15 Attractions in Greece that Should Be on Every Tourist's List

Probably the most striking image that comes to mind when one hears the name Athens is the Acropolis, and for good reason. Guarding the city on top of the sacred rock, the Acropolis of Athens is definitely a wondrous site to visit. The Acropolis includes a number of structures such as the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erectheion. The Acropolis is undeniably a must-see for any visitor to the Greek capital.

A mystical site regarded as sacred by the ancient Greeks, the sanctuary of Delphi is thought to be the center of the world. Located in central Greece, at the foot of Mount Parnassos, the sanctuary includes an ancient theater, the Temple of Apollo, the Stoa of the Athenians, a hippodrome, a stadium and a gymnasium. Home to the Oracle of Delphi, the site bore strong religious importance in Ancient Greece.

Located in Thessaly, in central Greece, the magnificent site of Meteora has been amazing visitors for centuries. A vast terrain of rock formations, Meteora is known for the dozens of monasteries perched on top of huge boulders. Besides the monasteries, visitors can enjoy a full range of outdoor activities such as rock climbing, hiking and kayaking.

The historic heart of Rhodes contains proof of the presence of the famous Order of the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem on the Greek island. The UNESCO-listed site includes cobbled streets, Gothic towers, beautiful churches, and the palace of the Grand Master of the Order, called the Kastelo, which served as an administrative centre and the official residence of leader of the Knights of St John of Rhodes. You will surely have a pleasant time strolling around the streets and admiring the complex Gothic and Renaissance architecture.

A fortified town located on Mount Taygetos in the Peloponnese, Mystras (or Mistras) is located near the town of Sparti. It was a powerful city in the last decades of the Byzantine era, and now consists of an old town surrounded by walls and an imposing palace at the top of the hill. Known today for its beautiful Byzantine churches with striking frescoes, Mystras is now silently surrounded by splendid nature. Visitors can stop by the modern village of Mystras, which features traditional architecture and picturesque little squares.

Half an hour’s drive from the charming town of Nafplio in Argolis, Peloponnese, the ancient theater of Epidaurus awaits. Part of the archaeological site of the Sanctuary of God Asclepius, the theater is one of the most popular touristic attractions in the country. Known for its acoustics, the theater is bordered by lush greenery and serves as a venue for performances and theatre during the Athens-Epidaurus Festival every summer.

Located in northern Greece, Thessaloniki is the second biggest city after Athens. Due to its strategic position, it has always been at the intersection of cultures and religions. With several sightseeing attractions, such as UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches, Thessaloniki also has Roman monuments, including the Arch of Galerius and the 4th-century Rotunda, and the 15th century White Tower on its waterfront, as well as several museums. For entertainment, make sure to visit Ladadika district, a historical area by the port.

The Minoan Palace of Knossos, on the outskirts of Heraklion in Crete, is a must-see for history buffs. The largest of all Minoan palatial structures, it covers over 20,000 square meters and includes numerous rooms, as well as beautiful and colorful frescoes. It consists of an old palace built around 2000 BCE, which was destroyed by an earthquake, and a newer structure, built immediately after. According to Greek mythology, this is where King Minos kept the half-human, half-bull creature called the Minotaur, which was eventually killed by Athenian prince Theseus.

Located between the Adriatic and Ionians Seas, the island of Corfu, off the coasts of Albania and Greece, is a popular destination in Greece. It’s home to a picturesque Old Town dating from the 8th century. The Old Town has been influenced by Venetian, British, French and Greek culture. It contains beautiful neoclassical mansions, a maze of narrow streets lined with souvenir shops, restaurants and cafés and a few spectacular buildings and squares, as well as three forts.

Kefalonia, or Cephalonia, is an Ionian island south of Corfu. It has splendid beaches, lush vegetation and a delicious local cuisine. One of the many wonders of the island is Melissani Cave, 10 kilometers from the main city, Argostoli. The cave is home to an underground lake and features an opening on to p that lets the light inside and gives the impression that boats are actually floating in the air. Even though the tour lasts only 15 minutes, we guarantee you will remember the experience for a long time.

One of the most important archaeological, historical and mythological sites in Greece, Delos is a tiny island covered by an open-air museum off the coast of Mykonos in the Cyclades. Mythology has it that Apollo and Artemis were born on the island, and as such, no mortals have been allowed to be born or be buried on the sacred island. Throughout the country, there is no other place that has as many artifacts from the Archaic, the Classical, and the Hellenistic eras. All in all, a visit to the island is more than just admiring history–it is actually experiencing it.

Known as the Greek Ibiza, Mykonos is a favorite summer hotspot for A-list celebrities, partygoers and sun worshippers, with its plethora of beach bars and clubs, world-class restaurants and high-end boutiques. Our favorite spot on the island though is Little Venice, the westernmost part of Mykonos town. With houses built directly on the coast edge and balconies hanging over the water, spectacular views and delicious waterfront dining.

This little town in the Argolis region, in the Peloponnese, is often a surprise to visitors. The first capital of the Greek state after it gained its independence from the Ottoman Empire, this charming hamlet is well-known across the country as one of the most romantic spots. Wander through small streets bordered by neoclassical mansions covered with hanging bougainvillea; admire hidden churches and stop for refreshing beverages at beautiful cafés and bars. If you can, climb up the stairs to the 18th-century citadel to watch the sunset and enjoy panoramic views over the Gulf.

It’s impossible not to mention Santorini, a volcanic island in the Cyclades. With its striking caldera, beautiful villages, ancient sites and extensive wine-making expertise, the island should be on everyone’s bucket list. If you can, make sure to visit the island during the off-season to really enjoy it without crowds of tourists.

Gateway to the Greek islands, Athens is cosmopolitan and somewhat chaotic, modern and ancient at the same time. It’s perfect for a city trip, and blends its rich past with a laid-back attitude. Blessed with everything a modern city needs, the Greek capital will show its many faces to the discerning visitor.