Greece, located in southeastern Europe, is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. It is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque landscapes and scenic islands. In this article, we will explore the best places to visit in Greece, from its top cities to famous landmarks.
Facts About Greece
Before delving into the best places to visit in Greece, let’s take a moment to learn some interesting facts about this captivating country:
- Greece has a population of over 10 million people.
- Athens, the capital city of Greece, is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history spanning over 3,400 years.
- Greece has over 6,000 islands and islets, though only 227 of them are inhabited.
- Greek is the official language of Greece, spoken by roughly 99% of the population.
- The currency used in Greece is the euro.
Greece Top Cities
Athens
Athens is the capital city of Greece and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture. The city is home to numerous ancient landmarks and archaeological sites, including the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and the National Archaeological Museum. Visitors can also enjoy modern amenities such as shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Top attractions in Athens:
- Acropolis
- Parthenon
- Temple of Olympian Zeus
- Ancient Agora
- National Archaeological Museum
- Syntagma Square
- Plaka district
Chania
Chania is a charming coastal town located on the northwest coast of Crete. It boasts a beautiful Venetian harbor, narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, and a lively market. Visitors can explore historical landmarks such as the Firkas Fortress and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. Chania is also known for its beautiful beaches, including the popular Falassarna Beach and Elafonisi Beach.
Top attractions in Chania:
- Venetian Harbor
- Firkas Fortress
- Archaeological Museum of Chania
- Samaria Gorge
- Agia Marina Beach
- Falassarna Beach
- Elafonisi Beach
Faliraki
Faliraki is a popular resort town located on the island of Rhodes. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy various water activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing. The town also has several bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to tourists.
Top attractions in Faliraki:
- Faliraki Beach
- Anthony Quinn Bay
- Water Park
- Ladiko Beach
- Saint Nektarios Church
- Acropolis of Rhodes
Heraklion
Credit: musement.com
Heraklion is the largest city on the island of Crete and a hub for tourism and commerce. It is home to several historical landmarks, including the Palace of Knossos, which dates back to 2000 BC. Visitors can also explore the city’s museums, markets, and cafes. Heraklion is also a gateway to some of Crete’s most popular beaches.
Top attractions in Heraklion:
- Palace of Knossos
- Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
- Koules Fortress
- Natural History Museum of Crete
- Morosini Fountain
- Ammoudara Beach
Kos
Kos is a small island located in the southeastern Aegean Sea. It is a popular tourist destination known for its idyllic beaches, clear waters, and lush vegetation. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Asklepion, an ancient healing center, and the Castle of the Knights. The island also boasts a lively nightlife scene.
Top attractions in Kos:
- Asklepion
- Castle of the Knights
- Tree of Hippocrates
- Kos Museum
- Tigaki Beach
- Kefalos Beach
Mykonos
Mykonos is a small island in the Cyclades archipelago known for its glamorous lifestyle, stunning beaches, and picturesque landscapes. It is a popular destination for celebrities and wealthy tourists. Visitors can explore the island’s charming villages, such as Mykonos Town, and enjoy various water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.
Top attractions in Mykonos:
- Little Venice
- Windmills of Mykonos
- Archaeological Museum of Mykonos
- Agios Ioannis Beach
- Paradise Beach
- Super Paradise Beach
Rhodes
Rhodes is the largest island in the Dodecanese archipelago and a popular tourist destination. The island boasts a rich history and culture, with numerous ancient landmarks and medieval castles. Visitors can explore the Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches and natural landscapes.
Top attractions in Rhodes:
- Old Town of Rhodes
- Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
- Lindos Acropolis
- Tsambika Beach
- Anthony Quinn Bay
- Valley of the Butterflies
Santorini
Santorini is a small cluster of islands located in the southern Aegean Sea. It is known for its stunning scenery, including white-washed buildings perched on cliffs overlooking the sea. Visitors can explore historical sites such as Akrotiri, an ancient Minoan settlement, and enjoy various activities like wine tasting and hiking.
Top attractions in Santorini:
- Oia Village
- Akrotiri Archaeological Site
- Red Beach
- Black Beach
- Perissa Beach
- Fira Town
Skiathos
Skiathos is a small island located in the Sporades archipelago. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. Visitors can explore charming villages such as Skiathos Town and enjoy various water activities like sailing and snorkeling. The island also boasts a lively nightlife scene.
Top attractions in Skiathos:
- Koukounaries Beach
- Lalaria Beach
- Bourtzi Fortress
- Skiathos Museum
- Evangelistria Monastery
- Papadiamantis House
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece and a hub for culture and history. It is home to numerous ancient landmarks, Byzantine churches, and Ottoman monuments. Visitors can explore the city’s museums, markets, and cafes and enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene.
Top attractions in Thessaloniki:
- White Tower
- Hagia Sophia Church
- Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
- Aristotelous Square
- Ano Poli (Upper Town)
- Rotunda of Galerius
Greece Famous Landmarks
Acropolis of Lindos
The Acropolis of Lindos is an ancient citadel located on a rocky hill overlooking the town of Lindos. It dates back to the 4th century BC and is home to several historical landmarks, including the Temple of Athena Lindia and the Propylaea.
Ancient Agora
The Ancient Agora is a marketplace located in Athens and one of the best-preserved ancient marketplaces in Greece. It dates back to the 6th century BC and is home to several historical landmarks, including the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus.
Corfu Island
Corfu Island is a popular tourist destination located in the Ionian Sea. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. The island also boasts a rich history and culture, with numerous landmarks such as the Old Fortress and the Achilleion Palace.
Delos Island
Delos Island is an archaeological site located near Mykonos. It was once a sacred island in ancient Greece and is home to several historical landmarks, including the Temple of Apollo and the Terrace of the Lions.
Delphi, an Archaeological Site in Greece
Credit: greekboston.com
Delphi is an archaeological site located in central Greece. It was once a sacred site dedicated to the god Apollo and is home to several historical landmarks, including the Temple of Apollo and the Theater.
Dionysus Theatre
The Dionysus Theatre is a historic open-air theatre located on the southern slope of the Acropolis in Athens. It was built in the 5th century BC and is one of the oldest surviving theatres in the world.
Hephaestus Temple
The Hephaestus Temple is an ancient Greek temple located in Athens. It was built in the 5th century BC and is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece.
Knossos Palace
The Knossos Palace is an ancient Minoan palace located on the island of Crete. It dates back to the 2nd millennium BC and is home to several historical landmarks, including the Throne Room and the Labyrinth.
Meteora
Meteora is a complex of six monasteries located in central Greece. They are built on top of towering rock formations and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mount Athos
Mount Athos is a mountain located on the easternmost peninsula of Halkidiki. It is home to 20 Eastern Orthodox monasteries, known as the “Holy Mountain,” and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mycenae
Mycenae is an archaeological site located in the Peloponnese region of Greece. It was once a major center of Mycenaean civilization and is home to several historical landmarks, including the Lion Gate and the Treasury of Atreus.
Mykonos Island
Mykonos Island is a popular tourist destination in the Cyclades archipelago. It is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant nightlife.
National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum is located in Athens and is one of the largest archaeological museums in Greece. It houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is an ancient amphitheater located on the southern slope of the Acropolis in Athens. It was built in the 2nd century AD and is known for its excellent acoustics.
Old Town Rhodes
Old Town Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the island of Rhodes. It is characterized by narrow streets, medieval buildings, and historical landmarks such as the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes.
Olympia
It was once a sanctuary dedicated to the god Zeus and is home to several historical landmarks, including the Temple of Zeus and the Stadium.
Paros Island
Paros Island is a popular tourist destination located in the Cyclades archipelago. It is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque landscapes, and charming villages such as Naoussa and Parikia.
Samaria Gorge
Samaria Gorge is a national park located on the island of Crete. It is home to a 16 km long gorge, which is considered one of the longest in Europe. Visitors can hike through the gorge and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus
The Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus is an archaeological site located in the Peloponnese region of Greece. It was once a healing center dedicated to the god Asklepios and is home to several historical landmarks, including the Theater and the Tholos.
Santorini, a Small Cluster of Islands
Santorini is a small cluster of islands located in the southern Aegean Sea. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, including white-washed buildings perched on cliffs overlooking the sea. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as wine tasting and hiking.
Conclusion
Greece is a captivating country that offers something for everyone. From its stunning beaches and beautiful landscapes to its rich history and culture, Greece has many must-visit destinations. In this article, we have explored the best places to visit in Greece, from its top cities to famous landmarks. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or nature, Greece is sure to leave a lasting impression.
