This day trip is the best answer to the question of how to see both the history and the sea of this stretch of coast in a single outing. It runs east from Kaş along the winding coast road to the small town of Demre, whose centre is dominated by the church traditionally associated with St Nicholas, the fourth-century bishop of Myra who became the origin of the Santa Claus legend. Close by lie the ruins of Myra itself, a Lycian city famous for its rock-cut tombs, carved into a cliff face to resemble wooden house fronts, and for a large and well-preserved Roman theatre at the foot of the rock. After the two historical stops the group usually continues to the coast, boards a boat and spends the afternoon on the Kekova channel, looking down at the sunken city from the deck, swimming in a cove and having lunch. Because the tour is run for a small group, the guide has time to answer questions, the minibus is easy to board and the visits are not rushed by the pace of a large coach party. The format is one of the most popular ways to see the area and works particularly well for visitors who have only one spare day.
The church in Demre
The Church of St Nicholas is a Byzantine church with mosaic floor fragments, frescoes and a stone sarcophagus that visitors are told is connected with the saint, although the saint's remains were removed to Italy in the Middle Ages. Parts of the building are protected by a modern covering, and an entrance fee applies, so ask the guide whether it is included in the price of the tour or paid separately. Dress modestly and move quietly, as for any religious site.
Myra and the theatre
The rock tombs rise above the road on a pale cliff face, and from the ticket office a short path leads past carved facades to the theatre, which still has its seating and some of the stage buildings. The terrain is gravelly with steps, and shade is limited, so a hat and good shoes help. Guides explain how to read the carved reliefs and the Lycian inscriptions, and how the city flourished under Roman and Byzantine rule.
The sea in the afternoon
The Kekova section is similar to the boat trip from Kaş, with a slow pass over the shallows where the ancient town lies, a swim stop and often a stop ashore. Because the boat departs from the Demre side, you spend less time at sea than on a full day boat from Kaş, which can be a plus for anyone prone to seasickness. The total day is long, with some two hours in the vehicle in each direction, so bring something to read and snacks.
Practicalities
Operators sell this trip all year in some form, but the boat section is seasonal, and in winter an operator may replace it with other stops or run it only on request. Entrance fees to the sites are usually paid on the day in cash, so bring some Turkish lira. If you are choosing between this and an all-boat day, this is the better pick for history lovers, while the boat-only day is better if swimming matters most.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group minibus day to the church in Demre, the Myra rock tombs and theatre, then a boat on the Kekova channel with lunch.
Best time
Spring and autumn for walking in comfort, summer for swimming.
How long
A full day, with long drives either side.
Tips
Carry cash for site entry, wear a hat and walking shoes, and dress modestly at the church.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors with one spare day who want history and the sea together.
- Families
- Children enjoy the boat and the rock tombs, but the day is long, so bring snacks.
- Couples
- A varied day with plenty of time for photographs and a swim.
- Pair with
- A kayak day on Kekova or the Greek island trip to Meis.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Is the Church of St Nicholas worth the visit?+
Yes for its mosaics, frescoes and history, and as the origin of the Santa Claus story. Allow around an hour for the church and Myra together.
Are site entrance fees included?+
This depends on the tour. Ask before you go, and carry some cash in case fees are paid on the day.
How long is the drive?+
Expect around two hours in the vehicle each way, depending on stops and traffic.
Does the boat section run in winter?+
The boat section is seasonal and may be replaced or reduced in winter, so check with the operator.
Is this trip suitable for small children?+
It can be, but the day is long. A hat, snacks and patience are needed.