From Alanya: Kekova, Demre, and Myra Tour with Boat Trip

Embarking on the Kekova, Demre, and Myra tour offers an inviting glimpse into Turkey’s captivating history and natural beauty, all within a single day. Although I haven’t personally joined this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s packed with memorable moments—from exploring ancient ruins to gliding over sunken cities by boat.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the two-hour boat cruise promises peaceful views of turquoise waters and a chance to swim in clear bays. Second, the stops at Myra’s ancient theater and the Church of Saint Nicholas provide a tangible connection to history and legend. Lastly, the opportunity to see the sunken city of Kekova, with its submerged ruins, is a visual highlight that many travelers find unique.

A potential consideration is the full-day schedule, which might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer more relaxed or flexible itineraries. Plus, the museum entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly.

This tour caters well to history buffs and those eager for scenic boat rides, making it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day of culture and coastlines from Alanya. If you’re after immersive historical insights paired with beautiful views, this could be a perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Historic sites like Myra’s ancient theater and Lycian tombs make this tour culturally enriching.
• Scenic boat cruise offers opportunities for swimming, photography, and relaxing on the water.
• Sunken city of Kekova provides a rare glimpse into underwater archaeology through stunning vistas.
• All-inclusive package includes transportation, guide, lunch, and a boat tour, delivering good value.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows full refunds if plans change, offering peace of mind.
• Multilingual guides enhance the experience, making it accessible for international travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

How the Tour Begins: Convenient Pickup and a Morning Start

The journey kicks off with hotel pickup in Alanya, which many reviews praise for its punctuality and friendly drivers. The organizer, SENCAP RFAN TURZM, ensures a smooth start, making it easy to relax rather than worry about transport logistics. You’ll be taken to Antalya, where a short breakfast break prepares you for the day ahead. This pause is appreciated by travelers who want to avoid rushing straight into sightseeing, giving everyone a chance to stretch their legs and enjoy a quick coffee.

Exploring Myra: Ancient Theater and the Rock Tombs

Following the Antalya stop, the first major sightseeing highlight is Myra, an ancient city renowned for its Lycian ruins. Visitors typically admire the well-preserved theater carved into the hillside, offering impressive views over the valley. The rock tombs, cut into the cliffs, provide a striking reminder of Lycian craftsmanship and religious practices.

As one reviewer noted, “Walking through Myra felt like stepping back in time — the theater still has all its grandeur, and the tombs are carved with such detail.” The guide often shares stories about Saint Nicholas, known locally as Santa Claus, as the church of Saint Nicholas is a significant highlight. It’s a chance to connect legends with history, making for a meaningful stop.

The Sunken City of Kekova: A Visual Marvel

After lunch, the tour moves to Kekova, famed for its sunken city, which lies just below the water’s surface. The boat trip around Kekova is a core part of the experience, lasting approximately 2 hours. During this cruise, travelers can enjoy swimming breaks at various bays, which many reviews mention as the perfect way to refresh after a morning of walking and sightseeing.

Onboard commentary points out the submerged ruins visible from the boat — a truly surreal sight. As one guest put it, “Seeing the sunken houses and walls from the boat was like looking at a real-life Atlantis.” The boat also offers stunning panoramic views of the charming coastline and the island of Kekova itself.

Authenticity and Practicality: What You Need to Know

The boat tour is well-organized, with stops designed for picture-taking and relaxing. Travelers frequently note that the scenery is breathtaking, especially when the sunlight hits the water, making every shot Instagram-worthy. The boat crew is attentive, and the inclusion of swimming breaks makes the experience more interactive and fun.

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Highlights of the Day: Visiting the Church of Saint Nicholas and Lunch

Post the Kekova cruise, the tour returns to Myra for a traditional Turkish lunch. Many reviews mention the quality and generous portions, making this meal a highlight for food lovers. Afterward, a visit to the Church of Saint Nicholas offers a chance for quiet reflection or photo opportunities.

Ending the Day: Return and Drop-off

The tour concludes with a transfer back to Antalya for a short rest, before your driver takes you back to your hotel in Alanya. The overall duration and well-paced schedule mean you’re not rushed yet still able to experience all the key sights.

Is This Tour Worth the Cost?

Considering the full-day itinerary, inclusive transportation, guide, lunch, and boat tour, the value is quite good. The scenic boat trip alone offers hours of enjoyment, while the historical sites add depth to the experience. Travelers generally find that paying a bit extra is justified by the convenience and comprehensive nature of the tour.

A Few Practical Tips

• Bring sunscreen and a hat — the sun can be intense during the boat cruise and sightseeing.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Myra and other sites.
• Money for museum entrance fees if you want to access additional exhibits, as they are not included.
• Be prepared for a full day; early starts and a busy schedule mean it’s best suited for active travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts wanting to see ancient Lycian sites and legends, as well as nature lovers drawn to scenic boat rides and coastal views. It’s also suited for those who prefer organized day trips, ensuring hassle-free transportation and guided insights. If you’re after a balanced mix of culture, history, and seaside relaxation, this tour ticks all the boxes.

This trip offers a comprehensive snapshot of Turkey’s historic and natural gems near Alanya. The combined visits to Myra’s ruins, the Church of Saint Nicholas, and the sunken city of Kekova make it a well-rounded choice for curious travelers. The two-hour boat cruise adds a memorable, scenic element that many find the highlight of the day.

The value for money is strong, given the inclusion of transportation, guide, lunch, and boat tour. It’s best suited for those who want to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of organizing separate visits or transport. The pace is lively but flexible enough to enjoy each stop thoroughly.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience Turkey’s layered history and stunning coastline in one well-organized package. Whether you’re a history buff, a scenic lover, or simply curious about this region, you’ll likely come away with a deeper appreciation for the area’s beauty and stories.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Alanya, a tour guide in multiple languages, lunch, and a 2-hour boat trip around Kekova.

Are museum entrance fees covered?
No, the museum entrances are not included in the tour price, so you may need to pay separately if you want to visit additional exhibits.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English, Russian, Polish, and Turkish, making the tour accessible for various travelers.

How long is the boat tour?
The boat tour lasts approximately 2 hours and includes swimming breaks and opportunities for photos.

When does the tour operate?
It is offered on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, with specific starting times depending on your pickup location.

Is there any flexibility with cancellations?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

This detailed overview aims to give you a clear picture of what you can expect from the Kekova, Demre, and Myra tour from Alanya. It’s a chance to enjoy a well-paced mix of history, scenic cruising, and coastal beauty, perfectly suited for travelers eager to see Turkey’s diverse treasures in a single day.

You can check if your dates are available here: