Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Day Tour from Antalya

If you’re planning a trip to Antalya and love a mix of history, scenic boat rides, and a splash of relaxation, the Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Day Tour could be a solid pick. While I haven’t taken this tour myself, I’ve sifted through reviews and details to give you a balanced look at what you can expect—and whether it’s worth your time and money.

One thing I really like about this experience is how it combines easy logistics with stunning sights — everything is arranged to minimize hassle, from hotel pickup to guided commentary. Plus, the boat trip around Kekova offers a chance to see one of Turkey’s most intriguing underwater sites without getting wet (since swimming isn’t permitted directly at the Sunken City).

However, a consideration to keep in mind is the duration—it’s a long day that involves quite a bit of travel and moving parts. If you’re not a fan of full-day tours or long bus rides, this might feel a bit tiring. That said, it’s well-suited for those eager to see multiple historical sites and enjoy a scenic boat cruise all in one go.

This tour works best for travelers who enjoy immersive history, beautiful coastlines, and don’t mind spending around 12 hours out and about. It’s a good fit if you’re looking for a comprehensive experience that hits all the highlights of the Antalya region with minimal planning on your part.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines boat trips, archaeological sites, and scenic stops in one day.
• Hassle-Free: Includes hotel pickup and guided commentary, making logistics easier.
• Historical Highlights: Features unique sites like the Sunken City of Kekova, Lycian rock tombs, and the Church of St Nicholas.
• Good Value: At around $62.57, it offers access to many attractions plus a boat cruise—considering the transportation, entrance fees, and guided insight, it’s a decent deal.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect a 12-hour adventure with a mix of travel, sightseeing, and relaxation.
• Limited Swimming Opportunities: Swimming at Kekova isn’t allowed, but you’ll get to enjoy the boat cruise with plenty of photo ops.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting Point: From Antalya

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a major plus if you dislike figuring out transport logistics early in the morning. You’ll leave Antalya early, with a drive of about 2.5 hours to Demre. During this ride, expect to get some background from your guide and enjoy the scenic views as you cruise along Turkey’s southern coast.

Visit to the Sunken City of Kekova

Once you arrive at Demre harbor, you’ll board a boat—likely a glass-bottom vessel—that will take you around Kekova. This part is a highlight for many. The Sunken City of Dolchiste was submerged after an earthquake in the 2nd century, and now its ruins are visible beneath the water, creating a surreal sight.

While swimming isn’t permitted here (which might disappoint some expecting to jump into the sea), the boat cruise is designed to give you close-up views of the submerged structures. The glass-bottom feature is especially handy for capturing photos of the underwater ruins without getting wet.

Your guide will point out the castle ruins and necropolis, adding context to what you’re seeing. The quotes from previous travelers suggest this part is truly memorable: “The things we saw and did in the tour were so pretty, especially the Myra ruins.”

Ancient City of Myra and Lycian Tombs

Next, you’ll head towards Myra, another ancient site packed with history. Here, you’ll see the Greek amphitheatre and the rock tombs carved into the cliffs—some dating back to the 5th century B.C. These Lycian tombs are striking, sitting perched above the modern town and offering a tangible link to the past.

The rock tombs are considered one of the most significant Lycian archaeological sites, and from what visitors say, they’re well worth the visit. Expect about two hours here, including some time for photos and exploring the ruins at your own pace.

Lunch and Beach Break at Esmeralda Bay

Midday, it’s time for a change of scenery—lunch and a chance to swim at Esmeralda Bay. The bay’s name hints at its beauty, and many travelers find this peaceful spot perfect for relaxing after a busy morning. Whether you choose to swim or just enjoy the scenery, it’s a nice break from sightseeing.

Visiting the Church of St Nicholas

Later in the day, you’ll visit the Church of St Nicholas in Demre. This church is historically significant as the burial place of the real Saint Nicholas—who inspired Santa Claus. Although entrance fees aren’t included (around 17 TRY), many find the site worth a quick visit for its historical and religious importance. The basilica dates back to the 6th century and is currently on UNESCO’s tentative list for World Heritage status.

Final Stop: Return to Antalya

After a full day of exploring, the tour wraps up with a drive back to Antalya, arriving around 3 hours later. The journey back provides some downtime to reflect on the day’s adventures or review your photos.

How Does It Feel to Take This Tour?

From the reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear that this experience offers a mix of scenic beauty and historical intrigue. The guided aspect is especially important—having someone knowledgeable answer questions and provide context really boosts the experience. The guide, Mutlu, was praised for being energetic, funny, and attentive, which helps make the long day more enjoyable.

The boat cruise around Kekova’s underwater ruins seems to be a standout moment. Travelers love that it’s a chance to see something quite unique without needing to dive deep or get wet. Plus, the views of the Lycian tombs and the ancient theater in Myra are often described as impressive.

However, some travelers mention that the long hours and strict schedule might not suit everyone. The day is packed, with about 2.5 hours of traveling just to get there, and some sites have entrance fees that aren’t included—so it’s wise to budget a bit extra.

Price-wise, at around $62.57 per person, the tour isn’t cheap but seems reasonable considering the inclusions: boat trips, guidance, lunch, and transportation. For anyone interested in history, archaeology, or simply a scenic day out, it offers decent value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits history buffs eager to see Lycian tombs and ancient ruins, as well as sea lovers who enjoy boat rides and coastal scenery. It’s ideal if you want a comprehensive day that hits many key sites without the hassle of planning each step. If you’re traveling with a curious group or family that enjoys learning and exploring, this could work well.

On the flip side, if you prefer relaxing mornings, shorter trips, or are not keen on long drives, it might feel a bit overwhelming. Also, if swimming at Kekova is a must for you, this tour might not meet those expectations since swimming isn’t permitted there.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup from your Antalya hotel or meeting point, which makes starting the day less stressful.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours—from early morning pickup to return in the late afternoon or early evening.

Are entrance fees included?
Some entrance fees are included if you select that option at booking, such as Kekova, Demre, and Myra. However, fees for St Nicholas Church and Myra ruins are not included (around 17 TRY and 13 TRY respectively).

Can I swim at Kekova?
No, swimming isn’t permitted at Kekova, but the boat cruise offers great views and photo opportunities of the submerged ruins.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sun protection, water, and a towel if you plan to swim at Esmeralda Bay. Comfortable shoes for exploring the sites are also recommended.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, it’s generally suitable for most travelers interested in history and scenic boat rides. Be mindful of the long day and be prepared for a lot of walking and bus time.

What is the best time of year to go?
Most travelers find spring or early fall ideal—pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and calm seas. Summer can be hot, so pack plenty of water.

Final Thoughts

This Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Day Tour offers a well-rounded day for those wanting to see some of Turkey’s most captivating ancient sites combined with beautiful coastal scenery. The guided boat cruise around Kekova, along with visits to Lycian tombs and Saint Nicholas’s church, make it a memorable outing for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

While the day is lengthy and involves some costs for entrance fees, the convenience of transport, guided insights, and the chance to see underwater ruins make it a pretty good deal. Expect stunning views, interesting stories, and a taste of Turkey’s archaeological treasures—all within one comprehensive tour.

If you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates a mix of adventure, learning, and leisure, this tour could be a highlight of your Antalya trip. Just be ready for a full day on the move!