Turkey or Greece: Which is the Better Destination for You?

You’ve probably noticed that loads of your friends and family have gone to Turkey recently – and why not? There are direct flights, great food, and the rand goes a long way. But just a short hop across the sea is Greece too – which has plenty of its own charms. Including the pitas and gyros! 

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2min read

Published 23 September 2024

Flight Centre Author

Guest Blogger


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You’ve probably noticed that loads of your friends and family have gone to Turkey recently – and why not? There are direct flights, great food, and the rand goes a long way. But just a short hop across the sea is Greece too – which has plenty of its own charms. Including the pitas and gyros! 



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Each country offers unique experiences, from ancient ruins to breathtaking coastlines and of course, great food. But which is better for your next holiday, Turkey or Greece? Let’s weigh up some of the pros and cons to help you decide which is the best holiday destination for you.

Up first is Turkey!

Turkey: Where East and West Meet

Turkey, straddling both Europe and Asia, is a unique blend of eastern and western cultures. It's a country where ancient and modern worlds converge seamlessly, and you’ll have plenty of the European customs that you’re used to, with plenty of Asian influence in food, architecture, and more. 

Historical Sites and Architecture

Turkey is right up there in terms of historical sites and attractions. Istanbul, the place where most holidays start, is home to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the sprawling Topkapi Palace. These are not only historical sites but also gorgeous architecturally. Each of these sites offer a glimpse into Turkey's history and its role as a bridge between civilisations. Outside Istanbul, the ancient city of Ephesus showcases the well-preserved Library of Celsus and the grand Theater of Ephesus, remnants of the Roman Empire's grandeur. In Cappadocia, the rock-hewn churches of Göreme open-air museum and the subterranean cities like Derinkuyu and Kaymakli reflect early Christian history. A good Turkey itinerary can help you squeeze in quite a few of these sites in one trip!

Natural Beauty

The Turkish landscape is almost as diverse as South Africa! There are some incredible beaches, especially along the Turquoise Coast. Then there are the Mars-like rock formations of Cappadocia, and the Pamukkale hot springs, where mineral-rich waters cascade down white terraces. Whether you want mountains, beaches, or old-world glamour and unusual architecture, Turkey has it.

Cuisine

Let’s talk food. Turkish cuisine is seriously good, thanks in part to the fusion of Eastern and Asian cultures. You’ll be able to feast (cheaply!) on famous doner kebabs, syrupy baklava, and of course, Turkish delight. The bustling markets and street food scenes, especially in cities like Istanbul, mean you can taste authentic food at good prices. And you’ll be glad to know there’s plenty of good seafood in Turkey too!

Activities and Experiences

Turkey isn’t just about eating and looking at pretty buildings. There are loads of activities to suit all kinds of travellers. Explore the bazaars and local markets, take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, do some hikes or walks, or relax on the beautiful beaches of the Turkish Riviera. For adventure seekers, scuba diving in the Mediterranean is a must. To get the best out of Istanbul's delights, consider a river cruise in Istanbul.

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turkey
turkey

Greece: The Cradle of Western Civilization

Greece, which conjures up pictures of idyllic island retreats and ancient ruins in Athens, is a dream destination for history buffs and beach lovers alike. The country’s gorgeous coasts, good food, historical sites, and wide-ranging choices for accommodation all make it popular with travellers. 

Historical Sites and Architecture

Greece is synonymous with ancient history. Athens, the capital city, is home to the iconic Acropolis and the Parthenon. There are also archaeological sites galore, such as the ancient city of Delphi, where the Oracle once prophesied, and the ruins of Olympia – known as the birthplace of the Olympic Games. If you don’t want to stick to just Athens, the ancient theatre of Epidaurus is renowned for its perfect acoustics and still hosts performances today. The Palace of Knossos on Crete offers insights into the Minoan civilization, one of the earliest in Europe. The medieval city of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases well-preserved fortifications and architecture from the Knights of St. John.

Natural Beauty

Greece’s natural beauty is legendary. You’ve all seen Mamma Mia! And truly, it’s just like that…minus the drama.

The Aegean Sea’s crystal-clear waters, the white and blue houses of the Cyclades islands, and the lush landscapes of mainland Greece create a picturesque backdrop for almost all occasions. The Greek islands, including Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, offer some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and that traditional Greek village vibe, which will have you falling straight into relaxation mode as soon as you arrive. If the islands are your main priority, one of the absolute best ways to see them is on one of the cruises around the Greek islands to soak in the beauty and see a few spots without needing to navigate lots of ferries and taxis.

Cuisine

Greek cuisine. What can we say? It’s known worldwide for good reason. Like a lot of Mediterranean cuisine, Greek food is fresh, flavourful, and designed to be shared and enjoyed with those closest to you. You can tuck into classics like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh Greek salads. And of course, let’s not forget the dips and the desserts. Tzatziki, hummus, taramasalata, all paired with pita bread? Droolworthy. Visit the local bakeries for fresh pastries, and the famous Greek baklava.

Activities and Experiences

Sail around the Greek islands, like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets, clear waters, and lively nightlife. Explore ancient ruins, like the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion or the ancient Agora in Athens, where you can walk in the footsteps of famous philosophers.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, there’s plenty on offer. Hike through the Samaria Gorge in Crete, one of Europe’s longest gorges, or take a relaxing walk through the olive groves and vineyards in the Peloponnese. If you enjoy getting to know local customs, there’s also plenty of festivals and traditional celebrations year-round, from local village events to grand Easter celebrations.

The laid-back lifestyle, with a focus on enjoying good food and company, makes Greece perfect for both relaxing and exploring. We even have some details on why Greece is perfect for every kind of traveller.

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Expert tip

Splurge on accommodation in Santorini with a jacuzzi or caldera to enjoy the most beautiful sunset views.

Nikki

Destination Specialist

,,

Comparing Turkey and Greece

Both Turkey and Greece have plenty to offer travellers in terms of history, culture, food, and natural beauty, but they offer distinctly different experiences.

Cultural Heritage

  • Turkey: A blend of eastern and western cultures, with a significant influence from the Ottoman Empire.
  • Greece: The cradle of Western civilization, with deep-rooted traditions in Greek mythology and ancient history.

Landscape and Natural Beauty

  • Turkey: Diverse landscapes ranging from beaches to unique geological formations.
  • Greece: Iconic islands with stunning beaches and picturesque towns.

Cuisine

  • Turkey: Rich dishes with a mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences.
  • Greece: Fresh, healthy cuisine with an emphasis on simplicity and quality ingredients.

Activities

  • Turkey: Hot air balloon rides, scuba diving, historical tours, and vibrant markets.
  • Greece: Sailing, exploring ancient ruins, hiking, and beach relaxation.


Greece vs Turkey: Which is Right for You?

If you’re looking for a holiday filled with diverse landscapes, rich flavours, and a mix of eastern and western cultures, then Turkey might be the perfect destination for you. Explore our holiday deals to Turkey for more options.

However, if you prefer ancient history, stunning island scenery, and fresh, healthy cuisine, Greece could be just the ticket. Check out our holiday packages to Greece to start planning your adventure.

So, which will it be: Turkey or Greece? Find your next holiday deal today with Flight Centre. Happy travels!

Blue-domed houses in Greece
Blue-domed houses in Greece
Blue-domed houses in Greece
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