Kekova Sunken City Antalya
Explore an ancient Lycian city submerged beneath the turquoise Mediterranean Sea, accessible by scenic boat tours.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Kekova Sunken City Antalya
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore an ancient Lycian city submerged beneath the turquoise Mediterranean Sea, accessible by scenic boat tours.
"Glide over history and swim in paradise on a Kekova boat tour!"
Choose Your Departure Point
Tours often leave from Üçağız or Kaş. Üçağız offers a more direct route to Kekova. :world_map:
Bring Swim Gear!
Many boat tours include stops for swimming in beautiful bays. Don't forget your swimsuit! :swimmer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kekova Sunken City
Underwater ruins visible from boat
Glide over ancient Lycian ruins submerged beneath crystal-clear turquoise waters. A truly unique historical spectacle.

Simena Castle (Kaleköy)
Hilltop village overlooking Kekova
Climb to this ancient fortress for breathtaking panoramic views of the sunken city and surrounding coastline.

Lycian Rock Tombs
Along the coastline near Simena
Marvel at the impressive, ancient Lycian sarcophagi carved directly into the cliffsides, a testament to past civilizations.
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Boat Tour in Advance
Sun Protection is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Choose Your Departure Point
Tours often leave from Üçağız or Kaş. Üçağız offers a more direct route to Kekova. :world_map:
Bring Swim Gear!
Many boat tours include stops for swimming in beautiful bays. Don't forget your swimsuit! :swimmer:
Pack Light Snacks
While some tours include lunch, having extra snacks is always a good idea. :apple:
Camera Ready
The views are stunning! Ensure your phone or camera is charged for incredible photos. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Choose Your Departure Point
Tours often leave from Üçağız or Kaş. Üçağız offers a more direct route to Kekova. :world_map:
Bring Swim Gear!
Many boat tours include stops for swimming in beautiful bays. Don't forget your swimsuit! :swimmer:
Pack Light Snacks
While some tours include lunch, having extra snacks is always a good idea. :apple:
Camera Ready
The views are stunning! Ensure your phone or camera is charged for incredible photos. :camerawithflash:
Consider a Glass-Bottom Boat
For the best view of the sunken city, opt for a glass-bottom boat tour. :glassofmilk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kekova for its unique historical significance and stunning natural beauty. The boat tours are a highlight, offering a chance to see the submerged city and swim in picturesque bays. Some find the tours can be a bit crowded during peak season, and the journey from Antalya can be long.
"This sunken city is amazing. The history of the place dates back 3000 years. To Roman times and before. You can’t swim , dive , moor on this sight. So get a guide , most boat men know the stories of this place."
Banksie
"Honestly? That was "meh".. I was so excited to see this place but it was a major disappointment. The "Sunken City" is 90% above ground and from what I understand the only structure that is "sunken" is the port which is barely twice the size of the small boat I was on... The tour guide even pointed out an old sewage outlet that in the city was going into the seat, so the shoreline of the "sunken city" is pretty much the same as it was back in the day, just a few buildings that were too close to the shore seem to have crumbled into the water.. The weather conditions were not great either, it was windy and we ended up having murky waters and didn't even get to see the sunken port very well through the water anyways.
However, the boat trip was very nice with generally nice views that made for some awesome pics. The boat ended up stopping in a safe area to let us swim for 25mins.
Save your money and see pictures of the place on Google. Those were much more interesting than what I got to see from the boat. The Myra ruins in the same area are a better place to go if you want to see some Greek ruins.
If you really want to go, just make sure you go on a day that isn't windy."
Moe Hefin
"It was a great tour and swimming
Swimming is prohibited near Kekova city, but it was organised nearby
We got there by grand safari kekova boat tour
I really enjoyed it, 8 hours, 4 swimming stops
Water has excellent colour and really transparent"
Stanislav Andreev
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to visit Kekova Sunken City from Antalya is by joining a guided boat tour. These tours typically include transportation from Antalya to the coastal towns like Üçağız or Kaş, where the boat trips depart. The journey can take around 2-3 hours each way. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to Üçağız or Kaş, which offers more flexibility.
The most popular departure points for Kekova boat tours are the charming coastal villages of Üçağız and Kaş. Üçağız is closer to Kekova and offers a more direct experience, while Kaş is a larger town with more amenities and tour options. Both offer beautiful scenery and access to the sunken city.
While you can drive to Üçağız or Kaş independently, the best way to experience the Kekova Sunken City is via a boat tour. Independent boat rentals are less common and may not cover the full extent of the ruins and surrounding bays. Joining a group tour is generally more practical and cost-effective.
The travel time from Antalya to the departure points for Kekova boat tours (like Üçağız or Kaş) is approximately 2 to 3 hours by car or organized tour bus. Factor in additional time for boarding and the boat trip itself.
Direct public transport to Üçağız or Kaş from Antalya is limited. You would typically need to take a bus to Kaş and then a local dolmuş (minibus) to Üçağız. Joining an organized tour from Antalya is the most convenient public transport option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost of a Kekova Sunken City boat tour can vary depending on the duration, inclusions (like lunch), and departure point. Prices typically range from $30 to $70 USD per person. Booking in advance or looking for deals can help secure a better price.
It is highly recommended to book your Kekova boat tour in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (summer months). This guarantees your spot and can sometimes offer better pricing. You can often book online through tour operators or your accommodation.
There is no direct entrance fee for viewing the Kekova Sunken City from the boat. The cost is associated with the boat tour itself, which covers the navigation and access to the surrounding areas.
Most Kekova boat tours include the boat trip around the sunken city, stops for swimming in picturesque bays, and often lunch. Some tours may also include visits to Simena Castle, the Lycian rock tombs, and a cave.
Kekova boat tours generally operate daily during the tourist season, typically from April to October. Tours usually start in the morning and return in the late afternoon. It's best to check the specific schedule with your chosen tour operator.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way to see the Kekova Sunken City is by taking a boat tour. This allows you to glide over the submerged ruins and appreciate their scale. Many tours offer glass-bottom boats for an even clearer view.
Yes, most boat tours to Kekova include several stops for swimming in the beautiful turquoise waters of the surrounding bays. While you cannot swim directly over the ruins for preservation reasons, you can swim in designated areas nearby.
Besides the sunken city, you can visit the charming village of Simena (Kaleköy) and climb up to its ancient castle for stunning views. You'll also see impressive Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs and explore beautiful coves.
Yes, Kekova is generally suitable for families. Children often enjoy the boat ride, swimming stops, and the historical aspect. Ensure children are supervised during swimming and on the boat.
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, a swimsuit, and bring a towel. It's also essential to wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses due to direct sun exposure on the boat. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended if you plan to visit Simena Castle.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities include the panoramic views from Simena Castle, the submerged ruins visible from the boat (especially with a glass-bottom boat), the Lycian rock tombs, and the stunning turquoise bays where you can swim. The coastline itself is incredibly picturesque.
Late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with a softer glow and fewer harsh shadows. However, morning tours can also offer beautiful light and potentially fewer crowds.
While not strictly necessary, a waterproof camera or a waterproof phone case can be very useful, especially if you plan on swimming or if there's a chance of sea spray on the boat.
Drone usage is generally restricted in protected historical and natural areas in Turkey. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone near Kekova to avoid any issues.
Aim for wide shots capturing the coastline and the sunken city from the boat, close-ups of the Lycian rock tombs, and scenic shots from Simena Castle. Don't forget to capture the vibrant blue of the water during swimming stops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a tour with a glass-bottom boat for an extra layer of excitement, allowing kids to easily spot the underwater ruins. While climbing to Simena Castle involves some stairs, the views are rewarding, and the village itself is charming. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and ensure sun protection is a priority for the little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and water can help save money on board. If you're traveling independently, consider sharing a boat with other travelers to split costs. The public bus system can get you to Kaş, from where local dolmuş services can take you closer to the departure points.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss capturing the panoramic views from Simena Castle, the unique perspective of the sunken city from a glass-bottom boat, and the intricate details of the Lycian rock tombs. The vibrant blue of the sea during swimming stops also makes for excellent shots. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a polarizing filter to enhance the water's color.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Kekova
Archaeological research has revealed the remains of houses, a church, and a theatre, offering a glimpse into daily life centuries ago. The Lycian rock tombs, carved into the cliffs above the water, predate the sunken city and are a testament to the region's ancient inhabitants. The area is protected to preserve its historical and natural beauty.
Today, Kekova is a protected marine archaeological site. This means that activities like diving and swimming directly over the ruins are restricted to prevent damage. However, boat tours provide an excellent way to view the submerged city from above, and the surrounding bays offer pristine waters for swimming and enjoying the Mediterranean coast.
Experiencing Kekova by Boat
As the boat cruises along the coast, you'll get your first glimpse of the sunken city. Many boats are equipped with glass bottoms, providing a clear view of the ancient walls, staircases, and other structures beneath the waves. The captain will often point out significant ruins and share historical anecdotes.
Beyond the sunken city, the tours include stops at several idyllic bays for swimming and snorkeling. Popular spots include Tersane Bay, with its ancient shipyard remains, and Aquarium Bay, known for its clear waters. Many tours also include a visit to the picturesque village of Simena (Kaleköy), where you can climb to the castle for panoramic views.
Visiting Simena Castle (Kaleköy)
The ascent to the castle is via a charming, narrow path through the village of Kaleköy. Along the way, you'll pass traditional stone houses and small shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. The climb is moderately steep but well worth the effort for the breathtaking panoramic views that unfold as you ascend.
From the top of Simena Castle, you'll be treated to an unforgettable view of the Kekova Sunken City, the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, and the surrounding coastline. It's an ideal spot for photography and to truly appreciate the historical and natural beauty of the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit