Alanya/Side: Demre St. Nicholas, Ancient Myra & Sunken City

Exploring Turkey’s southern coast often means highlighting its stunning beaches and lively resorts, but this tour offers a fascinating journey into history and underwater mysteries. We’re here to share an honest look at the Demre St. Nicholas, Ancient Myra & Sunken City experience, based on detailed reviews and the itinerary itself.

What we love about this trip is how it balances rich historical sites with a fun boat adventure, all wrapped in a comfortable, organized package. The knowledgeable guides make a real difference, and the scenic drive through Demre’s countryside adds to the overall charm. Plus, the included lunch and entrance fees give good value, especially considering the depth of the sights.

One thing to keep in mind is the long duration – around 16 hours – which might be exhausting for some travelers, especially with multiple hotel pickups involved. It’s best suited for those eager to explore history and natural beauty in a full-day format, and who don’t mind a bit of travel time.

If you’re after an authentic experience packed with cultural insights, beautiful views, and underwater adventures, this tour hits many of those marks. It’s ideal for history buffs, curious explorers, and those who enjoy boat trips and scenic drives.

Key Points

• Historical richness: Visit ancient Myra and the Lycian necropolis.
• Underwater intrigue: Sail to Kekova Island to see the sunken city ruins.
• Expert guidance: Led by knowledgeable guides, often praised for their friendliness and insights.
• Value for money: Includes lunch, entrance fees, and boat trip.
• Long but rewarding: A 16-hour full-day tour with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Scenic journey: The drive between sites offers beautiful views, especially between Demre and Finike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour

Starting with Convenience and Comfort

From the moment you book, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes this trip hassle-free. The pickup points are from your hotel’s security gate, which simplifies the morning start. Expect an early start, as the tour lasts roughly 16 hours, so packing some snacks and comfortable shoes is wise.

The transportation is typically a spacious coach, designed for comfort during the long drive. Reviews mention that the journey from Alanya or other nearby areas can take some time, but many find the scenic route well worth it. Plus, with a guide onboard, you get snippets of local history and stories to pass the time.

The Historic Charm of Myra

The first major stop is Myra, an ancient Lycian city on the banks of the River Myros. Here, you’ll explore the Greek amphitheater, which is remarkably well-preserved and offers a glimpse into the lively entertainment of past civilizations. The rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs are striking, and as one reviewer put it, “something you do not see every day.”

This part of the tour isn’t just about snapping photos — guides often share stories about the Lycian civilization and its unique tomb architecture, adding context to the ruins. The entrance fees are included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs here.

The Significance of St. Nicholas and Kale

Next, the tour stops at Kale (Demre), a small town most famous for the Church of St. Nicholas. This site, well-preserved and atmospheric, is the final resting place of the historical Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus. Visitors often find it a moving experience to stand where the saint was buried, especially if they have a religious or cultural interest.

The visit provides a quiet contrast to the more bustling archaeological sites, and many travelers appreciate the chance to connect with the local religious heritage.

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A Delicious, Included Lunch

A highlight for many is the complimentary lunch, which usually features local dishes in a comfortable setting. It’s a nice touch that offers a break and a chance to chat with fellow travelers. The quality varies but generally receives positive comments for being satisfying and filling.

The Boat Ride to Kekova and the Sunken City

The most photogenic part of the day is undoubtedly the boat trip to Kekova Island. After lunch, you’ll cruise over turquoise waters, with the boat ride lasting about an hour. This is where the experience becomes truly unique.

The boat takes you close to the sunken city of Simena, where the underwater ruins can be seen through the clear water. Travelers often describe the experience as “wonderful” and “surprising”, with some mentioning that the boat trip exceeded their expectations thanks to the picturesque views and the chance to see ancient ruins from a different perspective.

The boat trip also provides an opportunity to swim or relax in the calm waters surrounding Kekova, making it suitable for a range of ages and activity preferences.

The Lycian Necropolis at Teimiussa

On the way back, a brief visit to Teimiussa offers more insight into Lycian culture. The necropolis here is notable, and guides typically point out key features, adding depth to your understanding of the region.

Final Stop in Kale and Wrap-up

Before returning to Alanya, the tour visits Kale, the small town where St. Nicholas’s church is located. Many find this a meaningful ending, connecting the day’s archaeological and religious sites. The journey back is often filled with scenic views and reflections on the day’s discoveries.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Timing

Expect this tour to last about 16 hours, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a long day. The start time varies depending on your hotel location, and check availability when booking. The long duration is a trade-off for seeing multiple sites in one day, but it does mean early mornings and late returns.

Group Size and Guides

Groups tend to be large but manageable. The guides are usually bilingual, speaking English and Russian, and are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. As one reviewer mentions, “Margot was amazing,” indicating the guides often go the extra mile to make the experience memorable.

Cost and Value

Considering that entrance fees, lunch, and boat trips are included, the overall cost is quite reasonable for a full-day guided tour. It offers good value, especially for those interested in history, archaeology, and scenic boat rides.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must — you’ll be walking around ancient ruins, rocky sites, and on the boat. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is also advised, particularly in summer months. While drinks aren’t included, you might find opportunities to buy refreshments at some stops.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Andreea, who took the trip from Mahmutlar, loved the scenic drive and described the Myra City as “something you do not see every day.” She especially appreciated the guide Margot, calling her “incredible,” and noted that the boat trip to Kekova was a “wonderful surprise.” Her comment about the scenic route between Demre and Finike highlights how even the journey adds value.

On the other hand, a reviewer from GetYourGuide felt the multiple hotel pickups made the trip somewhat lengthy, which is a fair point for those who prefer shorter, more streamlined tours. Still, they acknowledged that the attractions themselves were good, confirming this tour’s appeal lies in its sites rather than logistics.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience is perfect for history buffs eager to see Lycian ruins and learn about Saint Nicholas. It’s also ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy boat trips and scenic drives. The included amenities and entrance fees make it a practical choice for those wanting a value-rich day without additional costs.

However, it’s less suited for travelers with mobility challenges or those seeking a shorter day. The long hours and walking involved could be tiring, especially in hot weather.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to explore some of Turkey’s most compelling historical and natural sites. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the beautiful scenery and the chance to see ancient ruins submerged under water, make it a memorable experience. For travelers who value cultural insight, scenic views, and good value, it’s a smart pick.

While the lengthy day may not suit everyone, those willing to commit will find a rewarding journey into Turkey’s past and its stunning coastlines. The combination of historical sites, underwater exploration, and local charm makes this a worthwhile addition to any Turkey itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from your accommodation’s security gate, making it easy to start your day.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 16 hours, so be prepared for a long but rewarding day.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes are essential since you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces and exploring archaeological sites. Sun protection like hats and sunscreen is also recommended.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers entrance fees to Demre, Myra, and the St. Nicholas Church.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
A complimentary lunch is included, but drinks are not, so consider bringing water or purchasing beverages during the stops.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s primarily suited for able-bodied travelers who can walk and stand for periods. It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Most travelers cite the boat trip over Kekova and the underwater sunken city ruins as the standout experience, combined with the historic charm of Myra and St. Nicholas’s church.

You can check availability for your dates here: