Greece or Türkiye: Which offers the most affordable holiday this summer for Europeans?
Greece or Türkiye – For years, Greece and Türkiye have been locked in a competitive race to attract the best value for European holidaymakers. But in 2026, the contest is showing signs of a new dynamic. While Türkiye continues to offer lower prices for many travelers, a surge in inflation has begun to impact its most sought-after destinations. This shift has led to an uptick in Greek tourists opting for resorts in neighbouring Türkiye, reversing the traditional trend. From casual beachside dining to curated package deals, the two Mediterranean powerhouses are now vying not only for sun-drenched beaches but also for affordability in other aspects of the vacation experience.
A Tripled Tourism Trend: Greece Gains Ground
A recent Euronews analysis revealed a striking development in the cross-border tourism landscape. The report found that the flow of visitors between Greece and Türkiye has tripled in 2026, but the direction is no longer uniform. Greeks are increasingly steering clear of Türkiye’s higher price points, while Turkish travelers are flocking to Greece in greater numbers. This reversal is evident in the surge of visa applications at the Greek consulate in Istanbul, which has been issuing over 1,300 passports daily. Most of these are multi-entry visas, used by Turkish tourists to visit Greece for leisure and shopping. Groceries and consumer goods in Greece are often more affordable than those in Türkiye, making it a popular destination for budget-conscious travelers.
The annual Post Office Travel Money Family Holiday Report, published in late 2025, sheds light on where Europeans can find the most cost-effective summer escapes. The study evaluated the prices of 10 essential holiday items across 16 locations, including meals, drinks, and suncream. Surprisingly, Marmaris in Türkiye emerged as the top destination, surpassing the previous year’s leader, Sunny Beach in Bulgaria. This result highlights the ongoing affordability of Türkiye, even as inflation has pushed up costs in some of its premium resorts. However, the report also underscores a key factor: neither country uses the euro, allowing them to maintain competitive pricing.
The Turkish lira’s weakened value against the euro further enhances the country’s appeal for budget travelers. For instance, a week-long trip to Marmaris, covering flights, accommodation, and basic meals, can be secured for as low as €388 per person, according to eSky.com. This is a figure that Katarzyna Hauton, Group Brand Manager at the travel agency, emphasizes as “hard to beat” for a Mediterranean getaway. Yet, despite these advantages, Türkiye is not without its challenges. Domestic inflation has climbed significantly in recent years, which has started to erode some of its former cost-saving benefits. Nevertheless, the report confirms that Türkiye remains a strong contender for all-inclusive packages, with prices undercutting similar options in other popular destinations.
“Greece is genuinely one of Europe’s most affordable summer holiday destinations right now,” Hauton says. “A week in Crete, including flights, hotel and half-board meals, starts at around €388 per person – which is hard to beat for a Mediterranean holiday.”
Meanwhile, Greece’s performance in the Post Office ranking is notable. The country’s largest island, Crete, ranked 7th, while Kos and Rhodes followed closely in 8th and 9th positions. This shows that Greece, though not the cheapest overall, is still delivering competitive value. The report also highlights a significant drop in costs for certain holiday essentials in Crete, with prices falling nearly 8% compared to the previous year. This improvement comes as demand for Greek destinations stabilizes, creating opportunities for more affordable options.
However, the allure of Greece’s most iconic islands—like Mykonos and Santorini—remains unchanged. These locations continue to charge premium prices, with packages in these areas rising due to sustained high demand. For travelers seeking more budget-friendly alternatives, islands such as Kefalonia, Rhodes, and Lefkada offer a welcome reprieve. These spots, while still popular, manage to balance quality experiences with lower overall costs. The message is clear: while Greece may not be the absolute cheapest option, it has diversified its offerings to cater to a broader range of budgets.
For those prioritizing day-to-day expenses, Türkiye still holds the edge. Its all-inclusive packages, which often bundle flights, hotels, and meals, are proving to be a significant draw. According to eSky.com data, trips to Türkiye’s resorts can be more economical than similar options in Spain’s Costa Dorada, Cyprus, and even Sunny Beach. This affordability is partly due to the country’s relatively low operating costs and weaker currency, which allows prices to remain attractive. Yet, Türkiye’s domestic inflation has also influenced its pricing strategy, meaning it no longer offers the same level of ultra-bargain deals as it once did.
As travelers seek value without sacrificing quality, the decision between Greece and Türkiye has become more nuanced. While Türkiye excels in all-inclusive value and daily spending, Greece is emerging as a viable option for those willing to avoid its most expensive hotspots. The Post Office report suggests that the Mediterranean region’s affordability depends heavily on location, with both countries providing options that suit different preferences and budgets.
Ultimately, the 2026 summer season promises a choice between two compelling destinations. Türkiye, with its economic factors and bundled travel packages, remains a top pick for those looking for maximum savings. Greece, on the other hand, offers a more varied experience, with islands like Crete, Kos, and Rhodes providing excellent value for those who avoid the usual suspects. The key to securing the best deal lies in understanding where your money will stretch the furthest. Whether it’s the cost-effective all-inclusives of Türkiye or the budget-friendly alternatives in Greece, both countries are proving that a Mediterranean escape doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag.
The competition between Greece and Türkiye continues to evolve, with each country adapting to shifting economic and consumer trends. As inflation and currency fluctuations reshape the landscape, travelers are advised to consider not only the destination but also the specific region and package they choose. With both nations offering unique advantages, the summer of 2026 is set to be a time of choice, where affordability and quality can coexist in unexpected ways. The challenge for Europeans is to navigate these options wisely, ensuring they get the most out of their holiday while enjoying the rich cultural and natural attractions of the Mediterranean.
