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Every step you take in Greece is a nostalgic journey into the past – full to the brim with some of the most well-preserved masterpieces of classical architecture in Europe. Meander through a labyrinth of age-old ruins and storied sites that withstood the test of time, carrying legendary stories and myths from the bygone era of the Greek Empire. From citadels to temples dating back to all time periods, Greece is a treasure trove of historical landmarks and monuments that serve as an enduring testament to the brilliant civilisations that once lived and thrived in the Mediterranean island nation.
Greece is truly a treasure trove of awe-inspiring classical architecture. Here are eight of the most famous Greek landmarks and ancient cities that you should see at least once in your life:
Acropolis translates to ‘high city’ in Greek and many old cities of Greece had each of their own. Perched atop a rugged outcrop overlooking Athens, the Acropolis is the symbol of Greek civilization and arguably the greatest amongst all the historic sites in ancient Greece. It’s a place that bore many titles over the centuries: a home to kings and gods, a citadel, a centre of worship and now a renowned tourist attraction. Standing proudly on the imposing complex is the Parthenon, a remarkably preserved temple dedicated to the goddess of war Athena. Other important structures include the Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion and Propylaea.
Often considered as the first European city, Knossos is an intriguing archaeological site in Crete – the largest of the Greek Isles, complete with 650 miles of stunning coastline and an encyclopaedic offering of myths and legends! The historic site was the cradle and principal centre of the Minoan civilisation during the Bronze Age. It’s famed for its fabled underground maze – the great Labyrinth – packed with elaborate passageways and rooms. According to Greek mythology, legendary architect Daedalus built the palace and the maze to keep Minotaur, the half-man, half-bull stepson of King Minos.
Not too far away from the famous Acropolis, Ancient Agora of Athens provides an insight into Athenian social and political affairs during the Classical Age. This central open space witnessed several public gatherings in the past. It was used as a physical setting for meetings, business, politics and more – and now serves as a living museum that commemorates the vibrant communal life of Athens in antiquity. The ancient rendezvous is also home to the Temple of Hephaestus, which is among the best-preserved temples in Greece dedicated to its namesake god of fire.
The long history of the Olympic Games dates back to some 3,000 years ago when sports contests were organised and held in Olympia. Recognised as the birthplace of the world's foremost sports competition, ancient Olympia gives modern-day sports aficionados and tourists from around the globe an opportunity to follow the footsteps of the very first Olympic athletes who pioneered and inspired the now highly celebrated multi-sports event. The seaside port of Katakolon is the cruise gateway to the archeological site of Olympia. Some of the highlights include the remnants of Temple of Zeus, one of the ancient wonders of the world; Temple of Hera, where the lighting of Olympic flame is held; and the Grand Stadium, where the first marathoners once stood.
Rhodes is the biggest of the Dodecanese Islands, boasts an abundance of ancient archaeological sites and breathtaking natural scenery – famed for its 300 days of sunshine every year! The vast island is home to the Lindos Acropolis, welcoming guests with the ruins of an ancient citadel sat high on a steep cliff with panoramic sea views. Wind your way uphill to the summit of the fortress to see some of the most significant Greek structures, with the Temple of Athena Lindia being the star attraction. Another unmissable site in the island is the well-preserved Old Town Rhodes, where amazing photography locations such as the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights and Street of the Knights are located.
Dubbed the ‘Navel of the World,’ the sanctuary of Delphi was believed the centre of the world by early Greeks and some of their neighbours. It played a crucial role in ancient Greek history as the site of the Delphic Oracle, where pilgrims sought divine guidance from the esteemed priestess who spoke metaphorical prophecies inside the Temple of Apollo. The picturesque town is built on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, where ancient architecture and nature meets. Enjoy the dramatic views of the lush mountains and valleys while appreciating the beautiful ruins of a theatre, stadium and monuments from a time long gone.
The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is an impressive Greek architectural and engineering feat, known for its architectural symmetry and the excellent acoustics. Even the softest sounds are audible in the elliptical amphitheatre, so actors and performers can clearly be heard by all 14,000 spectators. Today, the elliptical amphitheatre continues its legacy as a cultural venue by hosting numerous festivals, dramatic plays, music shows and dance performances. In Greek mythology, Epidaurus is the birthplace of Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine and son of Apollo. Besides the theatre, you can visit the Sanctuary of Asclepius, a place used for medical practices and dedicated to the healing god.
Step back in time to Ancient Messene, a UNESCO-listed monument in Peloponnese nestled on the slopes of Mount Ithome. Explore the remnants of the theatre, temples and city walls on the archeological site. The now abandoned city is the perfect place to go to if you want to escape the crowds from the tourist-concentrated ancient Greek cities like the Acropolis of Athens and Knossos, but it doesn’t mean it’s any less impressive or history-rich. This underrated jewel is equally as magnificent as all the big names in Greek architecture – almost kept like a solemn promise and spoken of quite delicately by every guest that had a personal encounter with the place. Archaeological excavations are still underway today, unearthing more monumental discoveries for visitors to see and scrutinise. The exhilarating feeling of anticipating what artefacts are bound to come up is truly one of its many charms!
Generally, the Greek cruise season runs from late April through October, with shoulder seasons being April and October. The busy summer peak is between the months of July and August. For lesser crowds and warm temperatures, aim for spring (April to June) or fall (September to October).
Greece is home to a total of 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 17 of which are cultural sites and 2 are a mix of natural and cultural sites. The World Heritage Sites that were mentioned in our list of the great Greek landmarks are the Acropolis of Athens, the archeological site of Olympia, the archaeological site of Delphi, the Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus and the Medieval City of Rhodes.
Most of the mainstream cruise lines have itineraries that include the Greek islands, typically with a full day or overnight stays in ports like Athens, Katakolon (Olympia) and Crete. These cruise lines include Norwegian Cruise Line, Explora Journeys, Celebrity Cruises and MSC Cruises. Luxury lines, such as Azamara, Seabourn and Silversea, also offer sailings to Greece.
Greece is a treasure trove of stunning landmarks and ancient cities, so the best and most beautiful will vary on the eye of the beholder. However, the Acropolis of Athens is considered the symbol of ancient Greek civilization. And, the Parthenon is arguably the most iconic landmark in the Acropolis of Athens.
Greece has a Mediterranean climate, with four seasons, and generally warm weather throughout the year. The most pleasant temperatures can be experienced in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
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