Simena (Kaleköy) Castle Antalya
Ancient castle ruins atop a charming village, offering breathtaking Mediterranean views and a glimpse of a sunken city.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Simena (Kaleköy) Castle Antalya
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient castle ruins atop a charming village, offering breathtaking Mediterranean views and a glimpse of a sunken city.
"A captivating blend of history, nature, and tranquility with unforgettable panoramic views."
🚗 Drive Time Warning
It's a 3+ hour drive from Antalya city. Consider boat tours from Kaş or Üçağız for easier access!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of uneven paths and stairs to climb up to the castle. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Simena Castle Ruins
Kaleköy
Explore ancient Lycian ruins and Crusader-era fortifications with breathtaking Mediterranean panoramas.

Kaleköy Village Charm
Base of the castle
Wander through a picturesque village with stone houses, local crafts, and stunning sea views.

Kekova Sunken City Views
From the castle ramparts
Gaze upon the partially submerged ancient city of Kekova, a unique underwater archaeological site.
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Simena Castle
Best Time to Explore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Time Warning
It's a 3+ hour drive from Antalya city. Consider boat tours from Kaş or Üçağız for easier access!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of uneven paths and stairs to climb up to the castle. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in warmer months, carry plenty of water as you explore the castle and village. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the castle are incredible. Go early for fewer people and better light. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Time Warning
It's a 3+ hour drive from Antalya city. Consider boat tours from Kaş or Üçağız for easier access!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of uneven paths and stairs to climb up to the castle. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in warmer months, carry plenty of water as you explore the castle and village. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas from the castle are incredible. Go early for fewer people and better light. :camerawithflash:
🚤 Boat Trip Recommended
Many visitors arrive by boat, offering stunning coastal views and access to the sunken city.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views from Simena Castle and the charming, tranquil atmosphere of Kaleköy village. The historical significance and the unique sight of the Kekova Sunken City are major draws. Some note the long drive from Antalya and the uneven terrain within the castle.
"Well worth the stop off and walk up the top to the fort. It does cost 200 tl so take some cash. The village is well known for home
Made ice cream and you must buy some. Love the place."
Banksie
"It’s a steep walk up the hill to reach the entrance whichever way you approach it. The castle is just ruined walls but you can get to the top where there are fantastic views all round. There are traces of mosaic flooring but they are not all that clear to see.
The place is certainly worth a visit."
Dave Camp
"Very beautiful ancient town
If you have limited time I would recommend skipping fortress with paid entry (4 EU) and going to the right side pathway
You will see a lot of thombs and stunning views"
Stanislav Andreev
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Simena Castle (Kaleköy) is about a 3-hour drive from Antalya city center. You can rent a car or take a bus to Demre and then a local dolmuş or taxi to Kaleköy. Many visitors opt for boat tours from Kaş or Üçağız, which often include stops at Kekova Sunken City and offer stunning coastal views.
Yes, reaching Kaleköy by boat is a popular and scenic option. Boat tours often depart from Üçağız village or Kaş, providing direct access to Kaleköy and opportunities to see the Kekova Sunken City.
The 'best' way depends on your preference. Driving offers flexibility, but boat tours provide a unique perspective and easier access to the surrounding attractions like the Sunken City.
Public transport involves taking a bus to Demre and then a local dolmuş or taxi to Kaleköy. This can be a longer and less direct route compared to boat tours or driving.
The drive from Antalya city center to Simena Castle (Kaleköy) typically takes around 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access Simena Castle. It's advisable to check the latest ticket prices and opening hours before your visit, as they can change seasonally.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the castle is accessible during daylight hours. It's best to confirm the current schedule, especially during off-peak seasons or holidays.
While there isn't a specific fee to enter the village of Kaleköy itself, you will need to pay an entrance fee to access the Simena Castle ruins.
Information on online ticket purchases may be limited. It's often recommended to purchase tickets on-site upon arrival at the castle entrance.
Discounts may be available for certain groups such as students or seniors. It's worth inquiring at the ticket office about any available concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the ancient castle ruins, enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean and Kekova Sunken City, wander through the charming Kaleköy village, and perhaps take a boat trip.
The castle involves climbing stairs and walking on uneven, ancient stone paths. Comfortable footwear is essential.
The ramparts of the castle offer breathtaking panoramic views. The village streets and the coastline also provide excellent photo opportunities.
While there isn't a designated swimming beach directly at the castle, boat tours often stop at coves where swimming is possible. The waters around Kekova are crystal clear.
The Kekova Sunken City is an ancient Lycian settlement that partially submerged due to earthquakes. It's visible from boat tours and from the ramparts of Simena Castle.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Kaleköy has several charming restaurants and cafes, many offering stunning sea views. You can enjoy local Turkish cuisine and fresh seafood.
Expect traditional Turkish dishes, fresh seafood, and local specialties. Many eateries offer beautiful views of the bay.
While some restaurants offer fine dining with views, you can also find simpler cafes and gözleme (Turkish flatbread) spots that are more budget-friendly.
Absolutely! Many accommodations and cafes in Kaleköy offer breakfast with spectacular views of the bay and the Mediterranean Sea.
Yes, there are small shops and cafes in Kaleköy where you can purchase water, snacks, and drinks. It's wise to carry some, especially during warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden hue. These times also tend to be less crowded.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views from the castle. A zoom lens can be useful for details of the ruins or the distant coastline.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in historical and protected areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
The castle ramparts, the village alleys with bougainvillea, the harbor, and the views overlooking the Kekova Sunken City are all highly photogenic.
Yes, the elevated position of Simena Castle provides excellent vantage points to photograph the visible parts of the Kekova Sunken City.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options can be limited once you're up at the castle. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to keep everyone comfortable. The charming village offers a relaxed atmosphere for breaks, and the boat rides provide a fun way to explore the coastline.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Exploring the castle and village at your own pace is very rewarding. You can easily spend a few hours here, enjoying the scenery and the quiet charm of Kaleköy. The local restaurants offer a welcoming environment to enjoy a meal with a view.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Kekova Sunken City offers a unique photographic subject, visible from boat tours or the castle. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the expansive landscapes and a telephoto lens for details of the castle architecture or distant coastline. Early morning visits will help you avoid crowds and capture the best light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Simena Castle
The name 'Simena' itself is ancient, and the site has been continuously inhabited for millennia. The castle's strategic importance is evident in its well-preserved walls and towers, which have withstood the test of time. Exploring the ruins allows visitors to step back into different historical periods, from the Lycians to the Byzantines and Crusaders.
Today, Simena Castle is a testament to the region's layered past. The blend of ancient Lycian sarcophagi scattered around the village and the imposing Crusader fortress atop the hill creates a unique historical tapestry. The ongoing archaeological significance of the area, particularly with the nearby Kekova Sunken City, adds another layer to its historical allure.
Experiencing Kaleköy Village
Visitors can wander through the village, browsing local craft shops selling handmade goods, ceramics, and textiles. Many homes in Kaleköy have been converted into small guesthouses or cafes, providing a cozy atmosphere. The pace of life here is slow and relaxed, inviting visitors to soak in the tranquil ambiance and enjoy the stunning sea views.
The village also serves as a hub for boat tours exploring the Kekova region. From the harbor, you can arrange trips to see the famous Sunken City, explore nearby bays, and enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Dining in Kaleköy is a delight, with numerous restaurants offering fresh seafood and local dishes, many with terraces overlooking the breathtaking panorama.
The Mystique of Kekova Sunken City
Boat tours are the primary way to experience the Sunken City. As your boat glides over the clear waters, you can peer down to see the submerged structures. Some tours even offer opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in designated areas near the ruins, allowing for a closer look at this unique underwater heritage.
The sight of the Kekova Sunken City is both eerie and fascinating, offering a tangible connection to a lost civilization. It's a stark reminder of the powerful geological forces that have shaped this coastline over millennia. The combination of the ancient castle above and the sunken city below creates an unforgettable historical and visual experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit