Üçağız Village Antalya Province
A serene seaside village with ancient Lycian ruins, offering breathtaking views of the sunken city of Kekova.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Üçağız Village Antalya Province
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene seaside village with ancient Lycian ruins, offering breathtaking views of the sunken city of Kekova.
"The castle is spectacular with stunning views. Highly recommend."
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The climb to Kaleköy castle is steep with over 300 stairs. Wear sturdy shoes for a safe and enjoyable ascent.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
The Mediterranean sun is strong. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially for the castle climb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kaleköy Castle
Kaleköy
Ascend to the ancient castle for panoramic views of Kekova island and the sunken Lycian necropolis. A must-see!
Sunken Lycian Necropolis
Kekova Island waters
Witness the haunting beauty of ancient Lycian tombs partially submerged in the turquoise waters. A truly unique sight.
Üçağız Village Charm
Üçağız Village
Wander through this picturesque seaside village with its Ottoman-era houses and friendly atmosphere. Relax by the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Journey to Üçağız
Castle Climb & Sun Protection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The climb to Kaleköy castle is steep with over 300 stairs. Wear sturdy shoes for a safe and enjoyable ascent.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
The Mediterranean sun is strong. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially for the castle climb.
🚤 Book Boat Tours in Advance
Secure your spot on a Kekova boat tour by booking ahead, particularly during busy periods.
💰 Castle Entry Fee
A small fee (around 15 TL) grants access to the castle. It's well worth it for the views!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The climb to Kaleköy castle is steep with over 300 stairs. Wear sturdy shoes for a safe and enjoyable ascent.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
The Mediterranean sun is strong. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially for the castle climb.
🚤 Book Boat Tours in Advance
Secure your spot on a Kekova boat tour by booking ahead, particularly during busy periods.
💰 Castle Entry Fee
A small fee (around 15 TL) grants access to the castle. It's well worth it for the views!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty and rich history of Üçağız and Kekova. The panoramic views from Kaleköy castle and the unique sight of the sunken Lycian city are consistently praised. Some find the climb to the castle challenging, and the village can feel very quiet outside of peak season.
"Cool little isolated village overlooking the crystal clear water to Kekova island. The views from the top at the castle are really great. The castle itself is a pretty quick visit but is a bit of a climb, over 300 stairs, to get there."
Philip and Anabel Harrison
"Stunning seaside village w
ottoman era. The castle is spectacular with stunning views. Highly recommend."
Jasmine Hopcraft
"Another breathtaking area to visit, the rock tombs and the castle are a must see!"
SKnari
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Üçağız is accessible by road, often as part of a trip from Kaş or Demre. Many visitors combine their visit with a boat tour to Kekova. Public transport options might be limited, so consider a rental car or organized tour for convenience.
While direct public transport might be infrequent, you can take buses to nearby towns like Demre or Kaş and then arrange local transport or a taxi to Üçağız. It's often easier to join a tour.
The most popular way is by taking a boat tour from Üçağız. These tours typically include stops at the sunken city, various bays, and sometimes swimming opportunities.
Yes, it's possible to walk from Üçağız to Kaleköy along the coast, offering scenic views. However, many prefer the boat option for ease and to see the sunken city.
Üçağız is considered a hidden gem by many travelers looking for a more secluded experience compared to busier coastal towns. It offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The village itself is free to wander. However, there's an entrance fee to climb up to the Kaleköy castle, which is highly recommended for the views.
The entrance fee for the castle is approximately 15 Turkish Lira, which is considered very reasonable for the experience and the stunning vistas it offers.
Boat tour prices vary depending on the duration and inclusions. It's best to inquire directly with the boat operators in Üçağız for current pricing and to negotiate if possible.
Swimming directly over the most fragile parts of the sunken city is generally not allowed to preserve the site. However, boat tours often include stops at nearby bays for swimming.
The castle is typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally or with your accommodation for the most up-to-date opening times, especially outside of peak tourist season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the village, climb the Kaleköy castle for incredible views, take a boat tour to see the sunken Lycian city and Kekova Island, and visit the ancient rock tombs.
The climb involves over 300 stairs and can be steep. While manageable for most, it requires a moderate level of fitness. Take your time and enjoy the journey.
These are ancient Lycian sarcophagi and burial chambers carved into the hillsides, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history. They are a significant historical attraction.
While you can see parts of Kekova Island from land, the best way to truly appreciate the sunken Lycian necropolis is from a boat tour, which offers clear views of the submerged ruins.
Üçağız is known for its tranquil, laid-back atmosphere. It's a peaceful escape with stunning natural beauty and historical significance, offering a more authentic experience than larger tourist hubs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are several charming seaside restaurants in Üçağız offering fresh seafood and traditional Turkish dishes. Enjoying a meal with a view of the water is a highlight.
Expect delicious fresh fish caught locally, mezes (appetizers), and other Mediterranean specialties. Many restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients.
Most restaurants will offer vegetarian mezes and some main dishes. It's always a good idea to ask the staff about vegetarian choices when ordering.
Yes, you'll find small cafes and places to grab snacks, ice cream, or Turkish coffee as you explore the village. Perfect for a break during your sightseeing.
Dining prices are generally reasonable, especially considering the beautiful locations. You can find options to suit different budgets, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from Kaleköy castle are unparalleled. Also, capture the charming village streets, the Lycian rock tombs, and the turquoise waters with the sunken city.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most magical light for photography, casting a warm glow over the village and sea. Midday can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and village scenes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on Kekova Island or distant views.
Drone regulations in Turkey can be strict. It's essential to check current rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone in this area to avoid issues.
From a boat tour, try to get shots that show the contrast between the clear water and the submerged ruins. Look for angles that highlight the scale and mystery of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water for the boat trips and castle climb. Consider shorter boat tours if your children have shorter attention spans. The relaxed atmosphere of the village also makes it a pleasant place for families to unwind. Ensure children wear life jackets on boats and are supervised closely near the water.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for simpler meals at local eateries rather than high-end restaurants. Bringing your own snacks and water can also cut down on daily expenses. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) when prices for accommodation and tours might be lower.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to explore the historical sites, perhaps reading up on Lycian history beforehand to enhance your understanding. The combination of visible ruins and submerged history makes this area incredibly compelling for anyone interested in archaeology and ancient cultures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Kaleköy Castle
Inside the castle grounds, you can explore the remnants of its fortifications and imagine life centuries ago. The strategic location provided a commanding view for defense. Don't miss the chance to look down upon the coastline below; the perspective from the top is truly spectacular. The friendly staff at the castle also add to the welcoming atmosphere, making the visit even more enjoyable.
Photography enthusiasts will find this spot particularly rewarding, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light paints the landscape in warm hues. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the climb can be strenuous under the Mediterranean sun.
Exploring the Sunken City of Kekova
Boat tours typically navigate slowly over the submerged ruins, allowing passengers to get a good look. While swimming directly over the most sensitive parts of the ruins is prohibited to protect them, many tours include stops at secluded bays for swimming and snorkeling. This offers a chance to cool off in the refreshing Mediterranean Sea while still being surrounded by historical wonders.
Beyond the sunken city, the boat trip often includes visits to charming coves and the picturesque island of Kekova itself. The combination of history, natural beauty, and the relaxing boat ride makes this a quintessential Mediterranean experience.
The Charm of Üçağız Village
Visitors often describe the village as a delightful place to wander, enjoy a meal by the sea, and simply relax. The friendly locals and the unhurried pace of life contribute to its appeal. It's the perfect base for exploring the Kekova area, offering a serene retreat after a day of sightseeing.
Dining in Üçağız is a pleasure, with numerous seaside restaurants serving fresh, locally caught seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine. Enjoying a meal with the gentle lapping of waves as your soundtrack is a memorable experience.
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