Have you ever wanted to visit Greece? Many of us have, but once you are there, where do you go and what do you do? Here is a list of 10 of the best places to visit in Greece. Whether you are a beach relaxer, history buff, or just an avid traveler it has it all.
1. Athens
The birthplace of western civilization and democracy. Few cities can compare to the amount of history as Athens has. Filled with archeological ruins and monuments, Athens is a must-see for any traveler. From the Temple of Zeus, the Parthenon, to the theatre of Dionysos, there are plenty of sites to see in Athens alone dating back thousands of years!
2. Santorini
Santorini is one of the most well-known places in Greece and for good reason. The turquoise waters contrast with the whitewashed houses in the most picturesque of ways. One can explore a plethora of beaches as well as volcanic ruins on the island. Once you visit, you too will understand why it is so world-renowned.
3. Delphi
Located in the majestic mountains in Greece, Delphi is home to many ancient ruins. Once revered to be the center of the Earth by the ancient Greeks, it became a sacred place for them. Delphi is home to the Temple of Apollo, Stoa of the Athenians, the Athenian Treasury, numerous Athletic statues, among many other ruins.
4. Meteora
In Greek, Meteora means, “Suspended in the air” which perfectly describes Meteora. It is one of the most unique places to visit, not only in Greece, but in all of Europe as a whole. On these cliffs are many monasteries dating back hundreds of years where religious folk would go to seek isolation to be able to focus on spiritual revelations.
5. Crete
The largest of the Greek Islands and is home to beautiful coastlines, rugged mountains, and rolling hills. Crete was home to the Minoan people who ruled the region over 5000 years ago. As one can imagine, there are many ruins of the Minoans including the ruins of Knossos. There is fine pottery, amazing mosaics, and even the hall of the kings where the myth of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth took place.
6. Olympia
The birthplace of the Olympic games. Located on the peninsula Peloponnese, the southern region of Greece, Olympia still is a major attraction with many things to explore. One can still see many ancient ruins, that were dedicated to Zeus, like the stadium and training grounds for the Olympians as well as monuments and temples.
7. Nafplio
Once the Capital of Greece, Nafplio is a beautiful seaport town with a lot marks of many different cultures throughout the years. Known for its spectacular gulfs and beaches, one can understand why it is named after the son of Poseiden, the God of Sea. Throughout the years, many different empires came and went, such as the Byzantine, Frankish, Venetian, and Ottoman empires. The city was an important part of Greece for all these empires and have affected the city each in their own way. Today, the city is made up of many of the Athens Elite with amazing restaurants. The architecture is terrific with citadels and fortresses along the hillside, you can see why the elite would want to live there.
8. Rhodes
The Island of Rhodes is just southwest of the coast of Turkey. With many quaint towns, relaxing beaches and interesting history it has it all for a chill, exquisite trip. It is home to the Palace if the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, a Gothic castle that will bring you back to the medieval times. It was also home to the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, although it, unfortunately, came down in an earthquake, but one can still learn about it in museums there.
9. Zakynthos
Zakynthos is home to some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean. The beaches are charming with the turquoise water, white sand, and chalky cliffs. It is also home to Navagio Beach, more commonly known as Shipwreck or Smugglers Cove, one of the most popular and elegant beaches there are. Not only special for its beauty, but also its history. Zakynthos is mentioned in the Iliad and the Odyssey for you book lovers out there. Also during World War II the Mayor of Zakynthos refused orders from the Nazis causing every Jew that lived on the island survived the holocaust. If that is not enough, it is also known as one of the best nightlifes in Greece with many lively parties.
10. Melissani Cave
The Melissani Cave is located on the Island of Kefalonia. It is a magnificent underground lake with deep blue water being surrounded by trees and forests. It is filled with a rich history of Greek Mythology being home to the Nymphs. The beauty thereof is still mythical in nature.
Post written by Eric Walton