What exactly is the Sunken City of Kekova?

Kekova was a Lycian settlement submerged partly due to earthquakes and rising sea levels. The glass-bottom boat lets you view the underwater ruins of buildings and structures from the Roman period without diving.

How long is the boat ride to Kekova?

The tour is 14 hours total, but the exact boat duration isn't specified. Plan for several hours on the water including time at Kekova, Myra, and Demre combined.

Can I swim or snorkel at Kekova?

The tour uses a glass-bottom boat for viewing. Specific swimming or snorkelling availability isn't stated—confirm directly with the operator.

Who was St. Nicholas and why is the Demre church important?

St. Nicholas was an early Christian bishop of Myra. The basilica in Demre honours him and contains his tomb, making it a significant pilgrimage and historical site linked to the legend of Santa Claus.

What are the rock tombs of Myra?

These are elaborate Lycian burial chambers carved directly into vertical cliff faces dating to the 4th–5th centuries BC. The high placement protected them from looters and created a dramatic hillside necropolis.

Is this tour suitable for older adults or those with mobility issues?

The tour involves boat travel and walking at archaeological sites with uneven terrain. Limited accessibility details are provided—contact the operator if you have mobility concerns.

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Sunken City Kekova Demre and Myra Day Tour from Alanya

(5)

Alanya, Turkey

Boat ToursCultural ToursDay Trips & Excursions

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About this activity

A comprehensive 14-hour expedition combining underwater archaeology, ancient Lycian tombs, and religious heritage along Turkey's Mediterranean coast. Travel by glass-bottom boat to the submerged ruins of Kekova, explore the clifftop necropolis of Myra, and visit the basilica in Demre linked to St. Nicholas.

Join this trip to visit the most popular tourist attractions of Turkey. Discover the ruins of the sunken city in Kekova sailing on a glass bottom boat, explore the rock-cut toms of Lycian necropolis and visit the world famous church in Demre containing the tomb of St. Nicolas.

Highlights

✓Glass-bottom boat tour over Kekova's underwater Roman ruins
✓Myra's dramatic rock-cut tombs carved into sheer cliff face
✓St. Nicholas Church in Demre with historical significance
✓Coastal scenery of the Turquoise Coast
✓Combination of three major archaeological sites in one day

Insider tips

★Book early morning departures to maximize light for underwater viewing through the glass-bottom boat
★Bring strong sunscreen and a hat—sun exposure is intense on the boat and at open excavation sites
★Visit Myra's tombs before midday crowds arrive for better photography and fewer visitors

Good to know

•Total duration is 14 hours; plan for an early start and late return to Alanya
•Glass-bottom boat provides underwater visibility but bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare
•Wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain at Myra and Demre sites
•Limited shade at archaeological sites; bring water and sun protection

Who it's for

History and archaeology enthusiastsCultural heritage travellersPhotography-focused visitorsFamilies seeking educational day trips

Best time to visit

Visit in shoulder seasons (April–May or September–October) for comfortable temperatures and calmer seas. Early morning light enhances both the glass-bottom boat experience and photography at tomb sites.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Sarah C.

May 2026

our guide Sofia had so many stories and the rooftop viewpoint was the highlight, and honestly better than the city tour we did in Athens last year, loved it

Yuki F.

Mar 2026

our guide Kenji was nice enough, but the cathedral square at golden hour felt a bit rushed honestly. Did it on our first morning. Would only really suit you if youre not fussy, a tidy 3 hour loop. Bit disappointed ngl, a tidy 3 hour loop.

James W.

Dec 2025

our guide Wei couldnt do enough for us and the old market the guide took us through was the highlight. On a rainy sunday so it wasnt too busy. Booked it for my birthday, and worked great for a solo traveller like me, and a tidy 3 hour loop. Would book again no question.

Grace G.

Oct 2025

loved it — guide Aiko top notch, mid-week so it was quiet

Amara T.

Apr 2025

our guide Nadia was nice enough, but the rooftop viewpoint felt a bit rushed honestly, and went last tuesday.

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