Group Excursion: Ancient Lycian Sites from Kemer. Demre-Myra-Kekova
About this experience
This excursion combines Christian shrines, ancient history, and a yacht trip. You will visit Demre, where you will touch the sarcophagus of Saint Nicholas and admire the frescoes. In Myra, you will see a huge amphitheater and marvel at the faces on 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 where his relics were kept until the 11th century and can address the saint with prayers. Learn about the miracles and remarkable 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 fate, the impressive structures erected here in honor of Roman emperors. The greatness of the city will be revealed through the amphitheater, which accommodated up to 10,000 people, as well as the rock-cut tombs of the wealthiest Lycians.
Yacht trip near Kekova Island. You will sail past ancient fortresses, sunken amphorae, and tombs. Afterward, we will anchor to swim in the turquoise waters and relax after a hot day.
Itinerary
- Group transfer from accommodations in the Kemer region (07:40—08:40)
- Stop in the mountains for breakfast (around 09:00)
- Visit to the Icon Center of St. Nicholas of Myra
- Visit to the Church of St. Nicholas of Myra (pilgrimage to the sarcophagus)
- Yacht trip near the sunken Kekova Island and the ancient city of Dolichiste, the ancient Simena Peninsula, and the ancient city of Teimussa + swimming break
- Lunch break in a restaurant
- Visit to the ancient city of Myra (Graeco-Roman amphitheater, Lycian rock-cut tombs)
- Return departure (15:30—16:30)
- Return to accommodations in the Kemer region (17:00—17:30)
Organizational Details
How the Tour Works
— On a comfortable bus in a group of up to 17, 30, 40, or 54 people (group size depends on the number of participants who have reserved for the tour date)
— Be sure to bring your passport
— The tour will be led by one of our professional historian guides
— The sequence may change depending on weather or other factors
— Distance from the center of Kemer to Demre is 100 km
— Shopping stops are included in the tour, where you will learn about historical crafts of the region
— Children under 4 years old do not have a separate seat on the bus. Children sit with adults (on their laps). If you want your child under 4 years old to have a separate seat on the bus, you need to purchase a separate ticket when booking.
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 tour guide
— Lunch (buffet or set menu depending on the season, drinks not included)
— Yacht trip near the sunken Kekova Island and ancient city of Dolichiste, the ancient Simena Peninsula, and the ancient city of Teimussa
Additional Costs:
— Drinks
— Entrance ticket to the Church of St. Nicholas of Myra—€20
— Entrance ticket to the ancient city of Myra—€13
We also recommend bringing:
— Breakfast: a lunchbox that should be ordered the day before at the hotel
— Video/camera
— Comfortable clothing and shoes, headgear, sunglasses, and sunscreen
— Swimming gear: swimsuit/trunks, slippers, towel
— Scarf (for women) to visit the Church of St. Nicholas
— Money for additional services (or a bank card)
