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

Exploring the rich history and stunning natural beauty of the Mediterranean is an enticing prospect for many travelers. The full-day tour from Antalya to Demre, Myra, and Kekova promises to deliver just that. Priced at $83.14 per person, this 14-hour adventure takes visitors on a journey through ancient ruins, picturesque coastlines, and the renowned sunken city of Kekova. With an English-speaking guide to enhance the experience, travelers can anticipate a well-curated itinerary that showcases the cultural treasures of this remarkable region. What awaits those who embark on this captivating tour is a rich tapestry of history, natural wonder, and…

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Antalya explores the historic sites of Demre, Myra, and Kekova, including the sunken city and ancient ruins.
• The tour includes a 7-hour boat trip, lunch, and entrance fees, providing a comprehensive experience in the region.
• Highlights include the glass-bottom boat ride over the sunken city, visits to Simena Castle and the ancient city of Myra.
• Participants can enjoy swimming and water sports at various bays along the coast, complementing the cultural and historical aspects of the tour.
• The tour is suitable for travelers interested in archaeology, history, and natural beauty, with an English-speaking host available for assistance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Antalya takes visitors to the historic and scenic destinations of Demre, Myra, and Kekova.

The tour is priced at $83.14 per person and lasts 14 hours, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. Guests have the option to reserve now and pay later.

The itinerary includes exploring the sunken city of Kekova, visiting Simena Castle, swimming in various bays, and discovering the ancient city of Myra.

Cultural and historical sites like the St. Nicholas Church and Myra’s rock-cut tombs are also included.

Transfers, lunch, a 7-hour boat trip, and entrance fees are all part of the comprehensive package.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights include exploring the ruins of the Sunken City on the Kekova Island, which were submerged by a 2nd-century earthquake.

Visitors can take a boat with a glass-bottom for scenic views of the ruins. The tour also includes a visit to the ancient village of Kaleköy and Simena Castle, as well as stops at Esmeralda Bay, Burc Bay, Gökaya Bay, and Karemlik Bay for swimming, lunch, and water sports.

The tour features significant historical sites like the Ancient City of Myra, with its Roman-style theatre and rock-cut tombs, and an optional stop at the St. Nicholas Church, originally a 520 A.D. church.

Cultural and Historical Sites

The tour features two significant cultural and historical sites.

The first is the St. Nicholas Church, which was originally a 520 A.D. church. Visitors can opt to stop at the Santa Claus Museum located within.

The second site is the Ancient City of Myra, which offers a wealth of impressive ruins, including a large Roman-style theatre and rock-cut tombs dating back to the 5th century B.C.

These ancient sites provide a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, offering participants an opportunity to explore and learn about the fascinating past of this captivating destination.

Included in the Tour

The tour includes a range of amenities and services to enhance the overall experience. Transfers from Antalya to Demre and back are provided, ensuring a comfortable and convenient start and end to the day.

A delicious lunch is served during the tour, allowing travelers to refuel and enjoy the local cuisine.

The highlight of the tour is the 7-hour boat trip, providing ample time to explore the stunning Kekova region, including:

1. Guided visits to historical sites like the Ancient City of Myra and the St. Nicholas Church.
2. Entrance fees to key attractions such as Myra, St. Nicholas Church, and Simena Castle.
3. The opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of various bays and coves along the coastline.

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Preparation and Recommendations

Packing the right essentials is crucial for an enjoyable and seamless tour experience. Visitors should bring sunglasses to shield their eyes from the bright Mediterranean sun, a towel for swimming and sunbathing, and sunscreen to protect their skin.

Comfortable, breathable sportswear is recommended, as the tour involves some walking and exploration of historical sites. The tour starts early in the morning with a transfer from a preferred meeting point in Antalya, so participants should be prepared for an action-packed day.

An English-speaking host or greeter will be available throughout the tour to provide assistance and ensure a smooth experience.

Kekova Island and Sunken City

Why is the Kekova Island and Sunken City a highlight of this tour? This ancient submerged settlement, sunk by a 2nd-century earthquake, offers a one-of-a-kind glimpse into the past.

Visitors can explore the ruins via a glass-bottom boat, providing breathtaking views of the underwater city.

The tour includes:

1. Scenic boat ride around the island, allowing you to marvel at the unique landscape.
2. Opportunity to swim near the castle ruins of Simena, an ancient village that’s now partially submerged.
3. Chance to discover the natural beauty of Esmeralda Bay, where you’ll enjoy a tranquil lunch and swimming break.

This stop on the tour promises a truly immersive archaeological experience, blending history, culture, and natural splendor.

Simena Castle and Kaleköy

After exploring the submerged ruins of Kekova, visitors can venture to the ancient village of Kaleköy and discover the captivating Simena Castle.

Perched atop a hillside, the castle offers panoramic views of the stunning coastline. Visitors can hike to the castle’s summit for breathtaking vistas or swim in the cool waters near the historic site.

The peaceful village of Kaleköy provides a tranquil setting, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Whether strolling through the charming streets or relaxing on the shores, this stop offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, complementing the earlier exploration of the Kekova sunken city.

Bays and Natural Attractions

As visitors continue their journey, they’ll have the opportunity to explore a series of picturesque bays and natural attractions along the coastline.

The tour includes stops at:

1. Esmeralda Bay, where travelers can enjoy a relaxing lunch and swim break in a tranquil setting.

2. Burc Bay, known for its cooler waters due to natural springs, allowing for refreshing dips.

3. Gökaya Bay, where guests can swim and participate in various water sports.

Plus, the tour visits the Pirates Cave, a large, naturally-formed cave, and Karemlik Bay, where visitors can look for three types of turtles in their natural habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour does not appear to offer options to customize the itinerary. It’s a full-day, pre-set tour with highlights like Kekova Island, Simena Castle, and ancient sites. Travelers can choose their preferred meeting point, but the overall tour is not customizable.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. The tour operator typically offers both options, allowing you to customize the experience to your preferences and travel pace.

Are There Any COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols in Place?

The tour operator has implemented COVID-19 health and safety protocols, which may include reduced group sizes, mandatory face masks, temperature checks, and enhanced cleaning procedures. Guests are advised to check the latest guidelines before departure.

Is It Possible to Visit Additional Sites Not Listed in the Itinerary?

While the standard itinerary includes specific sites, some tours may offer flexibility to visit additional locations not listed, depending on the tour provider’s policies and client preferences. Travelers should check with the tour operator for any customization options.

Can I Book the Tour in My Native Language if It’s Not English?

While the tour provides an English-speaking host, the booking process may accommodate other languages. Travelers should inquire about language options when making their reservation to ensure a seamless experience.

Recap

This full-day tour from Antalya offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of Myra, marvel at the sunken city of Kekova, and admire the picturesque Simena Castle. With a glass-bottom boat ride, swimming opportunities, and a delicious local lunch, this tour provides an immersive Mediterranean experience that’s not to be missed.

You can check if your dates are available here: