Antalya, Alanya, Side: Demre, Myra, & Kekova Island / Boat

Introduction

If you’re looking to combine history, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure in one day, this tour through Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island offers a compelling package. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of an engaging, well-organized experience suited for curious travelers eager to see Turkey’s ancient and natural sites.

What we love about this tour: the chance to explore iconic historical landmarks like Saint Nicholas Church, marvel at sunken ruins, and enjoy a scenic boat cruise—all in one day. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to make a real difference, bringing history alive and keeping the mood lively. The lunch featuring Turkish cuisine and the comfort of round-trip bus transfers add great value.

One thing to consider is the long travel time from places like Alanya or Kemer, which might test your patience if you prefer shorter day trips. Still, for those willing to spend a full day soaking in culture, history, and nature, this tour is a fantastic pick. It’s especially suited for history buffs, scenic lovers, and anyone wanting an authentic experience beyond the usual tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering key historical sites and scenic highlights
• Guides praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills
• Boat cruise offers a unique view of the Sunken City of Kekova
• Value for money includes lunch, transportation, and entrance tickets
• Long day with around 14 hours of sightseeing, suitable for full-day adventurers
• Travel logistics are well-organized with hotel pickups and round-trip transfers

Detailed Review

Starting Point: From Hotels to History and Scenery

This tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which makes things easy. You’ll board a comfortable bus, ready for a journey that could last around 14 hours. The reviews mention the buses are modern, with some travelers noting they’ve slept well during the long ride—important when you have a full day ahead.

The Experience at Saint Nicholas Church

One of the main highlights is the Saint Nicholas Church and Museum in Demre. This site is more than just a religious venue; it’s a portal into the past that celebrates the origin of Santa Claus. Visitors can walk through the storied rooms and see the icons and relics, gaining insights into the history of the beloved saint. Reviewers like Jessy found this visit particularly meaningful, describing it as a “dream” and appreciating the guide’s explanations and jokes that kept the mood light and engaging.

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Exploring Ancient Myra

Next, the tour moves to Myra, home to impressive ancient ruins, including a large theater and a rock-cut necropolis. The theater is notably well-preserved, giving visitors a glimpse into the entertainment and social life of ancient civilizations. The rock tombs carved into the cliffs are both awe-inspiring and photogenic, with some reviews mentioning how much they enjoyed wandering at leisure and taking photos.

The guide’s role here is crucial, and reviews repeatedly commend guides for their friendly, attentive, and informative manner. They share stories that help bring the ruins to life, making the history more accessible and fun.

Lunch: A Taste of Turkey

After exploring Myra, it’s time for a local Turkish lunch. This meal offers an opportunity to enjoy fresh ingredients and traditional dishes, giving a real taste of regional cuisine. While reviews don’t specify the exact menu, they highlight the value of having a well-organized, included lunch as part of the tour package, saving travelers time and offering a chance to relax.

The Boat Cruise and Kekova Island

One of the most distinctive parts of this experience is the boat cruise to Kekova Island, where you’ll see the famous Sunken City. Gliding over the turquoise waters, you’ll witness submerged ruins that tell a story of a civilization claimed by the sea. Many reviews describe this as a magical, almost mystical experience, with Jessy calling it “a dream” to see these underwater remains.

The boat cruise is not hurried, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos. It’s a highlight for many, providing a peaceful and scenic contrast to the ruins on land.

Returning and Reflection

As the day winds down, the tour returns to your hotel, typically in the late afternoon or early evening. The reviews emphasize how well-organized the return trip is, with drivers trying to make the long journey comfortable—some even attempting to park in shaded spots to escape the heat.

Practical Aspects

Transportation and Comfort

The round-trip bus is described as modern and comfortable, a crucial factor given the long hours. However, one reviewer mentioned the air conditioning was broken in their bus, which made the journey less comfortable in 40-degree heat. This points to the importance of checking your specific provider’s vehicle standards, especially if you’re sensitive to heat.

Guide Quality

Guides play a pivotal role in this tour. Multiple reviews praise them for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to accommodate special requests. They’re often credited with making the experience memorable through lively storytelling, humor, and genuine attentiveness.

Length and Timing

This is a full-day activity, approximately 14 hours long, starting with hotel pickups that vary depending on your location. It’s best suited for those who enjoy dedicated, immersive trips rather than quick sightseeing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes lunch, transportation, entrance tickets, and a boat cruise, delivering great value for an all-in package. Drinks and breakfast aren’t included, so consider bringing water and some snacks for the journey. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind for travelers with changing plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, scenic lovers, and adventurous travelers wanting a full day of exploration. It’s particularly suitable for those comfortable with long travel days and looking to see Turkey’s highlights beyond the beaches.

If you prefer shorter trips or are sensitive to heat, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider other options. However, if you’re eager to learn about local legends, explore ancient ruins, and enjoy a scenic boat ride, this tour offers a well-rounded package.

The Sum Up

This tour from Alanya, Side, or Antalya offers a practical way to discover some of Turkey’s most captivating sites in a single, well-organized day. The combination of cultural history, scenic boat ride, and delicious lunch delivers significant value, especially with the praise for guides and the memorable sights.

While the length might be demanding for some, the experience’s depth makes it worthwhile for those who want to maximize their sightseeing without multiple hectic trips. It’s a great choice for travelers who appreciate learning about local legends, enjoying scenic views, and being guided by knowledgeable hosts.

If you’re after a full-day, educational, and scenic adventure that balances historical significance with natural beauty, this tour won’t disappoint.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately 14 hours, starting early in the morning with hotel pickups and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

What sites will I visit?
You’ll visit Saint Nicholas Church and Museum in Demre, explore the ruins of Myra, and enjoy a boat cruise to Kekova Island to see the Sunken City.

Is food included?
Yes, a local Turkish lunch is part of the package, giving you a chance to try regional dishes. Drinks are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, comfortable clothes, beachwear, and possibly a change of clothes if you plan to swim or get wet during the boat cruise.

What about transportation?
You’ll travel in a modern bus with round-trip transfers from your hotel. Be aware that in some cases, buses may have issues like broken air conditioning, so come prepared.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but keep in mind the full-day length and walking involved. It’s best for those who enjoy historical sites and scenic boat rides.

This tour combines the stories of ancient civilizations with the beauty of Turkey’s coastline, making it an enriching and visually stunning experience for those eager to see beyond the usual beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here: