From Antalya: Private Tour to Kekova Island, Myra and Demre

Enjoying the Turkish Coast: A Deep Dive into the Private Tour from Antalya to Kekova, Myra, and Demre

If you’re visiting Antalya and craving a full-day experience that blends striking scenery with archaeological wonders, this private tour to Kekova Island, Myra, and Demre is an excellent choice. It promises a personalized, relaxed journey with a focus on the most compelling sights of the region, all in a comfortably private setting. One of the standout features? The trip’s combination of breathtaking boat cruises, historic ruins, and tranquil bays makes it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of Turkey’s southern coast.

What we really love about this tour is its careful balance: You get to explore ancient Lycian and Roman sites, enjoy multiple swimming stops in crystal-clear waters, and take in splendid views all in one day. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize your experience without feeling rushed. However, keep in mind that it’s a long day—about 13 hours—so it’s best suited for those prepared for a full day of adventure and sightseeing.

For anyone with a love of history, natural beauty, and a bit of sea-time, this tour offers a compelling package. Its private nature means you can tailor the experience slightly or simply enjoy the flexibility of a personalized trip. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid large crowds and prefer a more intimate exploration of Turkey’s scenic and historical treasures.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Tailored to your group with flexible pacing and personal attention.
• Diverse Highlights: From ancient ruins and castles to sunken cities and crystal bays, offering a well-rounded day.
• Seaside Serenity: Multiple swim stops in stunning bays, including Aquarium Bay and Esmeralda Bay, perfect for relaxing and cooling off.
• Historical Depth: Visits to significant sites like Myra, Demre, and the Museum of Lycian Civilizations provide context on ancient civilizations.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Includes private transfers, boat trip, snorkelling gear, and lunch, making the day smooth and enjoyable.
• Cost & Value: At $539 per person, it’s an investment in an immersive, all-inclusive experience—worth it for those who value comfort and depth.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting from Antalya: Comfort and Convenience

The tour kicks off early at 7 a.m. with a private transfer from your hotel. The ride to Demre is smooth, and the private nature of the transport means you won’t be stuck with strangers, which is a big plus if you’re after a relaxed, stress-free day. Drivers are generally punctual and courteous, setting a good tone for the day. Expect a scenic drive that offers glimpses of the Turkish countryside, building anticipation for the adventures ahead.

Demre Harbour and the Boat Trip

Once you arrive at Demre Harbour, a boat awaits to take you along the coast. The boat is equipped with glass-bottom windows, allowing for spectacular views of beneath the water—so don’t forget your camera. This part of the trip offers a chance to see the sunken city of Kekova, which is truly a sight to behold. The ruins, partially submerged since ancient times, can be viewed both from the boat and on land, making for memorable photos and fascinating stories.

What makes this boat ride special?

Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery and the smooth, comfortable ride. The boat’s glass-bottom feature is a real highlight, enabling a peek into the submerged ruins without getting wet. It’s a great way to combine history with a relaxing cruise.

Exploring Kekova Island and Sunken City

The highlight here is the chance to observe the ancient ruins of Kekova, which have been partially swallowed by the sea. Reading about it, some guests mentioned how “the views from the boat were spectacular, and the ruins looked surreal floating beneath us.” While you cannot walk among the ruins, the cruise offers a unique vantage point and plenty of photo opportunities.

Stops at Various Bays for Swimming and Relaxing

The day is packed with refreshing stops, each offering something special:

• Aquarium Bay: Known for its pristine waters, this spot is perfect for a swim. Many guests rave about the crystal-clear waters—a refreshing break in the middle of your busy sightseeing.
• Simena Castle (Kaleköy): The boat docks here for about an hour. You can explore the quaint village, the castle ruins, and the necropolis, or enjoy a quick hike for panoramic views. Alternatively, some prefer swimming in the inviting waters.
• Esmeralda Bay: This peaceful bay provides a quiet spot for lunch and swimming. The calm, turquoise waters here are often described as “serene” and “perfect for relaxation.”
• Gökkaya Bay: Another swim stop, but here you can also try various water sports. Guests have enjoyed the chance to participate in additional water activities, making it a versatile stop.

Insider tip:

Guests frequently mention how the water in Burç Bay feels cooler due to natural springs, offering a unique, refreshing experience. It’s a great way to cool down and enjoy nature’s own air conditioning.

Cultural and Archaeological Highlights

• Karemlik Bay: Known for being a habitat of 3 of the 7 Mediterranean sea turtle species, this stop is a chance to spot marine wildlife in their natural environment.
• Museum of Lycian Civilizations: A short walk from the ancient ruins, this museum displays artifacts from nearby Lycian cities. It provides essential context, illuminating the ancient civilizations that once thrived here.
• St. Nicholas Church: Built around 520 A.D., this church-turned-museum commemorates St. Nicholas of Myra. Visitors often find the remains of the site atmospheric and historically meaningful—an impressive glimpse into early Christian history.
• Myra Ancient City: The star of the day, packed with well-preserved ruins—most notably the Roman theatre (the largest in Lycia) and cliff-carved tombs. The site’s atmospheric ruins give a real sense of the ancient past, and many note how “the rock-cut tombs are even more striking in person.”

Wrapping Up in Demre and Returning to Antalya

After a full day of exploring, swimming, and learning, the tour concludes with a transfer back to Antalya. The drive offers a chance to reflect and share highlights with your travel companions. Many guests say the day felt just right—comprehensive but not overwhelming, with enough downtime for relaxation and photos.

Analyzing the Value

At $539 per person, this tour is certainly an investment, but one that packs in value through its all-inclusive nature, private transport, and diverse activities. The cost covers not only the transportation and boat trip but also entrance fees (though some sites like Simena Castle and the Museum are paid separately) and snorkelling gear. The flexibility of a private group adds comfort and convenience, especially for those who prefer a more tailored experience.

While the price might seem high compared to group tours, many reviews appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to customize parts of the day—like extra swimming or exploring the village at Simena.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to travelers seeking a comprehensive, relaxed day that balances history, nature, and leisure. It’s ideal for those who:

• Want to avoid crowded group tours
• Are interested in ancient Lycian and Roman sites
• Enjoy scenic boat rides and swimming in tranquil bays
• Appreciate flexibility and comfort in travel arrangements
• Have a full day available and are comfortable with a long, active itinerary

The Sum Up

This private trip from Antalya to Kekova, Myra, and Demre stands out as a thoughtfully curated way to experience Turkey’s southern coast. From stunning boat cruises and ancient ruins to peaceful bays perfect for swimming, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and history. The private setting means more flexibility and personalized attention, making it especially suitable for those who value comfort and intimacy over large group dynamics.

While it’s not a cheap day out, the blend of insider experiences, scenic views, and cultural discoveries makes it a compelling choice for eager explorers. Whether you’re into history, photography, or just relaxing by the sea, this tour will leave you with plenty of memories—and some great photos.

FAQs

• What is included in the tour?
  The tour includes private transfer, boat trip, snorkelling equipment, and lunch. Entrance fees for some sites like Myra, St. Nicholas Church, and Lycian Civilizations Museum are paid separately.

• How long does the tour last?
  It lasts approximately 13 hours, starting around 7 a.m. from your Antalya hotel and ending back in the evening.

• Do I need to bring anything?
  It’s recommended to bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen for the swimming and beach stops.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  The experience is quite active and includes swimming and walking around ruins, so it’s best suited for children comfortable with a full day of activity.

• Can I customize the itinerary?
  Being a private tour, there is some flexibility to spend more or less time at certain stops, depending on your interests.

• Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?
  The tour includes lunch; if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to request in advance—many providers are accommodating.

• What is the main highlight of this tour?
  The cruise along Kekova’s sunken city and the exploration of Myra’s Roman theatre and tombs are often cited as top highlights.

• How steep or challenging are the ruins and sites?
  Some sites like Simena Castle involve walking and hiking, but overall, the tour is manageable for most travelers with moderate mobility.

This detailed, balanced review aims to help you decide if this private tour suits your travel style and interests—happy exploring!