From Antalya: Full-Day Tour to Demre, Myra and Kekova

Nestled along the picturesque Turquoise Coast, the full-day tour from Antalya to Demre, Myra, and Kekova promises an immersive exploration of the region’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. Travelers will embark on a captivating glass-bottom boat cruise, allowing them to witness the submerged ruins of an ancient sunken city. With opportunities to encounter diverse marine life and indulge in the serene ambiance of Esmeralda Bay, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines cultural heritage, natural wonders, and a chance to truly disconnect from the everyday.

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Key Points

Comprehensive full-day tour from Antalya to explore the archaeological wonders of Demre, Myra, and the Kekova region.
Glass-bottom boat cruise to witness the submerged ruins of the ancient sunken city in Kekova.
Opportunity to swim, relax, and enjoy the scenic natural landscapes of Esmeralda Bay and Gökkaya Bay.
Discover diverse marine life, including five species of turtles, at the serene Karemlik Bay.
Visit the ancient Roman-style theater and rock-cut tombs in Myra, as well as the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Antalya provides an opportunity for first-time visitors to explore the highlights of Demre, Myra, and Kekova.

The itinerary includes a cruise on Kekova Island using a glass-bottom boat, allowing visitors to witness the submerged ruins.

A glass-bottom boat cruise on Kekova Island allows visitors to marvel at the submerged ancient ruins beneath the surface.

Travelers can also swim, eat lunch, and relax at Esmeralda Bay, and discover five different turtles at Karemlik Bay.

The tour also features visits to the large Roman-style theater and rock-cut tombs in Myra, as well as the castle ruins of Simena, all while enjoying the convenience of air-conditioned transportation and an included lunch.

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Exploring Kekova Region

One of the highlights of the tour is the cruise on the Kekova region using a glass-bottom boat. Participants can observe the submerged ruins of the ancient sunken city while gliding across the turquoise waters.

The boat also stops at the Castle of Simena, where visitors can explore the castle ruins and learn about the site’s history.

The Kekova region is known for its unique geomorphology, with islands, sunken cities, and remote bays. The tranquil setting provides an ideal opportunity for swimming, relaxing, and taking in the breathtaking natural scenery.

Discovering Demre and Myra

What else does the tour offer beyond the Kekova region?

The full-day excursion also explores the archaeological wonders of Demre and the ancient city of Myra. In Demre, visitors can see the Church of St. Nicholas, the former home of the Christian saint.

The tour then moves on to Myra, where guests can marvel at the large Roman-style theater and the rock-cut tombs carved into the hillside.

Plus, the tour includes a stop at Simena, where participants can discover the castle ruins overlooking the stunning coastline.

This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience of the region’s historical and natural treasures.

Esmeralda Bay and Gökkaya Bay

The tour also includes visits to Esmeralda Bay and Gökkaya Bay, two popular destinations known for their diverse water sports and picturesque scenery.

Esmeralda Bay offers a tranquil setting for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a provided lunch.

Gökkaya Bay, on the other hand, is a hub for water-based activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Visitors can explore the bays’ pristine turquoise waters and rocky coves, taking in the stunning Mediterranean landscapes.

These stops provide a refreshing break from the archaeological sites, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.

Unique Wildlife Encounters

During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to observe a diverse array of sea turtles at Karemlik Bay.

The area is home to five different species of these gentle marine reptiles, including the loggerhead, green, hawksbill, olive ridley, and leatherback turtles.

Travelers can spot the turtles swimming in the turquoise waters or basking on the shores.

The tour guides provide information about the turtles’ behavior and conservation efforts to protect these threatened species.

This unique wildlife encounter allows visitors to appreciate the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Kekova region.

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Itinerary and Logistics

This full-day tour begins with an early start at 7:00 am, providing ample time to explore the highlights of the Demre, Myra, and Kekova region.

Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, allowing for a comfortable journey.

Visitors will cruise the Kekova region on a glass-bottom boat, swim and relax at Esmeralda Bay, and discover the unique turtles of Karemlik Bay.

Cruise the Kekova region on a glass-bottom boat, swim and relax at Esmeralda Bay, and discover the unique turtles of Karemlik Bay.

The tour also includes visits to the archaeological wonders of Demre and the ancient city of Myra, with entrance tickets provided.

The excursion ends back at the original meeting point, accommodating up to 50 travelers.

What’s Included and Additional Details

Included in the tour package are the entrance tickets required to visit the key attractions, which cover the Castle of Simena (€4), the archaeological site of Myra (€9), and the Church of St. Nicholas (€12). Plus, the tour includes round-trip transportation by air-conditioned vehicle and a delicious lunch.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Entrance Tickets | Personal Expenses |

| Transportation | Tips |

| Lunch | Alcoholic Beverages |

| Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise | Travel Insurance |

| Swim at Esmeralda Bay | – |

Travelers can expect a full day of exploration, with the opportunity to swim, relax, and discover the rich history and natural beauty of the Demre, Myra, and Kekova region.

The Sum Up

This captivating full-day tour from Antalya presents a unique opportunity to take in the rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and diverse wildlife of the Demre, Myra, and Kekova regions. From the awe-inspiring sunken ruins to the serene swimming spots and rare animal encounters, this adventure promises an unforgettable day of exploration and discovery along the enchanting Mediterranean coast.