Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Tour From Antalya

Nestled along the stunning Turquoise Coast of Turkey, the Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Tour from Antalya promises an unforgettable journey into the region’s rich history and natural splendor. Exploring the ancient Lycian ruins of Myra, encountering the remarkable Church of Saint Nicholas, and gliding over the submerged city of Kekova aboard a glass-bottom boat, travelers embark on an immersive experience that blends captivating narratives with breathtaking vistas. Thoughtfully curated by knowledgeable guides, this comprehensive tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the layers of this remarkable destination – but there’s more to discover beyond the itinerary.

Key Points

• A full-day tour exploring the ancient sites of Myra, the Church of Saint Nicholas in Demre, and the sunken city of Kekova via a glass-bottom boat trip.
• Includes transportation, entrance fees, a guided tour, and a 1-hour glass-bottom boat excursion, providing a comprehensive experience of the Antalya region’s historical and natural attractions.
• Offers hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience, with a maximum group size of 45 for a more personalized experience.
• Reviews highlight the scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and opportunity to learn about the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage, although some mention long travel times and crowded boat trips.
• Potential challenges include long travel times, accessibility issues, and limited visibility of the sunken city, so extra preparation and planning may be required for a smooth and enjoyable tour.

Comprehensive Tour Overview

The Sunken City Kekova Day Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the historic sites and natural wonders in the Antalya region, offering travelers a well-rounded experience.

The full-day tour takes visitors to the ancient city of Myra, renowned for its Lycian necropolis, and the church of Saint Nicholas in Demre, which is linked to the legendary Santa Claus.

The highlight of the tour is a glass-bottom boat trip to view the sunken city of Kekova, a breathtaking underwater archaeological site.

Along the way, travelers will enjoy a delicious included lunch and the guidance of a professional tour leader.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour offers a seamless and immersive way to discover the rich cultural heritage of southern Turkey.

Tour Inclusions and Logistics

This comprehensive tour includes numerous inclusions to ensure a seamless and well-organized experience for travelers. Visitors will enjoy a bus/coach transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, allowing for convenient and hassle-free travel to the various sites. The tour group size is limited to a maximum of 45 travelers, providing a more personalized and manageable experience.

Inclusions	Details
Entrance Fees	Demre, Myra, and St. Nicholas Church
Boat Trip	1-hour glass-bottom boat tour of Kekova
Meals	Lunch is included
Guide	Professional guide provided throughout the tour

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s departure, ensuring flexibility for travelers.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

Travelers have provided a mix of positive and negative feedback on the Sunken City Kekova Day Tour, with an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 45 reviews.

Positive reviews praise the scenic views, historical sites, and knowledgeable guides.

However, some travelers noted issues with long travel times, crowded boat trips, and problems with pickup and bus comfort.

While many enjoyed the cultural and historical experiences, some expressed disappointment with the visibility of the sunken city due to natural changes.

Recommendations include bringing extra cash for souvenirs and being prepared for potential delays.

Highlights of the Kekova Region

Beyond the mixed reviews, the Kekova region itself offers a wealth of historical and natural wonders that draw visitors from around the world.

The highlight of the tour is the glass-bottom boat trip that allows you to glimpse the ruins of the sunken city of Kekova. Dating back to the 4th century BC, these submerged Lycian structures provide a unique glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

Nearby, the ancient city of Myra is renowned for its well-preserved Lycian necropolis, with intricately carved rock-cut tombs and monuments.

In Demre, the church of Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for the Santa Claus legend, adds a touch of religious and cultural significance to the tour.

Exploring the Ancient City of Myra

While the sunken city of Kekova captivates visitors, the ancient city of Myra offers another remarkable historical site within the region.

Nestled along the Lycian coastline, Myra’s well-preserved Lycian necropolis showcases the remarkable architectural and artistic achievements of this ancient civilization.

Travelers can explore the impressive rock-cut tombs and sarcophagi that line the city’s main thoroughfare, providing a glimpse into the burial practices and social status of Myra’s elite class.

Along With the necropolis, the site also features the ruins of a large Roman theater, further testament to Myra’s importance as a major Lycian city.

A visit to Myra complements the highlights of the Kekova region, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history.

Visiting the Church of Saint Nicholas

The tour includes a visit to the Church of Saint Nicholas in Demre, a site closely linked to the legend of Santa Claus. This Byzantine-era church, built in the 6th century, once housed the remains of Saint Nicholas, a revered Christian bishop known for his generous spirit and compassion towards the less fortunate.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved church and learn about the life and legacy of this beloved saint. The church’s interior features stunning mosaics and frescoes, offering a glimpse into the rich religious and cultural history of the region.

This stop on the tour provides an opportunity to connect with the origins of the Santa Claus tradition and appreciate the enduring influence of Saint Nicholas’ enduring popularity.

Potential Tour Challenges and Considerations

Travelers should be aware of several potential challenges and considerations when booking the Sunken City Kekova Day Tour. The long travel times, which can exceed 12 hours for the full-day excursion, may prove taxing for some participants. Plus, travelers have reported issues with crowding on the boat trips, which could limit the visibility and enjoyment of the sunken city. To help mitigate these concerns, it’s advisable to plan accordingly, bringing snacks, water, and any necessary medications. Plus, the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, as it is not wheelchair accessible. Overall, managing expectations and being prepared can help ensure a more enjoyable experience on this comprehensive tour.

Potential Challenge	Considerations
Long Travel Times	Plan for extended time, bring snacks and water
Boat Overcrowding	Limited visibility of sunken city
Mobility Limitations	Tour not wheelchair accessible
Pickup/Drop-off Arrangements	Confirm details in advance

Overall Tour Experience and Recommendations

The Sunken City Kekova Day Tour offers a mix of cultural, historical, and scenic experiences in the Antalya region. However, it’s important for travelers to manage their expectations regarding certain aspects of the tour.

The tour receives generally positive reviews, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see the ancient sites. However, common complaints include long travel times, crowded boat trips, and issues with pickup arrangements and bus comfort.

Travelers are advised to bring extra cash for souvenirs and be prepared for potential delays. While the guide quality can vary, the tour provides a rundown of the area’s key attractions, making it a worthwhile experience for those interested in exploring the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Children’s Tickets Available for This Tour?

Yes, children’s tickets are available for this tour. The tour accommodates families, with children allowed to join. Infant tickets are also offered, though infants must sit on laps during the boat trip.

Can I Request a Private or Small-Group Tour?

Private or small-group tours are often available, but they may cost more. Travelers should check with the tour operator to see if these options are offered and inquire about any additional fees. Some companies provide more personalized experiences for smaller groups.

Is There an Option to Extend the Boat Trip Duration?

According to the tour information, there doesn’t seem to be an option to extend the boat trip duration. The standard 1-hour glass-bottom boat tour is included in the tour package, but additional time on the boat isn’t mentioned as an available add-on.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or recommend purchasing lunch as part of the package.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment or gear. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended to fully enjoy the sights. Bring extra cash for souvenirs and be prepared for a long day of sightseeing.

Recap

The Sunken City Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Tour from Antalya offers an immersive exploration of the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

With guided visits to Myra’s ancient ruins, the Church of Saint Nicholas, and a captivating glass-bottom boat trip over the submerged city, this tour provides an engaging blend of scenic views and historical insights that make it a must-do experience for travelers.