Demre Myra Kekova from Alanya

Travelers seeking a mix of history, stunning scenery, and maritime adventure will find this full-day tour from Alanya a compelling choice. Priced at around $83.81 per person, it promises a comprehensive itinerary that covers some of Turkey’s most iconic sites including the sunken city of Kekova, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the ancient Lycian city of Myra. With a friendly guide, boat trips, and lunch included, it offers good value for those eager to explore beyond the usual beaches of Alanya.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the way it combines diverse experiences—cultural visits, scenic boat rides, and a delicious open buffet—making it ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and curious travelers alike. One of the standout features is the boat trip near Kekova, where you’ll float beside the sunken city and enjoy swimming opportunities. However, a significant consideration for some might be the early start and long travel time, as the tour departs at 2 am and takes about 7 hours to reach the sites. This makes it best suited for energetic explorers willing to start their day early and embrace a full, immersive experience.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, authentic day trip that offers a meaningful glimpse into Turkey’s ancient past and scenic coastlines, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially good for travelers who enjoy guided experiences and don’t mind a long day on the road, as the highlights are worth the effort. Now, let’s explore in detail what makes this tour appealing—and what potential drawbacks you should keep in mind.

• Comprehensive itinerary covering both cultural sites and natural beauty.
• Expert guides enhance understanding with detailed historical insights.
• Boat trip experience offers unique views of the sunken city of Kekova.
• Long travel time requires early wake-up and stamina but pays off with stunning sights.
• All-inclusive aspects such as lunch, boat trip, insurance, and hotel transfers add value.
• Limited optional fees make most costs transparent, except for drinks and personal expenses.

Starting Early and Long Journey

Most travelers report an early start, with pickups around 2 am, which means a very early wake-up call. As one reviewer, Nina_P, noted, “get plenty of rest the night before.” The early departure might seem daunting, but it allows for a full day of exploration and avoids crowds at popular sites. The total travel time is approximately 7 hours, which might feel lengthy but is justified by the depth of experience once you arrive.

Comfortable Transportation and Group Size

While the specific vehicle details aren’t mentioned, the fact that hotel pickup and drop-off are included suggests a comfortable, private or semi-private transfer. The tour caps at 48 travelers, making it manageable and allowing for a more personalized experience. Smaller groups often mean more interaction with guides and less waiting around.

The Guide and Tour Logistics

An experienced guide, whose insights are highly valued by past participants, walks you through each site with enthusiasm and knowledge. Their commentary enriches the visit, especially at key points like the Church of St. Nicholas and Myra. Knowing the stories behind Saint Nicholas, the Lycian tombs, and the Roman theater helps bring these ancient places alive.

The Church of St. Nicholas – A Sacred Stop

The first major stop is the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre, where the saint’s tomb is housed. It’s a quiet, contemplative place with a powerful atmosphere. Nina described it as “beautiful,” emphasizing the significance of the site. It’s worth noting that admission isn’t included, so budget a few dollars for entry if you wish to explore more deeply.

Exploring Demre (Kale)

Next, there’s free time to explore Demre, where you can visit the local museum or simply stroll through the town. The half-hour allocated might seem brief, but it’s enough to soak in the local vibe or grab a quick coffee. The museum provides additional context about the area’s history, enriching your understanding of the region.

Myra’s Ancient Marvels

The highlight here is the ancient city of Myra, where the Roman theater and Lycian cave tombs await. We loved the way guides explain the historical layers—how the Lycian tombs, carved into the cliffs, contrast with the Roman ruins, creating a tapestry of civilizations. The theater, still remarkably intact, offers sweeping views over the valley, perfect for photo enthusiasts.

The Boat Trip and Kekova

The boat adventure is a standout feature. Floating close to the sunken city of Kekova, you’ll have the chance to see the submerged ruins and even swim if you wish. The boat is comfortable, and the crew manages a relaxed pace. The open buffet lunch on the boat is simple but satisfying, with beverages available for purchase.

Many visitors, including Nina, mentioned that the boat ride was “just amazing” and worth the long day. The views of the hillside ruins and crystal-clear water are particularly memorable. The boat trip is about two hours, allowing enough time to enjoy the scenery and cool off with a swim.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy the contrast between ancient stone structures, peaceful coastal waters, and lush mountain scenery. The combination of culture and natural beauty offers a well-rounded experience. The visit to the Icon Center, with its sacred icons, adds a spiritual dimension, rounding out the historical journey.

Return and Reflection

After a long day, the return trip offers time to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen. Most travelers appreciate the comprehensive coverage—visiting significant religious sites, ancient ruins, and beautiful coastlines—all in one trip. Be prepared for a late return to your hotel, often around 9 pm or later.

Compared to other full-day tours in Antalya, this experience offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusions: lunch, boat trip, insurance, and hotel transfers. While some costs like drinks and personal expenses are extra, the core experiences are covered, and the guide’s expertise enhances the visit’s depth.

The long travel time might be a drawback for some, but the benefits—access to sites that are otherwise hard to reach independently—make it worthwhile. The tour’s small group size and professional guide ensure a more intimate and informative day.

This trip is perfect for those interested in history, archaeology, and scenic beauty. It’s well suited for travelers who don’t mind a long day and early start, as the experience compensates with unforgettable sights. Family groups with older children, history buffs, and adventurous spirits will find it particularly rewarding.

The Demre Myra Kekova tour from Alanya offers a robust and authentic day exploring some of Turkey’s most significant historical sites and stunning coastal scenery. With knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops, it combines cultural education, scenic boat rides, and spiritual sites into one package. The early start and lengthy travel are the main considerations, but the payoff—beautiful ruins, an enchanting boat trip, and enriching stories—makes it worthwhile.

If you’re ready to venture beyond the beaches and dive into Turkey’s deep history and scenic coastlines, this tour will serve you well. It’s a good choice for those who value guided insights, historical context, and unique vistas—all at a reasonable price point.

Is breakfast included in the tour?
No, the tour includes a stop for breakfast in the mountains, but the actual meal is not specified as included.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 12 hours, with an early pickup around 2 am and return in the evening.

Do I need to pay for entry to sites?
Some sites, like the Church of St. Nicholas and the museum, require separate admission tickets, which are not included in the tour price.

What’s the main highlight of the boat trip?
Floating near the sunken city of Kekova and swimming opportunities make the boat trip memorable. Past travelers described it as “just amazing.”

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the full-day nature and early start suggest it’s best for older children and teenagers who can handle long hours and walking.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, and swimwear if you plan to swim. Also, a small amount of cash for extras like drinks or souvenirs.

In summary, this tour offers a detailed, well-rounded experience for history lovers and scenic explorers. It balances culture, nature, and comfort, making it a valuable addition to any Turkey itinerary, especially for those eager to see beyond the typical coastal attractions.