Kekova Sunken City
A Complete Travel Guide to the Ancient Underwater City
Kekova Sunken City is one of the most unusual historical sites in Turkey. It is not a museum, not a ruin you walk through, and not a typical archaeological site. It is an ancient city that partially sits underwater, visible only through boat tours along the Mediterranean coast.
Located near Demre in Antalya Province, Kekova offers a rare mix of history, nature, and silence. No cars, no buildings you can enter, just clear water revealing the remains of a lost Lycian civilization.
Book your Demre, Myra & Kekova tour now to secure your spot.
What Is Kekova Sunken City?
Kekova is an ancient Lycian settlement that was partially destroyed by earthquakes during the 2nd century AD.
Instead of being rebuilt, parts of the city gradually sank into the sea.
Today, you can still see:
- Stone foundations under water
- Staircases leading into the sea
- Ruins of houses and harbor walls
- Ancient harbor structures
The site is protected, so swimming and diving directly in the ruins is restricted in most areas to preserve history.
Where Is Kekova Located?
Kekova is located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, near Demre in Antalya Province.
It is part of the Turkish Riviera and is surrounded by:
- Kaş
- Demre
- Üçağız village
- Simena (Kaleköy)
Most visitors reach Kekova as part of a full-day boat or land tour from Antalya or nearby coastal towns.
Why Kekova Sunken City Is Famous
Kekova is not just popular because it is old. It is famous because it is visibly underwater history.
Unlike traditional ruins, here you can literally see ancient walls beneath the sea surface.
It is known for:
- One of the best-preserved sunken cities in the Mediterranean
- Crystal-clear water revealing ancient structures
- A protected archaeological zone with limited access
- Unique boat-only exploration experience
How to Visit Kekova Sunken City
You cannot walk into the Sunken City itself. The only way to explore it is by sea.
1. Boat Tours (Most Popular)
Glass-bottom or standard boats take visitors along the coastline of the sunken ruins. This allows you to see submerged structures clearly.
2. Private Yacht Tours
A more flexible option where you can stop for swimming in permitted areas and explore nearby coves.
3. Combined Day Tours
Most travelers visit Kekova together with:
- Demre (St. Nicholas Church)
- Myra Ancient City
- Coastal swimming stops
Best Time to Visit Kekova
The best months are:
- April to October
During this period:
- Sea is calm
- Visibility underwater is clear
- Boat tours operate daily
Summer months are busier, but also offer the best water conditions.
What to Expect on a Kekova Tour
A typical Kekova experience includes:
- Scenic drive along the Mediterranean coast
- Boat cruise over the Sunken City
- Stops for swimming in turquoise water
- Views of ancient Lycian ruins from the sea
- Visit to nearby historical towns
It is not a rushed sightseeing tour. The experience is slow, peaceful, and visually focused.
Is Kekova Worth Visiting?
Yes, but for the right type of traveler.
Kekova is ideal if you:
- Like history and ancient civilizations
- Enjoy boat trips and sea views
- Prefer nature over crowded tourist attractions
- Want something unique in Turkey
It is not ideal if you expect large museums or interactive city tours.
Travel Tip
If you are already visiting Antalya, the best way to see Kekova is through a full-day guided tour to Demre and Myra. This combines three major attractions in one route and avoids complex transportation.
Final Thoughts
Kekova Sunken City is one of those rare places where history is not displayed behind glass — it is still part of the sea.
It is quiet, protected, and visually striking in a way most archaeological sites are not.
If you are traveling along the Turkish Riviera, this is one destination that should not be skipped.