Flight time.
The flight from Auckland to Greece or Turkey usually takes about 24 hours, with a stopover. While it’s a long journey, the ancient history and beautiful coastlines make it worth the effort.
Yassou!
A dip in azure seas, a sip of pungent ouzo and a trip back in time to oracles and gods – Greece is the very essence of the alluring Mediterranean world. Greece is synonymous with islands – from history steeped Crete, awe-inspiring Santorini and windmill-studded Mykonos and many other gems scattered across the Mediterranean Sea. Feast on freshly caught fish, grilled lamb stuffed vine leaves and sweet baklava. Or devour some feta and figs, and some fresh tomatoes with salt and oil. Sip coffee in a harbour-side café as the fishing boats come into port, amble along country roads while families gather their olives and pat donkeys on their way to village markets with baskets laden with fresh tomatoes.
And then there’s Turkey, with its ethereal landscapes, archaeological sites, mosques, bazaars and fascinating ruins. The coast twinkles and Cappadocia delights. In the cities the air is alive with chatter and the thick scent of Turkish coffee, as well as sweet baklava which is best served like the generosity of its people. Warm.
Planning a Greece & Turkey holiday? Connect with a Greece & Turkey holiday travel specialist to create your dream holiday, today!
DID YOU KNOW?
Best time to go.
The best time to visit Greece and Turkey is from May to October, when the weather is warm and dry, ideal for enjoying the beaches and historical sites.
Time difference.
Greece and Turkey are 9 hours behind New Zealand. The time difference will require some adjustment, but it’s manageable.
Our favourite things to do in Greece & Turkey
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See magical "floating" monasteries
Visit the monasteries at Meteora, perched atop giant rock pillars.
Go Greek island hopping
Why settle for one Greek island when you can explore three?
Eat like a local
Bring your appetite – you’re in for a delicious adventure!
A hidden gem in Athens
Your new favorite sweet escape in the heart of Athens!
Step back in time at the Acropolis (a Must-Do!)
Visiting the Acropolis is an absolute must when in Athens.
Best. Sunset. Ever!
Get ready to witness a Santorini sunset like no other in Oia.
Float above Cappadocia and sleep in a Cave hotel
A once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Sail through Turkey on a traditional gulet
Hop aboard a traditional Gulet for a sailing adventure through Turkey’s stunning coastline!
Experience the ANZAC Dawn service at Gallipoli
For Kiwis a visit to Gallipoli is a once in a life-time trip.
Visit a local winery in Crete
Experience the charm of Crete by visiting a local winery, where you can taste exquisite wines and meet local families
Explore ANZAC Day Digger Tour
Turkey
ANZAC Day Digger Tour
4 Nights
Sightseeing
Transfers
from
$
2085
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Highlights of Greece
Athens - Olympia - Delphi - Kalambaka
Highlights of Greece
6 Nights
Breakfast daily
from
$
2371
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Around the World by Luxury Train
Vancouver to Singapore
Around the World by Luxury Train
60 Days
Luxury Rail Travel
Sightseeing
from
$
199,000
AUD
Per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Taste of Athens
Athens
Taste of Athens
3 Nights
Sightseeing
Breakfast daily
from
$
1025
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Windstar Cruises
Caribbean, Mediterranean, Greece, Northern Europe, Tahiti, and more
Windstar Cruises
Travel Solo the Windstar Way
SAVE UP TO 10%
Explore Classical Turkey with Anzac Commemorations
Turkey
Classical Turkey with Anzac Commemorations
10 night guided tour
Sightseeing
Transfers
from
$
3995
per person share twin. Flights are additional
SAVE UP TO 10%
Explore Turkey à la carte
Turkey
Turkey à la carte
12 nights
Transfers
Sightseeing
from
$
7769
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Greece & Croatia
Greece & Croatia
Sail from the ancient wonders of Athens to the timeless canals of Venice on a spectacular journey through the Adriatic and Greek Isles. Discover the volcanic beauty of Milos, explore the historic shores of Gythio and Katakolon, then venture north to the medieval treasures of Dubrovnik and Split.
Continue along Croatia’s stunning coastline to Zadar and Rovinj, before visiting charming Koper and arriving in Venice.
Rich in history, culture, and breathtaking coastal scenery, this voyage showcases the very best of the Eastern Mediterranean and Adriatic.
12 Night Stay & Luxury Cruise Package
from
$
15,099
per person share twin Classic Veranda
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Silversea Cruises
Departs 12 Aug 2027
ONLY AT HOUSE OF TRAVEL
Explore From Croatia to the Amalfi Coast via Sicily
From Croatia to the Amalfi Coast via Sicily
The beauty of Croatia, Italy & Greece
Discover sun-soaked coastlines, ancient ruins and vibrant cultures on this unforgettable 9-night Adriatic and Mediterranean cruise.
Sail from Dubrovnik through Split and Hvar, across to Italy’s charming Puglia region, then on to Corfu, Sicily and the stunning Amalfi Coast. Your journey ends in Civitavecchia, gateway to Rome—an incredible finale to this scenic and culture-rich voyage.
9 Night Luxury Yacht Cruise
from
$
12,695
per person share twin Stateroom
Flights are additional
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Emerald Yacht Cruises
Departs 16 Oct 2027
Explore Greece & Italy Discovery
Greece & Italy Discovery
Sail in boutique yacht luxury from Athens to Rome, combining the charm of the Greek Isles with Italy’s glamorous coastline. A highlight of the journey is the rare transit through the narrow Corinth Canal, where sheer limestone cliffs rise dramatically beside your yacht.
Discover Hydra and the ancient site of Delphi, then cross the Ionian Sea to Taormina with views to Mount Etna. An overnight stay in stylish Capri is a true standout, before sailing on to Amalfi’s sun-drenched terraces and concluding in Rome.
7 Night Luxury Yacht Cruise
from
$
13,599
per person share twin
Yacht Club Stateroom
Flights are additional
Yacht Club Stateroom
Flights are additional
Cruising with
SeaDream Yacht Club
Departs 30 Sep 2028
ONLY AT HOUSE OF TRAVEL
Explore Taste of Greece
Taste of Greece
Discover the timeless beauty of the Eastern Mediterranean on a captivating journey roundtrip from Piraeus. Wander the iconic whitewashed streets of Mykonos, uncover the ancient wonders of Kusadasi, and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Istanbul.
After a relaxing day at sea, marvel at the breathtaking cliffs and sunsets of Santorini before returning to Athens.
Blending iconic destinations, ancient history, and stunning island scenery, this voyage is the perfect Mediterranean escape.
9 Night Fly Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
5369
per person share twin Inside Stateroom
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 11 May 2027
Explore Cruises from Malta
Cruises from Malta
Sailing from Valletta, Malta’s cultural gem, P&O Cruises UK takes you on an unforgettable Mediterranean journey. Explore the stunning coastlines and vibrant cultures, where ancient ruins, charming villages, sun-kissed beaches, and delectable cuisine await.
View Cruises from Malta
2026 Sailings
2027 Sailings
P&O Cruises UK combines British charm with modern cruising comforts. Enjoy elegant dining, West End-style entertainment, and a warm, friendly atmosphere throughout the fleet. Whether you’re relaxing poolside, sampling afternoon tea, or catching live music under the stars, every moment at sea feels effortlessly easy and wonderfully familiar.
2026 & 2027 Sailings
Sun, History & Shores
Cruising with
P&O Cruises UK
Departs 8 Apr 2027
Explore Greek Islands & Turkish Coastlines
Greek Islands & Turkish Coastlines
Embark on a luxurious 7-night cruise through the Greek Islands and along the coast of Türkiye, setting sail from the ancient capital of Greece, Athens. Your first stop will be the sacred island of Delos, followed by the vibrant island of Mykonos, world-famous for its hedonistic lifestyle and hillside whitewashed architecture. Continue your journey to the serene island of Patmos, renowned for its religious significance and Kusadasi, gateway to ancient city of Ephesus, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kos, an idyllic island where you can relax on pristine beaches or explore ancient ruins. Then sail to Santorini Island and admire the iconic sights and picturesque Paros, where you can wander through the island’s charming villages and enjoy the Aegean Sea’s crystal-clear waters. Finally, you’ll return to the historic city of Athens, where your unforgettable cruise concludes.
7 Night Luxury Yacht Cruise
from
$
10,595
per person share twin
Oceanview Stateroom
Flights Additional
Oceanview Stateroom
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Emerald Yacht Cruises
Departs 7 Jul 2027
Explore Mediterranean Icons
Mediterranean Icons
Set sail on an unforgettable 14-night Mediterranean adventure with Celestyal Cruises. Departing from Athens, these curated itineraries blend history, culture and stunning coastlines. Discover iconic destinations including Venice, Dubrovnik, Crete and Kusadasi, with overnight stays in Santorini and Mykonos to soak up the local charm.
View Mediterranean Icons 2026 Sailings
View Mediterranean Icons 2027 Sailings
Enjoy ultimate value with Celestyal One fares which include complimentary WiFi, meals and soft drinks throughout the day - amenities that are always included. For beverages from the bar and specialty dining there is CelestyalPay, your dedicated food and drink tab when you're onboard. Plus, when you pre-pay you'll get an extra bonus on Celestyal!
2026 & 2027 Sailings
Fantastic Value
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Celestyal Cruises
Departs
Explore Greek Isles & Mykonos Overnight
Greek Isles & Mykonos Overnight
Discover the sun-soaked beauty of the Greek Islands and Türkiye on an unforgettable Mediterranean escape from Athens. Explore the iconic whitewashed villages of Santorini, uncover the ancient wonders of Rhodes, soak up the coastal charm of Bodrum, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Mykonos before returning to Athens. With crystal-clear waters, rich history and stunning island scenery, this is a Mediterranean getaway to remember.
7 Night cruise
from
$
2415
per person share twin Insider Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Virgin Voyages
Departs 28 Oct 2028
Explore Greek Islands
Greek Islands
Set sail with Celestyal Cruises on a fantastic Greek island hoping cruise and explore charming seaside villages, medieval treasures, and iconic sunsets. Whether it's a thrilling 3-night weekend, or a 7-night adventure, with departures from Athens, Crete, Thessaloniki, and Kusadasi, there's a cruise for you.
View Greek Islands 2027 Sailings
Enjoy ultimate value with Celestyal One fares which include complimentary WiFi, meals and soft drinks throughout the day - amenities that are always included. For beverages from the bar and specialty dining there is CelestyalPay, your dedicated food and drink tab when you're onboard. Plus, when you pre-pay you'll get an extra bonus on Celestyal!
2027 Sailings
Fantastic Value
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Celestyal Cruises
Departs 19 Mar 2027
Darryl Sandri
House of Travel Timaru
Darryl has a vast travel knowledge of the world with Europe & Africa continents being personal favourites.
He's been selling both leisure and corporate bookings for 18 years and is well equipped to handle all requirements for personal and business travel.
Darryl
Angelique Anderson
House of Travel Rotorua
"Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer" - and I'm incredibly lucky to have built a career around that belief, helping people turn their travel dreams into unforgettable real-life experiences.
I've spent years exploring the world, from iconic cities to hidden gems, and I love sharing that first-hand knowledge with my customers.
Growing up in South Africa meant almost 40 years of adventure in my own "backyard" - from incredible wildlife to breathtaking landscapes. Africa will always have my heart.
Beyond that, my travels through the UK, Spain, Greece, Turkey and wider Europe have deepened my love of history, culture, and those authentic little local moments you remember long after you get home.
These days, my perfect holiday is anywhere I can be with my husband and our amazing daughters. As a family, we're drawn to island escapes - they offer something for everyone, from relaxation to adventure. Some of my all-time favourites include the Cayman Islands, Madagascar, Fiji and the Seychelles.
These days, my perfect holiday is anywhere I can be with my husband and our amazing daughters. As a family, we're drawn to island escapes - they offer something for everyone, from relaxation to adventure. Some of my all-time favourites include the Cayman Islands, Madagascar, Fiji and the Seychelles.
Professionally, I bring 20 years' experience in the South African travel industry, specialising in Corporate, Group and Incentive Travel. A career highlight for me was being named ASATA (Association of Southern African Travel Agents) Corporate Consultant of the Year in 2013 - recognition I'm still incredibly proud of.
Now I'm thrilled to bring that experience to the New Zealand travel industry, here at House of Travel Rotorua. I pride myself in rapid response times, strong attention to detail as well as my calm and systematic approach. All of which help save you time, stress and guesswork.
Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a multi-generational family holiday, business travel, a school tour or a tailor-made itinerary that's completely unique to you. I'll work with you to create a trip that fits your needs, style and budget.
Don't just dream about it - let's start planning. Get in touch today and let me turn YOUR travel dreams into your next boarding pass.
Ang
Katy Devia
House of Travel Nelson
Hi, I'm Katy Devia. My love affair with travel started young, but it truly came alive during 3.5 years of living out of a backpack across Canada, the US, Europe, and the UK. I spent my winters chasing snow—working two snowboard seasons in Whistler, Canada, and two in the French Alps. My summers were just as unforgettable, backpacking through Europe, working on luxury power boats in the South of France, and even selling surf and snowboard gear in the UK. Those years taught me resilience, flexibility, and the pure magic of stepping into the unknown. I then headed back to the United States, where I lived and worked in Berkeley, California, for a year.
Later, love took me further south. Marrying a South American man opened my eyes to the vibrant, untamed beauty of Colombia. Over the years, I've soaked up the sun in the Pacific Islands, explored the streets of Hong Kong and Singapore, visited Bali, and even adventured deep into a gold mine in Borneo.
So, why did I become a travel agent? Honestly? Because I can't stop talking about it. After 15 years away from the industry raising my kids here in Nelson, I realised that my greatest joy is still helping others find that same spark I felt on my very first big adventure. I became a consultant not just to book trips, but to help people discover their perfect version of travel, whether that's heart-pumping adventure or total relaxation. My 'why' is simple: I want your memories to be as vivid as mine.
Katy
Rosie Grimwood
House of Travel Kapiti Coast
Embarking on a journey, whether it's a leisurely escape or an adventurous expedition, requires meticulous planning and a touch of expertise to transform travel into unforgettable experiences. That's where I come in.
As your travel consultant, I don't just see it as a job; it's a passion that drives me to curate journeys tailored to your desires and aspirations.
Whether you crave the adrenaline rush of scuba diving in Thailand, the thrill of jungle treks in Costa Rica, the freedom of backpacking through Asia, or relaxing on a white sandy beach, I am here to help create the perfect itinerary for you.
Rosie
Our Greece & Turkey travel blogs
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