Exploring the rich history and natural beauty of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, the Antalya: Demre, Myra, & Kekova Island Tour offers an immersive day-long adventure. Participants can expect to uncover the fascinating legacy of Saint Nicholas, wander through the ancient ruins of Myra, and marvel at the enchanting Sunken City during a scenic boat cruise. With a delectable local lunch included, this tour promises an enriching experience that blends cultural insights with stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to soak up the Mediterranean charm, this comprehensive tour provides an enticing glimpse into the region’s treasures.
Key Points
- Comprehensive full-day tour from Antalya covering the highlights of Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island, including a boat cruise and local lunch.
- Explore the ancient ruins of Myra, known for its well-preserved theater and necropolis, providing insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
- Visit the Saint Nicholas Church and Museum to learn about the patron saint’s life and legacy, which set the foundation for the Santa Claus tradition.
- Witness the captivating remnants of the Sunken City on a boat cruise to Kekova Island, an archaeological wonder dating back to the 4th century AD.
- Convenient round-trip transportation from various pickup locations, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour from Antalya costs $87.35 per person and lasts 14 hours.
It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and an option to reserve the spot without upfront payment.
Visitors can be picked up from various locations, including Alanya, Side, Belek, Antalya, or Kemer. They’ll need to meet the driver at their hotel’s security gate 10 minutes before departure, and the final pickup time will be provided one day prior.
The tour includes round-trip transportation by bus, as well as entry tickets to ancient sites, a boat cruise, and a local Turkish lunch. However, breakfast and drinks aren’t included.
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Pickup and Transportation
From various locations in the region, including Alanya, Side, Belek, Antalya, or Kemer, visitors are picked up for the tour.
They’ll need to meet the driver at their hotel’s security gate 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time, and the final pickup time will be provided to them one day prior to the tour.
The tour includes round-trip transportation by bus, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey.
With this hassle-free pickup and transportation arrangement, guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive to the tour’s first destination.
This allows them to make the most of their time exploring the historical and natural wonders that await.
Tour Highlights and Activities
During the tour, visitors first explore the historic Saint Nicholas Church and Museum, where they can learn about the life and legacy of the patron saint who inspired the Santa Claus tradition.
Afterward, they venture to the ancient ruins of Myra, marveling at the impressive theater and necropolis that showcase the architectural ingenuity of bygone civilizations.
The tour also includes a delightful local lunch featuring authentic Turkish delicacies.
The highlight of the day is the boat cruise to Kekova Island, where visitors can witness the haunting beauty of the sunken city, a captivating remnant of a lost world now submerged beneath the Mediterranean waters.
Cultural and Historical Insights
Saint Nicholas, the inspiration behind the modern Santa Claus legend, takes center stage as visitors explore his historic church and museum, gaining insights into the life and legacy of this revered figure.
The tour also unveils the architectural marvels of ancient civilizations, with the ruins of Myra showcasing the ingenuity of their builders.
The highlight, however, is the boat cruise to Kekova Island, where the haunting beauty of the sunken city captivates all who witness it.
As travelers enjoy these cultural and historical wonders, they gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of the region’s past, leaving with memories that will last a lifetime.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyInclusions
Included in the tour package are hotel pickup and drop-off, a local lunch, an experienced driver and guide, and entry tickets to the ancient sites if that option is selected. Also provided is a round-trip boat cruise, though breakfast and drinks are not part of the package.
The inclusions of this tour provide a well-rounded experience for visitors. The table below highlights the key inclusions:
Inclusions | Details |
---|---|
Transportation | Hotel pickup/drop-off, round-trip bus |
Activities | Boat cruise, visits to ancient sites |
Meals | Local Turkish lunch |
Services | Driver, guide, entry tickets (if selected) |
With these comprehensive inclusions, travelers can enjoy the cultural and historical wonders of the Antalya region.
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Saint Nicholas Church and Museum
The tour begins with a visit to the Saint Nicholas Church and Museum, where travelers can learn about the history and significance of this iconic figure.
Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus, lived in the 4th century in the ancient city of Myra.
The church built in his honor features stunning Byzantine architecture, including intricate mosaics and frescoes.
Inside the museum, visitors can explore artifacts and exhibits detailing the life and legends of Saint Nicholas.
This stop provides a fascinating glimpse into the origins of one of the world’s most beloved holiday traditions.
Afterward, the tour continues to the ancient ruins of Myra, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Ancient Ruins of Myra
After exploring the legacy of Saint Nicholas, the tour then takes visitors to the ancient ruins of Myra, where they can marvel at the architectural ingenuity of bygone civilizations.
The site boasts a well-preserved theater, as well as a sprawling necropolis that offers a glimpse into the funerary practices of the region’s inhabitants.
Travelers can wander amidst the weathered yet captivating remnants of this once-thriving city, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The theater, with its impressive seating capacity and intricate stone carvings, stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the ancient Lycians.
Meanwhile, the necropolis, adorned with ornate rock-cut tombs, provides a poignant reminder of the reverence the people held for their departed.
Boat Cruise to Kekova Island
Next, the tour takes guests on a captivating boat cruise to the enchanting Kekova Island, where they’ll witness the haunting beauty of the Sunken City.
Gliding along the tranquil waters, travelers gaze in awe at the partially submerged ruins that once formed a bustling coastal town. The boat drifts past crumbled stone walls, collapsed buildings, and eerie remnants peeking out from beneath the surface.
This archaeological wonder, dating back to the 4th century AD, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and the power of nature to reclaim the land.
It’s a humbling and unforgettable experience that transports guests to a bygone era.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to Include Additional Activities?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional activities. Customers can speak with the tour operator to inquire about adding extra stops or experiences to the itinerary based on their interests and preferences.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Group Sizes?
Yes, there are discounts available for larger group sizes on this tour. The more people in the group, the lower the per-person price will be. Customers should inquire about group rates when booking to take advantage of these savings.
What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, lightweight clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Participants should dress for the weather and be prepared for sun exposure during outdoor activities.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a full lunch featuring Turkish delicacies is already included in the package. Bringing additional snacks or beverages is optional and at the discretion of each traveler.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Boat Cruise?
There are no age restrictions for the boat cruise. Children of all ages are welcome to join the tour and enjoy the scenic boat ride to Kekova Island and the Sunken City.
The Sum Up
The Antalya: Demre, Myra, & Kekova Island Tour offers an immersive 14-hour experience to explore Turkey’s rich history and culture.
Visitors will discover the Saint Nicholas Church, the ancient ruins of Myra, and embark on a scenic boat cruise to the enchanting Sunken City on Kekova Island.
This experience is complemented by a delicious local lunch, creating an unforgettable day filled with fascinating insights and stunning landscapes.
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