Alanya Demre Myra and Kekova Tour

Get ready for an amazing adventure with the Alanya Demre Myra and Kekova Tour! You'll enjoy a fun boat ride over the sunken ruins of Kekova, cruising through the beautiful, clear waters of the Mediterranean. Plus, it's a great chance to dive into the rich culture of Anatolia.

The Turkish Riviera isn't just famous for its crystal-clear waters and golden beaches—it's also a land rich in ancient history and cultural wonders. On this unforgettable journey, you'll set off on a scenic boat trip through the sunken city of Kekova, a hidden jewel of the Mediterranean. Swim in its pristine waters while observing submerged ruins and remnants of past civilizations. The tour continues with visits to the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre, the ancient city of Myra, and the impressive Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs. A delicious open buffet lunch is included, and along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of Mediterranean landscapes and the fragrant air of the Taurus Mountains.

You can join this cultural and scenic tour from any point between Antalya and Alanya. Pick-up times vary by location, but for guests staying in Alanya, the tour begins early—at 04:45 in the morning.

Tour Itinerary – Alanya Demre Myra and Kekova Tour:

Your day begins with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. The first leg of the trip takes you through the picturesque coastal towns of Kemer, Kumluca, and Finike, offering stunning views of the Taurus Mountains, nomadic villages, and the Mediterranean coastline. After a short breakfast stop near Antalya, you will arrive in the village of Üçağız, Kekova. At around 10:30 AM, you’ll board a two-decked boat with a glass bottom for a scenic cruise over the sunken ruins of ancient Kekova. Your guide will share interesting insights as you sail along the coastline, with a swim break in one of the island’s beautiful bays—offering the rare chance to swim above submerged history. After the one-hour boat tour, you'll head to a nearby restaurant in Demre for a rich, open buffet lunch. The meal includes two hot dishes, rice or pasta, soup, and a variety of 12 salads. The tour continues with a visit to the Church of St. Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus Church. Before entering, there will be a brief stop at a local shop selling religious icons and souvenirs. You’ll have about 45 minutes to check out this famous pilgrimage spot. Around 2:00 PM, you’ll arrive at the ancient city of Myra, famous for its grand amphitheatre and Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs. You'll have about an hour to explore this impressive archaeological site before beginning your return journey. You can expect to be back at your hotel in Alanya by approximately 6:30 PM.

The Lycian Union is renowned as the first known civilization to adopt democracy. This ancient federation included 23 coastal cities, among them Olympos, Myra, Phaselis, and Simena. The name “Simena” comes from the Luwian language and means “Mother Goddess.” Dating back to the 4th century BC, the city once thrived on the coast as part of the Lycian League. Back in the 2nd century AD, a bunch of earthquakes made parts of the city sink into the sea, which is why it was eventually abandoned. Over time, a small village known as Kaleköy developed over the ruins. During the Kekova boat tour, you’ll have the chance to admire the sunken remains of ancient Simena, walk through the charming village of Kaleköy, and explore the medieval Simena Castle. Also, while relaxing on the top deck, soak in the amazing coastal views and dive into the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Mediterranean for a refreshing swim.

Known around the world by many names—Santa Claus, Père Noël, Sinterklaas, or Weihnachtsmann—Saint Nicholas, or Nikolaos of Myra, was born in Patara around 300 BC into a wealthy family. Known for his generosity, he gave away his fortune to help the poor and became famous for his miracles. He later served as the Archbishop of Myra, where he eventually passed away. Today, Saint Nicholas is venerated as the protector of children, students, sailors, travellers, and the less fortunate. After his death, a church was built in Myra in his memory, where his tomb was placed. Now open as a memorial museum, the Church of St. Nicholas remains a significant pilgrimage site for Christians. Visitors can explore its rich architectural details, including frescoes, icons, mosaics, and the tomb itself. Outside, a statue of Santa Claus—gifted by Russia—greets guests. Visiting this historic site adds a fascinating cultural and spiritual dimension to your holiday.

Once a thriving settlement until the 11th century AD, the ancient city of Myra is one of the most remarkable historical sites in Demre. Famous for its impressive rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs, Myra also features two distinct necropolises. The grand Roman theatre, with a seating capacity of 11,000, boasts incredible acoustics that still amaze visitors today. Whether you're walking through its ancient streets, sitting in the amphitheatre, or exploring the remains of old temples and baths, Myra offers a truly immersive journey into the past.

Throughout the day, our friendly guides—fluent in English, German, Turkish, and Russian—will accompany you, sharing fascinating insights into the region's rich past. The Kekova boat tour is conducted on a charming, double-decked boat equipped with a glass-bottom panel, giving you the unique opportunity to view the sunken ruins beneath the sea as you cruise through turquoise waters. The upper deck is perfect for sunbathing while taking in the scenic beauty of the coastline. During the tour, you'll be welcomed with genuine hospitality—from the guides and boat crew to the restaurant staff, everyone is dedicated to making your experience enjoyable and stress-free. Visiting the Church of St. Nicholas and the ancient city of Myra is optional, so you can choose how you'd like to spend your time. To ensure your comfort, it's best to wear light, breathable clothes and good walking shoes. The summer sun can be strong, so we also recommend bringing sunscreen. Families with small children are welcome—children under 3 can join the tour for free, though they will need to sit on a parent's lap during the bus ride unless a separate seat is reserved. Reduced rates are available for children aged 4 to 11, and children under 8 enjoy free admission to both the Church of St. Nicholas and the ruins of Myra. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of nature, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, this tour promises an unforgettable day along the Mediterranean coast.