From Antalya: Full-Day Tour to Demre, Myra and Kekova

Introduction

Exploring Turkey’s beautiful southern coast is a dream for many travelers, and this full-day tour from Antalya to Demre, Myra, and Kekova promises an enriching blend of history, scenic boat rides, and water adventures. Although we haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews make it clear that this experience offers fantastic value and authentic sights.

What draws us in are the stunning boat cruise along Kekova’s sunken city, the chance to walk through ancient ruins of Myra, and peaceful bays perfect for swimming or relaxing. The combination of nature, archaeology, and picturesque stops makes it ideal for first-timers wanting a well-rounded day.

A potential consideration is the long duration—about 14 hours, which might be tiring for some, especially with early starts and packed schedules. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy full days of exploration. If you love discovering historic sites, stunning coastlines, and water-based fun, this tour could be your perfect day out.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery with panoramic views of the Mediterranean, aquamarine bays, and ancient ruins
• Comprehensive itinerary covering archaeological sites, charming villages, and pristine beaches
• Boat cruise experience offers excellent photo opportunities and water views of the Sunken City
• Wildlife spotting at Karemlik Bay, home to five different turtle species
• Value for money with included lunch, transportation, and diverse activities
• Long day, so be prepared for an early start and full schedule

Overall Impression of the Tour

This full-day adventure is a solid choice for travelers eager to see a mix of historical ruins, beautiful bays, and ancient underwater sites without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It balances cultural discovery with scenic relaxation, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors—especially first-timers in Antalya or those short on time but craving a multi-layered experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup & Journey from Antalya

The tour kicks off with an early morning pickup around 7:00 am from your chosen meeting point in Antalya. Expect a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and roughly a 2.5-hour transfer to Demre. This part of the trip is straightforward, with most reviews mentioning a smooth, timely journey—an important aspect to ensure your day starts on the right foot.

Demre & Initial Boat Ride

Once in Demre harbor, you’ll board a boat for the aquatic part of the journey. The boat, equipped with a glass-bottom deck, is perfect for admiring the underwater relics of the Sunken City of Kekova. The visibility through the glass-bottom is often praised, allowing you to glimpse ancient ruins without getting wet.

The boat cruise along Kekova’s coast is a major highlight, with unbeatable photo ops of the submerged ruins. The fact that swimming isn’t permitted here preserves the site, but we loved the way the boat allows you to see the underwater city from above. Reviewers describe the cruise as “incredibly enjoyable” with “stunning views,” confirming that this is a memorable part of the trip.

Exploring the Sunken City & Simena

Your boat will anchor at Kaleköy (formerly Simena), giving you about 30 minutes to explore this authentic village. It’s an opportunity to wander narrow streets, see the castle ruins, and peek into the necropolis carved into the cliffs.

Next, the boat stops near Simena Castle—hike up for spectacular vistas or relax and dip into the cool waters at the base. The castle entrance fee is minimal (around 1 euro), and many find the hike worthwhile for the panoramic views. If you choose to hike, expect a gentle climb and rewarding scenery.

Bay Breaks and Water Fun

The tour then shifts gears to leisure, with stops at Esmeralda Bay, Burc Bay, and Gökkaya Bay for swimming and relaxing. Each bay offers a distinct ambiance—Esmeralda Bay is noted for its tranquility, perfect for a peaceful lunch and swim. Many reviewers mention the beautiful blue waters and the serenity of these spots.

Gökkaya Bay is particularly popular for water sports, where you can rent equipment and enjoy active fun. The cool springs at Burc Bay add a unique touch, offering a slightly colder swim that’s refreshing on a warm day.

Wildlife & Underwater Encounters

One of the more unique aspects is the opportunity to see turtles in Karemlik Bay. There are five kinds of turtles in the Mediterranean, and the tour offers a chance to spot them in their natural habitat—an experience that delights nature lovers and adds a special touch to the day.

Demre & Archaeological Sites

Back on land, the tour visits Demre harbor again for a short museum visit (free entry), followed by stops at key archaeological sites. The Myra ancient city is a standout, with its theatre, rock-cut tombs, and the Church of St. Nicholas.

The theatre, the largest in Lycia, offers a tangible connection to the past, while the eerie rock tombs carved into the cliffs provide a dramatic visual. The Church of St. Nicholas, built in 520 A.D., is particularly meaningful for many visitors given its association with Santa Claus, adding a layer of cultural intrigue.

Final Return & Reflection

After exploring the ruins, the group is transported back to Antalya, arriving after roughly 2.5 hours of travel. Most reviews express satisfaction with the punctuality and comfort of the return journey, making the long day feel well-managed.

What Travelers Love and What to Consider

Reviewers consistently praise the stunning scenery and value for money, especially considering the included lunch, transportation, and diversity of stops. One reviewer described it as “Incredible” and “the best day in Turkey,” highlighting how the boat trip and village visits make it a memorable experience.

However, some mention the long duration—about 14 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy full days and don’t mind an early start. The packed schedule means there’s little downtime, but the variety of stops keeps the experience engaging.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Trip

• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for the boat, walking, and possible hikes.
• Bring swimwear and towels for the bays, plus sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
• Camera or smartphone with waterproof case is ideal for photos, especially during the boat cruise.
• Expect a full day, so pack snacks if you’re prone to hunger before lunch.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues may find the hilly walks at Simena a bit challenging.
• Budget a euro or two for optional entrance fees, like the castle at Simena or the Church of St. Nicholas.

The Sum Up

This full-day excursion from Antalya offers a fantastic mix of history, nature, and scenic boat rides—all packed into roughly 14 hours. It delivers incredible views, memorable archaeological sites, and opportunities for water fun, making it a great choice for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights of the region.

The value for money is clear, with included lunch, transportation, and multiple stops that cater to diverse interests. It’s especially suited for active travelers, history buffs, and those who love water-based adventures. If you’re after a comprehensive day that captures the essence of the Turkish coast, this tour ticks all the boxes.

In short, expect a well-organized, picturesque, and enriching experience that leaves you with beautiful memories and plenty of stories to tell.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most children who enjoy outdoor activities and boat rides will find this trip enjoyable, but keep in mind the long hours and walking involved.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and a provided lunch. Entrance tickets for the Castle of Simena, Myra, and the Church of St. Nicholas are not included and cost about 1-4 euros.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat cruise around Kekova lasts approximately 15 minutes at each stop, with the whole boat portion lasting most of the day, including time for swimming, photos, and sightseeing.

Can I swim at the Kekova Sunken City?
No, swimming isn’t permitted in the Kekova region to protect the site. Instead, you’ll enjoy viewing the ruins from the boat or at the bays.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes are best for walking and boat rides.

Are the stops wheelchair accessible?
Most of the stops involve walking and some uphill hikes (like at Simena Castle), so accessibility may be limited for travelers with mobility challenges.

How long is the total tour?
From pickup to return, the entire experience lasts around 14 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it’s weather-sensitive. Poor weather may lead to cancellations or alternative arrangements, but you’ll be offered a different date or full refund if that happens.

This detailed account should help you decide if this full-day trip to Demre, Myra, and Kekova fits your travel style. It promises a blend of adventure, history, and stunning scenery—sure to make your trip to Antalya truly unforgettable.