Kekova Sunken City, St.Nicolas Demre, Myra Tour From Antalya, Alanya & Side - Final Thoughts

Kekova Sunken City, St.Nicolas Demre, Myra Tour From Antalya, Alanya & Side

Discover the highlights of the Kekova Sunken City, Myra, and Demre with this full-day guided tour from Antalya, Alanya, or Side, including transport and lunch.

Exploring the Ancient Marvels of Antalya: Kekova Sunken City & More

This full-day tour promises an exciting glance into Turkey’s ancient past, combining visits to iconic sites like Myra’s rock-cut tombs, the church of St. Nicholas in Demre, and the fascinating Kekova Sunken City via boat cruise. It’s a popular option for travelers eager to pack a lot into one day, with hotel pickup, comfortable transfers, and a tasty included lunch.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with comfort. The small-group vibe (up to 100 travelers) keeps things manageable, and the guided commentary helps bring these archaeological sites to life. However, some travelers note that the long bus rides and early start times might be less ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed pace. It’s best suited for history buffs and those curious about the Lycian civilization or underwater archaeology, especially if you’re in Antalya, Alanya, or Side.

Key Points

  • Comprehensive full-day experience that covers multiple historic sites in one trip
  • Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, plus air-conditioned transportation
  • Guided tours with informative commentary enhance understanding
  • Boat cruise offers a unique view of the sunken city
  • Tasty included lunch in Demre adds value
  • Long travel times may feel tiring, especially for those who prefer shorter excursions

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Kekova Sunken City, St.Nicolas Demre, Myra Tour From Antalya, Alanya & Side - In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Logistics and Transport

Starting with hotel pickups in Antalya, Alanya, or Side, this tour offers the convenience of door-to-door service. We found the transfers to be well-organized, with air-conditioned vehicles providing relief from the heat, especially during the 12-hour day. However, reviews mention that the bus rides can be long—about an hour each way—and the buses tend to be quite cramped and dark, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer more spacious seating.

The tour operates with a maximum of 100 travelers, which allows for a more communal atmosphere without feeling overly crowded. The timing is structured to maximize sightseeing but expect some waiting around, especially during transitions between sites.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Myra Ancient City

Once in Demre, the highlight is Myra’s archaeological site—home to Lycian rock-cut tombs and a well-preserved amphitheater. The Lycian necropolis, with its intricate rock tombs perched on the hillside, really showcases how advanced the Lycians were in their funerary architecture. One guide mentioned that Strabo regarded Myra as a significant city within the Lycian League, which added historical weight to the visit.

This part of the tour offers a chance to walk among ancient ruins and feel connected to the past. Some reviewers, like Andrea, pointed out that the theatre and tombs are “spectacular,” and the site is well worth the visit despite the lengthy travel from the coast.

Next: Demre and the Church of St. Nicholas

The tour includes a stop in Demre for a lunch in the city center—a good chance to try local cuisine and relax for a bit. Afterwards, visitors can explore the church of St. Nicholas, the real-life inspiration for Santa Claus. While the tour doesn’t specify entrance fees, it does mention that entrance to the church and museum of St. Nicholas isn’t included, so you might want to budget for that. Many appreciate the chance to see the small museum and learn about the bishop’s legacy, which adds a cultural layer to the trip.

The Highlight: Kekova Sunken City via Boat

The boat cruise to Kekova is arguably the most memorable part. The sunken city is the remnants of an ancient Lycian settlement submerged after a 2nd-century earthquake. The boat ride offers a different perspective, with reviewers noting the spectacular views of submerged ruins and turquoise waters.

One reviewer, Lily, mentioned that the boat ride itself was “very nice,” and although the overall experience was marred by some logistical hiccups, the views and the underwater archaeological sites are undeniably impressive. Be aware that the boat cruise isn’t included in the base price, so it’s an additional $10, but many feel it’s worth the extra expense for the scenery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of approximately $75.63 per person covers pickup, guiding, transportation, and lunch. However, entrance fees to sites like Myra’s ruins or the St. Nicholas Museum are extra. The boat cruise also costs additional if you wish to participate.

Some reviews suggest the value for money holds up well, especially considering the included transport and guided commentary. On the other hand, a few travelers felt that the long hours on the bus and the extra costs for entrance fees and boat rides could dampen the overall experience if you’re on a tight budget.

Authentic Encounters and Practical Tips

A reviewer mentioned that the guide was knowledgeable, making the history come alive with fascinating facts. Others appreciated the good English spoken by some of the guides—notably a Russian-speaking guide was highlighted as being especially helpful, which indicates that language support can vary.

Many travelers found it helpful to bring swimwear, as some sections, like the boat cruise, provide opportunities for swimming in the clear waters. The included lunch in Demre is generally described as ample and tasty, adding good value to the day.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Well-rounded itinerary covering major sites
– Comfortable transport with hotel pickup
– Knowledgeable guides and rich contextual info
– Stunning views of ancient ruins and the sunken city

Cons:
– Long travel times and cramped buses
– Extra costs for entrance fees and boat cruise
– The day can feel rushed, especially if you prefer leisurely exploration
– Some reviews noted logistical delays and late pickups

Who Should Book This Tour?

Kekova Sunken City, St.Nicolas Demre, Myra Tour From Antalya, Alanya & Side - Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who love history, archaeology, and scenic boat rides. If you’re after a comprehensive day of exploring key Lycian sites, this tour delivers. It’s particularly appealing for those who appreciate guided explanations and want to see a mix of land and underwater sites without the hassle of organizing transport.

However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer more relaxed pacing, this might feel a bit tiring. It’s also a good choice if you’re comfortable with additional expenses for entrance fees and boat rides, as these are not included.

Final Thoughts

Kekova Sunken City, St.Nicolas Demre, Myra Tour From Antalya, Alanya & Side - Final Thoughts

The Kekova Sunken City, St. Nicholas Demre, and Myra Tour from Antalya and nearby areas offers a solid introduction to the ancient Lycian civilization and its remarkable underwater remnants. The highlight is undoubtedly the boat cruise, which provides a rare glimpse into a submerged world that’s both mysterious and awe-inspiring.

While the experience is not without its logistical challenges—long bus rides, optional extra costs, and some tight timing—the chance to walk among ancient ruins, learn about the bishop of Myra, and see a sunken city in real life makes it worthwhile. The guides’ local knowledge enhances the experience, and many travelers find the day’s sights and stories truly memorable.

If you’re eager to combine history, scenic views, and some underwater adventure in one well-organized package, this tour will serve you well. Just be prepared for a full day, some travel fatigue, and the opportunity to learn about Turkey’s ancient Lycian roots in a beautiful setting.

FAQ

Kekova Sunken City, St.Nicolas Demre, Myra Tour From Antalya, Alanya & Side - FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from hotels in Antalya, Alanya, or Side, making it convenient to start your day without extra fuss.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and meals.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to Myra and the St. Nicholas Museum are extra. The boat cruise also costs an additional fee if you choose to participate.

Is the boat cruise part of the tour?
The boat cruise to Kekova Sunken City is not included in the base price but is recommended and costs about $10.

What should I bring?
It’s a good idea to bring comfortable footwear, water, sun protection, and possibly swimwear if you plan to swim.

Can I expect guided commentary?
Yes, guided tours are included, with knowledgeable guides providing context and history throughout the day.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the long bus rides and walking at sites might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What is the best time of year to go?
Most travelers book this tour from spring to fall when weather is warm and dry, ideal for outdoor sightseeing and boat rides.

To sum it up, this tour offers a rich glimpse into Turkey’s Lycian past with sites that will captivate history lovers and adventure seekers alike. While it’s not perfect for those seeking a leisurely pace or budget-friendly options, it provides excellent value for the chance to explore some of southwest Turkey’s most intriguing archaeological sites in one full, memorable day.