Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Day Tour from Alanya

A Full-Day Exploration of Turkey’s Hidden Gems from Alanya

This Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Day Tour promises a blend of history, scenery, and adventure, all packed into approximately 14 hours. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to experience Turkey’s lesser-known archaeological sites and stunning coastline without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. From early morning pickup to sunset, the tour covers three major sites—Demre, Myra, and Kekova—with an option to visit the famous Saint Nicholas Church too.

What we particularly like about this experience is its balance of culture and scenic beauty. The inclusion of all entrance fees, lunch, and hotel transfers makes it a convenient and reasonably priced option that offers good value for money. The highlight for many is the boat trip around Kekova, where the visibility of the sunken Lycian city remains a striking sight.

However, one potential drawback is the early start time of 4:00 am, which might be a challenge for some, especially since the journey is quite long. Also, the two-hour ride can feel lengthy, especially if you’re not a morning person or prone to travel fatigue.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, scenery lovers, and travelers who don’t mind a full day on the go. Those interested in Turkey’s ancient past, particularly the tales of Santa Claus, along with stunning coastlines, will find this itinerary especially appealing.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience – Entrance fees, lunch, and transfers are covered, making logistics simple.
• Early Start – Departure at 4:00 am requires an early rise but ensures a full day of sightseeing.
• Diverse Stops – From ancient ruins to sunken cities, the tour offers a variety of historical and scenic highlights.
• Guided Tour – Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the experience with context and stories.
• Long Day, Short Breaks – Expect around 2 hours at each main site, with some travelers noting long travel times.
• Suitable for Most Travelers – The tour is accessible to most, though the early start and busy schedule aren’t for everyone.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off early at 4:00 am, with the hotel pickup included, which is a definite plus for comfort and convenience. The early start means you’ll begin your journey in darkness, but the promise of a full day ahead keeps spirits high. The initial part of the trip involves a roughly 2-hour drive to Demre, with most travelers using that time to catch up on sleep or chat with fellow participants.

Demre (Kale) is your first stop, where you’ll have about two hours to explore the town. The highlight here is the Church of Saint Nicholas, which is not included in the entrance fees but is worth the quick visit if you’re a fan of Christmas lore or religious history. However, one reviewer pointed out that the church’s admission fee is separate, so budget accordingly if you want to step inside.

Next, the group moves on to the ancient Myra site, also lasting around two hours. This site is known for its well-preserved Lycian tombs and amphitheater, giving you a real sense of what life was like thousands of years ago. The guide here tends to be well-informed, sharing insights that bring the ruins to life, making it more than just a walk among old stones.

The highlight for many is the boat trip from Kekova, where the group boards a glass-bottomed vessel. This two-hour cruise is a major draw, offering spectacular views of the sunken Lycian city. The clear waters reveal underwater ruins, creating a surreal experience. Reviewers specifically mention the stunning views and friendly guides on the boat, who often point out interesting sights and offer historical tidbits.

What to Expect at Each Site

• Demre & Saint Nicholas Church: While entrance fees are not included, the church is a picturesque spot with a significant religious and cultural background. Some travelers might prefer to skip the fee if they’re more interested in the exterior views. Expect a quick visit, with plenty of photo opportunities.

• Myra Antik Kenti: This site is a treasure trove of Lycian history, featuring tombs carved into cliffs and a Roman amphitheater. We loved how the guide explained the significance of each monument, making history accessible and engaging. It’s an excellent spot for history lovers who enjoy immersive storytelling.

• Kekova Boat Trip: The boat journey offers a relaxing break from walking, with the added thrill of seeing the submerged ruins. Many reviewers appreciated the friendly crew and the stunning vistas. Be prepared for a potentially crowded boat, as this is a popular experience.

The Overall Value

For $67.92 per person, this tour offers good value considering the all-inclusive approach—including entrance fees, lunch, and transfers. The lunch itself is usually a simple yet satisfying meal, giving you enough energy for the rest of the day.

The guides mentioned in reviews are friendly and knowledgeable, often adding valuable context to the sites. The group size is capped at 35, which helps keep the experience personal without feeling crowded.

Potential Downsides & Tips

One reviewer criticized the early start, mentioning that after being picked up at 3:45 am, many passengers spent hours sleeping during the bus ride. If you’re not an early riser, this could be a tough day. You might want to bring snacks or a book to pass the time on the long drive.

Another consideration is the long travel times—most of the day is spent in transit, which could be tiring for some. If you prefer more relaxed or shorter excursions, this might not be the best fit.

Also, drinks are not included, so bring water or purchase beverages along the way.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a full day of cultural and scenic highlights packed into one cost-effective package. It’s ideal if you’re interested in ancient ruins, the story of Saint Nicholas, and marine scenery. If you love guided tours with educational commentary, the knowledgeable guides will enhance your understanding.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or dislike early mornings, you might find the schedule a bit demanding. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors to Alanya eager to see some of Turkey’s less touristy, more authentic sites.

Final Thoughts

This Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Tour offers an engaging glimpse into Turkey’s past, paired with stunning coastal views and a relaxing boat ride. You’ll appreciate the well-organized logistics, included entrance fees, and friendly guides, all contributing to a smooth experience.

While the early start and long hours may be a challenge, the value and diversity of sights make it a worthwhile adventure for most travelers. Whether you’re a history lover, a scenic seeker, or simply looking for a full-day activity that covers some of Turkey’s most interesting sites, this tour delivers a lot for its price.

For those who want an authentic, hassle-free day exploring Turkey’s ancient past and beautiful coastlines, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which makes starting the day easier and more comfortable.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 4:00 am, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance fees to Demre and Myra, as well as for the boat trip, are included. The Saint Nicholas Church’s admission is not included, so you may need to pay separately if you wish to visit inside.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat trip from Kekova lasts about 2 hours, providing ample time to see the sunken ruins through the glass-bottomed boat.

What’s the group size limit?
The tour caps at 35 travelers, keeping the group manageable and allowing for a more personalized experience.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a lunch is included in the price, generally a simple meal designed to fuel you for the rest of the day.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider the early start and the full-day schedule for younger children.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
While accessible for most, some walking on uneven ruins and boat trips may pose challenges for travelers with limited mobility.

In the end, this tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and relaxation at a fair price, perfect for those eager to uncover Turkey’s fascinating past while enjoying its coastal beauty.