17-Day Turkey & Greece Vacation: Istanbul, Cappadocia & Greek Islands
Tour Overview
Quick Answer
This 17-day Turkey & Greece tour combines Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, Cappadocia, Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini with 4-star accommodation, guided sightseeing, domestic flights, inter-island ferries, and airport transfers.
Discover two remarkable countries on a 17-day journey through Türkiye and Greece, combining ancient civilizations, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Mediterranean landscapes, and iconic Aegean islands. Explore Istanbul's Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks, the classical ruins of Ephesus, the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, and the archaeological treasures of Perge, Aspendos, and Side before experiencing Cappadocia's extraordinary volcanic scenery. Continue to Greece with guided sightseeing in Athens, followed by island-hopping to Mykonos and Santorini, where traditional villages, caldera views, and coastal landscapes provide a memorable conclusion to this carefully planned multi-country itinerary.
📋 Tour at a Glance
| Tour Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Tour Duration | 17 Days / 16 Nights |
| Countries Covered | Turkey • Greece |
| Main Destinations | Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, Cappadocia, Athens, Mykonos & Santorini |
| Tour Style | A multi-country cultural journey combining guided sightseeing, Mediterranean coastal experiences, and unforgettable Greek Island adventures. |
| Travel Style | A well-balanced itinerary featuring guided excursions, domestic and international flights, ferry journeys, private transfers, and leisure time for independent exploration. |
| Guide Language | English-speaking licensed local guides |
| Group Type | Private Transfers & Small Group Guided Tours |
| Maximum Group Size | Up to 14 guests in Turkey and up to 35 guests in Greece. Small groups are used only during scheduled sightseeing tours. Flights, ferry journeys, transfers, and leisure time are arranged independently. |
| Accommodation | 16 nights in carefully selected 4-star hotels on a bed & breakfast basis. |
| Meals Included | 16 breakfasts and 5 lunches during guided sightseeing tours, as specified in the itinerary. |
| Flights Included | Domestic flights within Turkey, plus the international flight from Istanbul (Turkey) to Athens (Greece), as specified in the itinerary. |
| Ferry Experience | Ferry crossings between the Greek Islands are included as specified in the itinerary. |
| Starting Price | From €4,290 per person. |
| Cancellation Policy | Free cancellation up to 30 days before the tour departure date. |
| Best Travel Season | 01 April – 25 October 2026 |
| Physical Difficulty | Moderate. Daily sightseeing involves walking through archaeological sites, museums, island villages, and historic city centers with occasional stairs and uneven surfaces. |
| Recommended For | First-time visitors to Turkey and Greece, history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, island hoppers, photography enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a comprehensive multi-country itinerary. |
Highlights
Explore Istanbul's historic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar.
Experience a scenic Bosphorus Cruise before discovering the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary.
Visit Pamukkale's white travertine terraces, Hierapolis, Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Kursunlu Waterfall.
Discover Cappadocia's fairy chimneys, underground cities, valleys, cave settlements, and panoramic viewpoints.
Explore Athens' Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, and classical landmarks before enjoying the unique atmosphere of Mykonos and Santorini.
Experience the traditional Cycladic architecture, caldera landscapes, and unforgettable Aegean island scenery.
Itinerary
Welcome to Istanbul, a unique metropolis where East meets West. Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport or the port, you will be met and privately transferred to your hotel. Check-in is available after 13:00.
A representative will visit you at the hotel to brief you about the upcoming itinerary and answer any questions you may have.
The remainder of the day is free for rest or a first exploration of the surrounding area at your own pace
After breakfast, your guide will meet you at approximately 10:00 for a full-day private sightseeing tour of Istanbul’s historic center.
Begin at the ancient Hippodrome, once the heart of Byzantine public life, where you will see monuments such as the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain.
Continue to the elegant Blue Mosque, famous for its blue İznik tiles and impressive domes. Next, visit the world-renowned Hagia Sophia, a landmark that has served both religious and cultural purposes for centuries.
The tour proceeds to Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, offering insight into imperial life. The final stop is the Grand Bazaar, a centuries-old covered market filled with thousands of shops selling carpets, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs.
Return to the hotel around 16:00.
After breakfast, depart around 08:30 for a half-day sightseeing experience.
Drive along the Golden Horn, passing ancient city walls, then visit the Spice Bazaar filled with aromatic spices and traditional sweets.
Enjoy a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, sailing between two continents while admiring palaces, waterfront mansions, and bridges.
The tour ends at midday. You will then be transferred to the airport for your flight to Izmir. On arrival, continue to Kusadasi for hotel check-in.
Following breakfast, depart between 08:30–08:45 for a full-day archaeological tour.
Start with the House of the Virgin Mary, an important pilgrimage site. Continue to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, where you will walk through marble streets and see the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, and Temple of Hadrian.
After lunch, visit the Temple of Artemis and then continue to Sirince Village, known for its traditional houses and local wines.
Return to Kusadasi in the evening.
After an early breakfast, travel to Pamukkale, famous for its white travertine terraces formed by thermal waters.
After lunch, explore Hierapolis, including its ancient theatre, temple ruins, necropolis, and thermal baths.
Continue your journey to Antalya along the Mediterranean coast.
After breakfast, depart at around 08:00 for a full-day cultural excursion.
Visit Perge, featuring Roman baths, colonnaded streets, and an ancient stadium. Continue to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world.
Enjoy lunch by the river before heading to Side, a coastal town combining ancient ruins with seaside charm, including the Temple of Apollo and Roman theatre.
On the way back, stop at Kursunlu Waterfall.
After breakfast, transfer to Antalya Airport for your flight to Kayseri.
Upon arrival, transfer to Göreme in Cappadocia. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the unique landscape.
Optional: Hot air balloon ride at sunrise over Cappadocia.
After breakfast, begin a full-day northern Cappadocia tour.
Visit Uchisar Castle for panoramic views, then continue to Cavusin, Rose Valley, and Pasabag (Monks Valley). Explore Zelve Open-Air Museum, followed by Devrent Valley with its surreal rock formations.
After lunch, visit Urgup and Avanos, known for pottery workshops and traditional crafts.
After breakfast, check out and leave luggage at the hotel.
Start the southern Cappadocia tour around 09:30–10:00. Visit Ortahisar Castle, Mustafapasa, and the ancient Sobesos ruins. Continue to Soganli Valley and Kaymakli Underground City.
After the tour, transfer to Kayseri Airport for your flight to Istanbul. Arrival and hotel transfer included.
After breakfast and hotel check-out, transfer to Istanbul Airport for your international flight to Athens.
Upon arrival in Athens, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free.
Enjoy a guided tour of Athens’ most iconic landmarks.
Visit Panathenaic Stadium, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, Syntagma Square, and the Parliament building. Continue with stops at the National Library, Academy, and University of Athens.
End the tour at the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum. Afternoon is free.
Transfer to Piraeus Port for ferry departure to Mykonos.
Arrive and check into your hotel. Free time to explore Chora, Little Venice, and the old harbor.
Spend the day exploring Mykonos at your own pace.
Visit the iconic Windmills and Paraportiani Church, or simply enjoy the beaches, cafés, and island atmosphere.
Morning at leisure before ferry transfer to Santorini.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Explore Fira and enjoy breathtaking views of the caldera, volcano, and Aegean Sea.
A full day to enjoy Santorini.
Optional activities include visiting volcanic beaches, taking a cruise to Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, or swimming in hot springs.
In the evening, enjoy a sunset dinner overlooking the caldera.
Morning at leisure. Later, transfer to the port for ferry back to Athens.
Arrive in Athens and transfer to your hotel for overnight stay.
Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Athens International Airport for your departure flight.
End of services with unforgettable memories of Turkey and Greece.
Included
Excluded
Additional Notes
- Combines Turkey's historical landmarks with Greece's most iconic islands in one itinerary.
- Includes guided visits to major archaeological sites and UNESCO World Heritage locations.
- Features domestic flights, ferry connections, and coordinated transfers for efficient travel.
- Balances guided sightseeing with leisure time in Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini.
- Offers a combination of private touring in Istanbul and small-group experiences throughout the journey.
- Upgrade to 5-star accommodation throughout the tour.
- Add a sunrise hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia.
- Upgrade ferry tickets to business or VIP class where available.
- Extend your stay before or after the tour with additional hotel nights.
- Arrange honeymoon services, including room decorations and special amenities.
- Add private sightseeing experiences instead of selected shared tours.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as archaeological sites include uneven stone paths.
- Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant weather for sightseeing across both Turkey and Greece.
- Early morning visits provide quieter conditions at many popular attractions and viewpoints.
- Carry sun protection during summer, especially when visiting archaeological sites and Greek islands.
- Respect local customs by dressing modestly when entering active religious sites.
- Keep a camera ready for sunrise and sunset viewpoints in Cappadocia and Santorini.
Visa requirements for Turkey and Greece may differ based on your nationality and country of residence. We recommend reviewing the most current entry rules, visa policies, and passport requirements before your departure.
For many travelers, Turkey provides visa-free access or the option to apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa). Greece, as a member of the Schengen Area, may require travelers from certain countries to obtain a valid Schengen visa before arrival. Please ensure that your passport meets the required validity conditions, which generally means having at least six months of validity remaining from your entry date.
After your reservation is completed, our experienced travel team can assist you with updated visa information and entry procedures to help you prepare for a comfortable and seamless trip.
- This tour is available for Daily all year round
- Tour Can be customized.
- Price per person, based on a minimum of 2 adults.
- Price does not include international flight tickets.
- Transfers are considered with 1 luggage per person.
- Once domestic air tickets are issued cannot be modified and a 100% fees will apply in case of cancellation
- Domestic flights schedule may change.
- Domestic Flights Baggage Allowance (including 15 kilos of luggage + 8 kilos of hand luggage)
- Step 1: Booking Request & Confirmation
Once we receive your official request to book your chosen tour package, our team will check local availability and confirm all services (hotels, ferries, and transfers) accordingly.
- Step 2: Official Itinerary Review
Once everything is verified, we will email you your official, final tour itinerary detailing every aspect of your day-by-day journey.
- Step 3: Secure Your Reservation
Upon your review and explicit confirmation of this itinerary, we will proceed to the secure payment process to finalize your booking.
- Payment Schedule:
To lock in your dates and secure your hotels/transfers, a 50% booking deposit is required at the time of confirmation. The remaining 50% balance will be automatically and safely charged 3 weeks (21 days) prior to your scheduled tour start date.
🔒 100% Encrypted & Hassle-Free Bank Payment Gateway
- No Card Sharing Required: Your financial security is our top priority. You are never required to share your credit card numbers, CVV, or sensitive information via email, chat, or over the phone.
- How the Secure Link Works: We generate a unique, secure payment link directly through our bank’s certified merchant system. This link is pre-set specifically to your exact due invoice amount.
- The Process: You simply open the link, fill in your credit card information on the bank’s fully encrypted payment form, and the transaction is completed instantly.
- Instant Digital Receipts: The moment your payment is processed, our system automatically generates and emails you an official digital receipt for your financial records.
- Accepted Cards: For your security, we accept VISA and MASTERCARD credit cards only. Please note that debit cards, prepaid cards, or other payment cards are not supported by our secure payment gateway.
Reservations may only be canceled by submitting a formal written notice sent via email or certified mail directly to our agency. Because we pre-pay and secure local boutique hotels, high-speed ferries, and domestic flight entities well in advance on behalf of our travelers, our cancellation policy is strictly structured based on the timeline below:
- ⚠️ DOMESTIC FLIGHTS & FERRIES ARE 100% NON-REFUNDABLE: Once domestic flight or ferry tickets are officially issued, they cannot be modified, and a 100% cancellation fee applies to that portion of the package immediately, regardless of when the cancellation notice is received.
- ⏳ Land Portion Cancellation Scale:
For the remaining land portion costs that are legally recoverable from our local hotel and transfer entities, refunds are calculated as follows:
- Notice received 31 days or more prior to arrival/tour start date: 100% Refund (No cancellation fee applies to the land portion).
- Notice received between 31 and 21 days prior to scheduled tour: 75% Refund of the land portion.
- Notice received between 21 and 14 days prior to scheduled tour: 50% Refund of the land portion.
- Notice received 13 days or less prior to scheduled tour: No Refund will be issued.
Is this a Turkey-only tour?
No. This itinerary combines guided travel across both Turkey and Greece, including mainland destinations and Greek islands.
Are flights included?
Yes. Domestic flights within Turkey and the international flight from Istanbul to Athens are included, along with the ferry services specified in the itinerary.
Are airport and hotel transfers included?
Yes. Airport, hotel, and port transfers listed in the itinerary are included.
Is the Cappadocia hot air balloon ride included?
No. The hot air balloon flight is optional and can be arranged at an additional cost.
What type of accommodation is provided?
The tour includes 16 nights in 4-star hotels with daily breakfast.
What is the maximum group size?
1–14 Guests in Turkey and 1–35 Guests in Greece. Group sizes apply only to the scheduled activities of each day. The tour is not operated as one continuous group throughout the entire itinerary.
Is this tour suitable throughout the year?
Yes. The itinerary is available year-round, although weather conditions may vary by season.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 30 days before the scheduled tour date.
