From Alanya: Kekova, Demre, and Myra Tour with Boat Trip

If you’re looking to combine history, stunning scenery, and a splash of adventure, the Kekova, Demre, and Myra tour from Alanya offers an experience packed with memorable sights. This full-day excursion covers a lot—visiting an ancient sunken city, gazing at Lycian tombs, exploring the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, and taking a boat trip around the picturesque island of Kekova. It’s a well-rounded trip that promises both cultural insights and plenty of opportunities for stunning photos.

What we love about this tour is the variety it offers: a mixture of history, nature, and leisure all in one day. The highlight for many is the 2-hour boat trip, where you’ll enjoy swimming breaks and views of the sunken city from the water—truly a highlight that keeps travelers hooked.

A potential consideration is the early start and long day, which might be tiring for some. But if you’re comfortable with a full schedule, this tour provides incredible value. It’s ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive day trip that captures the essence of the Turkish coast beyond Alanya’s beaches.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy cultural exploration but also crave scenic outings and leisurely moments on the water. It’s especially good if you’re eager to learn about the Lycian civilization, visit historic sites, and see some of Turkey’s most intriguing underwater remains.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary with visits to ancient sites, a sunken city, and a scenic boat trip
• Includes lunch and a guided tour in multiple languages
• Highlights are the sunken city of Kekova and the Lycian rock tombs
• Boat ride offers swimming stops and breathtaking views
• Pickup and drop-off are included from your Alanya accommodation
• Cost-effective for the insider access to historical and picturesque sites

An In-Depth Look at the Kekova, Demre, and Myra Tour

The Complete Day in a Nutshell

This tour packs a punch, offering a detailed look at some of Turkey’s most intriguing historical and natural sights. Starting with pickup from your hotel in Alanya, the journey takes you first to Antalya, where a brief breakfast break helps set you up for the day’s adventures. From there, the tour proceeds with visits to Myra, an ancient Lycian city famous for its impressive rock tombs and open-air theater, and the Church of Saint Nicholas, which draws many visitors interested in the origins of Santa Claus.

Following these stops, the focus shifts to the coast, where the real magic begins. The highlight is a 2-hour boat trip around Kekova Island, offering views of the sunken city—a fascinating submerged settlement that dates back centuries. During the boat ride, you’ll have the chance to swim in inviting bays, capture photos of the ruins from the water, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of this unique landscape.

Visiting Myra and Saint Nicholas Church

Our reviewers point out that Myra’s ancient theater and rock tombs are among the most impressive sights. Many mention that the ruins are well-preserved enough to give a real sense of their former grandeur. The Church of Saint Nicholas is particularly popular, especially for those interested in the historical basis of Santa Claus, as it’s believed to be his birthplace or resting place.

One traveler noted, “Standing in the amphitheater with the tombs carved into the cliffs was surreal, and the story of Saint Nicholas just adds another layer of charm.” It’s a quiet, contemplative place that contrasts nicely with the lively boat ride afterwards.

The Boat Trip and Sunken City

The boat tour is described as relaxing and scenic, with many appreciating the swimming breaks that allow for a refreshing dip. The views of the sunken city from the water are truly captivating—many say it’s a highlight that’s worth the trip alone. The ruins, partially submerged due to ancient earthquakes, create an eerie, mystical atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.

Guests have praised the friendly boat crew and informative guides, often listing the boat trip as the best part of the day. The boat is comfortable, and the stops at various bays allow for ample time to take photos or just soak in the natural beauty.

Food and Comfort

The included lunch is a convenient addition, providing a taste of Turkish cuisine, though reviews suggest that meals are straightforward and filling rather than gourmet. The tour’s organizers are attentive to comfort, with pick-up and drop-off included, ensuring a stress-free day.

Practicalities and Tips

• The tour typically runs on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, so plan accordingly.
• Early pickups mean your day starts bright and early, so dress comfortably and be prepared for a full schedule.
• Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
• The duration (around 10 hours) is long but well-paced—if you enjoy history and scenic boat rides, you’ll find it worth every minute.
• Note that museum entrance fees are not included, so budget extra if you plan to explore more deeply.
• The tour operates with a multilingual guide, so language barriers should be minimal if you speak English, Russian, Polish, or Turkish.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who want a comprehensive cultural and scenic experience in one day. History buffs will enjoy wandering through ancient ruins and learning about the Lycian civilization. Nature lovers and photographers will revel in the boat ride and the stunning views of the sunken city. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer a guided tour to streamline logistics and gain local insights.

The Sum Up

This Kekova, Demre, and Myra tour offers a compelling mix of history, scenery, and leisure, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a well-rounded day out from Alanya. The inclusion of a scenic boat trip with swimming stops, combined with visits to significant ancient sites, provides a rich experience that’s both educational and relaxing.

While the long day might be tiring for some, the payoff is the chance to see some of Turkey’s most captivating coastal vistas and archaeological treasures without the hassle of planning individual visits. The trip’s value is amplified by the convenience of transportation, guided insights, and a taste of local cuisine during lunch.

This experience is well-suited for curious travelers who enjoy a combination of history, nature, and a touch of adventure. If you’re eager to explore beyond Alanya’s beaches and learn about the region’s past while enjoying beautiful scenery, this tour is a rewarding choice.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire day usually lasts around 10 hours, starting with pickup in Alanya and ending with drop-off back at your hotel.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Alanya are included, making logistics hassle-free.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Russian, Polish, and Turkish, so language shouldn’t be a barrier for most travelers.

Are meals included?
A lunch is included in the tour, providing a simple, satisfying meal. Drinks are not included and are at your own expense.

Can I swim during the boat trip?
Absolutely. The boat trip includes swimming breaks, allowing you to enjoy the water and relax on the scenic bays.

Are museum entrances included?
No, entry fees to museums are not included, so you may want to budget extra if you’d like to explore further.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a hat for sun protection. Also, a camera is a must for capturing the stunning views.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for families, especially those interested in history and scenic boat rides. Just consider the long hours for very young children.

This tour from Alanya invites you to step into history, enjoy scenic coastal views, and experience Turkey’s legendary sunken city—an adventure that balances education and leisure beautifully.