Visa Requirements for Visiting Turkey and Greece Explained
Planning a multi-country trip that includes both Turkey and Greece is an exciting idea for travelers seeking history, culture, beaches, and unforgettable sightseeing experiences. These two neighboring countries are often combined in popular Turkey & Greece travel packages, cruise itineraries, and holiday tours.
One of the most common questions travelers ask is: do I need a visa to visit Turkey and Greece? The answer depends on your nationality, passport type, and length of stay.
This guide explains visa requirements clearly, helping you plan your vacation smoothly and avoid last-minute surprises.
Understanding Visa Rules for Turkey and Greece
Turkey and Greece follow different immigration systems:
- Turkey has its own visa policy and offers visa-free entry or e-visas to many nationalities.
- Greece is part of the Schengen Area, which follows common European visa rules.
When planning travel, sightseeing, or booking holiday packages, you must check both countries’ requirements separately.
Visa Requirements for Visiting Turkey
Turkey offers flexible entry options for many travelers.
Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of many countries can enter Turkey without a visa for short stays, usually 30 to 90 days, including:
- EU countries
- United Kingdom
- Japan
- South Korea
- Some Middle Eastern and South American countries
Turkey E-Visa
Travelers from countries such as the USA, Australia, Canada, and others may need to apply for a Turkey e-visa online before arrival.
The process is simple:
- Apply online
- Pay a small fee
- Receive approval by email
- Print or save the visa digitally
This makes Turkey easy to include in travel packages and vacation itineraries.
Visa Requirements for Visiting Greece
Greece follows Schengen visa rules.
Visa-Free Entry to Greece
Citizens of the following can enter Greece without a visa for up to 90 days within 180 days:
- European Union countries
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- United Kingdom
- Japan
- New Zealand
Schengen Visa Required
Travelers from many Asian, African, and Middle Eastern countries must apply for a Schengen tourist visa before traveling.
This visa allows travel to Greece and other Schengen countries.
Required documents usually include:
- Passport
- Travel insurance
- Hotel bookings
- Flight reservations
- Proof of funds
Can One Visa Cover Both Turkey and Greece?
No.
Turkey is not part of the Schengen Area, so:
- A Schengen visa does not allow entry into Turkey.
- A Turkey visa does not allow entry into Greece.
If your nationality requires visas for both, you must apply for them separately.
Best Way to Plan a Turkey and Greece Trip
When booking travel packages or planning sightseeing itineraries:
- Check visa requirements early
- Apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel
- Confirm passport validity (usually six months)
- Keep printed and digital copies of visas
- Confirm entry rules with official embassy websites
Many tour operators assist travelers with visa guidance when booking vacation packages.
Popular Turkey and Greece Travel Routes
Common combinations include:
- Istanbul → Athens → Greek Islands
- Cappadocia → Istanbul → Santorini
- Antalya → Athens → Mykonos
Flights between Turkey and Greece Tour are short and frequent, making multi-country holidays convenient.
Special Notes for Cruise Travelers
If visiting Greek islands from Turkey by cruise:
- Some nationalities may receive short-term port visas
- Requirements vary by cruise line and passport
Always confirm visa rules before booking.
How Visa Rules Affect Travel Packages
Travel agencies often design packages based on visa convenience:
- Visa-free travelers enjoy smoother planning
- Visa-required travelers should allow extra processing time
- Some packages include visa support services
Checking visa requirements early avoids delays or missed holidays.
Travel Tips for Visa Applications
- Apply early
- Double-check passport expiration dates
- Use official government websites
- Avoid unofficial agents
- Keep travel insurance valid
- Save copies of all documents
With proper planning, visiting both Turkey and Greece Trip becomes easy and stress-free.

FAQs: Do I Need a Visa to Visit Turkey and Greece?
- Do most travelers need visas for Turkey and Greece?
Many nationalities can enter both countries visa-free, but some require a Turkey e-visa and a Schengen visa for Greece. - Can I use a Schengen visa to enter Turkey?
No, Turkey is not part of the Schengen Area, so a separate Turkish visa or visa-free entry is required. - Can I visit both countries with one visa?
No, Turkey and Greece require separate visas because they follow different immigration systems and border regulations. - How long does it take to get a Schengen visa for Greece?
Processing usually takes one to three weeks, depending on nationality, season, and embassy workload. - Are visas included in Turkey and Greece travel packages?
Most packages do not include visas, but agencies often provide guidance and documentation support during your booking process.
