Greece, Italy and Turkey Tours & Trips

What our customers ask about Greece, Italy and Turkey Tours & Trips

• What are the best times of year to visit Greece Italy and Turkey?

  The Mediterranean region is most welcoming during spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). These shoulder seasons offer comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists in Athens and Istanbul. Beach lovers will find the Greek Islands like Mykonos and Santorini most appealing from June to September when water temperatures are ideal for swimming. The Turkish coast near Kusadasi is best explored in May or September to avoid intense summer heat. A TourRadar traveler noted: "We joined in September and the weather was perfect - not too hot for sightseeing but warm enough for the Greek Island cruise portion."

• Which famous historical sites should I prioritize seeing across these countries?

  The key ancient sites across these countries tell rich stories of past civilizations. In Athens the Acropolis and Parthenon stand as monuments to classical Greece while Istanbul's Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia showcase Ottoman and Byzantine grandeur. Rome's Colosseum and Vatican Museums house some of Italy's most significant artifacts. The ancient city of Ephesus near Kusadasi the Palace of Knossos in Crete and Delphi's Temple of Apollo offer deeper insights into Mediterranean history. A TourRadar traveler remarked: "The Acropolis in Athens and ancient Ephesus were incredible - our guide Despina shared the unique history with such engaging storytelling that we were captivated by every word." Central accommodations like Hotel St. Martin in Rome or Achilleas Hotel in Athens provide easy access to these sites.

• What kind of cruise experiences are available between these countries?

  The Mediterranean offers diverse sailing options from quick 3-4 night Greek Island hops to extended Adriatic voyages. Common routes connect Athens Mykonos Kusadasi Patmos Crete and Santorini. Ships like the Celestyal Discovery provide exterior stateroom cabins with sea views. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The 3-day cruise was the perfect way to see multiple Greek islands. The exterior cabin views were stunning and the stops in Mykonos and Santorini were highlights." Many cruise lines partner with hotels like the Golden Age in Athens for convenient pre and post-cruise stays.

• What's the best way to experience local food and wine across these countries?

  The Mediterranean's food scene ranges from Greek tavernas with fresh seafood to Italian trattorias serving handmade pasta. Istanbul's Spice Bazaar offers authentic Turkish kebabs while hotels like the Pera Palace provide upscale dining. Wine enthusiasts can visit Toreta Winery in Croatia or explore Tuscan vineyards. One TourRadar traveler shares "the food highlight was our cooking class in Chania Crete where we learned to make traditional Greek dishes using local olive oil and herbs." Local specialties include Italian gelato Greek souvlaki and Turkish baklava found in family-run establishments throughout the region.

• What's the recommended budget for meals and activities not included in tours?

  Daily budgets for independent meals and activities typically range from 50-80 USD for food and 30-50 USD for optional excursions. Cities like Athens and Istanbul tend to be more affordable than Venice or Rome. Restaurants near tourist areas and cruise ports like those near MS Caledonian Sky's stops charge 15-25 USD for lunch and 25-40 USD for dinner. A TourRadar traveler suggests: "eating at local tavernas away from main tourist areas saved us a lot of money while providing more authentic experiences."

• How much walking and physical activity is typically involved in these tours?

  Tours generally include moderate walking with some days featuring 2-4 hours on uneven ground at archaeological sites. Port stops from ships like the MS Caledonian Sky involve walking tours covering 2-3 miles at an easy pace. A TourRadar traveler shares: "while sites like Delphi involve uphill walking and stairs guides were always accommodating of different fitness levels." More challenging options like hiking in Santorini or climbing Kotor's fortress steps are available but alternative activities are typically offered for those seeking less strenuous experiences.