The cradle of western civilization, Greece feels no less than a history book made real. As curious explorers pass along magnificent structures, they think to themselves of how they were made and more importantly, when were they made. With a history as rich and as expansive as Greece, it is a must-visit place. Limitless curiosity awaits travelers as they wander through buildings, temples, theaters, and sanctuaries that are at least two thousand years old. Meander through the streets once used to carry the king’s procession and be astonished by the technological developments of Europe’s first advanced civilization. The rich heritage offers countless archeological sites. And, of course, everyone knows about the Acropolis and Delphi, but there is so much more to see — continue reading to know more about these breathtaking historical and archeological sites Greece has to offer its discerning tourists.
10 The Island Of Delos
Delos, near the the island of Mykonos (which also offers various exciting tours), is perfect for a historical and archeological aficionado. Interestingly, in Greek mythology, Delos is the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, further adding to its historic and mythical allure. Plus, the serene ambiance with the backdrop of the cobalt-blue Aegean Sea makes this the perfect place to unwind as well as explore. The whole island is one big archeological site with a piece of ancient Greek history lying everywhere. Explorers can wander as they please all day long through the ruined streets and temples. However, for a fulfilling visit the following places should be visited: Terrace of the Lions, Theater at Delos, The Archeological Museum of Delos, and the house of Trident.
- Delos Archeological Museum opening hours: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm (closed on Mondays)
At the time of writing, the Delos Archeological Museum is closed for renovations. Check the museum's website for information before visiting.
9 The Theater of Dionysos in Athens
Built originally with timber and later replaced by stone, the theater of Dionysus was the birthplace of Greek drama and features the work of famous tragic poets, such as Sophocles, Aeschylus, and Euripides. The theater witnessed great plays and musical competitions and religious ceremonies. A large statue of the God Dionysus, in whose honor this was constructed, had also been placed in the front row so that the god himself can witness the plays and sacrifices to his name. Overall, this place great for enjoying a bit of peace and quiet and relish the splendor of Greek architecture.
- Theater of Dionysus opening hours: Every day from 8 am - 5 pm
8 The Acropolis of Athens
Athens has plenty of things to do and see, and the Acropolis of Athens is one of its best offerings. A must-visit for history geeks, it has all the temples and buildings that travelers wish for in one place. The term "acropolis" loosely means the "highest point", therefore, as its name suggests, this monument looks over the city since it's on a hill. The Parthenon is surely the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions Athens. The opulence of the temple can immediately be seen by the gigantic outer 46 columns and 19 inner columns. Another place to visit at the Acropolis is the Propylaea, which is the gateway to the Acropolis itself. The old temple of Athena is also a site not to be missed since it shows a statue of the goddess Athena fighting the giants, as the history of Athens tells in mythological stories.
- The Old Temple of Athena opening times: 8 am - 8 pm
7 Delphi
Greece's beautiful Delphi is another unmissable place for tourists and history lovers, as is its temple of Apollo. The temple of Apollo at Delphi is about a fifth of a mile from the entrance. Between the entrance and the sanctuary, tourists will find intricate and impressive art and statues. They were left by visitors from Greek and non-Greek cities as a tribute to Apollo. The most striking building of all is the Treasury of the Athenians, which was built with magnificent and colorful Parian marble. The ancient Greeks were real enthusiasts of plays and theater; thus, the ancient theater of Delphi is built just above the temple. It's a place where music permeated the walls as part of the Pythian games.
- Temple of Apollo opening times: 9 am - 8 pm
6 Knossos — Palace of Minoan Civilization
An Instagram-worthy place for sure, the Palace of Knossos makes everyone that visits gasp in awe at the marvelous construction. With a sprawling complex of buildings and courtyards, this palace covers the area of whopping two football fields. Knossos was the center of cultural and economic activity and quite possibly the seat of king Minos. Thus, one can expect to see things and structures that once belonged to royalty. The palace of Knossos on the island of Crete offers an insight into the advanced civilization that once existed there.
- Knossos Palace opening times: 8 am - 5 pm
5 Olympia
Best known as the birthplace of the famous Olympic Games, Olympia contains much more than meets the eye. This is because it contains many places treasured by the average archeologic nerd. Hailed as one of the best museums in Greece, the archeologic museum is a place must visit because it contains some of the most extraordinary statues of Greek mythology. Another point of interest is the ancient stadium in which most of the Olympic Games used to take place. Indeed, visitors can stroll along the very track where many great athletes fought for the champions’ title. Located in the proximity of the ancient track is the temple of Zeus. It is made of marble and limestone and historical accounts suggest that it once contained a statue made of gold of Zeus. Furthermore, head on to the place where the Olympic torch is lit a few months before the games at the temple of the goddess Hera.
- Olympia Archeological Site Museum opening times: 8:30 am - 3pm
4 Mycenae — The Center Of Mycenaean Civilization
Once known as a strong military town, Mycenae was a powerful city that influenced southern Greece in the Late Bronze Age. The military characteristics of the city could also be witnessed by its huge cyclopean walls. The name is given so because cyclops are huge one-eyed beasts and the myth goes that they built these walls. The most popular site in the city is the lion gate atop which sit two lions. The gate also makes for an Instagram-worthy photo. The archeologic museum of Mycenae is also among the most visited sites in the region primarily due to the fact that it contains artifacts excavated in the site. The treasury of Atreus, located at a small distance from the museum, is a vaulted tomb that is believed to belong to Agamemnon, the famous king of Mycenae.
- Archeologic Museum of Mycenae opening hours: 8 am - 3 pm (note that it may be closed on Tuesdays during the winter season from November to March)
3 Vergina — Tomb of Philip II Of Macedon
An hour's drive from Greece’s second city, Thessaloniki, Vergina makes for a great half-day trip full of exploring and befuddlement. The main attraction of this small city is the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Aigai. Located underground, this place contains the burial chamber of Philip II, King of Macedon and father of Alexander the Great. What more makes this a great visit is the fact that all the grave goods once belonging to the king are still present in the museum and boy are they breathtaking. The museum is also at the site of the royal tombs. Inside gold, ivory, and bronze artifacts including diadems, gold oak wreaths, and god and ivory couches are present. Moreover, the armor that was once worn by Philip II himself is also present at the site.
- Museum of the Royal Tombs of Aigai opening hours: 9 am - 5 pm (closed on Tuesdays)
2 The Sanctuary Of Asklepios At Epidaurus
Epidaurus is known for its well-kept theater and association with the god of medicine, Asklepios (whose name is also spelled "Asclepius"). The ancient theater produced marvelous acoustics and is thought of as the most preserved one in the world. Greek dramas are still performed here in summer, which are spectated by many drama enthusiasts from around the world. The sanctuary of Asklepios is also a must-see because, in the ancient times, it was the healing center and people who slept were healed through Asklepios coming in their dream. The archeologic museum is also located near the theater and contains some interesting artifacts from the site.
- Archeological site at the Sancutary of Asklepios opening hours: 8 am - 5 pm
1 Ancient Thassos
A major ancient metropolis, Thassos was known for its rich natural resources of, silver and marble. Famous philosophers including Aristotle and Plato visited this city to teach and study, so not only was this a financial but also an academic center. The archeological museum at Thassos isalso a fascinating place where bits of old history are on display such as pottery, jewelry, terracotta figurines, and more. The Limenaria Folklore Museum is another place where curious adventurers will find traditional costumes, daily use utensils, and photos. The ancient agora is located on the hill above limenas and contains a theater, odeum, and the ruins of sanctuaries and temples.
- The Archaeological Museum at Thassos opening hours: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm (closed on Tuesdays)
- Limenaria Folklore Museum opening times: daily, 7 am - 11 pm (in summer)