Karemlik Bay. The smaller groups foster a more intimate experience, especially for water lovers.
Participants love the opportunity to swim with turtles and visit scenic bays that larger tours might skip. The tour balances sightseeing and swimming, making it ideal for active travelers.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a more personal, hands-on boat tour with lots of swimming.
12. Kekova Sunset Tour from Demre
This sunset cruise costs $250 for groups up to 6 and lasts about 3.5 hours. It’s a relaxing way to experience Kekova’s famous sunset, with stops to view Sunken City and Simena Castle.
Reviewers note the beautiful sunset views and the chance to snorkel in the early evening. It’s perfect for couples or small groups wanting a romantic, less hectic outing that highlights Kekova’s evening magic.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a calm, scenic cruise at sunset.
13. Myra, Demre, and Kekova Tour w/ Boat Tour & Lunch
Number 13 offers a comprehensive full-day experience for $? (price not listed), combining Myra’s ruins, St. Nicholas Church, and a cruise over Kekova’s Sunken City with an onboard lunch.
This tour appeals to those who want a balanced mix of archaeology and leisure. The boat cruise includes swimming and snorkeling, with reviews emphasizing the delicious lunch served onboard and the thorough guide.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting both cultural insights and water activities in one package.
14. Sail Turkey: Gulet Cruise Demre to Kas Via Kekova
Number 14 is a 4-day luxury gulet cruise costing $477 per person, sailing along Turkey’s Lycian coast (see itinerary). It includes stops at Tersane Bay, Camlık Bay, and Kas. Many love the sunset views from Simena Castle and the chance to sail and snorkel in pristine waters.
This tour is perfect for those wanting a multi-day relaxing escape on a traditional Turkish gulet, combining scenic sailing, hiking, and cultural visits. Reviews highlight the quality of the crew and the unmatched beauty of the coast.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking a luxurious, multi-day adventure with plenty of swimming and scenic cruising.
15. Sail Turkey: Gulet Cruise Kas to Demre Via Kekova
Rounding out the list is the 5-day cruise from Kas to Demre. It offers a comprehensive sailing experience, visiting Aperlai, Likya and Kekova, with stops at Gökkaya Bay and Kocakarı Koyu. Reviewers mention the spectacular sunsets and the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters.
This cruise is ideal for those who want a slow-paced, scenic voyage with lots of swimming, hiking, and relaxing. It’s perfect for multi-day adventurers and couples wanting a romantic, immersive experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers aiming for an extended, scenic seafaring holiday along Turkey’s coast.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing the best tour in Demre depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you’re after a budget-friendly day of swimming and sightseeing, consider the Ucagiz boat trip. For those wanting a full culture, the Myra & Kekova guided tour offers deep historical insights. Active travelers and water lovers should look at the sea kayaking and private speedboat options for personalized experiences.
For multi-day adventures, the Gulet cruises provide extended relaxation and scenic sailing, ideal for those who want to unwind over several days. When booking, consider the season — summer offers the best swimming conditions, while spring and fall are perfect for sightseeing without the crowds.
Final Thoughts
Demre’s tours cover a broad spectrum, from full-day cultural tours to luxury private cruises. For a balanced mix of history, water activities, and scenic views, the full-day boat trips and guided archaeological tours are excellent choices. If you’re seeking personalized aquatic adventures, the private speed and boat tours deliver exclusivity and flexibility.
No matter your preferences, booking early, especially for popular options like the Sunset Kekova Tour or the Gulet cruises, ensures you get your preferred date and a spot on these memorable experiences. With such a variety, Demre can truly satisfy any traveler’s curiosity about Turkey’s ancient and watery wonders.
