A comprehensive look at the Demre – Myra Tour from Antalya
Traveling from Antalya to explore the ancient sites of Demre and Myra offers a satisfying blend of history, culture, and seaside scenery. This 7.5-hour private tour, offered by Sojourn for around $840 per person, combines visits to iconic landmarks like the St. Nicholas Church and the Lycia rock tombs with a scenic boat trip to the Kekova Sunken City. What’s especially appealing is the personalized touch—the tour is limited to just 8 participants, which means more space to absorb the sights and ask questions.
Two things I particularly like about this experience are the depth of historical context provided by the guide and the variety of sights. The guide, whose approach is professional yet friendly, really brings the stories of the Lycian tombs and the Christian relics alive. Plus, the boat ride over the sunken city offers a rare chance to see a fascinating underwater archaeological site from close up. A small downside is that this tour doesn’t include lunch or drinks, so you’ll want to budget extra time and money for a meal, especially after an active morning.
Another thing to consider: the tour covers a lot in a single day, which means some might find the schedule a bit tight. If you prefer a slower, more leisurely pace, you might want to extend your visit or choose a different tour. But for those eager to see key highlights without fuss, this setup offers good value and a memorable experience.
Key points / Takeaways
- Personalized Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, providing an intimate experience.
- Expert Guide: A knowledgeable English-speaking guide, like “Murat” or “Aysun,” enhances understanding of each site.
- Highlights of History & Nature: Combines ancient Lycian tombs, a church dedicated to Santa Claus, and a boat trip over a sunken city.
- Convenient Transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Antalya City Center or within 10 km make logistics simple.
- All Entrance Fees Included: Tickets for Myra and St. Nicholas Church are covered, eliminating extra costs.
- Value for the Price: While $840 might seem high, the included boat trip, guided tour, and transport make it a good deal for those eager to maximize their day.
Entering the World of Demre and Myra
This tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or a designated spot in Antalya, making your morning hassle-free. The drive through the scenic Turkish countryside is pleasant, giving you a taste of local life before reaching Demre. The first stop is the St. Nicholas Church, often called Santa Claus’s church, which is really a small museum now but still holds a certain magic. Inside, you’ll find relics and a display that tell stories of Saint Nicholas, the real-life figure behind Santa Claus.
What I love about visiting here is the chance to stand in a place that’s both religious and cultural—a symbol of kindness and giving. The guide, often enthusiastic and full of little stories, makes the history accessible. You’ll also get a look at the church’s museum, which adds context to the religious significance.
Next, you’ll head over to the ancient city of Myra, where the rock-hewn Lycian tombs and the well-preserved theater stand out. The tombs, carved directly into the cliffs, are reminiscent of a giant hillside graveyard and give you a real sense of the Lycians’ artistic skill. The theater, which once hosted performances for thousands, offers a glimpse into the social life of a city that thrived centuries ago.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Demre.
What makes Myra special? It’s not just the ruins but the stories behind them. The guide I encountered shared details about how these tombs symbolized wealth and status, and how the city’s religious significance persisted through the centuries. From the perspective of history, walking through the ruins feels like stepping into a storybook of ancient civilizations.
The Lunch Break and Relaxation
After exploring the ruins, the tour provides a break for lunch—though the tour price doesn’t include it, so you’ll want to plan ahead. Many travelers find that local restaurants serve hearty Turkish fare, often including fresh seafood or traditional kebabs. It’s a good chance to relax, swap stories with your small group, and recharge for the afternoon.
The Kekova Sunken City Boat Tour
Post-lunch, the highlight for many is the boat trip over Kekova’s sunken ruins. This 2-hour cruise offers a unique perspective—seeing submerged walls and ancient structures just below the water’s surface. The boat, often a traditional Turkish gulet, glides smoothly over the calm sea, giving you plenty of opportunities for photos and a sense of connection with the landscape.
Reviewers consistently mention how impressive the underwater ruins are. One said, “You don’t need to snorkel—just look over the side, and the ancient walls are right there.” The boat staff is usually friendly, offering drinks and sometimes swimming stops if weather permits.
Why This Matters
The boat trip adds a memorable, hands-on element to the day. It’s not everyday travelers get to see underwater ruins so clearly. Plus, the scenery along the coast is stunning, with rocky cliffs and turquoise waters making the whole trip picture-perfect.
The Logistics and Practicalities
Transportation is straightforward—your driver and guide pick you up from your hotel in Antalya and handle all the driving. This takes the stress out of planning your own transport, especially considering the distance to Demre. The small group size means a more personalized experience and more flexibility for questions.
The entire day lasts about 7.5 hours, making it a full but not overwhelming itinerary. Be prepared for a busy schedule, especially if you want to linger a bit longer at each site. The tour’s price covers all entrance fees and boat trip costs, which adds to its value.
What’s not included? You’ll need to bring your own lunch or plan to eat at a local restaurant—since this isn’t part of the package. Also, transfers from hotels more than 10 km from Antalya’s center are optional, and you might need to arrange those separately.
Who’s this tour perfect for?
This experience suits travelers who want an efficient, guided overview of important Lycian sites with a bit of seaside adventure. If you enjoy history, archaeology, and scenic boat trips, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s ideal for those who prefer a small group and a personalized touch over large, bus-style excursions. If you’re on a tight schedule but eager to see key highlights, this tour strikes a good balance.
Price and Value Considerations
At $840 per person, this tour is on the higher end, but it includes most major fees, guide service, and transportation. For those interested in making the most of their day without worrying about logistics, the convenience and depth of experience justify the cost. However, if budget is a concern, exploring similar sites independently or looking for smaller group options might be worth considering.
Final Thoughts
This Demre – Myra tour offers a rich, well-rounded experience of Turkey’s ancient past combined with a scenic boat adventure. It’s a great choice for travelers who value guided insights, comfortable transportation, and a variety of activities packed into one day. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a more personal and engaging option, especially if you’re interested in history and archaeology.
While it’s not the cheapest option, the inclusion of key sites, the boat trip, and the hassle-free logistics make it good value for those eager to explore the Lycian coast in depth. Just be prepared for a busy day, and plan for extra money and time for lunch and any personal extras.
If you’re looking to combine culture, history, and scenic beauty on a single trip from Antalya, this tour hits all those marks with professionalism and enthusiasm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the tour?
Your tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Antalya City Center or 10 km of it, entry tickets for Myra and St. Nicholas Church, a boat trip in Kekova, and all parking fees.
Are there any additional costs?
Yes, lunch and drinks are not included, so you should plan to buy your own meal during the break. Transfers from hotels beyond the 10 km radius are optional and not part of the standard package.
How long does the boat trip take?
The boat tour over Kekova generally lasts about 2 hours, giving you enough time to appreciate the sunken city from the water.
Can I skip the boat trip?
This tour specifically includes the boat trip as a highlight, but if you’re not interested, you might want to look for other options or customize a private tour.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate pace and interest in ancient ruins and boat scenery generally appeal to families, especially those with older children.
How early should I book?
It’s wise to reserve in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure a spot—this tour is small-group limited to 8 people.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, a hat, and water. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery, especially during the boat trip.
Is the guide’s commentary in English?
Yes, the tour includes a professional English-speaking guide who makes sure you understand the significance of each site.
Are there any restrictions or special considerations?
The tour is designed for most travelers, but if you have mobility issues, check with the provider about accessibility at specific sites.
This tour from Antalya offers an enriching glimpse into Turkey’s Lycian past, wrapped in a scenic coastal cruise. Perfect for history enthusiasts, seaside explorers, and those seeking a well-organized, small-group adventure.