If you’re exploring Turkey’s Antalya Province and looking for a day filled with history, scenic views, and a splash of adventure, this Kekova, Demre, and Myra tour might catch your eye. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to mix cultural exploration with some relaxing time on the water. I’ve looked into what this tour offers, and I think it’s worth sharing the details so you can decide if it’s right for you.
What I really appreciate about this experience are the stunning vistas of the Mediterranean, especially during the boat trip, and the chance to walk through ancient sites like Myra’s rock tombs and the church of Saint Nicholas. On the flip side, a potential consideration could be the long day of sightseeing, which might feel a bit tiring if you prefer relaxed, slow-paced trips. Still, if you’re into history, beautiful scenery, and a bit of cruising, this could be quite a memorable outing.
This tour generally suits those who enjoy a full day of cultural sightseeing combined with a boat adventure. It’s good for travelers who don’t mind a packed itinerary and want a taste of local history and postcard-worthy landscapes, all conveniently arranged from Alanya.
Key Points
- Stunning boat trip around Kekova’s sunken city offers great photo ops and swimming breaks
- Rich history visits to Myra’s ancient theater, rock tombs, and Saint Nicholas Church
- Convenient pickup and drop-off from Alanya make planning easier
- Includes lunch and guide, making it a relatively hassle-free way to explore
- Limited museum access might disappoin some who want to see more artifacts
- Tour operates on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, so check the schedule in advance
Exploring the Highlights of the Tour
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The Journey Begins with Pickups and Set-Offs
From the moment you’re collected from your hotel in Alanya, the day kicks off with a drive towards Antalya. While the trip involves traveling a bit, it’s a manageable start, and the vehicle usually offers space to relax or chat with fellow travelers. The tour begins early enough to maximize your day, with a breakfast break in Antalya—an opportunity to fuel up before diving into the day’s activities.
Visiting Myra: Ancient Theater and Rock Tombs
Your first major stop is Myra, known for its impressive ancient theater and rock-cut tombs. These Lycian tombs are carved directly into the cliffs, creating a dramatic sight. We loved the way the guide explained the historical significance of these structures, giving context to the ruins. You get some free time here to wander and soak in the atmosphere, which is perfect for snapping photos or just imagining what life was like millennia ago.
The Church of Saint Nicholas
Next, you’ll visit the church of Saint Nicholas, revered as the real Santa Claus. It’s a modest but meaningful site, especially if you’re a fan of Christmas lore. The church’s quiet ambiance makes it a reflective stop, and many visitors find it slightly emotional to stand where the saint is believed to have lived and preached.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Sunken City and the Boat Tour
One of the most talked-about features of this tour is the boat trip around Kekova Island. It lasts about two hours, giving you ample opportunity to see the sunken city from the boat’s deck. The calm, clear waters make for stunning views, and during the cruise, you’ll stop at several bays for swimming or photos. Some guests mentioned that the boat ride was a highlight, with the chance to see the submerged ruins from just a few meters away.
The boat ride also includes swimming breaks, which are a welcome chance to cool off and enjoy the warm Mediterranean waters. Be aware that the boat is a shared experience, often with a group of fellow travelers, so if you prefer private or smaller boat excursions, that might not be the ideal fit.
Lunch and Free Time in Myra
After the boat trip, you’ll stop at Myra for lunch, usually at a local restaurant. This is a good opportunity to relax and refuel, with traditional Turkish dishes or simple fare depending on where the group eats. Following lunch, you’ll have some free time to revisit sites or browse local souvenirs before heading back.
Return and Drop-off
The tour wraps up with a drive back to Antalya for a quick break, followed by your transfer back to your accommodation in Alanya. While it’s a full day, the organized nature keeps the logistics straightforward, and most travelers report the transfer times are manageable.
What’s Included and What to Consider
Included are the essential ingredients: insurance, hotel pickup and drop-off, a tour guide, lunch, and the boat tour. These make it a pretty good value, especially considering the convenience.
What’s not included are drinks and museum entrances. If you’re into exploring more artifacts or visiting other museums, you might find the tour’s offerings somewhat limited, but it covers the main highlights.
Price and Value
Considering the full-day itinerary, boat trip, lunch, and guided commentary, the cost seems reasonable. You’re getting a lot of sights in one day without the hassle of arranging transport or tickets yourself. It’s a good compromise if you prefer to leave planning to someone else.
The Group Size and Tour Atmosphere
Group sizes tend to be moderate, creating a friendly environment where you can ask questions and get some personal attention from guides. The multilingual guides (English, Russian, Polish, Turkish) help ensure everyone’s included, and the group dynamic adds to the experience without feeling overcrowded.
Authentic Traveler Insights
Based on reviews, many visitors loved the scenic boat ride, with some describing it as “beautiful” and “picturesque” — perfect for photography. Several mentioned the stunning views from the boat and the chance to see the sunken city from close quarters.
Some reviewers pointed out that the long day of moving around can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to a packed schedule. A few also noted that museum entry fees are not included, so bring some cash if you want to explore additional sites.
How to Make the Most of It
To truly enjoy this tour, arrive with your camera ready, especially for the boat segment. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential, as you’ll be walking around ancient ruins and rocky areas. Also, bring sunscreen and hats because much of the day is outdoors and exposure to the sun can be intense.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is best suited for history buffs, photo enthusiasts, and water lovers. If you’re happy with a full day of sightseeing and don’t mind a busy schedule, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s not ideal if you prefer more relaxed, slow-paced trips or if you’re traveling with very young children, given the amount of walking and boat time involved.
Final Thoughts
The Kekova, Demre, and Myra tour offers a solid mix of history, scenery, and fun. The highlight for many will be the boat trip around the sunken city, which is a rare sight with impressive views. The visit to Myra and Saint Nicholas’ church adds meaningful cultural layers, helping you connect with the local past.
While it’s not the cheapest activity, the convenience of having transportation, guides, and meals included makes it good value for a full day of exploration. Just keep in mind the long hours and be prepared for a busy schedule if you’re after a more leisurely experience.
If you’re in the Alanya area and eager to tick off some of Turkey’s most famous archaeological sites while enjoying some time on the water, this tour is definitely worth considering.
From Alanya: Kekova, Demre, and Myra Tour with Boat Trip
FAQ
Is the boat trip suitable for everyone?
Most travelers find the boat trip enjoyable, with plenty of stops for swimming and photos. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or not comfortable on open water, it’s something to consider.
Are museum entrances included?
No, museum entries are not included, so if you want to visit additional sites or see specific artifacts, you’ll need to pay separately.
What should I bring for the boat trip?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a hat. It’s also wise to carry some cash for optional purchases or snacks.
Does the tour operate every day?
No, this tour runs on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Be sure to check availability before booking.
How long is the entire tour?
It’s a full-day experience, roughly starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.
Is there a guide who speaks English?
Yes, live guides are available in English, Russian, Polish, and Turkish, making sure language isn’t a barrier.
How big are the groups?
Group sizes tend to be moderate, balancing a friendly atmosphere with comfortable space.
What about the lunch?
Lunch is included, typically at a local restaurant, offering Turkish cuisine or simple local fare.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for your travel plans.
In the end, if you’re after a full, scenic, and historic day trip from Alanya, this tour hits most of the right notes. It combines the visual spectacle of a boat cruise with the tangible history of ancient Lycia, making it a well-rounded choice for curious travelers.
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