Antalya Myra Kekova & St Nicholas Daily Tours

Antalya Myra Kekova & St Nicholas Daily Tours Review

Setting out on a day trip through Antalya’s storied past and stunning seascapes offers a chance to see some of Turkey’s most iconic sights. This tour packs in visits to Kekova Island’s sunken city, the ancient ruins of Myra, and the historic Church of St. Nicholas, making it a comprehensive journey for history buffs and nature lovers alike. What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to witness breathtaking views, learn about St. Nicholas’ legacy, and enjoy a boat ride in a small group setting.

One of the things we love about this tour is the personalized attention—with a maximum of 16 travelers, you’re unlikely to feel lost in the crowd. The knowledgeable guides, like Durali from Gref Travel, are often singled out for their friendly demeanor and deep insights, which really enrich the experience. However, a potential consideration is the timing—the 6:30 am start means early mornings, which might be a stretch for some. This tour is best suited for those craving a rich, authentic exploration of Antalya’s historical sites combined with a scenic boat adventure.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary covering ancient ruins, sunken city, and religious history
• Small group size for a more intimate experience
• Expert guides who share detailed insights and local stories
• Includes lunch and boat tour, adding value to the overall package
• Early start offers a full day of sightseeing but requires an early wake-up call
• Tickets for Myra & St. Nicholas not included, so budget accordingly

A Deep Dive into the Antalya Myra Kekova & St Nicholas Tour

This full-day adventure offers a carefully curated look at some of Turkey’s most iconic historical and natural sights. Starting early at 6:30 am, the tour begins with a convenient pickup, which removes the hassle of navigating public transportation. Being part of a group no larger than 16 ensures you get personalized attention, ample opportunity to ask questions, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Kekova Island and the Sunken City

The first stop on this trip is Kekova Island, famed for its sunken city. Over the course of about 2 hours, you’ll hop on a boat and cruise along the coast to witness the submerged ruins, which date back centuries. The guide will fill you in on the fascinating history of the area, where parts of the ancient city still peek out from beneath the water, creating a surreal scene of history and nature colliding.

Most travelers find the boat trip particularly enjoyable, especially during summer, when swimming is an option. You’ll get about 30 minutes to cool off in the clear waters, which is perfect after the boat ride. Keep in mind, admission tickets are not included, so if you want to explore the ruins more closely or visit specific sites, you’ll need to budget for that separately.

Exploring Myra Antik Kenti

Next, you’ll head to Myra, one of the best-preserved Lycia sites, known for its impressive rock-cut tombs and ancient theater. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, enough time to walk around and marvel at the intricately carved tombs set into the cliff faces. While the admission ticket isn’t included, many visitors say that the site’s grandeur makes it well worth the small extra expense.

According to reviews, guides like Durali bring Myra’s history alive with stories about the Lycian civilization and the significance of the tombs. One traveler remarked, “We loved the way the guide explained the history and showed us spots we’d never notice on our own.” It’s a great chance to step back into a world where history is etched into the stone.

The Church of St. Nicholas

The final stop is the Church of St. Nicholas, an important religious site that is often associated with the legendary Santa Claus. The church dates back to ancient times and offers a glimpse into early Christian architecture. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, soaking in the atmosphere of a site that’s intertwined with both religious tradition and local legend.

While tickets aren’t included, the church’s significance and the stories surrounding it make this a memorable part of the tour. Many travelers report a sense of serenity, and some appreciate the chance to learn about the saint’s connection to the region.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers a lot of value for the price of $65.85 per person. Included are guiding services, hotel transfers, lunch, and the boat tour in Kekova, which is a highlight. The lunch typically offers local flavors, giving you a taste of Turkish cuisine without any additional planning.

However, the admission tickets for Myra and St. Nicholas are not included, so keep that in mind when budgeting. This can add a little extra cost, but considering the overall experience, many find that the value still holds up, especially with the knowledgeable guides who enhance each site’s story.

Transport and Timing

Transportation is comfortable, with pickup and drop-off included, making logistics super simple. The early start means you get a full day of sightseeing but also requires an early rise. The group size of 16 makes for a more personalized experience, and the guide’s friendliness and insight seem to be a recurring highlight in reviews.

Tour Dynamics and Group Size

With a maximum of 16 travelers, you’ll have plenty of chances to ask questions and get recommendations. This intimate setting allows for a more relaxed pace and some spontaneous conversations, which many travelers appreciate. The timing is structured but flexible enough to accommodate lingering at favorite spots.

Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer mentioned how Durali “looked after us so well,” turning what could have been a standard tour into a memorable experience. The scenery—particularly the views of the sea and ancient ruins—is highlighted as breathtaking.

Travelers also love the boat ride in Kekova, describing it as “incredibly beautiful,” with some mentioning that they enjoyed swimming in the warm waters. Many reviewers appreciated how the tour allowed them to see a variety of sites in a manageable day, especially with the early start making the most of daylight hours.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Antalya’s highlights, blending history, scenic beauty, and local culture. The small-group setting, combined with expert guides like Durali, ensures you’re not just a passenger but an active participant in discovering Turkey’s treasures. The boat ride, in particular, adds a memorable touch that stands out among many similar tours.

If you’re someone who appreciates historical sites, stunning landscapes, and the convenience of everything being taken care of, this trip is a smart choice. The inclusion of lunch and the boat tour offers good value, even with the extra costs for site tickets. Early risers and adventure-seekers will find this a satisfying way to spend a full day exploring Antalya’s ancient and natural wonders.

For travelers wanting a balanced, authentic, and scenic experience with knowledgeable guidance, this tour hits many marks. Just be prepared for an early start and potential additional costs for entrance fees—but overall, it’s a rewarding adventure.

FAQ

Are hotel pickups included in this tour?
Yes, transfers from and to your hotel are included, making logistics easier and more comfortable.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:30 am, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore each site without feeling rushed.

Are the entrance tickets for Myra and St. Nicholas included?
No, the admission tickets for these sites are not included, so you may need to pay separately if you want to go inside.

Is swimming possible during the boat tour?
Yes, during the Kekova boat ride, there’s about 30 minutes allocated for swimming, especially enjoyable during the summer.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 16, facilitating a more personalized experience.

Will I get detailed historical information?
Absolutely. Guides like Durali are known for sharing engaging stories and insights that bring the sites to life.

Can this tour accommodate most travelers?
Yes, it’s suitable for most people, provided they’re comfortable with early mornings and walking around outdoor sites.

This Antalya tour is a solid pick for those eager to explore history, enjoy scenic boat rides, and dive into local legends—all in a well-organized, friendly setting.