Alanya/Side: Demre St. Nicholas, Ancient Myra & Sunken City

If you’re looking to spend a full day uncovering some of Turkey’s most captivating sights, this tour from Alanya or Side offers an excellent mix of history, natural beauty, and unique experiences. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What we love about this experience are the knowledgeable guides who bring history alive, the stunning scenery along scenic roads and boat trips, and the chance to see ancient ruins that few get to experience firsthand. One potential downside is the long bus journey, which might feel wearying for some, especially if you’re not a fan of lengthy transfers. Still, for fans of cultural exploration and beautiful landscapes, this tour hits most marks.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want an immersive day of history and scenery, are comfortable with a full 16-hour schedule, and enjoy a bit of adventure on the water. It’s particularly appealing for those interested in St. Nicholas, ancient Lycian sites, and sunken cities—offering a well-rounded, value-packed excursion.

Good To Know

• Rich historical sites include Myra’s Lycian necropolis and the St. Nicholas Church.
• Scenic boat trip to Kekova provides underwater ruins and beautiful views.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics.
• Includes lunch and entrance fees, making it a good value day out.
• Long travel time might be tiring; consider your stamina for a full day on the road.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Demre, Myra & Kekova Tour

Starting With the Pickup and Journey

The tour begins early, with hotel pickup from Alanya or Side included, which is a convenient start that saves you from navigating busy streets or arranging transport. The journey to Demre takes a good portion of the morning—likely over an hour—so be prepared for a long ride, as one reviewer noted: “it takes a long while to arrive at the destination, but all the long bus trip is worth it.” Traveling in a comfortable coach, often with a friendly guide, makes this part easier.

Discovering Myra: Ancient Ruins and Lycian Tombs

Once in Demre, the first stop is the ancient town of Myra. This site is famous for its well-preserved Greek amphitheater and rock-cut tombs. Visitors can walk among these remnants, getting a tangible sense of what life might have been like thousands of years ago. The guide’s commentary—likely to be engaging and informative—brings these ruins to life, helping you visualize the city’s past.

According to reviews, the Myra visit is a highlight. One traveler gushed, “the museum of St. Nicholas is well preserved,” emphasizing the significance of the site. The St. Nicholas Church, located in Demre, is also on the itinerary, offering a glimpse into the history of the real-life figure behind Santa Claus. Entrance fees are included, so you can explore without worrying about extra costs.

Enjoying a Traditional Lunch

After exploring the ruins, the tour breaks for a complimentary lunch. This is a thoughtful touch, giving you a chance to relax and refuel before the next adventure. The included meal, often traditional Turkish fare, provides good value—especially when considering the overall cost of the tour.

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The Boat Trip to Kekova: A Highlight for Scenic Lovers

Post-lunch, the journey continues to the coast, where you’ll embark on a boat trip to Kekova. This part is often described as the most magical segment: cruising over turquoise waters and seeing the underwater ruins of the sunken city of Simena. The boat ride lasts around an hour, giving ample time to take in the views and snap photos.

One reviewer mentioned, “the boat trip and the ruins of Kekova were a wonderful surprise,” highlighting how special this experience feels. As you glide past the remains of ancient structures submerged beneath the water, it’s easy to feel transported back in time.

Exploring Teimiussa and the Sunken City

The boat also visits the Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa, allowing you to walk along the shoreline and appreciate the ancient tombs carved into cliffs. The clear waters and scenic surroundings make this a memorable photo opportunity. Expect to see crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming if you wish, although swimming isn’t explicitly included.

Visiting Kale and St. Nicholas Church

The tour wraps up with a visit to the small town of Kale (Demre), home to the St. Nicholas Church. The church is a major draw for many, especially for those interested in religious history or simply seeking a charming, historic site. The reviews highlight that this stop provides a peaceful, picturesque ending to the day.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

This tour lasts about 16 hours, so it’s a long but engaging day. The group size varies, but with the inclusion of hotel pickups, it tends to be a comfortable experience. Remember to wear comfortable shoes—both the ruins and the boat trip involve some walking—and bring sun protection, especially during the outdoor visits.

Drinks are not included in the package, so bring water or purchase some during stops. The tour is available in English and Russian, accommodating a diverse group of travelers. If mobility is a concern, note that the experience isn’t suited for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Weighing the Value

Considering the price includes all entrance fees, lunch, boat trip, and transportation, many find it offers good value for money. The guided commentary adds depth and context that would be hard to replicate independently, making the ticket price worthwhile for history buffs and scenic lovers alike.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Insights

Lessons from reviews reveal that guides—like Margot—are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. While some found the pickups at multiple hotels lengthy—”which took way too long,” notes one—they also acknowledged that the scenic drive and views made it worthwhile. The opportunity to see rarely visited sites and underwater ruins makes this a memorable excursion.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate history and outdoor scenery. If you’re interested in Lyvian ruins, St. Nicholas’s connection to history, and scenic boat rides, this tour offers an engaging way to explore. It’s also suitable for those comfortable with long travel days and looking for a cost-effective, all-in-one experience.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer shorter excursions, this might be less ideal. The long bus ride could be tiring, but the variety of sights and unique underwater ruins make it worth the effort.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Alanya or Side offers a compelling mix of history, scenic beauty, and cultural insight. With expert guides, a comfortable setup, and carefully chosen stops, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Turkey’s ancient Lycian civilization and a collection of stunning photos.

While the extended travel time can test patience, the sights—especially the sunken city of Kekova and the ruins of Myra—are truly worth it. It’s a thoughtful, well-organized adventure for curious travelers eager to see some of Turkey’s most meaningful sites in a single day.

Ideal for history buffs, photo enthusiasts, and those seeking a memorable cultural experience. If you’re prepared for a long day and looking to unlock some of Turkey’s hidden historical treasures, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from your hotel’s security gate in Alanya or Side, making logistics straightforward.

What’s included in the tour price?
The cost covers transportation, a guided tour, entrance fees to Demre, Myra, and St. Nicholas Church, a boat trip to Kekova, and a complimentary lunch.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat ride to Kekova lasts about an hour, during which you can enjoy viewing underwater ruins and scenic scenery.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so you’ll need to bring water or purchase beverages during the stops.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and uneven terrain at some sites.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a camera for capturing the ruins and landscapes.

Is the timing flexible?
Visit availability varies, so check the schedule when booking. The tour runs approximately 16 hours, so be prepared for a full day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility in your travel plans.

This tour offers a well-rounded day of exploration into Turkey’s ancient past and stunning coastlines. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of scenic boat rides, or simply seeking to see lesser-known treasures, it’s a journey worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: