Side-Turkey.

Demre, Myra and Kekova sit along the Lycian coast west of Antalya, and they are one of the most rewarding day trips on the whole Turkish Riviera. The question we hear most from guests staying in Side or Antalya is a simple one: how do you actually get there? Below we explain the realistic options, what the journey looks like, and why letting a local team handle the logistics turns a long travel day into an easy one.

Getting there from Side and Manavgat

From Side, Manavgat and the nearby resorts, Demre lies to the west along the coastal road that threads through the Lycian mountains. It is a long way, so this is an early-start, evening-return kind of day. You can technically piece it together with intercity buses changing at Antalya, but connections are slow and you would lose hours waiting at terminals — and you would still need local transport once you reach Demre to cover Myra, the St Nicholas Church and the Kekova boat point.

The far simpler route is an organised day tour with hotel pick-up. A driver collects you from your hotel in Side, Manavgat or a nearby resort, the road time is used for resting or taking in the scenery, and every site is linked together in one sequence so nothing is missed.

Getting there from Antalya

From Antalya the drive is shorter than from Side but still substantial, following the coast westward toward the Demre plain. Self-drivers sometimes rent a car, which gives freedom but means a full day at the wheel on winding mountain sections, plus parking and finding the Kekova boat departure on your own. For most visitors, a pick-up tour removes that effort entirely and the same vehicle carries you between Myra, Demre centre and the harbour for the Kekova boat.

What you actually visit

Myra — Lycian rock tombs & Roman theatre

The ancient city of Myra is famous for its dramatic Lycian rock-cut tombs carved straight into the cliff face, set above a large, well-preserved Roman theatre. It is one of the most photogenic ancient sites on this coast.

Demre — Church of St Nicholas (Noel Baba)

In Demre stands the Church of St Nicholas — the historical Santa Claus, the 4th-century bishop of Myra whose legend became Father Christmas. It remains an important pilgrimage and heritage site.

Kekova — the Sunken City & Kaleköy (Simena)

Off Kekova Island lie partly submerged Lycian ruins known as the Sunken City (Batık Şehir), best seen by boat over the clear water. Nearby is Kaleköy, ancient Simena, crowned by a hilltop castle. Kekova is a protected area, so swimming and diving over the sunken ruins are not permitted — you view them from the boat.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Long full day — early morning start, evening return, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Transfer, Kekova boat segment, guided visits to Myra & St Nicholas Church (exact inclusions confirmed at booking)
• Excludes: Site entrance fees, lunch and personal spending unless stated — check at booking
• Family Friendly: Yes, suitable for families; long travel day for small children
• Best Season: Spring through autumn for the calmest sea and mildest sightseeing weather
• Difficulty: Easy sightseeing with some walking and steps at the ancient sites

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

How long does the day take from Side?

It is a long full day with an early morning pick-up and an evening return, because Demre lies well to the west of Side. Exact timing is confirmed at booking.

Is it easier from Antalya than from Side?

The drive from Antalya is shorter, but both are organised as a long full-day trip with hotel pick-up so you can relax either way.

Can I get there by public bus?

It is possible via Antalya with bus changes, but it is slow and you would still need local transport for Myra, Demre and the Kekova boat. A pick-up tour is far simpler.

Can I swim over the Sunken City at Kekova?

No. Kekova is a protected area, so swimming and diving over the submerged ruins are not permitted; you view them from the boat.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, families are very welcome. Just bear in mind it is a long travel day, so bring snacks and water for younger children.

What should I bring?

Comfortable shoes for steps at the ancient sites, sun protection, a hat and water. A light layer is useful on the boat.

Are entrance fees included?

Site entrance fees are usually separate. Please confirm exactly what is included when you book.

How do I get the best price?

Book DIRECT with us. As a local operator we cut out agency and OTA commission and back it with a best-price guarantee.

Ready to go? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com. Booking direct means no agency or OTA commission and our best-price guarantee — message us today to lock in your Demre, Myra and Kekova day.