About this activity
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Itinerary
Departure Time: Between 05:45 am and 06:00 am. Your private guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel for a full-day journey to Demre & Kekova.
- 08:15 – Breakfast Stop
Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local restaurant (only for guests from Side, Belek, and Antalya).
Duration: 15 minutes
- 11:15 – Icon Workshop Visit
Short visit to a traditional icon shop offering hand-painted religious souvenirs.
Estimated visit duration: 30 minutes
- 11:45 – St. Nicholas Church
Explore this historic Byzantine basilica where the real St. Nicholas once served.
Estimated visit duration: 1 hour
- 13:00 – Kekova Boat Tour
Private boat cruise to Kekova Island and the sunken city of Simena.
Estimated duration: 1.5 hours
- 16:30 – Winery Shop Visit
Stop at a local winery for optional tastings and regional products.
Estimated duration: 30 minutes
- 17:00 – Lunch Break
Enjoy a hearty Turkish lunch at a seaside restaurant.
Duration: 1 hour
- 20:45 – Arrival Back at Hotel
Your driver will drop you off at your hotel.
Highlights
- Visit the Church of St. Nicholas, a sacred Christian pilgrimage site
- Cruise over the sunken city of Simena on a private boat
- Discover the ancient Lycian, Roman, and Byzantine heritage of Demre
- Enjoy a delicious lunch and local experiences like an icon workshop and winery
- Guided by an expert Russian-speaking guide
Includes
- Transfer throughout the tour
- Russian-speaking guide
- Entrance fees to St. Nicholas Church and Kekova sites
- Breakfast (for guests from Side, Belek, and Antalya)
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Soft drinks during lunch
- Private boat ride to Kekova
- Souvenirs and personal shopping
- Winery products (available for purchase)
Details
Embark on a fascinating journey through time with our full-day Demre & Kekova tour, a perfect blend of mythology, faith, and archaeology.
Begin your day with a scenic drive to Demre, home to the legendary St. Nicholas Church, a sacred site of global Christian heritage. Learn about the life and miracles of Saint Nicholas, the real-life inspiration behind Santa Claus. Continue with a short visit to an icon workshop, where local artisans handcraft traditional religious pieces.
After a delicious lunch, experience the magic of Kekova Island on a private boat tour. Cruise over the mysterious sunken ruins of Simena, often called the "Turkish Atlantis." Witness ancient walls, staircases, and buildings submerged under crystal-clear waters—a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the region’s ancient past.
Led by a professional Russian-speaking historical guide, this tour offers deep cultural insight, stunning Mediterranean scenery, and seamless comfort throughout.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes uneven paths; guests should be comfortable walking for extended periods.
Not suitable for pregnant travelers or guests with limited mobility.
Strollers are not permitted within archaeological zones.
The itinerary order may change based on guide discretion or weather conditions.
Swimwear is optional but recommended for the boat trip.
What To Bring
Comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain
A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
Swimwear, towel, and an extra set of dry clothes
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection
A light jacket or shawl for air-conditioned transfers
Camera or smartphone for memorable photos
Cash or credit card for personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, etc.)
