Planning a trip to Greece/Istanbul
 

My husband and I are starting to think about our trip next year and we wanted to go to Greece/Istanbul. (I know, I know, it's far in advance, but with Frequent Flier stuff, you almost have to plan it that way) <BR> <BR>My questions: <BR>How many days in Athens/Istanbul would be recommended? I was thinking 2-3 days each city. <BR> <BR>In addition, we want to hit one of the Greek Islands. I'm a beach person, so that's important, but I want a little more than just beach. (although I have a feeling all the Islands are seeped in culture and are beautiful) Any recommendations? <BR>

I was watching a show about the best beaches in the world on the Travel Channel. They listed a beach on Crete as one of them. Sorry I can't remember the name. If you were going to just one island, Crete would be good because it's so large. My husband and I spent two nights in Istanbul that was barely enough time. We were in Athens for one night. We comfortably toured the Archeological Museum, Plaka and the Acropolis.

I personally would allow more days in Istanbul(at least 4) as there is so much to see and do.he boat ride up the Bosphorus River is 5 hours and a lunch stop/Aye Sophia and Topaki Palace with Harem tour is a day/Blue Mosque with tours of the Basilica cistern and archaelogy museum is another/THE GRAND BAZAAR which should NEVER be rushed!!!! Have fun-Debbie <BR>I have heard that the air pollution in Athens has gotten horrendous since I was last there so perhaps 2 days is enough?

We had 8 nights to split between Athens and Istanbul and made it, respectively, 3 and 5. If we had only 7, we would have split it 2 and 5. With six available nights, I'd recommend 2 in Athens and 4 in Istanbul. <BR> <BR>Paulo

We did a honeymoon sail boat cruise in greece and turkey. Athens needs only a full day in my opinion. Be careful of how much taxi drivers try to charge you. Istanbul was wonderful. I liked all the islands, Mykonos stands out in my mind.