From Olympos: Day Trip to Demre, Myra and Kekova

Setting out on a day trip from Olympos to Demre, Myra, and Kekova is an opportunity to dive into the captivating history and natural splendor of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. For just $59.97 per person, this 11-hour adventure promises a perfect blend of ancient ruins, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to explore the sunken city of Dolchiste. With easy cancellation and pay later options, it’s a chance to uncover the wonders of this remarkable region.

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Key Points

A day trip from Olympos visiting Demre, Myra, and Kekova, priced at $59.97 per person with a tour duration of 11 hours.
Highlights include exploring the ancient Kekova Island, visiting Simena Castle, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Gokkaya Bay.
The tour provides a unique archaeological experience at the partially submerged ruins of the sunken city of Dolchiste.
Visitors can ascend to Simena Castle for scenic coastal views and browse local shops for Turkish handicrafts and souvenirs.
The tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay later option, with additional entrance fees for Simena Castle and Myra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Olympos to Demre, Myra, and Kekova is priced from $59.97 per person.

A day trip from Olympos to Demre, Myra, and Kekova is priced from $59.97 per person.

The 11-hour tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay later option.

You’ll visit key sites like Kekova Island’s sunken city, Simena Castle, and Myra Ruins.

Explore scenic spots, go swimming and snorkeling.

The tour covers transportation, lunch, and boat trip.

Additional costs include entrance fees to Simena Castle (4 Euros) and Myra (13 Euros).

Bring sun protection and swimwear.

Meeting points and itinerary may vary by season, so stay tuned for updates.

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Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins at the Bayrams Tree Houses in Olympos, where the adventure unfolds.

Key stops along the way include:

Exploring the ancient Kekova Island and the partially submerged ruins of the ancient city of Dolchiste, flooded by an earthquake in the 2nd century.
Visiting the impressive Simena Castle, where visitors can explore, shop, and take in the scenic views.
Swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Gokkaya Bay.
Discovering the impressive Myra Ruins, with a self-guided tour of the ancient site.

The tour then returns to the starting point at Bayrams Tree Houses.

Exploring Kekova and Sunken City

Although accessible only by boat, the partially submerged ruins of the ancient city of Dolchiste on Kekova Island offer a captivating glimpse into the past.

Visitors can observe the remains of sunken houses, paved streets, and other structures underwater, providing a unique archaeological experience.

The island’s dramatic scenery, with its turquoise waters and towering cliffs, adds to the allure of this ancient site.

The island’s dramatic scenery, with its turquoise waters and towering cliffs, adds to the allure of this ancient site.

Guests will have the opportunity to take photographs and soak in the tranquil atmosphere during the boat tour, a highlight of the day trip from Olympos to Demre, Myra, and Kekova.

Visiting Simena Castle

After exploring the ruins of the ancient Lycian city on Kekova Island, visitors ascend to the commanding Simena Castle, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding coastline.

The castle is a popular stop on the tour, allowing travelers to:

Wander the fortress’s stone walls and pathways, imagining its storied past
Browse the local shops for authentic Turkish handicrafts and souvenirs
Snap photos of the picturesque landscape, from the azure waters to the rugged mountains
Enjoy a self-guided tour of the castle’s remnants and the insight they provide into the region’s history

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Swimming in the Crystal-Clear Waters

After departing Simena Castle, the tour takes visitors to the crystal-clear waters of Gokkaya Bay.

Here, you’ll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the pristine bay. The turquoise waters are perfect for cooling off on a warm day.

The turquoise waters of the pristine bay are perfect for cooling off with a refreshing swim or snorkel on a warm day.

Nearby, you’ll find Pirates Cave and Karemlik Bay, which are home to sea turtles.

Prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty and diverse marine life in this stunning coastal area.

Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen to make the most of this refreshing swimming stop.

There's plenty more to explore in Demre

Discovering Myra Ruins

Next, the tour takes visitors to the ruins of Myra, an ancient Lycian city known for its remarkable rock-cut tombs and the iconic Church of St. Nicholas.

Highlights of exploring Myra include:

Admiring the well-preserved Lycian rock-cut tombs, some of the finest examples of this architectural style.
Visiting the 4th-century Church of St. Nicholas, an important pilgrimage site and the former home of the beloved saint.
Wandering through the expansive Roman theater, once able to seat 12,000 people.
Discovering the remains of the ancient city’s agora, baths, and other structures that offer a glimpse into Myra’s prosperous past.

Additional Details and Inclusions

The day trip also includes a boat excursion to explore the scenic Kekova region. During the boat ride, guests can visit the sunken city of Dolchiste and admire the views from Simena Castle. The tour includes round-trip transfers, a delicious lunch, and entrance fees to Simena Castle and Myra Ancient City. However, drinks are not included. To summarize the key details:

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Transfer | Drinks |

| Lunch | |

| Boat trip | |

| Entrance fees | |

Guests should remember to bring sun protection and a swimsuit, as there are opportunities for swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a maximum group size. However, the small group format suggests an intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention and a more immersive exploration of the historical sites and natural wonders along the itinerary.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no age restrictions for participants on this day trip. Children of all ages are welcome to join the tour, making it suitable for families. Participants should be able to get on and off the boat comfortably.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?

The tour can be customized to include additional stops, but this may incur extra costs. Travelers should consult with the tour operator to discuss their preferences and any modifications to the standard itinerary.

Is the Boat Tour Included in the Tour Price?

The boat trip to Kekova and Simena Castle is included in the tour price. The tour covers boat transportation, as well as entrance fees to Simena Castle and Myra Ancient City.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Lunch Option?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or halal lunch option for this tour. The tour provider offers customizable meal options to accommodate dietary preferences when booking. Just be sure to specify your needs at the time of reservation.

The Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Olympos offers a perfect blend of history, relaxation, and natural wonder. Explore the sunken city of Dolchiste, wander through Simena Castle, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Gokkaya Bay. With an unbeatable price of $59.97 per person and easy booking options, this 11-hour adventure is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.