About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, I've spent a decade watching tour operators chase the highest occupancy rates possible while often forgetting that travelers aren't just "leads" in a CRM—they're people who actually want to feel something. The industry loves to package history into sterile, air-conditioned bus rides, but the Antalya-Demre circuit is one of those rare gems that resists being totally "corporatized." It’s a bit of a marathon day, sure, and the REVPAR at the local hotels doesn't change because you took a boat trip, but seeing a sunken city through a glass floor? That's the kind of stuff that reminds me why I got into this biz in the first place. If you're tired of the "all-inclusive" bubble, this is the reality check you need. It’s authentic, a bit dusty, and utterly captivating.
About the Tour
Step out of the modern resort bubble and journey back through the rugged landscapes of the ancient state of Lycia. This comprehensive day tour is a deep dive into the layers of Turkish history, combining archaeological wonders with the crystal-blue allure of the Mediterranean.
The Footsteps of Giants: Myra and St. Nicholas
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive toward Demre. This isn't just a pit stop; it's the heart of ancient Myra. Here, you will encounter:
- Lycian Rock Tombs: Incredible funerary architecture carved directly into the cliff faces, looking down on the living as they have for millennia.
- Greco-Roman Amphitheater: A remarkably preserved site where you can almost hear the echoes of ancient spectators.
- Church of St. Nicholas: Visit the 4th-century site dedicated to the man who inspired the legend of Santa Claus. It’s a place of pilgrimage that feels heavy with history and devotion.
Sailing the Sunken Ruins
After a local lunch, the perspective shifts from land to sea. You'll board a glass-bottomed yacht to reach Kekova Island. This is the highlight for most:
- The Sunken City: Beneath the turquoise surface lie the ruins of an ancient Lycian settlement, partially submerged after a 2nd-century earthquake. Through the glass panels, you can spot staircases and walls that now belong to the sea.
- Simena Castle: View the medieval fortress from the water, standing guard over the picturesque village of Kaleköy.
- Swim Break: No Mediterranean trip is complete without a dip. You'll have the chance to jump into the refreshing, pristine waters to cool off before the return journey.
This tour is a perfect blend of "intellectual stimulation" and pure relaxation. It’s a long day, but for those who want to see what Turkey looked like before the luxury hotels moved in, it’s an absolute must.
Highlights
- Travel back in time to ancient Lycia and discover more about Lycian history
- Visit St Nicholas Church Miracle Worker and see his 4th-century burial spot
- Sail across turquoise water to visit the historic Kekova Island's sunken city
- Dive off the yacht for a swim in the cool and clear waters near Kekova Island
- Enjoy comfortable, roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Antalya
Know before you go
- Pick up times may vary depending on location.