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Aperlai Ancient City Turkey

4.7
·148 reviews·, Türkiye

Discover Aperlai, an ancient Lycian city with a mesmerizing sunken city, accessible via the scenic Lycian Way or boat tours from Kas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant trekking weather

CrowdLow
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getlstd_property_photo

Aperlai Ancient City Turkey

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant trekking weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Aperlai, an ancient Lycian city with a mesmerizing sunken city, accessible via the scenic Lycian Way or boat tours from Kas.

4.7
(148 reviews)

"The best sunken city ever, a must-see on the Lycian Way!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Trekking Footwear

Wear sturdy hiking boots for the Lycian Way and aqua shoes for exploring the sunken city.

💧 Hydration is Key

Carry ample water, especially during summer hikes, as it can get very hot.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunken City of Aperlai

Sunken City of Aperlai

Coastal waters

Explore ancient ruins submerged beneath crystal-clear turquoise waters. A truly unique historical and aquatic adventure.

Lycian Way Trekking

Lycian Way Trekking

Coastal trail

Hike a scenic section of the ancient Lycian Way, passing through Lycian tombs and offering stunning sea views.

Ancient Lycian Tombs

Ancient Lycian Tombs

On land near the coast

Discover well-preserved Lycian rock tombs carved into the hillsides, offering a glimpse into ancient burial practices.

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Planning Your Visit

Trek Smart, Swim Ready

Aperlai is best accessed via the Lycian Way trek. Pack sturdy shoes for ruins and sharp rocks, plus aqua shoes for swimming in the sunken city. Carry plenty of water, especially in summer.

Boat Tours & Coastal Charm

Many visitors arrive by boat tour from Kas, offering a unique perspective of the sunken city. These tours often combine swimming, exploring ruins, and enjoying local cuisine.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant trekking weather
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for swimming
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

“Explore Derinkuyu: Turkey’s Ancient Underground City! 🏰✨ Discover the hidden depths of history and marvel at this subterranean wonder. #Derinkuyu #AncientCity #Turkey #UndergroundWorld #HistoricalWonders #AncientArchitecture #HiddenHistory #ViralFacts #ExploreThePast #HistoryUncovered”
@ancient.insights31
92.2K likes • 1.7M views

🥾 Trekking Footwear

Wear sturdy hiking boots for the Lycian Way and aqua shoes for exploring the sunken city. Reddit

💧 Hydration is Key

Carry ample water, especially during summer hikes, as it can get very hot. Reddit

📍 @swimtrek Lycian Way - Kas, Turkey 🇹🇷 Guiding swimmers along Turkish coastlines, exploring caves, circumnavigating islands, hiking on the Lycian Way to ancient #aperlai city and trying out local delicacies on the @bedeloglu1boat_ boat It’s been a lot of fun guiding this top bunch from all around the globe 🌍🙏 #swimtrek #kaş #turkeytravel #swimtravel #openwaterswimming #seaswimming #kas #lyc...
wildswimsandoutdoorthings
30 likes • 866 views

🛥️ Boat Tour Convenience

Consider a boat tour from Kas for easy access to the sunken city and coastal exploration. Reddit

🏊‍♀️ Swim Safely

Aqua shoes are recommended for swimming in the sunken city to protect your feet from submerged ruins. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Trekking Footwear

Wear sturdy hiking boots for the Lycian Way and aqua shoes for exploring the sunken city. Reddit

💧 Hydration is Key

Carry ample water, especially during summer hikes, as it can get very hot. Reddit

🛥️ Boat Tour Convenience

Consider a boat tour from Kas for easy access to the sunken city and coastal exploration. Reddit

🏊‍♀️ Swim Safely

Aqua shoes are recommended for swimming in the sunken city to protect your feet from submerged ruins. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(148 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Aperlai's unique sunken city, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The Lycian Way trek offers stunning coastal views and historical sites. While facilities are basic, the natural beauty and ancient ruins make it a memorable stop, especially via boat tours from Kas.

"Nice beach

I visited it during the boat tour from Kas

The water has a nice colour, somewhere a little moody"

Stanislav Andreev

"Located on the Lycian train, this wonderful is a must see. You will walk through Lycian ruins, including numerous tombs. There is a camp site and a cafe/ restaurant/ pensiyon closehe site, adjacent to the sea. Great spot to go for a swim and spend the night!"

K Kandasamy

"The best sunked city ever."

Behnaz Bani

What People Like

Unique sunken city
Beautiful coastal scenery
Lycian Way trek

What People Dislike

Limited facilities
Rocky terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Aperlai is most commonly accessed via the Lycian Way trekking route or by boat tour from nearby Kas. The trek offers a more immersive experience, while boat tours provide convenient access to the sunken city and coastal areas. InstagramReddit

Direct car access to the ancient city itself is limited. The primary access points are the Lycian Way trail or by sea. Parking may be available near trailheads or coastal villages. Reddit

The sunken city is best viewed by swimming or snorkeling directly from the shore or by taking a boat tour that stops at Aperlai. Reddit

While Kas is a popular starting point for boat tours, hiking directly from Kas to Aperlai involves a significant portion of the Lycian Way. It's a challenging but rewarding trek. Instagram

Public transport directly to Aperlai is scarce. Buses typically run to nearby towns like Kas, from where you would arrange a boat tour or begin your trek. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Aperlai ruins and the surrounding area is generally free, especially for those trekking the Lycian Way. Boat tours will have their own pricing. Reddit

As an open-air archaeological site and coastal area, Aperlai does not have set opening hours. It is accessible at any time, though visiting during daylight is recommended. Reddit

There is no specific entrance fee for the sunken city itself. Access is typically included with boat tours or when visiting the coastal area. Reddit

Yes, you can visit Aperlai independently by trekking the Lycian Way or by arranging your own boat transport. Instagram

While official guided tours might be limited, many boat tours from Kas include commentary and stops at Aperlai, providing insights into its history. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore Lycian rock tombs, walk through ancient ruins, swim and snorkel in the unique sunken city, and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery. Reddit+1

Absolutely! The clear waters around Aperlai are perfect for swimming, especially over the submerged ruins of the sunken city. Aqua shoes are advised. Reddit

Expect a mix of coastal paths, rocky terrain on the Lycian Way, and underwater exploration in the sunken city. Reddit

Facilities are minimal. Some nearby campsites or restaurants might offer basic amenities, but it's best to come prepared. Reddit

Aperlai offers stunning photographic opportunities, from the ancient ruins and coastal landscapes to the unique underwater scenes of the sunken city. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are limited dining options directly at Aperlai. A campsite and a cafe/restaurant are located nearby, offering basic meals and refreshments. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, especially if you are trekking. This ensures you have provisions during your visit. Reddit

Near Aperlai, you can expect traditional Turkish coastal cuisine, often featuring fresh seafood and local produce, especially if dining at nearby establishments. Instagram

Picnicking is a great option. There are scenic spots along the coast where you can enjoy your own packed meal. Reddit

Options may be limited at very small local eateries. It's advisable to inquire beforehand or pack suitable snacks if you have specific dietary needs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The sunken city ruins underwater, the Lycian rock tombs, panoramic coastal views from the Lycian Way, and the charming nearby campsite are all excellent photo spots. Instagram

A waterproof camera or action camera is ideal for capturing the sunken city. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a drone can offer unique aerial perspectives. Instagram

Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for landscapes. Midday sun can be harsh but is good for underwater visibility. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules before flying. If permitted, drones offer spectacular views of the coastline and ruins. Instagram

Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water. Shoot during clear, sunny conditions for best visibility of the submerged structures. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Aperlai offers a unique adventure for families, especially those who enjoy the water. The sunken city is a fascinating place for older children to snorkel or swim, providing a memorable experience of exploring history underwater. Reddit Boat tours from Kas are often family-friendly and can make the journey to Aperlai more comfortable and engaging for younger travelers. Instagram

When visiting with children, prioritize safety. Ensure they have appropriate swimming gear and supervision in the water. If trekking the Lycian Way, consider the age and stamina of your children, as some sections can be challenging. Bringing plenty of snacks and water is crucial, as facilities are limited. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

Aperlai is an excellent destination for solo travelers and hikers, particularly those tackling the Lycian Way. The trail offers a sense of adventure and the opportunity to meet fellow trekkers. Reddit The campsite near Aperlai provides a social atmosphere and basic amenities, making it a good stopover point. Reddit

For solo explorers, safety is paramount. Inform someone of your hiking plans, carry a reliable navigation device, and be prepared for varying weather conditions. The chance to swim in the sunken city offers a unique and refreshing break during a long trek. InstagramReddit

⚓ Boat Tour Enthusiasts

For those who prefer exploring by sea, Aperlai is a highlight on many boat tours departing from Kas. These tours offer a relaxed way to experience the sunken city and the beautiful coastline without the strenuous hike. Reddit You'll typically have opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the Mediterranean scenery from the deck of the boat. Instagram

Boat tours often include meals and drinks, making it a convenient all-in-one experience. It's a fantastic option for travelers looking for a more leisurely exploration of Aperlai's historical and natural wonders. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Sunken City

Aperlai's most captivating feature is its sunken city, a testament to ancient seismic activity or rising sea levels. Visitors can swim and snorkel directly over these submerged ruins, getting an intimate look at ancient walls, streets, and structures now inhabited by marine life. The clarity of the water, especially on calm days, makes for an unforgettable underwater exploration. Many boat tours from Kas specifically highlight this unique aspect of Aperlai, offering a guided experience of this submerged historical marvel. Reddit

For the best experience, aqua shoes are highly recommended to protect your feet from any sharp edges of the submerged ruins. The water temperature is generally pleasant during the warmer months, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing dip while immersing yourself in history. Photographers will find this area particularly fascinating, with opportunities to capture unique shots of ancient architecture beneath the waves. InstagramReddit

Trekking the Lycian Way to Aperlai

Aperlai is a significant stop along the renowned Lycian Way, one of Turkey's most celebrated long-distance hiking trails. The section leading to Aperlai offers breathtaking coastal scenery, passing through rugged terrain and ancient Lycian sites. Hikers can expect a mix of well-trodden paths and more challenging rocky sections, particularly if approaching from inland villages like Kilincli. Reddit

Essential preparation for this trek includes sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water (especially in summer), sun protection, and a good map. The trail provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with the natural beauty and historical depth of the region. Many trekkers choose to camp near Aperlai or stay at the adjacent campsite, making it a perfect overnight stop on their journey. InstagramReddit

While the trek is rewarding, it's important to be aware of the terrain. Some parts can be covered with sharp rocks, so careful footing is necessary. The experience of arriving at Aperlai on foot, after a day of hiking, adds a profound sense of accomplishment and discovery. Reddit

Aperlai's Historical Significance

Aperlai was an ancient Lycian city, known for its strategic coastal location and its role in the region's history. While much of the city has succumbed to the sea, the visible Lycian rock tombs and remnants of structures on land provide clues to its past. These tombs, carved into the hillsides, are characteristic of Lycian burial practices and offer a glimpse into their architectural prowess and beliefs. Reddit

The city's connection to the sea is undeniable, with its most striking feature being the sunken ruins. This underwater archaeological site suggests a significant portion of the ancient settlement is now submerged, likely due to geological shifts or sea-level changes over millennia. The preservation of these underwater structures makes Aperlai a unique site for historical and archaeological interest. Reddit

Beyond its archaeological value, Aperlai is also noted for its natural beauty. The combination of ancient history and the stunning Mediterranean coastline creates a compelling destination for history buffs, hikers, and nature lovers alike. Instagram

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