Myra, Demre, and Kekova Tour w/ Boat Tour & Lunch

Exploring Ancient Turkey: A Full-Day Adventure to Myra, Demre, and Kekova

This tour promises a full day of fascinating history, stunning scenery, and authentic experiences along Turkey’s southwestern coast. It combines visits to ancient Lycian sites, a pilgrimage-worthy church, and a boat trip to explore a sunken city, all wrapped up with a delicious Turkish lunch on the water. It’s a well-rounded way to see some of Turkey’s most intriguing archaeological and natural sights, especially if you’re short on time but eager to soak in a lot in one day.

One thing we really like about this tour is the balance between historical exploration and relaxing boat time. You’ll get to walk through impressive ancient ruins and then unwind with a scenic cruise, snorkel, or swim in clear Mediterranean waters. Plus, the guides tend to be quite knowledgeable, which adds depth to the experience.

However, a potential consideration is the pace of the tour—it’s a busy day with a lot packed in, so if you prefer a more leisurely, in-depth visit to each site, some parts might feel a bit rushed. Also, keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, so budgeting for these ahead of time is wise.

This experience suits travelers who love history, outdoor activities, and scenic journeys. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive day trip that covers cultural highlights and natural beauty without feeling overwhelmed.

Key Points

• Historical richness: Visit lycian rock-cut tombs and the Church of St. Nicholas—significant for both history buffs and fans of legendary tales.
• Boat cruise: Enjoy a scenic, guided boat trip along the coast, including time for swimming and snorkeling.
• Delicious lunch: Savor traditional Turkish dishes on board, making the most of authentic regional flavors.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later options offer flexibility.
• All-inclusive feel: Hotel transfers, guidance, and boat tour included—just remember to budget for entrance fees.
• Suitable for all ages: The mix of walking, boat riding, and swimming makes it accessible for families, couples, and friends.

Delving into the Day: What Makes This Tour Special

We’ll take you through each part of the itinerary, highlighting what makes each stop memorable and practical tips to maximize your experience.

Starting with Comfort: Pickup and Transportation

Your day begins with a hotel pickup, which is a fantastic way to start stress-free. The transportation is air-conditioned, making the journey along Turkey’s scenic coast comfortable. The drive from Antalya to the first stop, Myra, takes approximately an hour, giving you some time to enjoy the views and get excited for what’s ahead.

The small-group setting ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and guides tend to be friendly and knowledgeable, offering insights in multiple languages—English, Russian, and Turkish. This multi-lingual approach ensures most travelers will get the information they desire.

Myra: Walking Among the Ancient Lycian Tombs

Once at Myra, you’ll explore Lycian ruins that date back to the 4th century BC. The highlight here is the rock-cut tombs, carved directly into cliffs—an impressive feat of ancient engineering and artistry. As you wander among these tombs, your guide will explain their significance and the history of Lycian civilization.

Several reviewers mention the guides’ storytelling skills—”Our guide, Ahmet, was very knowledgeable and made the history come alive,” is a common compliment. You’ll appreciate the chance to take photos of the tombs and the surrounding ruins, which still preserve a sense of grandeur despite their age.

Demre and the Church of St. Nicholas

Next, the tour takes you to Demre, home to the Church of St. Nicholas. Built over the presumed tomb of the saint who inspired Santa Claus, this site is both religiously and historically significant. The church’s frescoes and mosaics are well-preserved, and visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere inside.

While entrance fees are not included, many find the small additional cost worthwhile for the chance to see this iconic site. Visitors frequently describe the interior as “beautifully decorated,” and some say it’s a moving experience to stand where St. Nicholas is believed to be buried.

Cruising to Kekova: The Sunken City and Underwater Wonders

After a quick lunch break, it’s time for the boat ride. The vessel departs from Demre harbor and cruises along the coast, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean. The highlight here is the sunken city of Kekova, which appears almost like a ghostly underwater museum.

We loved the way the guides pointed out submerged walls, staircases, and ancient houses visible beneath the boat’s glass-bottom sections. Several reviews mention the snorkeling stop near Kekova Island, where you can swim over the ruins and observe marine life. The water is typically clear and inviting—perfect for cooling off after a busy morning of exploring.

The boat’s pace allows enough time for photos, swimming, and just relaxing on deck while soaking up the sun and scenery. The fact that the boat trip includes a guide who explains the history and significance of the ruins adds valuable context, making your underwater glimpse even more meaningful.

Lunch: Tasting Turkish Flavors

The onboard lunch is another highlight for many travelers. The traditional Turkish dishes—often including fresh salads, grilled meats, and local specialties—are served in a relaxed setting with panoramic sea views. It’s a great chance to fuel up and chat with fellow travelers about what they’ve seen so far.

Based on reviews, the food quality is generally good, and the variety is enough to satisfy different tastes. The experience of eating while drifting along the coast is particularly memorable.

What To Expect Throughout the Day

Expect a mixture of walking, boat riding, swimming, and cultural experiences. The entire trip is well-paced for most, but some may find the schedule tight, especially if they want to linger longer at certain sites. Keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, so bring extra cash if you want to access specific attractions.

The guides tend to be friendly and informative, often sharing personal anecdotes or lesser-known facts, which enriches the experience. You’ll travel in a small group, making it easier to ask questions and take photos without feeling rushed.

Most travelers appreciate the flexibility of the pickup and drop-off service—saving time and hassle. The tour duration is about one full day, so it’s a good option for those with limited time who still want a comprehensive look at the region.

The Value of This Tour

When you consider the combination of cultural sites, natural beauty, boat cruise, and included lunch, this tour offers a lot of value. The cost covers transportation, guidance, boat ride, and a meal—making it an efficient way to explore multiple sites in one day.

While you’ll need to pay for entry tickets separately, the overall experience is well worth the extra expense for the insights and convenience. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, which many travelers find enhances their understanding and enjoyment.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those interested in history and archaeology, with a love for scenic coastal views. It suits travelers who want a full, yet manageable, day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning individual tickets or transportation. Families, couples, and friends will find it accessible and engaging, especially with options for swimming and relaxing on the boat.

It’s particularly good for first-time visitors to the region who want a structured overview of the area’s highlights, but also enough flexibility to enjoy free time at each stop.

Final Thoughts

The Myra, Demre, and Kekova tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s cultural and natural treasures. The combination of ancient ruins, a picturesque boat cruise, and a delicious Turkish lunch makes it a memorable experience. You’ll love the friendly guides, stunning views, and the way the tour balances history, leisure, and authentic cuisine.

While it’s a busy day, it’s packed with value and authentic moments—perfect for travelers who prefer a rundown with plenty of photo opportunities and engaging stories. If you enjoy exploring history, relaxing on the water, and tasting regional flavors, this tour will suit you beautifully.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Antalya hotels, making it a convenient start to your day.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Russian, and Turkish, ensuring most travelers can understand and engage with the commentary.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entry fees to sites like Myra and the Church of St. Nicholas are not included, so plan to bring some extra cash.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat tour is part of a full-day experience, with plenty of time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.

Can I swim or snorkel during the trip?
Yes, you’ll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel near Kekova Island, with calm and clear waters ideal for underwater exploration.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, the mix of walking, boat rides, and swimming makes it family-friendly, though supervision is advised for younger children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking, swimwear if you plan to swim, and a hat or sunglasses for sun protection are recommended.

Are vegetarian options available?
While not explicitly stated, most Turkish meals can be adapted; it’s best to request special dietary needs in advance.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately one day, with exact times depending on your pickup location and the day’s schedule.

Is there an option to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, this tour offers an enjoyable, well-organized way to experience some of Turkey’s most iconic sites, combining cultural discovery with scenic relaxation. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive day trip with rich history, stunning views, and authentic regional flavors at a good value.