From Alanya to the places of ancient Lycia. Demre-Myra-Kekova
About this experience
This tour combines Christian holy places, ancient ruins, and a yacht trip. You will visit Demre, where you will touch the sarcophagus of St. Nicholas and admire the frescoes. In Myra, you will explore the huge amphitheater and the facades of the rock-cut tombs. And then you will sail near the sunken city of Kekova.
What to expect
Church of St. Nicholas in Demre. This is the resting place of St. Nicholas of Myra—one of the most significant Christian saints. You will see the sarcophagus that held his relics until the 11th century and have the opportunity to pray to the saint. Learn about the miracles and extraordinary life of Nicholas, as well as admire the frescoes from the 11th and 12th centuries.
Ancient city of Myra. Once the capital of the Lycian state—you will hear about its history and impressive structures erected here in honor of Roman emperors. The grandeur of the city will be revealed to you by the amphitheater, which accommodated up to 10,000 people, and the rock-cut tombs of wealthy Lycians.
Yacht trip near Kekova island. Sail past the ancient fortress, sunken amphorae, and tombs. Then we will anchor for a swim in the turquoise waters and relax after a hot day.
Tour itinerary
- Group transfer from accommodation in the Alanya region (03:00—04:30)
- Breakfast stop in the mountains (around 09:00)
- Visit to the iconic center of St. Nicholas of Myra
- Visit to the Church of St. Nicholas of Myra (pilgrimage to the sarcophagus)
- Yacht trip near the sunken island of Kekova and the ancient city of Dolichiste, the ancient peninsula of Simena, and the ancient city of Teimussa + swimming stop
- Lunch break at a restaurant
- Visit to the ancient city of Myra (Greco-Roman amphitheater, Lycian rock-cut tombs)
- Departure from the area (15:30—16:30)
- Return to accommodation in the Alanya region (19:30—20:30)
Organizational details
How the tour goes
— In a comfortable bus as part of a group of up to 17, 30, 40 or 54 people (group size depends on the number of participants who have made reservations for the tour date)
— Make sure to bring your passport (or a photo of your passport on your phone)
— The tour will be conducted by one of our professional history guides
— The sequence may vary depending on the weather or other factors
— Distance from Alanya Center to Demre is 280 km
— Shopping stops are planned during the tour, where you will get acquainted with the historical crafts of the region
— Children under 6 years old are not provided with a separate seat on the bus. Children sit together with adults (on laps). If you want your child under 6 years old to have a separate seat on the bus, you need to purchase a separate ticket for them when making the reservation.
What's included in the price
— Transfer from and to your accommodation
— Insurance policy for the duration of the tour, accompanied by a Russian-speaking guide
— Lunch (buffet or fixed menu depending on the season, drinks not included)
— Yacht trip near the sunken island of Kekova and the ancient city of Dolichiste, the ancient peninsula of Simena and the ancient city of Teimussa
Additional charges
— Drinks
— Entrance ticket to the Church of St. Nicholas of Myra—20€
— Entrance ticket to the ancient city of Myra—13€
We also recommend taking:
— Video/camera;
— Comfortable clothing and footwear, headgear, sunglasses, and sunscreen;
— Breakfast: a lunch box that should be ordered at the hotel the day before;
— Swimming items: swimsuit/trunks, slippers, towel;
— Scarf (for ladies) for visiting the Church of St. Nicholas;
— Money for additional services (or a bank card).
