Published on: 5 June 2026
Although Greece is right next door to Turkey, it moves to a completely different rhythm. Ancient temples, whitewashed island houses, long stretches of coastline and a warm, generous cuisine are all within a few hours by ferry or a short flight. Often the hardest part is simply deciding where to start. In this guide we've gathered the cities and islands that most Turkish travelers put on their list, with realistic expectations to match.
Athens is the natural starting point for any trip to Greece. Rising on a hill in the heart of the city is the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon, the most recognizable symbol of ancient Greece. Visiting early in the morning or close to sunset is a good way to avoid both the crowds and the midday heat.
At the foot of the Acropolis, the Plaka neighborhood, with its narrow lanes and tavernas, is best explored on foot. The nearby Acropolis Museum is a worthwhile stop for putting the ruins into context. Since ticket prices and opening hours change seasonally, we recommend checking the official site for the latest details before your visit.
Santorini is world-famous for being built along the rim of a caldera left behind by a volcanic eruption. The white houses and blue domes of Oia and Fira form the backdrop of almost every travel photo. Sunset in Oia is hugely popular, so it pays to arrive early if you want a good spot.
The island suits honeymooners and view-seekers alike, though it can be busy and relatively pricey in high summer. Spring or early autumn tend to be calmer and more comfortable in terms of weather.
Mykonos is known for its energetic beach scene and nightlife. Hora (the main town), with its maze of white streets, small churches and famous windmills, is a pleasure to wander. Beach culture is strong here, ranging from quiet coves to lively seaside spots.
Mykonos is ideal for those after a more energetic getaway. Travelers seeking a calmer atmosphere can head to the island's corners away from the center.
Crete is Greece's biggest island and varied enough to be a trip in its own right. On the north coast, Chania stands out for its Venetian-era harbor and old town. Near Heraklion, Knossos is a major archaeological site from the Minoan civilization.
The island combines beaches, mountain villages and an olive-oil-rich local cuisine. To do Crete justice, the most sensible approach is to rent a car and spread your visit over several days, as distances can be longer than you'd expect.
In the south, Rhodes is notable for its walled medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose stone streets and knightly-era buildings give a real sense of stepping back in time. Its proximity to Turkey's southwest coast makes Rhodes especially easy to reach.
To the north, Greece's second city, Thessaloniki, offers a completely different character. With Byzantine churches, lively markets, a seafront promenade and a young population, it feels more urban and everyday. Finding flavors close to Turkish cuisine here is no surprise.
In central Greece, Meteora offers one of the country's most striking landscapes, with monasteries built atop enormous rock pillars. The spiritual atmosphere among the cliffs and the sweeping valley views are unforgettable for lovers of nature and history alike. As the monasteries are still active places of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees).
If you're planning a short escape, an Athens-plus-one-island combination works well. For a longer holiday, you might combine Athens, a Cycladic island (Santorini or Mykonos) and Crete. Ferries between the islands run frequently in summer, but since schedules and prices vary, we recommend booking ahead and checking current timetables from official sources.
As Greece is part of the Schengen area, Turkish citizens need a visa before traveling. If you're curious about the process and required documents, take a look at our Greece visa page, or check the current situation by passport type on the Visa Regime Table.
If you're already picturing this route across the Aegean, handling your visa application correctly and on time can be the easiest part of the trip. Get in touch with us to plan the process together, and save the rest for those island sunsets.