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Greece and Turkey Shoestring Budget Itinerary (June 2024)

  1. Day 1: Athens, Greece
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Syntagma Square

    Start your trip in the ancient city of Athens. In the morning, visit the iconic Acropolis and explore its archaeological wonders. In the afternoon, wander through the colorful streets of Plaka. In the evening, savor traditional Greek cuisine in a local taverna.

    • Acropolis: €20, 3 hours
    • Plaka District: Free, 2 hours
    • Traditional Greek Dinner: €15, 1.5 hours
  2. Day 2: Santorini, Greece
    1 hour flight from Athens

    Catch a morning flight to the stunning island of Santorini. Spend the morning exploring the charming village of Oia with its iconic blue-domed churches. Afternoon, relax on the famous Red Beach. In the evening, indulge in a romantic sunset dinner overlooking the Caldera.

    • Oia Village: Free, 3 hours
    • Red Beach: Free, 2 hours
    • Sunset Dinner: €25, 2 hours
  3. Day 3: Istanbul, Turkey
    2 hours flight from Santorini

    Travel to the vibrant city of Istanbul. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Grand Bazaar for some bargain shopping. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant.

    • Hagia Sophia: ₺100, 2 hours
    • Grand Bazaar: Free, 3 hours
    • Traditional Turkish Dinner: ₺25, 2 hours
  4. Day 4: Cappadocia, Turkey
    1 hour flight from Istanbul

    Fly to the unique region of Cappadocia. Start your morning with a hot air balloon ride to witness the breathtaking landscape. Afternoon, explore the ancient cave dwellings and rock formations. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Turkish bath experience.

    • Hot Air Balloon Ride: ₺400, 3 hours
    • Cave Dwellings: ₺20, 2 hours
    • Turkish Bath: ₺50, 2 hours
  5. Day 5: Ephesus, Turkey
    5 hours drive from Cappadocia

    Embark on a road trip to the ancient city of Ephesus. Spend the morning exploring the well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Roman theater. Afternoon, visit the Terrace Houses for a glimpse into ancient Roman life. In the evening, relax and enjoy a traditional Turkish tea.

    • Ephesus Ruins: ₺75, 4 hours
    • Terrace Houses: ₺30, 2 hours
    • Turkish Tea: ₺5, 1 hour
  6. Day 6: Pamukkale, Turkey
    3 hours drive from Ephesus

    Visit the surreal terraces of Pamukkale known for its thermal mineral-rich waters. Morning, explore the travertine terraces and swim in the natural pools. Afternoon, marvel at the ancient ruins of Hierapolis. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing sunset at Pamukkale's welcoming hotels.

    • Pamukkale Terraces: ₺50, 3 hours
    • Hierapolis Ruins: ₺35, 2 hours
    • Sunset at Hotel: ₺20, 1 hour
  7. Day 7: Istanbul, Turkey (Departure)
    1 hour flight from Pamukkale

    Return to Istanbul for your departure. In the morning, take a relaxing Bosphorus cruise. Afternoon, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Beyoglu. End your trip with a delicious traditional Turkish farewell dinner.

    • Bosphorus Cruise: ₺50, 2 hours
    • Beyoglu District: Free, 3 hours
    • Turkish Farewell Dinner: ₺30, 2 hours

Recommendations

Are there any other local attractions, events, or experiences I should also consider? How about day trips? Any good ideas on how to get the most for my money and have a lot of fun?

For additional attractions, consider visiting the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace in Istanbul. Day trips to the islands of Mykonos and Rhodes in Greece are also highly recommended. To save money, opt for local street food and public transportation whenever possible.

Check hotel and flight prices here.

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