Antalya, Alanya, Side: Demre, Myra, & Kekova Island / Boat

Reviewed Experience: A Full-Day Tour of Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island with Boat Cruise

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s historical and coastal treasures, departing from various locations like Alanya, Side, Belek, Antalya, or Kemer. The day packs in visits to the Church of Saint Nicholas, the ancient city of Myra, and the enchanting Kekova Island, famous for its submerged ruins. It’s a long day—typically around 14 hours—but one filled with engaging sights, knowledgeable guides, and a chance to see some of Turkey’s most loved sites.

Two things I really appreciate about this trip are the depth of historical insight provided at each stop and the beautiful boat cruise over Kekova. The guides seem genuinely enthusiastic—one reviewer called their guide the “best”—and the comfort of the modern bus makes the long ride more bearable. The included lunch offers a taste of local cuisine, which is often better than expected for a tour meal.

One consideration to keep in mind is the travel time. The journey from the starting point can be lengthy, especially from Alanya, but the scenic bus ride is part of the experience. Also, the tour involves a good amount of walking and some boat time, so comfortable shoes and readiness for a full day are advised. If you’re prone to heat, be prepared for warm conditions, as one reviewer mentioned the bus air conditioning was broken in very hot weather.

This trip offers excellent value for travelers eager to combine history, scenic waters, and cultural insights without the hassle of planning each step. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided visits, love a good boat cruise, and enjoy history sprinkled with a bit of adventure.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Expert Guides Make the Difference: Visitors rave about guides like “the best” or “very friendly and accommodating,” who share interesting stories and keep the mood lively.
• Historic Sites Are Well-Arranged: The visit to Saint Nicholas Church and Museum, as well as Myra’s theater and tombs, offers a tangible connection to ancient civilizations.
• Breathtaking Boat Cruise: Gliding over Kekova’s Sunken City reveals submerged ruins in stunning turquoise waters—an experience that’s both eerie and beautiful.
• Long But Worthwhile Day: The 14-hour itinerary means early starts and full days, but the variety of sights makes it worthwhile.
• Flexible and Well-Organized: Pickup from your hotel makes logistics simple, and the tour allows enough time at each stop to explore at your own pace.
• Value for Money: With included meals, entrance fees, transportation, and guide, you get a comprehensive experience for a reasonable price.

Exploring the Journey from Start to Finish

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup—an advantage for travelers who prefer to avoid navigating local transportation. The bus is described as modern and comfortable, though one review noted that the air conditioning was broken—so it’s wise to bring a fan or dress in light clothing if weather is hot. The ride from popular starting points like Alanya or Side can be lengthy, often a couple of hours, but most travelers find the scenic drive part of the adventure.

Breakfast Stop and Early Morning Tips

You might want to plan for a quick breakfast near Antalya, as this is not included. A coffee or snack is a good idea to stay energized before a busy day of sightseeing. The guides typically notify you of the final pickup time a day in advance, so keep an eye on your email or communication from the tour provider.

Visit to Saint Nicholas Church and Museum

One of the highlights is the chance to walk through the Saint Nicholas Church, which is a place of pilgrimage and cultural significance. The museum next door provides context about the saint’s life and influence, giving you a glimpse into how this figure inspired myths and traditions, including Santa Claus. Reviewers appreciate the detailed explanations and the opportunity to absorb the spiritual atmosphere.

Exploring Myra’s Ancient Ruins

Next, you’ll visit Myra, famous for its impressive theater carved into the rock and its rock-cut tombs. Our guides tend to be well-informed, sharing stories about the architecture and history that bring the ruins to life. One reviewer noted, “We had plenty of time at our leisure” to explore, which is a big plus for those wanting to avoid rushing. The necropolis looks like an open-air museum, and you’ll feel connected to the past in a very tangible way.

Lunch and Rest

A Turkish lunch is included, offering local delicacies made from fresh ingredients. It’s a good chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy the flavors of the region. The meal quality can vary, but most travelers find it satisfying and a good value considering the inclusions.

Boat Cruise to Kekova and The Sunken City

After lunch, the tour heads toward the coast for a boat cruise to Kekova—an absolute highlight. The boat glides over the Sunken City, where submerged ruins are visible beneath the clear waters. Photos here are stunning, and it’s a surreal experience to see ancient walls and structures beneath your feet. The boat trip provides a different perspective on history and nature, creating a memorable contrast to the land-bound sites.

Return Journey and Final Reflections

The day winds down with the bus ride back to your hotel, often with some final stories from the guides. Many reviews mention how the guides kept the mood light and informative, even on the long drive home. Expect to return late, but with plenty of memories and photos.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for history lovers, curious travelers, and those who enjoy scenic boat rides. It suits people comfortable with a full day on their feet, and those eager for a mix of archaeology, culture, and coastal scenery. It’s also a good pick for families or groups who prefer guided tours for ease of logistics.

The tour costs provide great value considering the included transportation, guides, entrance fees, and meals—especially if you’re eager to see multiple sites without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. However, if you’re sensitive to long travel times or heat, pack accordingly and be prepared for a busy schedule.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Dress in light, comfortable clothing and wear sturdy walking shoes.
• Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for sun protection.
• Carry a change of clothes if you plan to swim or get wet during the boat cruise.
• Remember that drinks are not included, so bring water or purchase additional beverages.
• Arrive at your pickup point early, and keep an eye on the final schedule notification.
• If possible, bring a small fan or hand-held device to stay cool on the bus if the air conditioning is not working.

FAQs

How long is the trip from my hotel?
The trip duration varies depending on your pickup location, but most start early in the morning and return late in the evening—approximately 14 hours in total.

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, a Turkish lunch is included, providing an opportunity to enjoy local flavors. Drinks are not included, so you may want to bring bottled water.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance fees to the Ancient City of Myra, the Theater and Rock Cemetery, and Saint Nicholas Church are included if you opt for those options. Confirm with your booking.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, comfortable clothes, a change of clothes if swimming, and sun protection. Also, consider bringing a camera, water, and possibly a fan if you’re sensitive to heat.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a guided tour with a set schedule, but guides typically allow some leisure time at key sites for photos and exploration.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Generally, yes, but be aware of the walking involved and the long day. It’s best suited for those who can handle a full day on their feet and some boat time.

In essence, this tour brings together history, scenic beauty, and local flavor in a way that’s accessible and memorable. Whether you’re interested in the legend of Saint Nicholas or the mysterious Sunken City, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a comprehensive day trip with excellent guides and good value.