Can I Do Turkey and Greece Together? Complete Travel Guide
Turkey and Greece are two of the most exciting destinations in the Mediterranean, offering ancient history, stunning coastlines, vibrant cities, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Many travelers planning their next holiday ask the same question: Can I do Turkey and Greece together in one trip?
The answer is a confident yes. Combining Turkey and Greece is not only possible but also one of the most popular travel choices for visitors seeking diverse sightseeing, island relaxation, and rich cultural discovery in a single vacation.
This guide explains how to combine both countries, how many days you need, the best routes, and why Turkey–Greece travel packages are ideal for first-time and repeat travelers.
Why Combine Turkey and Greece in One Trip?
Turkey and Greece share the Aegean Sea, strong historical connections, and excellent transport links. Visiting both countries together allows you to experience:
- Ottoman palaces and Byzantine churches in Turkey
- Classical Greek temples and island villages in Greece
- Bustling bazaars and peaceful seaside towns
- Turkish cuisine and Greek Mediterranean flavors
- Cultural sightseeing and beach holidays in one journey
Many tour operators design special Turkey and Greece vacation packages to balance history, leisure, and comfort.
How to Travel Between Turkey and Greece
Traveling between the two countries is simple and convenient.
By Ferry
Several Greek islands are located just off Turkey’s coast.
Popular ferry routes include:
- Bodrum → Kos
- Marmaris or Fethiye → Rhodes
- Kuşadası → Samos
- Çeşme → Chios
- Ayvalık → Lesvos
Ferries usually take between 20 minutes and 2 hours, offering scenic sea views.
By Flight
Flights connect:
- Istanbul → Athens
- Istanbul → Thessaloniki
- Izmir → Athens
Flights are fast (around 1.5 hours) and ideal for travelers combining mainland destinations.
Most organized travel packages include flights or ferries for smooth transitions.
How Many Days Do You Need for Turkey and Greece?
7 Days – Very Short Highlights
Possible but rushed:
- Istanbul – 3 days
- One Turkish destination (Cappadocia or Ephesus) – 2 days
- Athens or one Greek island – 2 days
This option focuses only on major landmarks.
10 Days – Best for First-Time Travelers
A balanced plan:
Turkey (5 days)
- Istanbul – 3 days
- Cappadocia or Ephesus – 2 days
Greece (5 days)
- Athens – 2 days
- Santorini or Mykonos – 3 days
This combination offers excellent sightseeing and relaxing holiday time. Many popular travel packages follow this structure.
14 Days – Ideal Complete Experience
Perfect for relaxed travel:
Turkey (7 days)
- Istanbul
- Cappadocia
- Ephesus or Pamukkale
Greece (7 days)
- Athens
- Santorini
- Mykonos or Crete
This timeframe suits families, honeymooners, and travelers seeking a slower, richer vacation.
Best Places to Visit in Turkey and Greece Together
In Turkey
- Istanbul – mosques, palaces, Bosphorus cruise
- Cappadocia – fairy chimneys, balloon rides
- Ephesus – Roman ruins
- Pamukkale – white terraces
- Bodrum or Fethiye – beaches
In Greece
- Athens – Acropolis and museums
- Santorini – volcanic views and sunsets
- Mykonos – beaches and nightlife
- Crete – history and coastline
- Rhodes – medieval Old Town
Travel agencies carefully select these destinations to create smooth and enjoyable itineraries.
Visa Requirements
Most travelers need:
- Turkey visa or e-visa (depending on nationality)
- Schengen visa for Greece
Some nationalities can obtain a special Greek island visa on arrival when traveling from Turkey to specific islands during summer.
Always check visa rules before booking flights or ferry tickets.
Why Book Turkey and Greece Travel Packages?
Organized travel packages usually include:
- Hotels in both countries
- Airport and port transfers
- Flights and ferries
- Guided sightseeing tours
- Entrance fees
- Local support
Benefits:
- Saves time
- Reduces stress
- Often cheaper than booking separately
- Provides professional planning
This makes them ideal for families, couples, senior travelers, and first-time visitors.
Best Time to Visit Turkey and Greece Together
- April–June: Best for sightseeing, mild weather
- September–October: Perfect balance of beaches and culture
- July–August: Hot but ideal for island holidays
- Winter: Budget travel, mainly cities
Spring and autumn are the most recommended seasons for combined travel.
Practical Tips for Combined Trips
- Start in Istanbul or Athens for easier flights
- Avoid visiting too many cities in short time
- Book ferries early in summer
- Pack light for island travel
- Keep passports and visas accessible
- Mix sightseeing days with rest days
Good planning ensures your holiday stays enjoyable, not exhausting.
Who Should Choose Turkey and Greece Together?
This combination is perfect for:
- Culture lovers
- History enthusiasts
- Beach travelers
- Couples and honeymooners
- Families
- Luxury and budget travelers
It offers unmatched variety within one vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I really visit Turkey and Greece in one trip?
Yes, flights and ferries connect both countries easily, making combined travel itineraries very popular and convenient for tourists.
How many days are ideal for Turkey and Greece together?
Ten to fourteen days allow balanced sightseeing, island relaxation, and comfortable travel pacing without feeling rushed.
Do I need separate visas for Turkey and Greece?
Yes, Turkey requires its own visa, while Greece requires a Schengen visa for most nationalities.
Are Turkey–Greece travel packages expensive?
No, many packages offer excellent value by combining hotels, transport, sightseeing tours, and transfers at competitive prices.
What is the best season to combine Turkey and Greece?
Spring and autumn provide perfect weather, fewer crowds, enjoyable sightseeing conditions, and comfortable beach experiences.
