Alanya/Side: Demre St. Nicholas, Ancient Myra & Sunken City

Our review of the full-day Demre tour in Turkey focuses on an experience that combines history, scenic beauty, and authentic local charm. While we haven’t personally taken it, travelers consistently praise the tour for its impressive sights and knowledgeable guides. The trip spans approximately 16 hours, offering a chance to explore some of the most captivating sites along the Turkish Riviera.

One thing we really appreciate about this kind of tour is the blend of history and nature—seeing ancient Lycian ruins, sailing over turquoise waters, and discovering sunken cities all in one day. That said, it’s a long trip, with multiple hotel pickups, which can test your patience if you’re not a fan of early starts or lengthy bus rides. Still, if you’re interested in history, stunning landscapes, and a well-organized excursion, this tour will suit you.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love cultural exploration, scenic boat rides, and don’t mind spending a full day on the move. It’s particularly appealing for those keen on seeing Myra’s ancient tombs, St. Nicholas’ church, and the underwater ruins of Kekova, all with the comfort of an experienced guide.

Key Points

• History and Scenery: Combines Lycian archaeological sites, a sunken city, and scenic coastal views.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Margot, help bring history to life.
• Full-Day Experience: Expect a long day with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Value for Money: Includes lunch, entrance fees, boat trip, and transportation.
• Authentic Local Sights: Visit the small town of Kale and the Church of St. Nicholas.
• Long Travel Time: Significant bus journey, but the scenery en route is often praised.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Pickup and Transfer

The adventure begins with hotel pickup from your accommodation in Alanya or Side—organized efficiently with a security gate pickup that’s usually seamless. Given the long drive (some reviews mention it takes a while to reach the sites), the group size can be moderate, allowing for a more personal experience. Drivers and guides are often praised; one reviewer specifically called Margot “incredible,” highlighting the value of expert narration during the journey.

Myra: An Ancient Lycian City

Your first stop is the ancient town of Myra, located on the banks of the River Myros. Here, you’ll explore the Greek amphitheater—a surprisingly well-preserved structure that once hosted public gatherings. You’re also taken to see the rock-cut tombs, which are carved directly into the cliffs, creating a striking visual against the modern landscape.

The guide will undoubtedly share stories of St. Nicholas of Myra, inspiring many with tales of the beloved saint, and you’ll visit the St. Nicholas Church. This site is very special for many visitors, not just for its religious significance but for its thoughtful preservation, which allows you to feel connected to history.

Lunch Break

A complimentary lunch is included, typically served in a local restaurant. Reviewers mention that the meal is well-prepared, offering good value after the morning’s sightseeing. Expect traditional Turkish fare, often with options to suit different dietary preferences, providing a welcome break before the afternoon activities.

Boat Trip to Kekova & Sunken City

Post-lunch, the group boards a boat for the highlight of the day—the boat trip to Kekova. The boat ride lasts around an hour, giving ample time to relax as you cruise over turquoise waters. As you sail, you’ll see the ruins of the Sunken City of Simena, which are mostly submerged but visible from the boat.

The underwater ruins create an almost surreal scene—some parts of buildings and walls remain above water, and the clear water lets you glimpse the ancient structures below. The boat crew often provides commentary, enhancing your understanding of this submerged archaeological site.

Teimiussa Necropolis

Next, you visit the Lycian necropolis of Teimiussa, located on a hillside overlooking the sea. The tombs carved into the rock are impressive, and the setting offers beautiful panoramic views, perfect for photos. This site is less visited than Myra but offers a quiet, reflective atmosphere.

Kale and St. Nicholas Church

The day concludes with a visit to Kale, the small town famous for its church dedicated to St. Nicholas—the historical figure behind Santa Claus. The church is well-preserved, and visitors often find it a meaningful place to connect with the story of St. Nicholas, making it a fitting end to a day full of history and scenic beauty.

Return to Your Hotel

The return journey is usually just as scenic as the trip there. Expect to arrive back in Alanya or Side late in the evening, tired but enriched by the experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the most praised aspects is the expert guidance, which truly enhances understanding and appreciation of each site. Several reviews mention guides like Margot, who bring enthusiasm and in-depth knowledge, making the history more engaging.

The scenic boat trip is another highlight, particularly for those who enjoy relaxing on the water and viewing ancient ruins from a different perspective. The long drive might seem daunting, but many find the journey rewarding, especially the route between Demre and Finike, which travelers describe as “scenic and beautiful.”

The value for money is generally considered good since the tour includes entrance fees, lunch, boat trip, and transportation. For a full day of exploration, this package offers convenience and a well-rounded experience.

Potential Drawbacks

The main drawback often mentioned is the length of the day and the multiple hotel pickups, which can make the start quite early and the journey longer than expected. Some travelers found it a little too long, especially if they prefer shorter excursions or are sensitive to lengthy bus rides.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or those who use wheelchairs, due to the uneven terrain at some sites and the nature of boat and site visits.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking over uneven surfaces, especially at Myra and Kale.
• Prepare for a long day—pack some snacks or water, especially if you’re sensitive to long bus rides.
• The tour is conducted in English and Russian, so ensure you’re comfortable with these languages or have a guide device if needed.
• Since drinks are not included, consider bringing water or purchasing beverages during lunch.
• Be aware that the tour is quite full, so arrive early and be ready for a busy, yet rewarding day.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Demre full-day tour is perfect for history buffs, scenic travelers, and those looking for an immersive experience beyond the usual beach holiday. It’s especially valuable if you want a guided, well-organized way to see Myra, the Sunken City of Kekova, and the Church of St. Nicholas without the hassle of organizing transportation and entry tickets yourself.

Travelers who value expert guides and meaningful cultural stops will find this tour offers excellent insights and authentic sights. The boat trip adds a relaxing, scenic element, making it a well-rounded day for those willing to spend several hours on the move.

However, if you prefer shorter excursions or are sensitive to long travel times, you might want to consider how this fits into your holiday plans. The experience is very much about covering a lot of ground in a single day—so patience and an appreciation for scenic journeys will enhance your enjoyment.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Start times vary; check availability to see the exact starting time for your booking.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with pickups from your hotel’s security gate.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers entrance fees to Demre, Myra, and the Saint Nicholas Church.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking on uneven surfaces. Also, bring water and possibly a hat for sun protection.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it isn’t explicitly stated, the long day and walking over uneven terrain suggest it’s better suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with a full day trip.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so you should bring your own or plan to purchase beverages during lunch or at stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Turkey’s most significant and scenic historical sites. It’s a fantastic way to combine culture, history, and natural beauty—all in one memorable day.