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Greece and Turkey June 2023

Written by Rishi Ravani Jul 24, 2023

Trip Review - Greece and Turkey (June 2023)

We started planning the trip with Catterfly around February 2023. We were a total of 7, 4 adults and 3 kids between the ages of 15 and 12. Within the Catterfly team, we worked closely with Nitin, Richa and Archita and most closely with Nitin.

The overall trip was Fantastic and Catterfly gets an “A” rating from us. This is keeping in mind their trip recommendations, planning, execution, customer service, promptness and remediation.

Our trip was about 2 weeks in length and we spent time in Cappadocia, Istanbul, Santorini and Athens, in that order. The planning of the trip with Nitin started in February and we made full payment in March.

Imagine…..We, a family with kids, arriving in the night at an airport in a small city completely alien to us with lots of non-english speaking people around and we are waiting to get to the Hotel safely, securely + trying to ensure not getting ripped off by the cab driver since we are tourists. Several thoughts are crossing our minds as you walk out of the airport. We look around and immediately see our names on a placard hosted by Catterfly held by a professional looking and English speaking chauffer who immediately introduces himself, courteously and politely takes your luggage and seats you in a very comfortable vehicle prepped with snacks and drinks.

There is an immediate sense of calmness and a sigh of relief.

During the entire trip this happened repeatedly and promptly including when you check out of the hotel and are waiting for the pre-paid cab to show up at 6 in the morning to take you to the airport.

We had this relieving and positive experience at all the destinations we visited during our trip except Athens where our flight was delayed by 3 hours. Unfortunate circumstance! When you sit down and look back at these experience…one tells themselves and their family…

”We chose the right travel company, money well spent….Great job, Catterfly”

Tremendous appreciation for Nitin and team for their communication, always being available on the phone and always looking to make sound recommendations either on excursions, food, sightseeing, shopping, etc. This displays strong underlying values of not just great customer service but ensuring we have the best time possible and are always taken care of.

The hotels that they put us in were very close to what we wanted….clean rooms, close to our sightseeing locations, and good vegetarian breakfast. Loved it!

The itinerary was planned very well, with guided tours, city cruises, accurate maps, etc. all made possible with a very user-friendly Catterfly App which houses all our trip details, tickets, needed bar codes, phone numbers to hotels, car services etc.

Truly, one cannot ask for anything more. Nitin and Catterfly come Highly Recommended.

Thank you Nitin, Richa, Archita and Catterfly!!

Sicily For The Family

FAQ & Expert Tips

What is the best time to visit Turkey for a winter holiday?

The best time for a winter holiday in Turkey is typically from November to March. During this period, you can enjoy milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and the chance to experience unique winter activities. Popular winter destinations in Turkey include Cappadocia, Istanbul, Bursa, Uludağ, and Eastern Anatolia, which offer a variety of winter experiences, from hot air balloon rides to skiing.

What winter sports and activities are available in Turkey?

Turkey has several ski resorts, with some of the most well-known being in the Bursa and Erzurum regions. Skiing and snowboarding are popular winter activities in places like Uludağ, Palandöken, and Kartalkaya. Apart from skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy activities such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating, and dog sledding in various winter resorts in Turkey. You can also take hot air balloon rides over snow-covered landscapes in Cappadocia.

It's advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially if you plan to visit popular winter destinations and ski resorts. Booking ahead will help you secure the best options and rates.

What should I pack for a winter trip to Turkey?

When packing for a winter trip to Turkey, bring warm clothing, including layers, a good winter jacket, gloves, a hat, and waterproof boots, especially if you plan to engage in winter sports. Don't forget to pack your swimwear if you intend to visit Turkish baths.

Are there any unique winter traditions or celebrations in Turkey?

Turkey has unique winter traditions, including the celebration of New Year's Eve with fireworks and festivities. Some regions also celebrate a special day known as "Nevruz," which marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated with various cultural activities. Turkey also celebrates various festivals and events during the winter season, including the Camel Wrestling Festival, New Year's Eve celebrations, and cultural festivals like the Istanbul International Film Festival. Check the local event calendars for specific dates. In addition, many historical and cultural sites in Turkey, such as Istanbul's Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Ephesus, are open year-round. Winter is an excellent time to explore these attractions with fewer crowds.

What is the weather like in Turkey during the winter?

The weather in Turkey during the winter can vary significantly depending on the region, as Turkey spans both European and Asian continents and has diverse climates. Coastal areas in western and southern Turkey, including Istanbul and Antalya, tend to have milder winters. Average temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), with occasional rain. Snowfall is rare in coastal areas, but it can happen occasionally. Inland regions, such as the capital city Ankara and Cappadocia, have colder winters. Average temperatures can vary widely, with daytime highs around 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) and colder nights. These regions often experience snowfall, and snow can accumulate during the winter months. Eastern Anatolia, in the far eastern part of Turkey, experiences very cold winters. Popular winter resorts in southern Turkey offer milder winter weather.

How to get around Athens?

Getting around Athens is easy with the metro, buses, and trams, and most main sights in the city centre are close enough to walk.

How to get to the city from airport?

From the airport, you can reach the Athens city centre by metro, bus, or taxi, with the metro being the most convenient option.

How to get entry tickets for main monuments in Athens?

Entry tickets can be bought online in advance or at the entrance, but booking online is recommended to skip long queues.

When is the best time to visit Acropolis and museum?

Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.

Which is the best place to spend evening in Athens?

Plaka or Monastiraki, where you can enjoy lively streets, local food, and great views of the Acropolis.

What are the best day trips from Athens?

Cape Sounion and the islands of Hydra and Aegina.

Food Options for Vegetarians?

Athens has plenty of vegetarian options, including Greek dishes like spanakopita, Greek salad, grilled vegetables, and falafel, along with many vegan-friendly cafes and restaurants.

Is Athens safe to travel for solo travelers, especially females?

Athens is generally safe for solo travellers, including females.

What is the best way to travel across islands?

By ferry, as it is frequent and well-connected

How is the public transport in Islands?

Public transport on Greek islands is generally reliable with buses connecting main towns and beaches, but it can be limited in smaller islands so taxis or rentals are often useful.

What is the best way to explore the places outside of Athens in the mainland?

By renting a car for flexibility, while guided tours or trains are good options if you prefer not to drive.

Is it possible to do a day trip to Peleponnese from Athens?

Yes, it is possible to visit the Peloponnese on a day trip from Athens, but it’s better to focus on one nearby area like Corinth or Nafplio.

Expert Tips for Planning Your Athens & Island Escape

Stay centrally in Athens city center (Plaka / Syntagma) to minimize travel time
Choose only one island day trip (Hydra, Aegina, or Poros) instead of rushing all three
If you want a relaxed pace, skip Poros and focus on Hydra + Aegina combination cruises
Visit the Acropolis early morning (before 9 AM) or late evening
Book skip-the-line tickets in advance, especially in peak months
Pair the Acropolis with the Acropolis Museum for better historical context
There are no direct flights to Athens from most Indian cities, except for 1 stop via Doha, Dubai, or Istanbul
Apply for a Schengen visa at least 3–4 weeks in advance
Use the metro for city travel (airport to center is seamless)
Use taxis or rental cars for Riviera exploration
Ferries depart from Piraeus Port, plan buffer time