Why Combine Turkey and Greece in One Tour?
Turkey and Greece share millennia of intertwined history, stunning coastlines along the Aegean Sea, and remarkably complementary travel experiences. While Greece enchants with its pristine islands and classical ruins, Turkey captivates with its Byzantine heritage, otherworldly landscapes, and rich Ottoman legacy.
Key advantages of combined Turkey Greece travel packages:
- Geographical proximity: The countries share borders and are easily connected by short flights and ferry routes
- Complementary experiences: Byzantine and Ottoman sites in Turkey complement classical Greek antiquities
- Diverse landscapes: From Santorini's white-washed villages to Cappadocia's lunar valleys
- Value for money: Combined tours often provide better value than separate trips
- Seamless logistics: Professional tour operators handle all transfers, accommodations, and activities
Best Turkey Greece Itinerary Options
The ideal Turkey Greece itinerary depends on your available time, interests, and preferred travel pace. Here are the most popular options:
9-Day Turkey Greece Itinerary: Highlights Tour
Perfect for travelers with limited time who want to experience the essential highlights of both countries. This compact itinerary typically includes:
- Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, and Bosphorus cruise
- Cappadocia: Hot air balloon rides, fairy chimneys, and cave hotels
- Turkish Aegean: Ancient Ephesus and the coastal charm of Kusadasi
View detailed 9-day Turkey Greece itinerary →
Best for: First-time visitors, travelers on a tight schedule, those focusing primarily on Turkey's highlights
12-Day Greece Turkey Itinerary: Balanced Exploration
This duration allows for a more balanced exploration of both countries, incorporating multiple destinations without feeling rushed.
- Athens: Acropolis, ancient Agora, and vibrant Plaka district
- Meteora: Cliff-top monasteries and breathtaking rock formations
- Istanbul: Comprehensive city exploration including both European and Asian sides
- Cappadocia: Extended stay with hot air ballooning and valley hikes
Explore our 12-day Greece Turkey itinerary →
Best for: Travelers seeking depth over breadth, photography enthusiasts, couples on honeymoon
13-Day Turkey and Greece Tour: Epic Journey
This comprehensive tour adds Crete to the mix, providing a fuller picture of Greece's diverse islands alongside Turkey's mainland treasures.
- Istanbul: Extended exploration with multiple days in the imperial city
- Cappadocia: Underground cities, open-air museums, and valley tours
- Crete: Minoan Palace of Knossos, Lassithi Plateau, and charming Chania
Discover the 13-day epic tour of Turkey and Greece →
Best for: History buffs, travelers who prefer a leisurely pace, those interested in ancient civilizations
14-Day Grand Tour: Turkey and Greek Islands
This itinerary emphasizes Greece's iconic islands alongside Turkey's cultural treasures, perfect for travelers who dream of island-hopping.
- Istanbul and Cappadocia: Core Turkish experiences
- Multiple Greek Islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, or Crete
- Island life: Beach time, sunset watching, and Mediterranean cuisine
View the 14-day grand tour of Turkey and Greek islands →
Best for: Beach lovers, romantic getaways, travelers seeking the quintessential Mediterranean experience
20-Day Ultimate Journey: Classical Greece, Turkey & Aegean Sea
For travelers with ample time, this comprehensive journey delivers an exhaustive exploration of both countries' greatest treasures.
- Extended Greece exploration: Athens, Delphi, Olympia, Nafplio, and multiple islands
- Comprehensive Turkey tour: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and the Turquoise Coast
- Aegean crossings: Multiple opportunities to experience the sea that unites these cultures
Explore the 20-day grand tour through classical Greece, Turkey, and the Aegean →
Best for: Retirement travel, sabbaticals, serious history enthusiasts, comprehensive cultural immersion
Let Us Plan Your Perfect Trip: Turkey Greece Travel Packages
Reading itineraries is a great start, but crafting the perfect one can be complex. That's where we come in.
Our Turkey and Greece travel packages are fully flexible and can be 100% customized to your travel dates, interests, and budget. Want to add an extra night in Santorini? Swap Mykonos for Crete? Start in Athens instead of Istanbul? No problem. We handle all the logistics—flights, ferries, private transfers, and expert-guided tours—so you can relax and enjoy your dream vacation.
To see all our featured itineraries and start planning your bespoke journey, explore our main tour page.
See All Our Turkey & Greece Tour Packages
Essential Experiences on Turkey Greece Tours
Turkey Highlights
Istanbul: Where East Meets West The only city spanning two continents offers an intoxicating blend of Byzantine grandeur and Ottoman opulence. Must-see attractions include the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the intricate Blue Mosque, the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, and the opulent Topkapi Palace. A Bosphorus cruise provides perspectives on the waterway that has shaped empires for millennia.
Cappadocia: Lunar Landscapes and Fairy Chimneys No Turkey Greece itinerary is complete without experiencing Cappadocia's otherworldly terrain. Hot air balloon rides at sunrise reveal valleys dotted with fairy chimneys and cave dwellings. Explore underground cities that sheltered early Christians, rock-cut churches adorned with frescoes, and unique cave hotels that offer unforgettable accommodations.
Ephesus: Ancient Roman Grandeur Walk the marble streets of one of the Mediterranean's best-preserved ancient cities. The Library of Celsus facade, the Great Theatre seating 25,000, and the intricate Terrace Houses showcase Roman urban planning at its finest.
Pamukkale: Cotton Castle The brilliant white travertine terraces filled with thermal waters create a natural wonder unlike any other, complemented by the ruins of ancient Hierapolis.
Greece Highlights
Athens: Birthplace of Western Civilization The Acropolis dominates the skyline, crowned by the Parthenon, one of the world's most recognizable monuments. The Ancient Agora, National Archaeological Museum, and vibrant Plaka neighborhood round out the Athenian experience.
Meteora: Monasteries in the Sky Byzantine monasteries perched atop towering rock pillars create one of Greece's most dramatic landscapes. The six active monasteries contain priceless frescoes and offer spectacular valley views.
Greek Islands: Cycladic Charm Each island offers distinct character—Santorini's caldera views and sunset watching, Mykonos's cosmopolitan energy, Crete's Minoan heritage, or Rhodes's medieval old town protected by imposing walls.
Delphi: Oracle of Ancient Greece The sanctuary of Apollo, where priestesses once delivered cryptic prophecies to kings and commoners, sits dramatically on the slopes of Mount Parnassus overlooking olive groves that stretch to the Gulf of Corinth.
What's Included in Turkey Greece Travel Packages?
Professional Turkey Greece travel packages typically include:
Accommodations
- Boutique hotels in prime locations within historic city centers
- Unique stays: Cave hotels in Cappadocia, traditional guesthouses in Chania
- Resort hotels on Greek islands and Turkish coasts
- 4-5 star properties ensuring comfort and authentic experiences
Transportation
- International flights (depending on package tier)
- Domestic flights: Istanbul-Cappadocia, Athens-Islands, and inter-country connections
- Private transfers: Airport pickups, hotel-to-hotel transfers
- Ferry tickets between Greek islands
- Rental cars for independent exploration segments (in certain itineraries)
Tours and Activities
- Expert guides: Licensed professionals providing historical and cultural context
- Skip-the-line access to major attractions
- Small-group tours: Intimate experiences with typically 8-15 participants
- Private tours: Personalized attention and flexible scheduling
- Special experiences: Hot air balloon rides, cooking classes, folklore shows
Meals
- Daily breakfast at all hotels
- Select lunches during full-day tours
- Welcome and farewell dinners celebrating regional cuisine
- Food tours exploring local markets and traditional eateries
Support Services
- 24/7 travel assistance throughout your journey
- Detailed trip documentation with maps, directions, and recommendations
- Pre-trip planning consultation to customize your itinerary
- Travel insurance options for peace of mind
Best Time for Turkey Greece Tours
The optimal timing for combined Turkey Greece tours depends on your priorities:
Peak Season (June-August)
- Advantages: Guaranteed warm weather, long daylight hours, vibrant island atmosphere, all ferries and attractions operating
- Considerations: Highest prices, crowded attractions, intense heat in inland Turkey (Cappadocia can exceed 35°C/95°F)
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October)
- Advantages: Ideal weather (20-28°C/68-82°F), fewer crowds, lower prices, excellent for photography with spring flowers or autumn colors
- Considerations: Some island ferries on reduced schedules, occasional rain in April and October
- Verdict: Best overall choice for most travelers
Winter (November-March)
- Advantages: Lowest prices, authentic local experiences, Istanbul and Athens still delightful
- Considerations: Many island hotels closed, reduced flight schedules, cold in Cappadocia (occasionally snowy), some archaeological sites less appealing in rain
- Best for: Budget travelers, those avoiding crowds, visitors focusing on cities and museums
Special Considerations
- Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia: Best success rates April-October, though flights operate year-round weather permitting
- Greek Easter: Moveable feast (usually April) with spectacular celebrations but higher prices
- Ramadan: Doesn't significantly impact tourist areas, but be respectful in conservative neighborhoods
Planning Your Turkey Greece Itinerary: Essential Tips
How Many Days Do You Need?
- Minimum: 9-10 days for core highlights
- Recommended: 12-14 days for a satisfying pace without rushing
- Ideal: 16-20 days for comprehensive exploration including multiple islands
Sample Turkey Greece Itinerary Framework (14 Days)
Days 1-4: Turkey - Istanbul & Cappadocia
- Arrive Istanbul, explore Sultanahmet district
- Bosphorus cruise and Asian side
- Fly to Cappadocia, hot air balloon experience
- Underground cities and fairy chimneys
Days 5-8: Turkey - Aegean Coast
- Fly to Izmir, transfer to Kusadasi
- Ancient Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary
- Pamukkale travertines and Hierapolis
- Leisure time on Turkish Riviera
Days 9-11: Greece - Athens & Mainland
- Ferry or fly to Athens
- Acropolis and Ancient Agora
- Day trip to Delphi or Meteora
Days 12-14: Greece - Islands
- Ferry to chosen island(s)
- Beach relaxation and island exploration
- Sunset watching and Mediterranean dining
- Return for departure
Visa and Entry Requirements
Important: Always verify current entry requirements as policies can change. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity beyond your travel dates.
Budgeting for Turkey Greece Tours
- Budget Level (Hostels, local transport, street food): $60-80 per person per day
- Mid-Range (3-star hotels, organized tours, restaurant meals): $150-200 per person per day
- Luxury (5-star hotels, private tours, fine dining): $300-500+ per person per day
Package tours typically offer better value than independent travel due to bulk rates on hotels and attractions.
Packing Essentials
- Clothing: Layers for varying temperatures, modest clothing for religious sites, comfortable walking shoes
- Accessories: Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), daypack for tours, travel adapter (Type C/F plugs)
- Documents: Printed copies of vouchers and itineraries, travel insurance details
- Photography: Extra memory cards and portable charger for capturing endless photo opportunities
Turkey Greece Tour Styles: Finding Your Perfect Match
Private Tours
- Advantages: Complete flexibility, personalized attention, ability to adjust itinerary, ideal for families or special occasions
- Best for: Couples, honeymooners, families with children, travelers with specific interests or mobility considerations
Small-Group Tours
- Advantages: Social experience, cost-effective, expert tour leaders, instant travel friends
- Typical size: 8-16 participants
- Best for: Solo travelers, those who enjoy meeting fellow travelers, budget-conscious explorers
Self-Drive Tours
- Advantages: Ultimate freedom, explore at your own pace, discover off-the-beaten-path locations
- Considerations: Requires international driving permits, comfort with foreign road rules
- Best for: Adventurous couples, experienced travelers, those who prefer independence
Luxury Tours
- Advantages: Five-star accommodations, exclusive experiences, private yacht charters, gourmet dining
- Typical inclusions: Business class flights, helicopter transfers, private museum tours after hours
- Best for: Celebrating special occasions, travelers seeking premium experiences, those who value exceptional service
Extending Your Turkey Greece Adventure
Add-On Options
- Egypt Extension: Combine with a 7-10 day Egypt tour featuring the Pyramids, Nile cruise, and Luxor's temples View Egypt-Greece combined itinerary →
- Additional Greek Islands: Extend with Corfu, Zakynthos, Naxos, or Paros for more island diversity
- Turkish Riviera: Add Antalya, Fethiye, and the stunning turquoise coast
- Aegean Cruise: Replace land segments with a small-ship cruise along the Turkish and Greek
Why Book Turkey Greece Tours with 7 Wonders Travel?
Tailor-Made Experiences
Every traveler is unique. We customize itineraries to match your interests, pace, and preferences rather than forcing you into rigid group schedules.
Local Expertise
Our destination specialists possess intimate knowledge of both countries, with established relationships ensuring superior accommodations, skip-the-line access, and insider experiences.
Seamless Logistics
We handle every detail—from airport transfers to ferry schedules—allowing you to focus entirely on experiencing these magnificent destinations.
Quality Accommodations
We select boutique hotels, cave hotels, and characterful properties that enhance your journey rather than generic chain hotels.
24/7 Support
Throughout your journey, our team provides round-the-clock assistance, ensuring any issues receive immediate attention.
Sustainable and Responsible Travel
We partner with local guides, family-owned accommodations, and community-based experiences, ensuring your tourism benefits local economies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Turkey Greece tour cost?
Turkey Greece travel packages range from $2,000-$6,000+ per person depending on duration (9-20 days), accommodation level, season, and inclusions. Private tours cost more than small-group options.
What's the best itinerary for first-time visitors?
The 12-13 day itineraries provide the ideal balance of major highlights without excessive rushing, including Istanbul, Cappadocia, Athens, and at least one Greek island.
Can I combine Egypt with Turkey and Greece?
Absolutely! Three-country itineraries work particularly well, with Egypt typically positioned either before or after the Turkey-Greece segment.
Do Turkey Greece tours include flights?
This varies by package. Many include domestic flights between destinations (Istanbul-Cappadocia, Athens-Islands), while international flights to/from your home country are sometimes separate.
Are Turkey Greece tours suitable for families?
Yes! These destinations offer excellent family experiences with fascinating history, beautiful beaches, and adventurous activities. We recommend private tours for families with young children for maximum flexibility.
What's included in a cave hotel experience in Cappadocia?
Cave hotels offer rooms carved into the soft volcanic rock, featuring modern amenities within historic structures. Most include breakfast, some have hot tubs, and terraces provide spectacular valley views—especially magical during dawn balloon flights.
Is it safe to travel to Turkey and Greece?
Both countries are generally safe for tourists. As with any international travel, exercise normal precautions, stay aware of your surroundings, and follow local advice. Tourist areas in both countries are well-policed and accustomed to international visitors.
Summary - Ready to Begin Your Turkey Greece Adventure?
A combined Turkey Greece tour offers an unparalleled journey through two of the world's most captivating destinations. From Istanbul's minarets to Athens' ancient columns, from Cappadocia's fairy chimneys to Santorini's cliff-side villages, this journey delivers diverse experiences that satisfy every travel passion.
Whether you have 9 days or 3 weeks, prefer intimate private tours or sociable small groups, dream of ancient history or island beaches, the perfect Turkey Greece itinerary awaits.
Explore our curated Turkey Greece travel packages:
- 9-Day Turkey Greece Itinerary - Essential highlights
- 12-Day Greece Turkey Itinerary - Balanced exploration
- 13-Day Epic Tour of Turkey and Greece - Comprehensive journey
- 14-Day Grand Tour with Greek Islands - Island hopping emphasis
- 20-Day Ultimate Journey - Complete immersion
See more turkey greece tour packages at our turkey greece tours page
Contact our travel specialists today to begin planning your bespoke Turkey Greece adventure. Your journey of a lifetime starts here.
Last updated: October 2025 | Travel information subject to change. Always verify current visa requirements and travel advisories before booking.