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The tour at a glance
West of Antalya the mountains drop steeply into the sea, and the old land of Lycia begins. This long day combines three of its most famous places: a cliff carved with ancient tombs, the church of the saint who inspired Santa Claus, and a calm bay where the remains of an ancient town lie under clear water. It suits lovers of history and the sea who do not mind a longer, very scenic drive.
- Myra rock tombs – Myra was one of the leading cities of the Lycian League. Its rock tombs, cut into the cliff face in the 4th century BC, imitate wooden houses with beams and doors; below them stands a large Roman theatre decorated with carved theatre masks.
- St Nicholas Church in Demre – Nicholas was bishop of Myra in the 4th century and became famous for secret gifts to the poor; his legend grew into the figure of Santa Claus. The Byzantine church built over his burial place keeps old frescoes, mosaic floors and a marble sarcophagus.
- Kekova boat trip – from the small harbour of Üçağız, boats cruise through the sheltered waters between Kekova Island and the mainland, past the village of Kaleköy, ancient Simena, with its castle on the hill and a Lycian sarcophagus standing in the sea.
- Sunken city views – along the shore of Kekova Island, foundations, stairs and walls of an ancient settlement, sunk by earthquakes, are visible just below the surface.
Booking
How the day runs
Allow 10 to 11 hours from pickup to drop-off; it is one of the longer day trips on our list. A typical day looks like this:
- Early pickup from your hotel and drive west along the coast past Kemer, Kumluca and Finike; from Antalya the drive to Demre takes around three hours, more from Side or Alanya.
- Visit to Myra: the rock tombs and the Roman theatre.
- St Nicholas Church in the centre of Demre.
- A break for lunch.
- Drive to Üçağız and boat trip around Kekova, usually with a stop in a bay for swimming when the weather allows.
- Return drive along the coast to your hotel in the evening.
The order of the stops may change with the boat schedules and the season.
Good to know
Bring swimwear, a towel and a change of clothes for the boat, plus a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen – the sun on the water is strong. At Myra and in the church you walk on uneven stone, so wear comfortable shoes that are easy to change. Swimming and diving directly over the sunken city are not permitted because it is a protected site; you see the ruins from the boat. Children should wear life jackets on board if they are not confident swimmers.
The coastal road has many bends; if you get car sick, take something before the trip and ask for a front seat. The day is long but not physically hard, so it suits families with children and active older travellers.
Pickup and transport
We pick you up from your hotel and bring you back after the tour, from all resorts of the Antalya region – Lara, Kundu, Konyaaltı, Belek, Side, Kemer, Alanya and the places in between. The pickup time depends on your hotel area and is given to you when you book.
You travel in our own vehicles: a minivan of the VW Caravelle class, a VIP Mercedes-Benz Vito or a Mercedes Sprinter for larger groups. A private version with only your own group in the vehicle can be requested. Child seats are free on request.
Booking
Book 24/7 on WhatsApp or through the booking form. We send you a fixed price within 1 minute; there is no prepayment and cancellation is free. You pay in the vehicle on the day, in cash or by card if agreed. What is included (entrance tickets, meals, equipment) is confirmed when you book. The tour can also be combined with your airport transfer in one booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you pick us up from our hotel?
Yes. We collect you from your hotel in Lara, Belek, Side, Kemer, Alanya or anywhere else in the Antalya region and bring you back in the evening. The pickup time is given when you book.
How long does the tour take?
About 10 to 11 hours in total. Demre is roughly three hours' drive from Antalya, so the day starts early and ends in the evening.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes and some cash for drinks and souvenirs. A light jacket is useful on the boat in spring and autumn.
Is it suitable for children and older travellers?
Yes, the walking is light. The long drive and the winding road are the main things to consider for small children or anyone prone to car sickness.
What is included?
What is included (entrance tickets, meals, equipment) is confirmed when you book, including the Kekova boat trip and lunch.
Can we book a private tour or combine it with an airport transfer?
Yes. Ask for a private version with only your group in the vehicle, and add your airport transfer to the same booking.