Sunken City Kekova, Demre & Myra Day Tour

Setting out on a journey through Turkey’s rich history, the Sunken City Kekova, Demre & Myra Day Tour offers an enchanting exploration of ancient sites and stunning landscapes. Visitors marvel at the impressive rock-cut tombs and Greek amphitheater in Myra before sailing to the island of Kekova, where they can snorkel amongst the submerged ruins of a once-thriving Lycian port. With stops at the Lycian necropolis and the historic St. Nicholas Church, this cultural experience promises to captivate and leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Explore the ancient ruins of Myra, including impressive rock-cut tombs and a well-preserved Greek amphitheater, with guided commentary on the historical significance.
• Set out on a sailing excursion to Kekova Island, where you can swim, snorkel, and discover the sunken city submerged beneath the crystal-clear waters.
• Visit the Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa and admire the well-preserved rock-cut tombs, offering insights into the customs and beliefs of the Lycian people.
• Explore the Byzantine St. Nicholas Church in Demre, featuring impressive architecture and a 4th-century tomb, providing insights into the region’s religious history.
• The tour package includes a transition from Myra to the sunken city of Kekova, allowing visitors to experience the highlights of this captivating archaeological region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Ancient Town of Myra

The tour begins with a visit to the ancient town of Myra, located in the Demre district of Turkey’s Mediterranean region.

Myra was an important city in the Lycian civilization, known for its impressive rock-cut tombs and well-preserved Greek amphitheater. Visitors can explore the ruins, marvel at the intricate tomb carvings, and imagine the lively performances that once took place in the ancient theater.

Myra, a Lycian city, boasts impressive rock-cut tombs and a well-preserved Greek amphitheater for visitors to explore and marvel at.

The guide provides insightful commentary, sharing the history and significance of this remarkable archaeological site.

After spending time in Myra, the tour continues to the next stop – the sunken city of Kekova.

Sailing to the Kekova Island

After exploring the ancient ruins of Myra, the tour progresses to the highlight of the day – a sailing excursion to the island of Kekova. Guests board a boat and cruise along the serene waters, taking in the stunning views of the sunken city submerged beneath the crystal-clear Mediterranean. Once at the island, they have the opportunity to swim or snorkel, discovering the fascinating underwater ruins. The tour also visits the Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa and the historic St. Nicholas Church in Demre, providing a well-rounded exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Activity | Swimming, snorkeling |

| Highlight | Sunken city of Simena |

| Location | Kekova Island |

| Duration | Varies, depending on group |

Discovering the Sunken City of Simena

As the boat approaches the island of Kekova, guests can’t help but be captivated by the otherworldly sight of the sunken city of Simena. Beneath the crystal-clear waters, the ruins of houses, streets, and ancient structures provide a glimpse into a forgotten past.

Guests can don snorkeling gear and peer down at the submerged remains, imagining what life was like in this once-thriving Lycian port town. The tour guide shares insights into the history and significance of the site, adding depth to the experience.

Exploring the sunken city is a highlight of the day’s adventures.

Visiting the Lycian Necropolis at Teimiussa

Following the visit to the sunken city of Simena, the tour continues to the Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa. This ancient burial site showcases the rich history of the Lycian civilization. Visitors can explore the well-preserved rock-cut tombs and learn about the customs and beliefs of the Lycian people. The necropolis provides a unique glimpse into the past, allowing travelers to connect with the region’s cultural heritage.

| Highlights | Duration | Entrance Fee |

| — | — | — |

| Rock-cut tombs | 30-45 minutes | Included in tour package |

| Lycian architectural styles | Flexible | – |

| Panoramic views | Flexible | – |

| Historical significance | Flexible | – |

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Exploring the St. Nicholas Church in Demre

The tour then proceeds to the St. Nicholas Church in Demre.

This important Byzantine church was built in the 6th century and is dedicated to the Christian saint Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus.

Visitors can explore the church’s impressive architecture and view the 4th-century tomb where St. Nicholas was originally buried. An entrance fee of €17 per person is required.

The church provides a glimpse into the region’s rich religious history and the enduring legacy of St. Nicholas.

The church offers a window into the region’s vibrant religious heritage and the lasting influence of St. Nicholas.

After the visit, the tour returns to Antalya, completing the day’s journey through Kekova, Demre, and Myra.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour starts promptly at 6:55 am with hotel pickups across Antalya. Travelers are transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus.

Travel times may vary, with Lara residents potentially facing longer transfers. The fixed-back seats may not be ideal for families with young children.

The tour concludes around 7 pm, so it’s a long day. Entrance fees to St. Nicholas Church in Demre are €17 per person, not included in the tour price.

Customer Experiences and Feedback

Customers have provided insightful feedback on their experiences with this tour. With an overall rating of 3.7 out of 5, reviewers praised the knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation.

The guide received a 4.6 rating, highlighting their informative and engaging commentary. However, the value for money rating of 3.8 suggests room for improvement.

While the lunch received mixed reviews, most found it satisfactory. Suranjan from the UK described the tour as "fantastic" with "magical locations," while Alina from Kyrgyzstan noted the "captivating" experience and "comfortable group size."

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Participants should avoid overly formal attire, as the tour involves some outdoor activities.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Yes, guests can bring their own snorkeling equipment for the tour. However, snorkeling equipment is also available for rent if needed. Guests should ensure they have appropriate gear to enjoy the underwater views safely and comfortably.

Do We Have Time for Shopping During the Tour?

The tour itinerary doesn’t include dedicated shopping time. However, there may be opportunities to browse local shops or markets during some of the stops, depending on available time. The focus remains on the key sightseeing activities outlined in the tour overview.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour duration. The tour appears to have a fixed 10-hour itinerary. Extending the tour duration would likely require booking a separate tour or arranging additional private transportation.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or halal meal for this tour. The tour provider offers these options upon prior request, to accommodate dietary preferences. However, the quality of the meal may have received mixed reviews in the past.

The Sum Up

The Sunken City Kekova, Demre & Myra Day Tour offers a captivating blend of historical, cultural, and natural wonders. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, sail crystal-clear waters, and discover the rich heritage of this remarkable region. With its convenient transportation and diverse experiences, this tour provides an unforgettable introduction to Turkey’s fascinating Lycian legacy.

You can check availability for your dates here: