Antalya/Kemer: Kekova Sunken City, Demre & Lycia Day Tour

History

The region of Lycia, located along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is renowned for its ancient civilization that thrived from the 15th to 6th centuries BC, leaving behind remarkable rock tombs, amphitheaters, and coastal settlements. Kekova Island and its sunken city, partially submerged due to a 2nd-century earthquake, offer a glimpse into this rich Lycian heritage, while Demre is famous as the home of St. Nicholas, the 4th-century bishop who inspired the legend of Santa Claus.

This day tour from Antalya or Kemer immerses you in Lycia’s ancient history, combining a scenic yacht cruise with visits to historic sites. From the sunken ruins of Kekova to the sacred St. Nicholas Church, you’ll explore the cultural and historical treasures of this captivating region.

Highlights

• Sail over the sunken city of Kekova on a glass-bottom yacht
• Visit the 4th-century St. Nicholas Church in Demre
• Explore ancient Lycian rock tombs and a Greco-Roman amphitheater
• Swim in the turquoise waters near Kekova Island
• Enjoy comfortable hotel pickup and a delicious Turkish lunch

Full Description

Embark on a 12-hour day tour from Antalya or Kemer to explore the ancient wonders of Lycia, featuring a yacht cruise and visits to historic sites. Your journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup, where you’ll meet your driver at the outdoor security gate of your accommodation and travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle through the scenic landscapes of Lycia. Your first stop is an ancient Lycian rock tomb, carved into the cliffs, followed by a visit to a well-preserved Greco-Roman amphitheater, where your English-speaking guide shares insights into the region’s history.

Next, visit the St. Nicholas Church in Demre, built above the 4th-century burial place of the bishop known as the Miracle Worker, whose legacy inspired Santa Claus. After a delicious lunch at a local Turkish restaurant, board a glass-bottom yacht for a cruise to Kekova Island. Sail over the sunken city of Kekova, destroyed by an earthquake in the 2nd century, and marvel at the submerged ruins and Simena Castle through the yacht’s windows. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters near the island before returning to your hotel in Antalya or Kemer, filled with memories of Lycia’s ancient beauty and cultural significance.

This tour, with skip-the-ticket-line access and a knowledgeable guide, offers a seamless blend of history, nature, and relaxation. The combination of land-based exploration and a scenic yacht cruise makes it a perfect way to discover Turkey’s Mediterranean heritage.

Why Choose This Experience?

This day tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient Lycian region, combining a scenic yacht cruise with visits to significant historical sites like the St. Nicholas Church and Kekova’s sunken city. The comfortable transport, expert guide, and included lunch ensure a hassle-free and enriching experience for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

With the chance to swim in Kekova’s turquoise waters and explore ancient ruins, this tour provides a perfect balance of adventure and cultural immersion. The small group setting and professional guidance make it an unforgettable journey into Turkey’s past.

What’s Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Antalya or Kemer
• Delicious lunch at a local Turkish restaurant
• Entrance fees to Kekova Sunken City and the Greco-Roman amphitheater
• Glass-bottom yacht tour to Kekova Island
• Professional English-speaking guide

Itinerary

• Pickup from your hotel in Antalya or Kemer
• Drive through Lycia to visit an ancient rock tomb
• Explore a Greco-Roman amphitheater with guided commentary
• Visit the St. Nicholas Church in Demre
• Enjoy lunch at a local Turkish restaurant
• Board a glass-bottom yacht for a cruise to Kekova Island
• Sail over the sunken city and view Simena Castle
• Swim in the turquoise waters near Kekova Island
• Return transfer to your hotel in Antalya or Kemer

Pricing

From $79 per person

Meeting Point

Pickup is included from your hotel or accommodation in Antalya or Kemer. Please wait at the outdoor security gate 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, confirmed after booking. Drivers will wait no longer than 5 minutes past the scheduled time, so ensure accurate hotel details are provided for seamless coordination.

How to Get There

• Arrange pickup from your hotel in Antalya or Kemer
• Be ready at the outdoor security gate 10 minutes before the confirmed pickup time
• Provide precise hotel details during booking for smooth transport
• Confirm pickup time with the operator after reservation

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking at historical sites
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Cash for personal expenses

Know Before You Go

• Wear comfortable shoes for moderate walking at the amphitheater and rock tombs
• Bring swimwear and a towel for swimming near Kekova Island
• Sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended for sun protection
• Cash is advised for personal expenses, as they are not included
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately

Reviews

• This trip was fantastic, with our guide Levent providing funny and informative commentary. The itinerary was well-planned, giving us enough time to explore each site thoroughly. The lunch at the Turkish restaurant was delicious, and I highly recommend this tour!
• Levent was an exceptional guide, sharing deep historical knowledge with a great sense of humor. The sites were fascinating, and the yacht cruise over the sunken city was a highlight. A well-organized and memorable day!
• Our guide Levant was brilliant, offering a wealth of information and creating a wonderful atmosphere. The scenery, lunch, and yacht cruise were perfect, making this tour a must-do. Highly recommend for a fantastic experience!