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

Planning a day trip from Alanya to explore some of Turkey’s most captivating ancient sites and scenic coastlines? This full-day tour offers a blend of history, nature, and leisure, with visits to the sunken city of Kekova, the ruins of Myra, and the Church of St. Nicholas. Priced at $90 per person, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to see more of Turkey’s rich past while enjoying a relaxing boat cruise.

What makes this experience especially appealing? We love the opportunity to see underwater ruins from a boat, the chance to wander through ancient rock-cut tombs, and the inclusion of lunch in a buffet style that hits the spot after a morning of sightseeing. However, potential travelers should consider the long duration of about 15 hours and the fact that some parts of the tour might feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re keen on detailed exploration. This trip suits those curious about history, lovers of scenic boat rides, and anyone comfortable with a full-day itinerary.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenic Views: The boat trip to Kekova offers breathtaking views of the sunken city and turquoise waters.
• Historical Highlights: You’ll visit the ancient city of Myra, see rock-cut tombs, and the Church of St. Nicholas.
• Comprehensive Experience: Combines guided tours, boat rides, and free time for swimming or exploring.
• Value for Money: The tour includes lunch, boat trips, and professional guides at a reasonable price.
• Potential for Rushed Experience: Some reviews mention limited time at certain sites, so be prepared for a full schedule.
• Suitable for Curious Travelers: Ideal for those interested in history combined with scenic coastal views and light adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Early Mornings

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel — with 17 pickup locations around Alanya, it’s designed to be as convenient as possible. Expect to be collected early, and be ready for a long day ahead. The exact pickup time depends on your location and traffic, but the day officially kicks off with a brief rest stop in Antalya for about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to grab a quick breakfast or freshen up.

First Stop: Myra Ruins and Guided Tour

The first major stop is the ancient city of Myra, where a guided tour provides context about its Lycian tombs, Greek amphitheater, and historical significance. We’re told that the tour guides are knowledgeable and eager to share their insights — despite some language barriers (as noted by reviews mentioning difficulty understanding English), guides seem well-prepared and helpful.

One review mentions that the guides managed to clarify payment issues that caused some confusion among travelers, which is reassuring. You’ll have roughly an hour here, enough to take photos of the rock-cut tombs and imagine life in this once-bustling city. Be mindful that some travelers felt there was limited time at the sites, so if history excites you, arriving early or requesting more time could help.

Lunch Break: A Buffet Feast

Following the ruins, a 50-minute break allows for a buffet-style lunch. Review comments praise the quality of the meal, describing it as “very tasty” and a good variety of options. It’s a chance to relax, refuel, and swap stories with fellow travelers before heading to the next adventure.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visiting Kekova: Sunken City and Boat Cruise

The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the boat cruise over Kekova Island. The boat trip lasts around 2 hours and 15 minutes, giving plenty of time to take in the scenic rugged coastline and underwater ruins. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with space for swimming and relaxing.

You’ll get close enough to the sunken city of Kekova, destroyed by an earthquake in the 2nd century, to see the submerged walls and ruins. Many travelers find this part especially captivating — the combination of history and natural beauty makes for a memorable experience. Expect to have swims in the crystal-clear waters, so don’t forget your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen.

Exploring the Lycian Necropolis and Other Sights

Back on land, there’s a visit to the Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa, where the ancient tombs carved into cliffs are a photographer’s dream. The ancient Greek amphitheater nearby also provides a glimpse of classical architecture and entertainment artifacts.

Visiting the Church of St. Nicholas

The final significant stop is the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre, where the saint himself was bishop. The church is a site of pilgrimage and history, with a small museum and some beautiful architecture. It’s an emotional and historical highlight, especially for those interested in the origins of Santa Claus.

Return Trip and Drop-Offs

After a long day, the tour makes its way back to Alanya, with planned drop-offs at 17 locations. Expect to arrive late in the evening, possibly around 10 pm, so plan your evening accordingly.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics. Although the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest a reasonably comfortable group — not overly crowded, and with guides who are attentive. The transport is described as smooth and punctual, adding to the overall comfort of the experience.

What We Love About This Tour

Historical richness packed into one day, with the chance to see both ancient ruins and underwater remains. The boat ride is a peaceful, scenic highlight that offers a different perspective than just walking through ruins. The inclusion of lunch and transportation makes it a practical option, especially for travelers who want a hassle-free day.

Authentic experiences like swimming in clear waters, exploring Lycian tombs, and walking the streets of Demre help bring Turkey’s history alive.

Possible Drawbacks to Consider

The 15-hour duration can be tiring, especially if you prefer shorter, more relaxed excursions. Some travelers noted that time at certain sites feels rushed, particularly at Myra, where sightseeing and shopping for souvenirs had to be squeezed into a tight window. Plus, there’s some mention of language barriers with guides, which might be a consideration if you prefer detailed, nuanced explanations.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, scenic lovers, and those wanting a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning multiple transport connections. It’s also great if you’re interested in combining cultural exploration with relaxing boat activities. However, if you prefer a leisurely pace or have limited mobility, the long hours and walking involved might be challenging.

Final Thoughts on Value and Authenticity

At $90 per person, the tour offers a solid package, especially considering the included boat cruise, guided tours, and lunch. While some reviews mention that prices can vary depending on booking methods, the overall value remains good for those wanting to cover significant historical ground in one day.

The experience delivers a balance between educational content, scenic beauty, and leisure activities. It’s well-suited for those eager to combine history, nature, and light adventure in a single, manageable day. Just be prepared for a long day, and don’t forget your swim gear!

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel is included at one of 17 designated locations around Alanya, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the tour?
The entire tour lasts approximately 15 hours, including stops, lunch, and transfers.

Are there swimming opportunities?
Yes, during the boat cruise, you’ll have the chance to swim in the clear waters near Kekova Island. Remember to bring your swimwear and towel.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and camera are recommended to make the most of your day.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While the tour covers a lot of ground and involves some walking, it can be suitable for older travelers or children comfortable with a full day out. Always check with the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this tour from Alanya offers a comprehensive look at some of Turkey’s most evocative ancient sites, combined with relaxing boat rides and scenic views. Perfect for history enthusiasts and those craving a full-day adventure, it delivers solid value and memorable experiences — just be prepared for a long but rewarding day.

You can check if your dates are available here: