Demre Myra and Kekova Tour: Top Side Tours & Excursions with Boat Ride

Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Anatolia with the Demre Myra and Kekova Tour, one of the most captivating Side tours! 🐫 This unforgettable Side excursion combines a scenic Kekova boat tour over the sunken city with visits to the Santa Claus Church and the ancient city of Myra. Swim in crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, explore Lycian rock-cut tombs, and immerse yourself in the cultural treasures of Antalya. 🌊 Join this top Side tour for a day filled with history, nature, and adventure! ✨

Why Choose the Demre Myra and Kekova Tour? 🌟

The Side Demre Myra Kekova tour, a standout among Side excursions, offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. Here’s why this Side tour is a must-do:

• Historic Sites: Visit the Santa Claus Church and the ancient city of Myra with its iconic rock-cut tombs. ⛪

• Scenic Boat Ride: Cruise over the sunken city of Kekova on a glass-bottom boat, a highlight of this Side boat tour. 🚤

• Natural Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and Taurus Mountains. 🏞️

• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with free entry for kids under 8 to key sites, making it a top Side excursion. 👨‍👩‍👧

Demre Myra and Kekova Tour Itinerary 📅

The Demre Myra Kekova tour, a top-rated Side tour, starts with a hotel pickup from Side-Manavgat at 5:30 AM (times vary for other areas between Antalya and Alanya). Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus through scenic coastal towns like Kemer, Kumluca, and Finike, arriving at Üçağız for the Kekova boat tour. 🚍 This Side excursion includes a delicious lunch, guided visits, and ample photo opportunities.

Tour Schedule 🕒

1. 5:30 AM – Hotel Pickup: Begin your Side tour with a comfortable bus transfer from Side-Manavgat hotels. 🚐

2. Breakfast Break: Stop near Antalya for a quick breakfast en route to Üçağız. 🍳

3. Kekova Boat Tour (10:30 AM): Board a two-story, glass-bottom boat for a one-hour cruise over the sunken city of Kekova, with guided insights into its history. 🚤

4. Swim Break: Enjoy a refreshing swim in a scenic bay near Kekova Island, surrounded by ancient ruins. 🏊‍♀️

5. Lunch in Demre: Savor an open buffet lunch with rice, pasta, soup, and 12 salad options at a local restaurant. 🍽️

6. St. Nicholas Church (Santa Claus Church): Visit this iconic pilgrimage site for 45 minutes, with a stop at a nearby shop for religious icons. ⛪

7. Ancient City of Myra (2:00 PM): Explore the amphitheater and Lycian rock-cut tombs for an hour, a highlight of this Side excursion. 🏛️

8. Return Journey: Arrive back at your hotel around 6:30 PM, concluding this enriching Side tour. 🚍

Kekova Boat Trip and Simena 🏝️

The Kekova boat tour, a key part of this Side excursion, takes you through the ancient Lycian city of Simena, partially submerged after 2nd-century earthquakes. 🏺 Visit the charming village of Kaleköy and explore Simena Castle, a medieval gem. Sunbathe on the boat’s upper deck and swim in the Mediterranean’s crystal-clear waters, surrounded by stunning views. 🌅 This Side boat tour is a perfect blend of history and relaxation.

Highlights of the Tour 🌄

St. Nicholas Church (Santa Claus Church) ⛪

The Santa Claus Church in Demre, dedicated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children and sailors, is a must-see on this Side tour. Born in 300 BC in Patara, St. Nicholas served as Myra’s Archbishop and is celebrated for his miracles and generosity. The church, now a memorial museum, features his tomb, frescoes, mosaics, and a Russian-gifted Santa Claus statue. 🗿 A 45-minute visit during this Side excursion offers a glimpse into its spiritual and architectural significance.

Ancient City of Myra 🏛️

The ancient city of Myra, a key stop on this Side tour, was a thriving Lycian settlement until the 11th century AD. Marvel at its 11,000-seat amphitheater with remarkable acoustics and the iconic rock-cut tombs carved into the mountainside. 🪨 Explore ancient baths and temples for an immersive journey into antiquity, making this a highlight of your Side excursion.

What’s Included in This Side Excursion? 🎒

This Demre Myra Kekova tour, one of the best Side tours, includes:

• Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off: Seamless transfers from hotels between Antalya and Alanya. 🚐

• Travel Insurance: Peace of mind during your Side excursion. 🛡️

• Air-Conditioned Bus: Comfortable travel throughout the tour. 🚌

• Guiding Service: Expert guides provide information in English, German, Turkish, and Russian. 🗣️

• Lunch: Open buffet with diverse options in Demre. 🍽️

• Optional Entries: Choose to visit St. Nicholas Church and Myra (free for kids under 8). 🎟️

Not Included: Breakfast, drinks, souvenirs, and personal expenses. 💶

Important Information ℹ️

• Booking Tip: Reserve at least two days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on this popular Side tour. 📲

• Pricing: Free for toddlers under 3 (no bus seat; parents must hold them). Children aged 4-11 get discounted rates. Kids under 8 enter St. Nicholas Church and Myra for free. 💶

• What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, footwear, sunscreen, and a swimsuit for the Kekova boat tour. 🩳

• Boat Details: The two-story boat has a glass bottom for viewing underwater ruins and an upper deck for sunbathing. 🚤

• Accessibility: The tour is suitable for all ages, with multilingual guides ensuring a welcoming experience. 😊