13 days in Zakynthos, Istanbul & Cappadocia Itinerary

Located just off the west coast of mainland Greece, Zakynthos enjoys a reputation as both a party destination and a family-friendly getaway. Packed with foreign tourists along its eastern and southeastern coastline, the island also features numerous tranquil pockets in its central region of forested mountains and rolling hills. Avoid the overcrowded east by discovering the island's less-explored northern sections, which contain a series of deep caves that feature sun reflecting on seawater and white stones, creating a striking shade of azure particular to this part of the world. The northern capes of the island also offer the calmest waters, which lap a string of developed beaches with plenty of modern facilities.

The region of Cappadocia reveals fascinating tales of civilizations long past with its honeycombed hills characterized by geological rarities, including two World Heritage Sites. Sedimentary rocks formed in lakes and ignimbrite deposits from erupted volcanoes left soft rock formations scattered across the land, which were then carved out to create houses, churches, and monasteries in 300 CE. Explore these rock houses on your own or on a tour, or take in the topography from above on a hot air balloon ride. Complete your holiday with a hike along the trails and marvel at the dusky orange panorama and accordion-shaped valleys.