Side-Turkey.

If you have one day on the Turkish Riviera and your heart is set on Demre, Myra and Kekova, you will quickly notice that the same region can be visited in two very different moods. One version is a history-rich tour built around the ancient city of Myra and the Church of St. Nicholas. The other leans into a slower, sea-and-sun rhythm centred on a boat ride over the famous Sunken City. Both are wonderful. The trick is knowing which one fits the way you like to travel.

The history-first day: Myra, St. Nicholas and the rock tombs

This is the choice for travellers who love to stand inside the story. Demre sits on the ancient city of Myra in Antalya province, and the highlights are genuinely significant. The Church of St. Nicholas honours the 4th-century bishop who became the historical figure behind Santa Claus (Noel Baba). A short distance away, the Lycian rock-cut tombs are carved like temple fronts straight into the cliff face, and the large Roman theatre at Myra is among the most impressive in the region.

Who it suits

Pick the history-first day if you enjoy walking ancient ruins, reading the layers of Lycian, Roman and Byzantine heritage, and coming home with stories rather than a tan. There is some walking on uneven ground, so comfortable shoes matter.

The relaxing boat day: Kekova and the Sunken City

Kekova is a Specially Protected Area, and its star attraction is the Sunken City (Batık Şehir) — Lycian ruins that slipped partly beneath the sea off Kekova Island after ancient earthquakes. A boat glides over staircases, walls and foundations visible through clear turquoise water. Many routes pass the village of Kalekoy (ancient Simena) with its hilltop castle rising above the bay.

Who it suits

Choose the boat-led day if you want sea breeze, scenery and a gentler pace. You still get real Lycian history, just viewed from the water rather than on foot. It is ideal for families and anyone who finds long archaeological walks tiring.

So, which should you choose?

Honestly, most guests do not have to choose at all — popular day trips combine both, pairing the Myra and St. Nicholas sites on land with a Kekova boat ride. If you must pick a single emphasis: go history-first for the ruins and the Santa Claus story, or boat-first for relaxation and the Sunken City. Either way it is a long day with an early start and an evening return, so plan a lighter morning the next day.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Long full day, early morning start and evening return, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Transfer and guiding as per the selected programme; boat trip on Kekova versions — details confirmed at booking
• Excludes: Site entrance fees, lunch and personal spending unless stated — check official site / confirmed at booking
• Family Friendly: Yes; the boat-led version is especially easy for children
• Best Season: Spring through autumn for warm, calm sea days
• Difficulty: Easy on the boat day; moderate walking on uneven ground at the ruins

Related Excursions

• Tours from Side
• Tours from Antalya
• Tours from Alanya
• Tours from Kemer
• Tours from Belek
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Demre and Kekova one tour or two?

It can be either. Many programmes combine the Myra and St. Nicholas sites with a Kekova boat ride, while some focus mainly on one side. The exact itinerary is confirmed at booking.

Can I see the Sunken City without going in the water?

Yes. The ruins are viewed from the boat through clear water; swimming is not required to enjoy the Sunken City.

What is the Church of St. Nicholas?

It is the Byzantine-era church in Demre dedicated to the 4th-century bishop of Myra who became the historical Santa Claus, known locally as Noel Baba.

How much walking is on the history version?

Expect moderate walking on uneven ancient ground at Myra. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially around the rock tombs and theatre.

Are there entrance fees?

Some sites charge entry. Whether these are included varies by programme — please check the official site or confirm at booking.

Is this trip suitable for children?

Yes. Families are very welcome, and the relaxing boat-led version is especially comfortable for younger travellers.

Which season is best?

Spring through autumn generally offers the warmest, calmest sea conditions for the Kekova boat ride.

Why book direct with you?

Booking direct with the Murat Atalay team removes agency and OTA commission, and we back it with a best-price guarantee.

Ready to plan your Demre, Myra and Kekova day your way? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. No middlemen, no extra OTA commission, and our best-price guarantee on every booking.