Side-Turkey.

Wondering how to travel from Antalya to Demre, Myra and Kekova without the stress of planning every detail yourself? This is one of the most rewarding day trips on the Turkish Riviera, combining the ancient Lycian rock tombs of Myra, the Church of St. Nicholas (the real Santa Claus) in Demre, and a boat cruise over the famous Sunken City of Kekova. In this honest guide we break down every transport option, what each tour really includes, and how to choose the trip that suits you best.

Why Visit Demre, Myra and Kekova?

This corner of the Lycian coast packs thousands of years of history into a single day. It is ideal for travellers who love archaeology, photography and turquoise sea scenery rather than crowded beaches.

• Myra Ancient City: Spectacular rock-cut tombs carved into a cliff face and a remarkably well-preserved Roman theatre.
• Church of St. Nicholas (Demre): The 4th-century church and burial site of the bishop who inspired the legend of Santa Claus.
• Kekova Sunken City: A glass-bottom or panoramic boat cruise over a partially submerged ancient town, with ruins visible just beneath the clear water.
• Simena (Kaleköy): A car-free village crowned by a Byzantine castle and Lycian sarcophagi rising from the sea.

How to Get from Antalya to Demre, Myra & Kekova

The region sits roughly 130-150 km southwest of Antalya. There are three realistic ways to make the trip, each with clear trade-offs.

1. Public Bus (Dolmuş / Coach)

• Pros: The cheapest option and good for independent budget travellers.
• Cons: Long, indirect journey with changes; no boat ticket, no guide, and you must organise the Kekova cruise yourself once you arrive.
• Best for: Backpackers with a full free day and a flexible mindset.

2. Private Transfer

• Pros: Door-to-door comfort, your own schedule, ideal for families and small groups.
• Cons: More expensive than a shared option, and you still need to arrange entrance fees and the boat separately.
• Best for: Travellers who value flexibility and privacy over cost.

3. Guided Day Tour (Most Popular)

• Pros: Comfortable air-conditioned coach with hotel pick-up, a licensed guide, and a pre-arranged Kekova boat cruise, all coordinated in one seamless day.
• Cons: A fixed itinerary and group schedule (though this keeps the day efficient and stress-free).
• Best for: First-time visitors who want history explained properly and everything handled for them.

What a Typical Guided Tour Includes

Our Demre, Myra and Kekova day tour is designed to give you the full experience without the logistics headache. A standard day usually covers:

• Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in the Antalya, Side, Belek or Kemer region.
• Comfortable transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver.
• A professional, licensed guide sharing the real history of the Lycian sites.
• Visit to the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre.
• Exploration of the Myra rock tombs and Roman theatre.
• A relaxing boat cruise over Kekova's Sunken City with views of Simena Castle.

Honesty & Transparency: What You Should Know

We believe you should know exactly what to expect, with no surprises along the way.

• Entrance fees to Myra and the St. Nicholas Church are official museum tickets and may be optional or separate depending on the package you choose.
• The Kekova boat route can occasionally adjust due to weather and sea conditions, always for your safety. Quality is never compromised.
• Lunch is typically taken at a seaside restaurant in Demre or Üçağız; menu options suit all budgets.
• We never hide costs. Everything is laid out clearly before you book.

For full details and up-to-date offers, check our website for current 2026 prices, campaigns and early-booking deals.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Day

• Bring a hat, sunscreen and water; the Myra site has little shade.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on ancient stone surfaces.
• Bring your swimsuit if you fancy a dip during the Kekova cruise (season permitting).
• Keep your camera ready; the rock tombs and the Sunken City are unforgettable.

Ready to Explore the Lycian Coast?

The Demre, Myra and Kekova tour is one of the most beloved excursions on the Turkish Riviera, and 2026 spots fill fast once the season heats up. Secure your seat early to enjoy the best dates, smaller groups and our early-booking advantages. As a local Antalya agency, Murat Atalay Excursions & Tours handles every detail with care, so all you have to do is enjoy the journey. Reserve your spot before the season gets busy!