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Antalya/Alanya/Side/Kemer Demre, Myra & Kekova Tour Review: A Balanced Look at a Cultural and Coastal Adventure
Jumping into the world of Turkey’s coastal attractions, this day-long tour promises a mix of history, scenic beauty, and a splash of adventure. Whether you’re after ancient ruins, underwater mysteries, or a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, this trip from Antalya offers a well-rounded experience. The tour is priced at $85 per person and lasts between 10 to 13 hours, making it a full-day commitment but packed with highlights.
One thing we love about this experience is the chance to visit Myra’s Lycian tombs and the Church of St. Nicholas—a real treat for history buffs and those curious about the roots of Santa Claus. Plus, the boat ride to Kekova and the opportunity to snorkel or swim in the turquoise waters add a fun, relaxing element to the day.
A possible drawback is the limited time at each stop—some visitors might find the schedule a bit rushed, especially when trying to absorb the historical significance of sites or enjoy snorkeling. For those seeking a leisurely exploration or more time at each location, this might feel a little hurried.
This tour is best suited for travelers eager to combine a dose of ancient history with scenic coastal views, all wrapped into a single comprehensive day. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided experiences that prioritize cultural significance and picturesque landscapes, but don’t mind a packed itinerary.
Key Points
- History and Culture: Visit Myra’s Lycian tombs and the Church of St. Nicholas, gaining insight into early Christian history.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy boat rides and views of the turquoise waters around Kekova, perfect for photography.
- Underwater Wonder: Discover the sunken city of Kekova, with options for snorkeling or swimming.
- Expert Guides: The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, which enhances the understanding of each site.
- Value for Money: At $85, you get a full-day experience with transportation, lunch, and insurance included.
- Potential Limitations: The tour’s pace might feel rushed, and entrance fees, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included.
Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience
Looking for more options in Demre? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Transfers
The journey begins with a hotel pickup within the Antalya region. The pickup times are flexible, but it’s recommended to wait outside your hotel’s security point about 10 minutes before scheduled departure. Transportation is typically comfortable, and the group size isn’t specified but is usually small enough to feel intimate and personalized.
As you settle in, your guide—presumably knowledgeable and friendly—sets the tone for the day. We appreciate the convenience of the included pickup and drop-off, removing the stress of navigating public transport or arranging your own transfer.
First Stop: Myra Ancient City and Lycian Tombs
Your first major stop is the Ancient City of Myra, located on the river Myros. Historically, Myra was a significant Lycian city, and according to Strabo, it was once quite large and influential during the 1st and 2nd centuries BC. Today, what remains are impressive rock-cut tombs and an ancient Greek amphitheater.
We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the Lycian necropolis, helping us visualize the bustling city that once thrived here. The amphitheater, while not perfectly preserved, still offers a sense of its former grandeur, and the tombs carved into the cliffs are a quirky reminder of the Lycian’s unique burial practices.
While many visitors find visiting Myra worthwhile, some reviews note that the layout isn’t the most visitor-friendly. One reviewer mentions, “The amphitheater was beautiful but not very well laid out,” which underscores that the site can be a bit confusing to navigate without a good guide.
Visiting the Church of St. Nicholas
Next, your guide takes you to the Church of St. Nicholas, an ancient East Roman basilica dedicated to the saint better known globally as Santa Claus. It’s a popular stop, especially for those interested in Christian history or mythology.
The church isn’t just a religious site but also a point of cultural interest that adds a layer of historical depth to your trip. The guide shares stories about St. Nicholas’s life and the role he played in the region—adding a charming, human touch to the visit.
Lunch Break in Demre
Midday, you’ll stop for lunch in the center of Demre. The included meal is a good chance to refuel after a busy morning of sightseeing. While the restaurant options aren’t detailed, typical Turkish lunches often include fresh salads, grilled meats, and local bread.
Reviewers mention that the lunch is straightforward, but some note that it’s a decent value considering the overall cost of the tour. Keep in mind that drinks and personal expenses aren’t included, so you might want to bring some additional cash for beverages or souvenirs.
Afternoon: The Kekova Sunken City and Boat Ride
Post-lunch, your adventure shifts to the coast, where you’ll sail over turquoise waters toward Kekova Island. Here, the highlight is the sunken city of Simena, submerged after an earthquake in the 2nd century.
The boat cruise offers stunning views and a chance to see the underwater ruins of ancient structures. We highly recommend bringing your bathing suit and towel—there are opportunities to swim or snorkel in the clear waters. The tour notes that snorkeling isn’t guaranteed, partially due to jellyfish concerns, which some reviewers confirmed. For instance, one reviewer stated, “There was no snorkeling stop because of jellyfish,” so if snorkeling is a key goal, it’s worth noting.
Exploring Kekova and the Lycian Necropolis
Back on shore, you’ll have some free time to explore the area. The Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa is a notable archaeological site, with rock-cut tombs and historic ruins providing a glimpse into the ancient civilization.
The boat ride and stops are generally regarded as the most picturesque part of the tour, with many travelers noting that the views of the sunken city are captivating. However, some reviews mention that the photos shown in promotional material could be more representative of what you’ll actually see, with one noting, “The photos from the flyer would have been enough for me, there was nothing more to see.”
Additional Activities and Considerations
While swimming and snorkeling are offered, don’t expect a lengthy underwater exploration—these are quick dips in the water, but they add a fun, leisurely element to the day. The tour emphasizes sightseeing and cultural discovery rather than intense adventure.
The Overall Experience
This tour offers a solid introduction to Turkey’s coastal and ancient sites in a single day. You’ll come away with a good sense of Lycia’s historical significance, a taste of local culture, and some beautiful scenery.
The inclusion of a guide significantly enriches the experience, providing context that you wouldn’t get from just wandering on your own. The guide’s explanations about Lycian tombs, Roman basilicas, and the earthquake that created the sunken city add depth that makes the visit more meaningful.
In terms of value, at $85, it’s reasonable considering the transportation, guided commentary, lunch, and entrance fees (though these are not included, so budget accordingly). The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off saves hassle, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the area.
However, the tour’s pacing is a point to consider. Some reviews mention feeling rushed, especially at the ancient sites and during the quick snorkeling stops. If you’re looking for a very relaxed, unhurried day, this might not be the ideal choice.
Who is This Tour Best For?
This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a rundown of the region’s highlights in one day. It’s perfect if you’re interested in history, archaeology, and scenic coastal views without the hassle of organizing multiple visits or transportation. It’s also a good fit for families or groups who appreciate guided explanations and structured itineraries.
If you’re a more independent traveler or someone seeking deep exploration at each site, you might find the schedule a little tight. Also, if snorkeling or swimming is a top priority, be aware that weather conditions or jellyfish might limit those activities.
This tour offers great value for its convenience and variety, making it a practical choice for most casual travelers wanting a taste of Turkey’s cultural and coastal treasures.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and dropoff from hotels within the Antalya region. You should wait outside your hotel’s security point about 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.
How long does the tour last?
It runs between 10 to 13 hours, depending on factors like traffic and the specific timing of your pickup and drop-off.
What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to swim or snorkel. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are also recommended for exploring the sites.
Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included in the tour price. You should budget extra cash for this.
Is snorkeling guaranteed?
No, snorkeling depends on weather and jellyfish activity. One reviewer noted there was no snorkeling stop due to jellyfish, so don’t rely on it as a main activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
To sum it up, this full-day Demre, Myra, and Kekova tour from Antalya offers a balanced mix of history, scenic beauty, and coastal fun. It’s particularly valuable for travelers who want a guided, worry-free experience that covers significant archaeological sites and stunning underwater ruins. While it may feel a bit rushed at times, it provides an efficient way to see some of Turkey’s most intriguing attractions in a single day. For those new to the region or looking for a practical, well-organized tour—this could be just the ticket.
