Dear Lykkers! On the dazzling turquoise coast of Türkiye, Demre and Kekova offer an enticing blend of natural beauty, ancient ruins, and underwater marvels.

You'll have the opportunity to discover the submerged city of Kekova, situated just beneath the water's surface.

Getting There:

Located in the Antalya Province of southwestern Türkiye, Demre is accessible by road from Antalya city (about 2 hours by car). From Demre, Kekova is a short boat ride away. Local buses, rental cars, and organized tours provide various ways to explore the region.

Ancient Demre:

Demre, known in antiquity as Myra, boasts a rich history dating back to the Lycian period. The city is famous for its Rock-Cut Tombs, an ancient Lycian necropolis carved into the cliffs overlooking Demre. Often decorated with intricate carvings, these tombs offer a glimpse into the region's past.

Kekova Island and the Sunken City:

The crown jewel of Kekova is its Sunken City, an ancient Lycian city submerged after earthquakes in the 2nd century. A boat tour around Kekova allows travelers to see the sunken walls, staircases, and remnants of homes visible beneath the clear blue waters. While diving is restricted to preserve the ruins, glass-bottom boats offer an ideal way to explore the ancient structures beneath the sea.

Beyond the Sunken City, Kekova’s Simena Village is a charming hillside town accessible only by boat. Here, visitors can explore the Simena Castle, a well-preserved fortress that offers sweeping views of the coastline and the blue Mediterranean waters. A small ancient theater carved into the rock within the castle grounds provides a window into Lycian culture and entertainment.

Dining on the Coast:

Dining in Demre and Kekova brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to life, with fresh seafood and traditional Turkish dishes. The Sahil Restaurant in Demre offers delicious fish, mezes, and salads, with meals ranging from 150-250 TL ($7-12 USD). In Simena Village, Likya Restaurant provides a memorable dining experience with a scenic view, serving local specialties like stuffed grape leaves, kebabs, and seafood platters for around 200-300 TL ($10-15 USD).

Accommodation Options:

Demre has a variety of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to more comfortable hotels. Hotel Myra in Demre offers a cozy stay with traditional decor and rooms starting at 500 TL ($25 USD) per night. For those looking to stay closer to the coast, Likya Pansiyon in Kaleköy provides a peaceful setting with scenic views over Kekova Bay for around 700 TL ($35 USD) per night.

Important Tips for Travelers:

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer mild weather, ideal for sightseeing and boat trips.

Boat Tours: Glass-bottom boat tours around Kekova range from 200-400 TL ($10-20 USD) per person, with options to stop for swimming and snorkeling along the coast.

Respect the Ruins: As an archaeological site, the Sunken City is protected, so visitors should refrain from touching or attempting to swim.

Demre and Kekova are a treasure trove of history and natural beauty along Türkiye’s Mediterranean coast. From the ancient tombs of Myra and Saint Nicholas in Demre to the underwater ruins of Kekova and the charm of Simena Village, this region invites travelers to step back in time. The tranquil landscapes, turquoise waters, and historic allure make Demre and Kekova an unforgettable destination that appeals to history enthusiasts, adventurers, and lovers of Türkiye’s unique coastal charm.