Turkey, Greece, or Egypt
 

Which would you visit/have you visited? We're living short-term in Jerusalem and are trying to plan some side trips, but the hubby and I can't decide. We may only get to go to one of them, possibly two. Can you help us decide? Thanks fellow Fodorites!

I have been to all three (and I am revisiting Greece in December), and you can't go wrong with either choice.

But, if I could only visit one, I would opt for Egypt to see the pyramids.

That's a tough one. I am living part time in Greece right now. I've lived in Turkey for two years so I am very fond of the place. I've been trying to get back to Egypt for years for another look. In order of preference, I would have to choose Egypt, for adventure as well as sights, Turkey, for sheer number and diversity of sights, and finally Greece. You can't really go wrong with any of them.

Haven't been to Greece, but have both Egypt and Turkey. For convenience Egypt is probably the easiest, and will not disappoint. Likewise, Turkey is absolutely amazing.

How much time to you have for any of these stops? Can determine which works to fit into the days you have.

Check to see what's available flight-wise/pricewise between TLV/CAI or TLV/IST or TLV/IZM (Izmir).. then toss a coin.

I have only been to Turkey and Greece. Between those two I would chooose Turkey - an amazing, surprising place. I did enjoy Greece quite alot, too, and would gladly return. Sounds to me like you can't go wrong! Good luck with your plans!

Hi! I've been to all three...if i could choose only one.......TURKEY!!!

Hari

Lived in Egypt, visited Turkey, haven't been to Greece....

Can't go wrong with either Egypt or Turkey. I think part depends on how much time you have for these side trips. It's tight, but you could see most of the highpoints of Egypt in a week (Cairo, Nile Cruise, Abu Simbel).

Turkey is a little harder because it is more spread out. There would be some "down time" to travel to the various spots. But you could do the western cost of Turkey (Istanbul, Ephesus, Pammukule, Bodrum - or something like that) in 4-6 days. Cappadocia is worth a few days on its own.

What are you interested in seeing? That might help.

Been to all 3 but if I had to pick (tough choice) it would be Turkey. My reasoning is that it could be considered to have all the elements of all 3 - great ruins, multiple ancient civilizations and current cultures, historical sites, warm people, excellent food, fun in the sun and I do love those carpets. If you can though try to see all.
Enjoy!
Sherry

It sounds like Egypt and Turkey should be our top choices. We will have 6 days to see either place and are interested in the major sites, of course, but also are interested in Biblical historical sites. We truly appreciate the input, FF's (Fellow Fodorites)!

Hi PalmettoMelUSA

In Turkey you won't be able to see, in 6 days, biblical Haran, Ararat, Karkemish, Euphrates & Tigris ...
since u r in Israel u may find very cheap deals (flight+hotel) for 5 days (sunday to thursday)to Antalya & maybe to Istambul...

From Israel Turkey is probably the easiest to get to as there's plenty of charter flights.

I've given up on the Pyramids as it's the only place in Egypt that makes central Cairo look empty - though the Solar Boat is REALLY impressive & worth the entry fee

Been to all 3--
If you'd like to visit 2 fascinating places why not consider Turkey & Jordan?

Thanks, kp. We already have plans to visit Jordan, probably a few times. We were just trying to decide among Turkey, Greece and Egypt. Question for alanRow: do you think the pyramids will be really crowded in November, or is that a silly question? I imagine it's popular year 'round!

Glad to hear that you're planning to visit Jordan--it is a beautiful country.
I agree that Turkey and Egypt will provide the most diverse experiences for you.

Well, we've decided to go to Turkey as our first side trip at the end of the month. We have tentatively planned 3 nights in Istanbul, then 3 in Izmir with a day trip to Ephesus. Are we missing anything really great nearby? Just can't go further afield on a short trip. We're flying TLV to Istan to Izmir to TLV, so won't have a car. Does this sound like a good taste of Turkey? Thanks! Oh, hotel recommendations in Izmir would be helpful, too!