Turkey is probably less relevant for us, Israelis, for a vacation this coming summer – the relations between the countries are unstable, there are no direct flights, and the feeling is less pleasant – but for Europeans, it certainly remains a sane option for a cheap vacation. But is it considered more "value for money" than Greece, the bitter rival of Erdogan's country?
The Euronews website conducted a comparison regarding a vacation between the two rival and quite adjacent countries, and found that more and more Turks are choosing to spend their vacation specifically in Greece, this is due to the inflation in Turkey that continues to climb, and the long-standing struggle between the two Mediterranean neighbors for the title of the most affordable vacation destination in Europe enters a new stage. So where will you get more value for your money this coming summer?
For years, Greece and Turkey have been considered the two leading candidates for the title of the cheapest and most beloved vacation destination in Europe. However, in 2026 the picture is beginning to change: While Turkey still enjoys relatively low prices and attractive "all-inclusive" packages, the sharp rise in the cost of living in the country is narrowing the gaps against Greece.
The data even shows an interesting phenomenon: More and more Turkish tourists are choosing to cross the border into Greece, where they enjoy more convenient prices in a variety of products and services. According to diplomatic sources, the Greek consulate in Istanbul currently issues about 1,300 visas a day, most of them multiple-entry visas, for Turks wishing to vacation and even shop in the neighboring country.
Turkey still leads in price
The annual Family Holiday Report by the British Post Office Travel Money, which examined the prices of the ten most common products and services among vacationers in 16 European destinations, found that Marmaris in Turkey is the most affordable vacation destination in Europe.
The central reason for this is the weakness of the Turkish lira, which allows foreign tourists to enjoy higher purchasing power. Despite the high inflation in the country, the prices of hotels, restaurants, and attractions are still relatively low compared to many European destinations.
"All-inclusive" packages in Turkey also continue to offer excellent value. According to data from the travel website eSky, the prices of such packages start at approximately €524 per person.
Greece closes the gap
Despite the use of the euro, Greece manages to surprise. Three Greek islands – Crete, Kos, and Rhodes – were ranked among the ten most affordable destinations in Europe. Crete stood out in particular with a decrease of nearly 8% in prices compared to the previous year. According to eSky, a one-week vacation in Crete including flights, hotel, and half-board meals starts at approximately €388 per person – a particularly competitive price for a popular Mediterranean destination. "Today, Greece is one of the most affordable vacation countries in Europe," says Katarzyna Hauton, eSky's brand manager. "It is difficult to find a Mediterranean vacation at a lower price."
Not all islands were born equal
However, in Greece there are significant price gaps between the different destinations. The famous islands Mykonos and Santorini continue to be particularly expensive, mainly due to the high demand and their popularity on social networks. In contrast, islands like Kefalonia, Lefkada, and Rhodes offer much more convenient prices, alongside spectacular beaches, picturesque villages, and a calmer atmosphere.
In Turkey as well, prices vary from region to region, but in most of the Turkish Riviera, it is still possible to find hotels and resorts at attractive prices.
So who wins?
The answer depends on the type of vacation you are looking for. Anyone looking for a cheap "all-inclusive" package and low daily expenses will usually find better deals in Turkey. On the other hand, travelers who are willing to distance themselves from the most famous Greek destinations will discover that Greece can offer a vacation that is no less affordable. In the bottom line, the secret is to choose the destination correctly – and to avoid the most expensive tourist hubs.