This is the classic Lycian day trip from Antalya, and it packs three very different experiences into one long day. The first stop is Myra, an ancient city set beside the modern town of Demre, famous for its Lycian rock tombs carved into a cliff face like the facades of small temples, and for a large, well-preserved Roman theatre at the foot of the rock. Close by, Demre's church is associated with St Nicholas, the fourth-century bishop whose generosity became the inspiration for the Santa Claus legend, and it draws visitors of many faiths and none. The third and most atmospheric part of the day is on the water: a boat trip around the Kekova area, where an earthquake long ago left parts of a Lycian town beneath the shallows. From the boat you can look down at stone stairs, walls and foundations under the clear sea, pass the tiny village of Kaleköy with its hilltop castle, and stop for a swim in a sheltered cove. Many tours add a lunch by the harbour.
Myra in more detail
The rock tombs are the image everyone remembers, carved high on the rock face in the style of timber houses, some with relief carvings. The theatre below is a fine example of Roman engineering, with a steeply raked auditorium and carved masks on its stonework. You can walk through the site in an hour, and a guide helps explain the Lycian burial customs and the later Roman and Byzantine layers of the town.
Demre and St Nicholas
The church that bears the saint's name has been restored, with a shelter built over parts of the interior to protect Byzantine frescoes and mosaic floors. Do not expect a grand cathedral; the appeal is its age, its quiet atmosphere and the connection to a story many people grew up with. Entry arrangements and any restoration work vary, so check locally if it is a priority.
Kekova by boat
The boat trip is the highlight for many travellers. Under the surface lie remains of the ancient town of Simena and its neighbours, partly submerged by earthquakes and rising seas. Boats move slowly over the clearest patches so passengers can see the walls and steps through the water, and the skipper often drops anchor for a swim. Kaleköy, reached only by boat or a long walk, has a small castle and a handful of restaurants, and many people say it is the prettiest corner of the day.
Planning notes
This is a long day, usually ten to twelve hours return from Antalya, with several hours on the road each way, so bring a book, water and a light layer. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons; in high summer the heat at Myra can be strong. The trip involves minimal walking but some uneven steps. Tours are the easiest way to link three stops that lie far apart, and many include lunch and hotel pickup.
If you want more time at any single place, staying a night in the Kaş or Kekova area is another option, but as a single day from Antalya this trip is a highlight of the region. Keep the schedule loose and let the boat day be the reward at the end of a long drive.
What to expect
The experience
A guided coach day trip with hotel pickup: Myra's rock tombs and theatre, the church of St Nicholas in Demre, then a boat over the Kekova shallows with a swim and lunch.
Best time
Spring and autumn for comfortable temperatures, calm water and clear views through the shallows. Summer is hot at Myra.
How long
Ten to twelve hours door to door, including long drives each way.
Tips
Wear sun protection, bring swimwear and a light layer for the boat, and carry water. Start rested, because the day is long.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want ancient history and a boat trip in one day without arranging transport.
- Families
- Good for older children who can handle a long day; the boat and swim break keep it lively.
- Couples
- Kaleköy at the water's edge and the quiet of the cove are the romantic highlights.
- Pair with
- Pamukkale or Termessos on another day, and a rest day on the harbour in between.
- Time needed
- A full day; there is no sensible shorter version from Antalya.
Good questions
How long is the journey to Myra and Kekova?+
Expect roughly two to three hours each way by road, which is why tours run as full days of ten to twelve hours.
Can you see the sunken city properly?+
Yes, from a boat in calm, clear water, though it is a view through the surface rather than a dive. Swimming over the remains is restricted in places, so follow the skipper's guidance.
Who was St Nicholas?+
A fourth-century bishop of Myra remembered for his generosity, whose story became the basis of the Santa Claus tradition.
Is the trip suitable for children?+
Yes for most children who can manage the long day. The boat and swim stop are popular, but there is a lot of time in the vehicle.
Is lunch included?+
Most tours include lunch, often by the harbour, but this varies by operator, so confirm when you book.
