Forever etched in history as the Cradle of Western Civilization, the captivating country of Greece is beloved for so many things. Not only is it the birthplace of pillars of civilization such as democracy, philosophy, literature, and many more, but it is also steeped in rich history, fascinating mythology, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the mysterious ancient ruins of Athens to the idyllic islands of the Aegean Sea, tours to Greece are bound to be an unforgettable journey filled to the brim with the wonders of ancient culture and nature’s beauty.
If it is your first time visiting Greece and you are not sure where to start exploring, this guide will help you identify the best places to learn about Greek culture and be in awe of its stunning landscapes.
Acropolis: The Citadel Perched on a Hill
Most Greek adventures start with the historically rich metropolis of Athens, a city where the fascinating relics of the distant past seamlessly integrate with the charms of the modern world. In particular, the Acropolis is a vibrant hub of art, cuisine, and contemporary life—perched high above the rocky outcrop overlooking the city of Athens. It is among the most iconic and historically significant archaeological sites in the world. Here, you will get to see the majestic architecture of the famed Parthenon, which remains to be the symbol of classical Greek architectural ingenuity. As you explore this ancient citadel, you will also see the monumental gateway Propylaea, the ancient theater called Odeon of Herodes Atticus, as well as various temples such as the Temple of Erechtheion dedicated to Athena and Poseidon, and the Temple of Athena Nike devoted to the goddess of victory. Truly, the Acropolis is a must-visit destination for tourists who fancy exploring the roots of Western civilization.
Plaka: A Glimpse of the Ancient Athens
There is nothing more relaxing than strolling through the charming neighborhood of Plaka, where the winding cobblestone streets, neoclassical buildings, traditional Greek architecture, and quaint cafes create an atmosphere reminiscent of ancient Athens. Plaka is located just beneath the Acropolis, and it is one of the oldest and most picturesque areas in Athens. When you’re done exploring the neighborhood by foot, you can visit nearby museums such as the Acropolis Museum, Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments, and the Jewish Museum of Greece, where you can deepen your understanding of the city's fascinating history. There are also shopping districts where you can buy interesting trinkets, jewelry, handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. They also sell unique, locally-made items and gifts that best reflect Greek culture and craftsmanship.
Santorini: The Crowning Glory of the Cyclades
No trip to Greece will ever be complete without visiting the famous picturesque white-washed buildings with blue-domed churches of Santorini. This jewel of the Cyclades is just a short ferry ride from Athens, and tourists flock here to witness its stunning fiery sunsets. The best place to watch these mesmerizing sunsets is along the cliffside vistas, where the setting sun casts a warm ochre glow on the whitewashed buildings.
Once the sun has set on the horizon, you can explore the picturesque cliffside villages of Oia and Fira, where the narrow cobblestoned streets lead to incredible panoramic views of the caldera, the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, and the neighboring islands. Also, don't miss the curious experience of relaxing on Santorini’s unique black sand beaches. Finally, take the time to savor local cuisine, such as fresh seafood and crisp Assyrtiko wine, at a cliffside restaurant or waterfront taverna for a truly enchanting experience.
Delphi: The Oracle’s Sanctuary
Don’t miss the chance to venture into Delphi, a sacred ancient sanctuary where the Oracle of Delphi once foretold the future for those who sought it. Interestingly, it was once considered to be the center of the world in ancient Greece. Nowadays, this well-preserved archaeological site is flocked by tourists to take in the stunning views of the Parnassus Mountains. Aside from that, you can also explore the well-preserved ruins of the Temple of Apollo.
Olympia: The Birthplace of the Olympic Games
Olympia is the cradle and place of origin of the Olympic Games. Take the time to visit this tourist spot, and you will get to stand where the greatest athletes of ancient times once competed. Apart from the stadiums that hosted these once-revered sporting events, you can also explore the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and that of Hera, where they light the Olympic flame for the modern-day Olympics.
Meteora: The Monasteries in the Sky
The stunning Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers surreal panoramic views of the landscape of towering rock formations crowned by monasteries. The hike to climb these holy retreats perched high above the ground is no easy feat but is truly worth all the effort because it means that you will get to admire the captivating views of the Thessaly Plain.
Zakynthos: The Secluded Caves and Shipwreck Beach
If you want to drink in the sight of unspoiled natural beauty, head straight to Zakynthos, whose mesmerizing Blue Caves, azure waters, and stunning beach lure tourists from all over the world. To get here, you would have to take a boat tour to the famous Navagio Beach, where you can appreciate the remains of a shipwreck that lies stranded on the shores of its turquoise waters.
Embrace the Essence of Greece
Greece is a country that amalgamates the charms of both the bygone and modern times. Its ancient ruins whisper stories of Gods, heroes, and mythical events, whereas the vibrant culture, scrumptious cuisine, and mesmerizing landscapes enchant the senses. No matter what type of tourist you are, you will find that Greece embodies a captivating blend of culture and beauty.
