How to Plan a Trip to Turkey, Greece, and Croatia?
Combining Turkey, Greece, and Croatia in one trip to indulge in the history, culture, landscapes, and gourmet. Planning a Europe tour of multiple countries and finding some inspiring ideas? Check this article to help you plan your perfect vacation.
Itinerary Idea
| Day | Country | Place | Highlights |
| Day 1 | Croatia | Zagreb | Welcome to Croatia |
| Day 2 | Croatia | Plitvice | Plitvice Lakes National Park |
| Day 3 - 4 | Croatia | Zadar - Split | Zadar's Walls, Trg 5 Bunara, Cetina River Canyon, Klis Fortress, Marjan Hill |
| Day 5 | Transfer | Split - Athens | Take a flight from Split to Athens |
| Day 6 - 8 | Greece | Athens | Acropolis of Athens, Parthenon, Acropolis Museum, Cruise to Aegina, Poros and Hydra, Temple of Apollo, Delphi Museum, Omphalos |
| Day 9 -10 | Greece | Santorini | Leisure Island Vacation |
| Day 11 | Transfer | Santorini - Athens - Istanbul | Get back to Athens to take a flight to Turkey |
| Day 12 | Turkey | Istanbul | Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque |
| Day 13 - 14 | Turkey | Cappadocia | Fairy Chimneys, Goreme Open Air Museum |
| Day 15 | Turkey | Departure | Leave Cappadocia, transfer from Kayseri to Istanbul, then connect your flight home |
Day 1 - 5: Walk Amidst the History and Nature of Croatia
Are you ready? Enhance your energy and be prepared. Your 15-day Europe tour starts in Croatia! Croatia is located in the middle of Europe and has more than 1000 islands. You may know Croatia because of football, but it offers you more than exciting games, rich history and culture, incredible natural landscapes, some of the best gourmet, hospitable locals, and plenty of activities.
Embark Your Trip From Zagreb
The first stop is Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. On the first night in Croatia, take a walk around this city to appreciate the medieval architecture of the Upper town, see the famous colorful roof tiles and Gothic buildings in St. Mark's Church, and other must-see places.
Zagreb
Get Lost in the Beauty of Plitvice National Park
After a well-rested night, leave Zagreb for Plitvice. Indulge in the incredible natural beauty of Plitvice National Park. It is famous for its 16 interconnected lakes cascading down through a series of travertine waterfalls. Here, you can not only see the unique geological formation and observe a variety of flora and fauna, but also enjoy plenty of activities such as kayaking, or swimming in designated areas during permitted seasons.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Relax Citywalk Through the Old Town Zadar
Arriving at Zadar in the morning and exploring the unique historical site of this city. As a must-see attraction, Zadar's wall gives you a glimpse of medieval history. Built by Venetians Between the 15th to 17th centuries, the historic walls in Zadar are impressive for the exquisite sculpture on the walls, and you can see the panoramic view of the city and Adriatic Sea.
Adventure to Cetina River Canyon in Split
One full-scheduled day in Split to visit Cetina River Canyon, Klis Fortress, and Marjan Hill. First, join an inspiring canyoning excursion to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the Cetina River Canyon. The cliffs here reach 180 meters, and you can see the serene river water in different colors depending on the light of during different times and seasons. Then overlook Split from the highest point in the Klis Fortress, and walk through the ruins just like diving in the history of Croatia.
Day 6 - 10: Romance and History Melt in Greece
Known as one of the most romantic countries, Greece provides diverse activities for you to experience. You will stay in this beautiful land for 4 days to visit Athens and Santorini.
Athens: Ancient Ruins and Island Hopping
Indulge in the cultures and history of Athens, the birthplace of Western civilizations. Famous philosophers, artists, litterateurs, and scientists such as Socrates and Aristotle were born and lived here. As one of the cities with the longest history, you can see the existence of the glorious past almost everywhere in this city. Spending 3 days exploring magnificent Athens is appropriate. One day to appreciate the Acropolis with the Parthenon, Hadrian's Arch, Panathenaic Stadium, and Acropolis Museum, and other sites. See the sunlight shine through these ancient ruins and find the existence of miracles.
The second day in Athens is a relaxing day to visit 3 picturesque islands. Listen to the sounds of the waves, feel the breeze of the ocean, and taste the elaborate Mediterranean cuisines made of fresh seafood and local ingredients. It is not a rush day but you should still remember to wear comfortable shoes and prepare for sunshine.
Delphi is for the last day in Greece to let you explore the religious center and center of the world in the cognition of ancient Greeks. The Temple of Apollo, Omphalos, and Delphi Museum can be visited in one day if well organized.
The Acropolis of Athens
Leisure Days in Santorini
There are plenty of activities you can choose from in Santorini. Two days for this island is a little short but still enough for the major sites. Hot springs, swimming, scuba diving, and more. You can focus on the natural landscape one day, take a walk on the red beach formed by volcano stones, or the black beach made of volcanic lava. Another day to wander around this unique city built on the cliff, find a good point to take beautiful pictures, and overlook this colorful city. You can also feel the strong artistic atmosphere in the local markets of this city. You can see those elaborate handicrafts and delicious local snacks, remember to try something exotic to create some connection with this small town.
Day 11 - 15: Immerse Yourself in Colorful Turkey
Beyond Istanbul, there are plenty of hidden gems in Turkey waiting for you to encounter them. You can see the magnificent architecture of the ancient Ottoman Empire, Byzantine arts, breathtaking sunset views, elaborate gourmets, and plenty of flavors of wine. Cannot wait to introduce the most incredible Turkey to you. Let's get started!
Blue Mosque
Take a Peek of the Ottoman Empire in Istanbul
Embark on your trip from Topkapi Palace to take a glimpse of the luxury life of the ancient Ottoman Empire royalty. Known as the heart of the Ottoman Empire, you can see the existence of ancient history in this museum. By appreciating the collection of jewels, relics of the prophet, and the harem of the Sultan's wives and concubines, you may take a peek at the wealth, power, and artistic sensibility of Ottoman Empire royalty.
Then visit Byzantine style Hagia Sophia to appreciate the masterpiece of ancient architects. It is claimed to be the largest church in the world for almost 1000 years and now it is a museum. The impressive dome of this church is famous because of the difficulty of building and it is almost perfect.
Another landmark of Istanbul is the Blue Mosque - Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Built with over twenty thousand blue Iznik tiles, this stunning building was designed to rival the Hagia Sophia and reaffirm the power and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.
Through these three amazing architectures, you may have approximate concepts of the history and culture of the Ottoman Empire.
Admire the Unique Landscape in Cappadocia
Cappadocia is famous for the picturesque landscape of fairy chimneys. You can closely observe these strange forms of towering structures, and take some of the best photographs. Exploring the Goreme Open Air Museum is a chance for you to admire the stunning artifacts of Byzantines. And on the first day, you can visit the Pigeon Valley at the end, to see the pigeon nests built on the volcano's rock of the cliffs.
The underground cities are also an interesting attraction for you to explore. Delve into the interesting history of Cappadocia, see the different function areas in the underground city, and take a glimpse of the daily life of ancient Romans and Hittites.
You should not miss the dramatic sunset in Rose Valley - one of the best places to enjoy the sunset. And then visit a wine house to have a taste of Turkish wine as a perfect end of the day.
On the final day, explore Cappadocia freely and prepare to leave.
Capadocia
Time to Say Goodbye!
15 days seems like a long vacation, but happy time flies. In these 15 days, you have explored different kinds of natural landscapes and learned a lot about the history of various periods, and diverse flavors of cuisines. It is a long journey and you must miss your sweet home and be loth to leave at the same time. However, saying goodbye is for the next meeting in the future. Odynovo is always with you on the way to exploring the world.
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Turkey, Greece, and Croatia?
Turkey
The e-Visa (valid for 30 or 90 days) can be applied online for citizens from many countries, including most European and North American nations.
Croatia
For European Union and Schengen zone citizens, you can enter Croatia freely without a visa. Travelers from other countries, such as China, India, and Russia, can apply for a Schengen visa at the consulate of any Schengen country.
Greece
As part of the Schengen area, travelers from the European Union or Schengen visa holders can enter Greece without a visa.
More European Tours
If you are interested in other countries combined together in one vacation, please check our sample itineraries or just contact our travel expert to design your own routes.
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Combining Croatia, Greece, and Turkey in one vacation can be exciting and colorful. Europe is a land that nurtured many ancient empires and civilizations. Wish you always gain happiness and learn something during your every trip. You will not be alone with Odynovo on the way to explore the world. Feel free to contact us to customize your next European tour!
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