Antalya: Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Guided Tour

Taking a day to explore the lesser-known gems of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast can be a rewarding experience, and this Antalya-based tour offers just that. Designed to showcase some of the region’s most captivating historical sites and scenic waters, it combines ancient ruins, a boat trip to a sunken city, and plenty of opportunities to snorkel in clear waters. While it’s a full-day affair, it’s packed with enough sights and stories to justify the long hours.

One thing we appreciate about this tour is how it balances history and relaxation—visiting Myra’s Lycian necropolis and St. Nicholas Church offers cultural depth, while the boat trip to Kekova’s sunken ruins provides a stunning aquatic spectacle. The complimentary lunch is a practical touch, especially given the length of the day, and many reviewers mention their guides’ knowledge and humor as a highlight.

Of course, no experience is perfect. Several guests have pointed out issues like transportation comfort and the long hours, which can be a challenge if you prefer a leisurely pace. Still, if you’re eager to see historic sites, enjoy a boat adventure, and don’t mind a bit of a journey, this tour could be a great fit. It’s particularly suitable for travelers interested in history, scenic landscapes, and authentic local experiences.

Key Points

• Historical richness: Visit Myra’s Lycian necropolis and the church of St. Nicholas, blending ancient history with Christian lore.
• Stunning boat trip: Sail over turquoise waters to Kekova, where you’ll see the famous sunken city and underwater ruins.
• Snorkeling opportunities: Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, gaining a glimpse of the submerged relics.
• Guide expertise: The guide, Alp, is praised for his knowledge and humor, making the day both educational and entertaining.
• Full-day experience: Expect a 9-10 hour trip, including transport, sightseeing, and boat time.
• Long transportation times: The drive from Antalya to the sites often exceeds 3 hours, which might be tiring for some.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: Hotel Pick-ups and Transfers

The tour kicks off with hotel pick-up from Antalya, Belek, Kemer, Side, or Alanya, which already makes it convenient. The transport is included, but several reviews mention that the van can be a tight fit—especially for taller travelers. One guest noted that the van was “absolutely horrible,” and that sitting in it for hours was less than ideal. If you’re tall or traveling with a group, it might be worth requesting an early pickup or confirming the vehicle size.

First Stop: Myra and Demre

Arriving at Myra, you’re greeted with a view of Lycia’s ancient rock-cut tombs and the impressive Greek amphitheater. We loved the way the guide, Alp, shared stories with humor and insight, making the ruins easier to visualize and remember. Reviewers mention that Alp’s knowledge and engaging style elevated the experience, turning what could be just another sightseeing stop into a lively educational moment.

While the site is rich in history, the walk around can be hot and uneven, so comfortable shoes are a must. Guests appreciated that the tour included the St. Nicholas Church, providing a spiritual and cultural anchor to the day. The church is visually striking, and many visitors enjoy imagining the origins of Santa Claus amid the ancient stones.

Lunch: A Practical Break

A complimentary lunch is included, giving travelers a much-needed break and a taste of local cuisine. Several reviews praise the quality of the meal, noting it as delicious and filling. Considering the length of the trip, this is a smart inclusion that adds real value, saving money and time.

The Boat Trip: Kekova and Underwater Ruins

The highlight for many is the boat tour to Kekova. As you sail over the turquoise waters, you’ll pass the sunken city of Simena, where submerged walls and ruins are visible from the boat or snorkel gear. The water is exceptionally clear, and snorkel equipment is often available, allowing you to peer into the submerged streets and houses.

Guests mention how magical the boat ride is, with some describing it as “fun” and others calling it “breathtaking” — especially when viewing the underwater ruins from the deck. The boat also visits Teimiussa, another Lycian necropolis on the shoreline, adding a historical layer to the scenic trip.

Snorkeling and Swimming

Swimmers and snorkelers will appreciate the chance to dip into the crystal waters. Multiple reviews note the waters are inviting and clear, perfect for exploring the underwater relics. Keep in mind that the actual snorkeling isn’t guaranteed for everyone—some guests, including one reviewer, pointed out that snorkeling was not as extensive as anticipated. Still, the opportunity to swim in such transparent waters is a major draw.

Final Stop: Demre and St. Nicholas

The day winds down in Demre with a visit to the Church of St. Nicholas. The church’s basilica and the nearby museum provide a charming, spiritual end to the tour. Several visitors found this part especially meaningful, as it connects the ancient with the modern, and offers a chance to reflect on the region’s religious significance.

Return and Overall Length

The trip concludes back at your hotel after a long day—some reviews mention it taking upwards of 15 hours, even though the tour is advertised as 9-10 hours. This discrepancy is mostly due to transportation times, especially if you’re staying farther from the starting point. Guests also mention that early mornings (pick-up around 5:30 am) and late returns can be tiring, but the sightseeing makes up for it.

Analyzing the Value

At $65 per person, the tour covers guide services, boat trip, lunch, and hotel transfers. The inclusion of transportation and a knowledgeable guide adds significant value, especially for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see these sites without navigating public transport or booking separate tickets.

However, some travelers feel the long hours and transportation discomfort might reduce the overall experience. The reviews highlight that the guide’s personality can make or break the trip—Alp’s mix of humor and insights receives high praise, while others found the guide’s personal opinions and microphone handling less enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those interested in history and culture, particularly fans of Lycian archaeology and Christian relics. It’s also great for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides and snorkeling, provided they are comfortable with the long hours and some transit discomfort. Families with older children or teens who can handle the early start and long day will find it well worth the effort.

Who Might Want to Skip This?

If you prefer relaxing, shorter excursions or have mobility concerns, this tour might feel a bit too demanding. Also, if you’re looking for a very in-depth snorkeling experience, you might want to seek a dedicated water trip, as snorkeling here appears to be more of a quick dip than an extended activity.

Final Thoughts

This Antalya: Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Tour offers a well-rounded experience combining history, scenic beauty, and a boat adventure. The value is solid, especially considering the included lunch and guide services, but be prepared for a long day that involves considerable transit time. The tour’s success hinges heavily on the guide’s personality and the group’s patience with the journey.

If your priority is seeing significant archaeological sites, and you enjoy the idea of exploring a sunken city from the deck of a boat, this experience can be quite memorable. It’s best suited for curious travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and are eager to learn about Lycian history and enjoy some underwater sights.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes guide services, a boat trip to Kekova, lunch, and hotel pick-up and drop-off in Antalya and surrounding areas.

How long does the trip last?
The tour runs for approximately 9 to 10 hours, but some guests experience longer transit times, especially when traveling from farther hotels.

Is snorkeling included?
Snorkeling is available during the boat trip, allowing you to swim in clear waters and view underwater ruins, although it may not be as extensive as some travelers hope.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around ruins. Also, bring swimwear, sunscreen, water, and a hat for sun protection.

How experienced is the guide?
Guests have praised guides like Alp for their knowledge, humor, and engaging storytelling, which significantly enhances the experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

To sum it up, this tour offers an accessible way to explore some of Turkey’s fascinating ancient sites and enjoy the beauty of Kekova’s sunken ruins. It’s a solid choice for those with an interest in history, scenic boat trips, and snorkeling, willing to tolerate a longer day and variable transportation comfort. With knowledgeable guides and stunning views, it’s a memorable way to spend a day on the Turkish Riviera.