Antalya: Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Guided Tour

Traveling along Turkey’s southwestern coast, this full-day tour promises a blend of ancient history, scenic boat rides, and underwater adventure. While the experience offers remarkable sights and knowledgeable guides, it also requires a long day on the road, which might not suit everyone. If you’re after a well-rounded day of cultural exploration and seaside fun, this tour hits many of the right notes.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see some of Turkey’s most iconic archaeological sites, like the Lycian necropolises and the ruins of Myra, all complemented by a boat trip to the famed Kekova sunken city. The crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling, are a highlight, allowing you to get a glimpse of the underwater ruins. The hotel pick-up and drop-off make logistics easy, and the included lunch adds value to the day.

However, a notable consideration is the long duration and transportation time. Reviews indicate that the trip can extend well beyond the anticipated nine hours, with some travelers mentioning spent up to 15 hours including travel. This could be tiring, especially for those with young children or limited stamina. Still, if you enjoy full days of adventure and history, this tour offers a lot for your money.

This experience is best suited for travelers who are eager to explore rich history, enjoy boat rides, and aren’t bothered by early mornings or lengthy transfers. For those who appreciate guided insights and a mix of cultural and outdoor activities, it’s a balanced choice.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covering ancient ruins, sunken city, and scenic boat ride
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with entertaining storytelling
• Great value with included lunch, hotel transfers, and a full day of activities
• Long hours on the road; expect a lengthy day, possibly over 12 hours
• Snorkeling opportunities in clear waters around Kekova
• Accessible pickup from Antalya, Belek, and Kemer makes logistics easier

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive Into the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and Early Start

The tour begins with a hotel pickup from your accommodation in Antalya, Belek, or Kemer. This part of the experience is straightforward and hassle-free, especially after a long drive the previous day. Expect the bus to be comfortable, but keep in mind that some reviews mention that the transportation can be cramped—particularly for taller travelers. The early start, often around 5:30 AM, means you’ll need to be ready and energized, but it’s a small price for the day’s highlights.

First Stop: Myra and the Lycian Necropolis

Our first major visit is to Myra, an ancient town on the banks of the River Myros. Here, the Lycians’ tombs carved into the cliffs and the well-preserved Greek amphitheater are captivating. The guide will share stories about St. Nicholas of Myra, the inspiration behind Santa Claus, which adds a touch of festive history to the archaeological site.

One reviewer appreciated the guide’s humor and engaging storytelling, saying “He showed great humor and entertained us really nicely.” If you enjoy cultural insights mixed with a bit of humor, this stop will keep you engaged. Expect to spend around an hour exploring the ruins and listening to stories about the Lycian civilization and the Christian history of the area.

Lunch Break: Nourishing the Body

A complimentary lunch is included—usually simple but tasty, offering a chance to rest and refuel before the boat trip. Some travelers mentioned that the meal was delicious, though the timing of the meal is crucial, as it precedes a long afternoon. Considering the extended hours, bringing your own snacks or water might be helpful, especially if you’re hungry or have dietary restrictions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Boat Trip: Into the Waters of Kekova

The boat ride to Kekova is a highlight for many. You’ll sail over turquoise waters, with the opportunity to snorkel in the waters surrounding the sunken city of Simena. The underwater ruins, including walls and structures that have been submerged for centuries, create a surreal scene that’s perfect for photography and underwater exploration.

Expect the boat to be comfortable, though some reviews mention that the snorkeling isn’t always as inclusive as advertised. One traveler noted that they expected snorkeling to be part of the trip but found it wasn’t explicitly offered, so it might depend on the day’s conditions and the crew. Still, the opportunity to see the underwater remains and enjoy a swim in clear waters makes this part of the day quite special.

Exploring Kekova Island and Nearby Sites

After sailing, you’ll visit the Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa, with ancient tombs perched on cliffs. The views from this vantage point are stunning, offering plenty of photo opportunities. The boat may stop for a bit of free time to wander or relax, depending on the day’s schedule.

Final Stop: Demre and the Church of St. Nicholas

The last leg of the tour takes you to Demre, where the Church of St. Nicholas stands as a beautiful reminder of the town’s religious significance. Many travelers find this visit a peaceful way to close the day, with some reminiscing about the stories of the saint and the picturesque surroundings. The transfer back to your hotel wraps up a day filled with history, scenery, and water-based fun.

Transportation and Duration: What You Should Know

The length of this tour is a crucial factor for potential participants. The official duration is listed as 9-10 hours; however, several reviews mention the trip can take up to 15 hours due to early pick-up times and long drives. One traveler said, “It was a terribly long day,” with the drive alone lasting over three hours each way.

The bus ride might be uncomfortable for some, especially taller guests, and the long hours can be tiring. Yet, the included transfers are convenient, removing the hassle of arranging your own transport and allowing you to relax and focus on the sights.

Cost and Value

With a price of around $65 per person, this tour offers good value considering the comprehensive itinerary, professional guide, lunch, and boat trip. While the price doesn’t include drinks or entrance fees—around 30 Turkish Lira—these extras are typical for tours of this kind. Given the number of sites visited and activities packed into the day, most agree that the cost is reasonable.

Guides and Group Size

The reviews praise guides like Alp for their knowledge and engaging manner, which can make or break the experience. Group sizes tend to be moderate, fostering interaction but still offering some space to breathe. The language options—English and Russian—are helpful for international travelers.

What the Experience Means for You

This tour is an excellent choice if you want a full day of history, scenery, and water activities without the hassle of planning each component yourself. It’s particularly appealing for those interested in Lycian archaeology, interested in seeing a sunken city, and eager to snorkel in clear waters.

However, expect a long day on the road. For travelers with limited stamina or those who prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be a bit too intensive. The early start and long transfers are unavoidable if you want to see all these sites in one day.

Authentic Highlights and Hidden Gems

The stories shared by the guides add a layer of authenticity, bringing ancient ruins to life and giving personal insights into local history. The boat trip offers a unique perspective of the coastline, with many reviewers noting that Kekova’s underwater ruins are truly spectacular.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, water lovers, and those who enjoy guided tours packed with varied activities. It’s perfect for travelers staying in Antalya or nearby who want to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple tickets.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or are traveling with very young children or elderly family members, the long hours and early start might be less suitable.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of archaeology, scenic boat rides, and snorkeling—all for a reasonable price. The guides are often praised for their humor and knowledge, which can make the long day more enjoyable. The inclusion of lunch and hotel transfers adds to the convenience and overall value.

It’s a lively, immersive way to explore the Turkish Riviera’s lesser-known treasures, especially if you’re excited about ancient ruins and underwater sights. Just be ready for a full day and pack accordingly—comfortable shoes, water, and patience for the lengthy travel.

Summary: The Tour’s Strengths and Who It Fits

The highlights are definitely the historical sites of Myra, the beautiful boat ride to Kekova, and the underwater ruins for snorkelers. The guides’ storytelling and value for money make it a strong pick for active, curious travelers.

Potential drawbacks include the long hours and the cramped transportation some might encounter. It’s best suited for those who are enthusiastic about exploring Turkey’s coastal history and don’t mind a packed itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickups are included from all hotels in Antalya, Belek, and Kemer.

How long does the tour last?
Officially, it’s 9-10 hours, but some travelers report it can take up to 15 hours, including travel time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with water and possibly snacks, especially considering the long day.

Are meals included?
Yes, a complimentary lunch is provided, but drinks are not included.

Can I snorkel during the boat trip?
Snorkeling is an option in the clear waters around Kekova, though some reviews note that it may depend on the day’s conditions.

What sites do we visit?
You’ll explore Myra’s ruins, sail to Kekova, visit the sunken city, and see the Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa, ending at Demre’s Church of St. Nicholas.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for older children and adults who don’t mind long hours and early starts. Young children might find the day too tiring.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides speak English and Russian, ensuring clear explanations for most travelers.

This tour offers a rich taste of Turkey’s historical and coastal charm, perfect for those ready for a full day of adventure and discovery.

You can check if your dates are available here: