Perfect Two-Week Itinerary for Greece and Turkey

After your long international flight, head to your hotel and get settled in. It’s arrival day, so don’t plan anything too strenuous. Stretch your legs with a sunset walk around the Acropolis from Areopagus Hill or Philopappos Hill

Have an early dinner at Mani Mani—modern Greek cuisine with a creative twist—before calling it an early night.

Wake up early to beat the crowds and begin your morning with one of the most iconic experiences in Greece: a visit to the Acropolis, the ancient citadel perched high above Athens. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has stood for over 2,500 years and remains a powerful symbol of Western civilization, democracy, and classical art. I highly recommend hiring a private guide or taking a tour to walk you through history as you explore the Parthenon, the temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. You'll also see the Erechtheion, with its famous Porch of the Caryatids, and the Temple of Athena Nike, each offering insight into the values and artistry of ancient Athens.

After exploring the archaeological site, head downhill to the Acropolis Museum, a modern architectural masterpiece that showcases thousands of artifacts uncovered from the Acropolis and surrounding slopes. This is one of the most impressive museums I’ve ever been to. With its glass floors and open-air design, the museum allows you to walk through time while gazing up at the Acropolis itself through floor-to-ceiling windows. Don’t miss the Parthenon Gallery on the top floor, where the original frieze sculptures are displayed in alignment with the Parthenon, just as they were intended to be seen. This experience offers a powerful connection between the ancient and the present—and gives rich context to the ruins you’ve just walked among.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Taverna tou Psirri, a casual local favorite known for its classic Greek dishes, generous portions, and laid-back atmosphere in one of Athens' liveliest neighborhoods.

Spend the afternoon strolling through Plaka’s charming streets, filled with colorful buildings, small shops, and shaded cafes. Be sure to wander up into Anafiotika, a peaceful pocket of whitewashed homes that feels like a Greek island hidden beneath the Acropolis. If you have time, wander through the Monastiraki Flea Market.

Wrap up your day with cocktails and a sunset view at A for Athens or Couleur Locale, two favorite rooftop spots offering stunning perspectives of the Acropolis lit up at night.

Fly from Athens to Chania in the morning and begin your time in Crete with a scenic drive to Rethymno, a charming coastal town known for its mix of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, romantic harbor, and lively old town streets.

Wander through the alleys, browse local artisan shops, and stop for a seaside lunch. In the afternoon, unwind with a relaxing massage or spa treatment at your hotel or a local wellness center—perfect after a few days of travel.

Spend the day exploring Chania’s Old Town, one of Crete’s most atmospheric cities with its colorful harbor, narrow lanes, and historic blend of cultures. Visit the Maritime Museum, shop for local crafts and leather goods, and enjoy a long lunch at a waterfront taverna. If you're up for a little adventure, you can head west to Falassarna Beach or Elafonissi, two of Crete’s most stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and dramatic landscapes. Both are about a 1.5- to two-hour drive and make for a memorable half-day trip.

After breakfast, take a scenic drive east across the island to Elounda, a peaceful and upscale coastal village perfect for unwinding. Spend the next three nights here, soaking in the slower pace and beautiful views of Mirabello Bay.

While based in Elounda, I recommend staying at a beachfront resort or a resort with access to a beach club. You have several great options while you're here:

• Take a boat to Spinalonga Island, a former Venetian fortress and leper colony with a fascinating and emotional history.

• Enjoy beach time or spa treatments at your resort—many in this area offer world-class wellness experiences.

• Visit the town of Agios Nikolaos, just 15 minutes away, for seaside cafes and relaxed shopping.

• Explore the Archaeological Site of Gournia or nearby mountain villages like Kritsa, known for its local crafts and traditional charm.

Spend your last morning in Crete swimming and relaxing at your hotel. Drive to Heraklion for your flight to Istanbul.

Arrive in Istanbul in the late afternoon and check into your hotel—ideally in the vibrant neighborhoods of Sultanahmet or Karaköy for easy access to the city’s main sights. Take some time to settle in and enjoy a leisurely evening walk along the waterfront or the historic streets nearby, soaking in the city’s unique blend of East and West. For dinner, opt for a cozy spot serving traditional Turkish mezes to ease into the local flavors.

Start your day with a scenic ferry ride across the Bosphorus Strait, the waterway that separates Europe from Asia. This relaxing cruise offers stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline, ornate palaces, and historic mosques. Arrive in Kadıköy, the lively Asian-side district known for its bustling markets, street art, and vibrant food scene. Spend the afternoon wandering its colorful streets, sampling local street food, and perhaps browsing artisan shops. End the day with dinner at a local meyhane (Turkish tavern) where you can savor fresh seafood and sip raki alongside friendly locals.

Dedicate today to Istanbul’s legendary landmarks:

• Visit the Hagia Sophia, a breathtaking basilica-turned-mosque-turned-museum, famous for its massive dome and stunning mosaics.

• Just nearby, explore the Blue Mosque, known for its six minarets and beautiful blue Iznik tiles.

• Descend into the mysterious Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir with atmospheric lighting and Medusa-head columns.

• For lunch, choose a rooftop terrace restaurant in Sultanahmet, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Old City and the Bosphorus.

• In the afternoon, wander through the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets, perfect for finding unique souvenirs, Turkish carpets, spices, and jewelry.

Spend your morning at the Topkapi Palace, the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans. Wander through its elegant courtyards, admire the imperial collections, and don’t miss the intriguing Harem section for a glimpse into palace life behind the scenes.

In the afternoon, dive into Istanbul’s rich culinary culture with a food tour that explores hidden food stalls, neighborhood eateries, and traditional shops well off the tourist track. This can take the place of a traditional sit-down lunch and gives you a deep, delicious connection to the city’s food heritage.

After a full day of sensory delights, wind down with a traditional Turkish bath—a soothing finale of steam, exfoliation, and pure relaxation.

Explore the creative side of Istanbul in the Beyoğlu district, known for its galleries, boutiques, and the iconic Galata Tower offering sweeping city views. Spend time browsing contemporary art spaces and stylish shops along Istiklal Avenue. For dinner, indulge in modern Turkish cuisine at acclaimed restaurants like Mikla or Yeni Lokanta, where traditional flavors meet innovative techniques in stunning settings.

Enjoy a leisurely brunch along the Bosphorus waterfront, watching fishing boats and ferries glide by as you savor fresh Turkish breakfast specialties like menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers) and simit (sesame bread rings). After brunch, head to the airport for your short flight (about an hour and a half) to Cappadocia, where surreal landscapes and unique cave accommodations await.

Settle into your stay in Göreme or Uçhisar. Time permitting, explore an underground city like Derinkuyu or Kaymakli for a glimpse into Cappadocia’s hidden history.

End the day with a sunset viewpoint or dinner with panoramic views, soaking in the surreal beauty of your final destination.

Wake before dawn for a hot air balloon ride, weather permitting—an unforgettable finale to your two-week journey, as you float above Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and rippling valleys at sunrise.

After breakfast, explore the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO-listed complex of cave churches and monastic dwellings carved into soft volcanic rock.

In the afternoon, visit Avanos, a town famed for its pottery traditions dating back millennia. You can join a hands-on pottery workshop or browse local studios for a meaningful souvenir.

Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at a scenic terrace in Göreme or Uçhisar—raising a glass to two unforgettable weeks across Greece and Turkey.