Private Demre, Myra, Kekova & Saint Nicholas Church Tour

Private Hotel Pickup in Antalya

Your Private Demre, Myra, Kekova and Saint Nicholas Church Tour begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Antalya at approximately 7:00 AM. Meet your private professional guide and driver before starting the journey west toward Demre.

Scenic Journey Along the Turquoise Coast

Travel for a little over two hours through one of the most attractive coastal landscapes in southern Turkey. The route passes between the foothills of the Taurus Mountains and the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Your guide will introduce the geography and history of ancient Lycia as you continue toward the modern town of Demre.

Myra Ancient City

Begin your historical exploration at Myra Ancient City, one of the six principal cities of the Lycian League. Myra became an important political, commercial and religious center during the Lycian, Roman and Byzantine periods.

Admire the monumental rock-cut tombs carved high into the limestone cliffs. Many of these tomb façades imitate the timber houses once used by the ancient Lycians.

Continue into the large Roman theatre, where surviving seating rows, vaulted passages and decorative stone blocks demonstrate the former prosperity of the city. Your guide will explain Lycian burial traditions, Roman public life and Myra’s later importance as a Christian bishopric.

Saint Nicholas Church in Demre

Continue to the historic Church of Saint Nicholas, also known as the Santa Claus Church. Saint Nicholas was born in nearby Patara during the third century and later served as Bishop of Myra during the fourth century.

Explore the layered Byzantine church complex while your guide explains how Saint Nicholas became remembered for generosity, compassion and the protection of children and sailors.

Inside the monument, see atmospheric corridors, marble pavements, surviving frescoes, religious chambers and the sarcophagus traditionally associated with Saint Nicholas.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After visiting Myra and Saint Nicholas Church, enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant in the Demre area. Take time to relax before continuing to the coast for the boat excursion.

Drinks during lunch are not included and may be ordered separately.

Shared Kekova and Simena Boat Cruise

Board a shared local boat and begin your cruise through the beautiful Kekova region. The calm bays, rocky islands, ancient settlements and clear Mediterranean water make this one of the most memorable coastal landscapes in Antalya.

Sail near the ancient remains associated with Kekova and Simena. Observe stone foundations, steps, walls and other archaeological traces extending along the shoreline and beneath the water.

The area around Simena is also known for its hilltop castle, small ancient theatre, coastal necropolis and distinctive Lycian sarcophagi standing beside and within the sea.

Mediterranean Swimming Break

During the cruise, enjoy a short swimming break in the clear Mediterranean Sea. Guests who would like to swim should bring suitable swimwear and a towel.

Guests who prefer not to swim may remain on the boat and enjoy the peaceful coastal scenery.

Return to Your Antalya Hotel

After completing the boat excursion, meet your private driver and begin the return journey to Antalya. The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel at approximately 6:00 PM.

Return time may vary slightly according to traffic, the boat schedule and local operating conditions.