Demre Myra, Kekova Tour From Kemer & St. Nicholas Church

Join our Kemer Demre Myra Kekova day tour to explore the Sunken City, Myra ruins and St. Nicholas Church. A glass-bottom boat cruise, a swimming stop and a local lunch — a full day of history, sea and ancient Lycia starting right from the Turkish Riviera.

🌍 Overview of the Kemer Demre Myra Kekova

From Kemer, the ancient Lycian coast lies just 1.5 hours to the east — a journey that leads from the modern resort belt into one of the most historically layered landscapes in Turkey. This full-day tour visits three remarkable sites: the Lycian rock tombs and Roman theatre of Myra, the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre, and the sunken city of Kekova, explored by glass-bottom yacht. A swimming stop in the turquoise waters and a traditional lunch at a local restaurant round out a day that combines sea, history and the genuine character of the Mediterranean coast.

🌟 Highlights

• Glass-bottom yacht cruise to Kekova Sunken City
• Visit the Church of St. Nicholas — the historical Santa Claus
• Explore Myra Lycian rock tombs and Roman theatre
• Views of Simena Castle from the water
• Swimming stop in crystal-clear Mediterranean waters
• Traditional lunch at a local restaurant
• Hotel pickup and return transfer from Kemer included

What to Expect on the Kemer Demre Myra Kekova

Your day starts with a hotel pickup in Kemer, Beldibi or Tekirova and a drive of approximately 1.5 hours east along the coast to the Lycian region. The route passes through the delta of the Alakır River and the agricultural plains of Finike before reaching the ancient sites.

The first stop is Myra — one of the six most important cities of the ancient Lycian League. The famous rock-cut tombs are carved directly into the limestone cliff face in elaborate facades, complete with pillars, doorways and carved reliefs. They are striking in person, far larger and more detailed than photographs suggest. Just below, the Greco-Roman theatre dates from the 2nd century AD and remains in exceptional condition — the decorated stage building, the seating tiers and the masks carved above the archways are all still intact.

In the town of Demre, the Church of St. Nicholas sits on the site where the 4th-century bishop was buried. St. Nicholas was a real person — the bishop of Myra who became famous for extraordinary generosity to the poor and to children — and his legend eventually became the basis for the modern Santa Claus tradition. The church preserves original Byzantine mosaics and frescoes from multiple restoration periods.

After lunch at a local restaurant, the group transfers to Çayağzı Harbour and boards a glass-bottom yacht. The cruise to Kekova Island passes along a coastline of small coves and pine-covered hills. At Kekova, the ruins of an ancient town — partially submerged after a series of earthquakes in the 2nd century AD — are clearly visible through the glass panels: walls, staircases, cisterns and doorways lying just beneath the surface in calm, clear water. The Simena Castle on the hilltop above provides a vivid backdrop. The boat then anchors in a secluded bay for a refreshing swim stop before returning to the harbour.

Looking for more adventures in the area? Explore our full list of Kemer tours or check out the Kemer: Suluada Island Sunset Boat Trip Tour With Dinner for another unforgettable experience.

🧭 Tour Itinerary

• Hotel pickup in Kemer & surrounding areas
• Drive to the Lycian region (approx. 1.5 hours)
• Myra — Lycian rock tombs and Roman theatre
• Demre — Church of St. Nicholas
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• Glass-bottom yacht cruise from Çayağzı Harbour
• Kekova Sunken City sightseeing and Simena Castle views
• Swimming stop in a turquoise bay
• Return transfer to Kemer hotels

ℹ️ Useful Information

• Full-day tour (approximately 10–11 hours from Kemer)
• Yacht cruise duration: approximately 2.5 hours
• Moderate walking at historical sites
• Swimming stop subject to weather and sea conditions
• Suitable for all ages including families

Learn more about the destination on the ancient city of Myra Wikipedia page.

🎒 What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Swimwear and towel
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Camera or smartphone
• Cash for entry fees and drinks

🚫 Not Suitable For

• Guests with serious mobility limitations

💸 Price and Booking

• Prices may vary by season — check current rates on the booking form
• Book now and pay on the day of the tour
• Contact us via WhatsApp, Telegram or Viber, or fill out the booking form below