Alanya/Side: Demre St. Nicholas, Ancient Myra & Sunken City

A Full Day in Demre: Ancient Ruins, Sunken Cities, and the Legend of St. Nicholas

Traveling along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coast often reveals a mix of ancient ruins and scenic beauty, but this particular tour offers a focused journey into a region filled with history, legend, and underwater intrigue. Covering sites like Myra, the sunken city of Kekova, and St. Nicholas Church in Kale, the experience is well-suited for those eager to see a blend of archaeological wonders and picturesque landscapes.

Two aspects stand out immediately. First, the tour’s guides, like Margot, seem to bring the sites alive with their knowledge and enthusiasm—something travelers find memorable. Second, the boat trip to Kekova offers a rare glimpse of underwater ruins that you simply can’t experience from land, making it a highlight for many.

One thing to consider is that the tour’s long day involves multiple pickups, which can extend travel time, especially if you’re staying in Alanya or nearby. Having to wait for other hotels’ guests to be collected can eat into the day, but most agree that the sights are worth the wait. The tour also involves walking around ancient sites, so a reasonable level of mobility is recommended.

Key points / Takeaways

• Historic significance: You’ll visit Myra, home of St. Nicholas, and see rock-cut tombs and an ancient amphitheater.
• Underwater marvels: The boat trip to Kekova reveals submerged ruins of a Lycian city, a rare sight for visitors.
• Expert guides: Guides like Margot are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• Scenic drives: The route between Demre and Finike is often described as breathtaking, with views worth savoring.
• Included amenities: The tour provides lunch, entrance fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
• Limited for mobility: Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

If you’re after a full-day adventure that marries history, nature, and legend, this tour from Alanya might just fit your bill. It’s a carefully curated journey to some of the most captivating sites along Turkey’s southwestern coast, designed to give you a taste of the past and the current-day beauty of the region.

What the Itinerary Looks Like and Why It Matters

The day begins with hotel pickup, usually from your accommodation in Alanya. From there, you’ll settle in for a scenic drive to the ancient town of Myra, situated along the River Myros. Myra is famous for its Lycia heritage—think rock-hewn tombs and a well-preserved amphitheater. As I’ve read in reviews, guides like Margot do a good job explaining the significance of these ruins, making the experience more engaging.

The Lycia necropolis is particularly striking—rock-cut tombs carved into cliffs, some dating back over two thousand years. You’ll also see the remains of a Greek amphitheater, which hints at the grandeur this city once had. Some travelers, like Andreea, mention how wonderful the views are and how the trip is worth the long bus ride, especially when guided by knowledgeable tour leaders.

Next, the tour stops for a complimentary lunch—a chance to relax and refuel before heading out on the water. This is one of the value-added touches many appreciate, as the meal is included in the package, saving both time and money.

Discovering the Sunken City of Kekova

After lunch, the adventure moves to Kekova, renowned for its sunken city—the ruins of a Lycian port that was partially submerged after earthquakes and ground shifts centuries ago. The boat trip around Kekova lasts about an hour, giving you time to glimpse the submerged walls, staircases, and terraces through the crystal-clear water. You might find the underwater ruins more impressive than expected—many reviews describe it as a “wonderful surprise”.

The boat also sails past Simena—a charming village built on a hilltop with a castle—and offers a unique perspective on the area’s history from the water. Travelers note that the boat trip is relaxed, with the chance to swim or just enjoy the scenery. The visibility of the underwater ruins makes this a highlight for those who love a mix of history and photography.

Visiting Kale and the Legend of St. Nicholas

The trip wraps up with a visit to Kale (the town of Demre), home to the Church of St. Nicholas, the real-life inspiration for Santa Claus. The church is well-preserved and offers a glimpse into early Christian architecture and the veneration of St. Nicholas, who once served as a bishop here. Many visitors find the church touching, especially given how the legend of Santa is woven into local culture.

Practicalities and What to Expect

The full-day tour lasts around 16 hours, which might sound long, but the combination of sites and scenic drives makes it feel worthwhile. The hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which simplifies logistics. Expect a live tour guide speaking in English and Russian—a helpful feature for international travelers.

The tour includes entrance fees to Myra and St. Nicholas Church, as well as boat fare, meaning you won’t need to worry about extra costs once you’re there. However, drinks are not included, so bringing water or a soft drink along is a good idea.

While the experience is quite comprehensive, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, given the uneven terrain and walking involved.

The Long Drive and Group Dynamics

One of the consistent comments from travelers, including one who said, “the long bus trip is worth it,” is that the journey can be lengthy, especially if your hotel is in Alanya or further afield. Multiple pickups at different hotels can extend the travel time, but most agree the sights outweigh the inconvenience.

The group size tends to be manageable, and guides like Margot are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making even the long hours enjoyable.

This trip is ideal for travelers who value history, scenic beauty, and underwater surprises. If you enjoy guided tours with informative commentary and are comfortable with a long day on the road, you’ll find it rewarding. It’s especially good for those fascinated by St. Nicholas, Lycia architecture, or sunken ruins.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility restrictions, you might find the walking and boat rides challenging. Also, those seeking a more flexible or private experience might prefer smaller, customized tours.

Price & Value Analysis

The tour’s cost includes transportation, guide, entrance fees, and lunch, which makes it a solid value considering the number of sites visited. The convenience of having everything arranged—pickups, entrances, and boat trip—means less stress and more time enjoying the sights. The emphasis on authentic sites and expert guides enhances this value, especially when compared to self-organized day trips.

For those eager to explore Turkey’s coastal history, this Demre tour offers a well-rounded experience. It captures the essence of the region—ancient ruins, legendary stories, and underwater mysteries—all wrapped into a single full day. The guides add personality and depth, making the experience more than just sightseeing; it’s a storybook journey.

If you’re coming from Alanya and want a taste of Lycia’s past, along with a chance to see the sunken city of Kekova, this trip is a practical choice. You’ll leave with new stories, striking photos, and a deeper appreciation for Turkey’s layered history.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy guided excursions, historical sites, and scenic boat rides. It’s not a quick circuit but a meaningful glimpse into a fascinating part of Turkey’s heritage. Expect a day packed with memorable sights and stories that will stay with you long after you return home.

How long is the tour from start to finish?
The tour lasts approximately 16 hours, including hotel pickups and drop-offs, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a complimentary lunch is part of the package, saving you time and extra expense during the day.

Are the sites accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, this tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as walking and uneven terrain are involved.

What languages are available for the guides?
Guides speak English and Russian, ensuring clear explanations for most international visitors.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around ancient sites and exploring the boat. Also, consider bringing water and sun protection.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This comprehensive tour from Alanya offers a memorable blend of history, scenery, and legend—perfect for those eager to connect with Turkey’s coastal past while enjoying a comfortable, guided experience.