Greece's Best Places to Visit and Explore

1. Athens

Athens is one of the top places to visit in Greece, and for good reason. As the capital city, Athens is ripe with adventure and unique experiences that blend ancient history with modern culture. Below is a brief guide on Athens:

• Acropolis: One of Athens’ most iconic landmarks is the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the Parthenon, which is one of the most famous Greek temples and is dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena. Here, visitors can admire Erechtheion and its Caryatid Porch and the Temple of Athena Nike, which boasts expansive views of the city.
• Ancient Agora: Another stop on your Athens tour to visit and explore is the Ancient Agora, which sits in the heart of the city where Socrates once roamed the streets. Here, you can discover the well-preserved architecture of the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved Doric temples in Greece.
• Mount Lycabettus: For those looking for the best views of the city, embark on an urban bike ride to the top of Mount Lycabettus, the highest point in the city, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the Acropolis, Aegean Sea and beyond.
• Panathenaic Stadium: Discover the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games at the Panathenaic Stadium, known as Kallimarmaro. The first modern Olympics were held there in 1896.

2. Santorini

One of the best places in Greece to visit for those looking for rest and relaxation is a stay in Santorini. This Greek island in the Aegean Sea is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, stunning beauty and romantic ambiance. While exploring this island, you can take in the sights of its striking cliffs, pristine beaches and whitewashed villages perched atop caldera cliffs. Below are some of the key highlights that make Santorini one of the most unique places to visit in Greece:

• Beaches: Santorini is most famous for its world-class beaches, formed by volcanoes thousands of years ago. Ref Beach boasts striking red cliffs and dark sands, making it a must for those looking for dramatic scenery. You can also visit other popular beaches like Black Beach of Kamari or the White Beach, which is only accessible by boat.
• Villages: There are numerous picturesque villages throughout Santorini that are perfect for discovering hidden gems, charming cafes and lovely boutiques where you can buy souvenirs to take home. Marvel at the blue-domed churches and cobblestone streets in villages like Oia, Fira and Pyrgos.
• Ancient sites: Santorini is also known for being home to several ancient sites, perfect for history lovers and those looking to discover the origins of Greek life. Visitors can delve into history at archaeological sites like Akrotiri, which suffered a similar fate to Pompeii, as well as ancient ruins and frescoes that offer insights into the island’s ancient civilization.

3. Crete

When planning tours of Greece, a must-see destination is the island of Crete, which is one of the best places to visit in Greece for many reasons. This island boasts dramatic landscapes due to its incredibly diverse terrain, encompassing mountains, valleys and fertile plains. From the Samaria Gorge to the White Mountains and the Lasithi Plateau, these are some of the top natural wonders found on the island.

Along with its striking natural beauty, Crete has numerous charming towns and villages, each known for their unique character. Explore the narrow streets of Chania’s Old Town, known for its Venetian and Ottoman architecture, or wander through traditional villages like Anogia and Margarites, where you can explore their artisanal crafts and immerse yourself in their local hospitality.

Lastly, enjoy culinary delights that reflect the rich agricultural heritage of the island that play on Mediterranean influences. Traditional dishes like dakos, moussaka and kalitsounia incorporate local delicacies like olive oil, cheeses and other ingredients.

4. Delphi

Located in central Greece on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi is an often overlooked destination but is a must-see on our list of the top places to visit in Greece. As an ancient archaeological site and one of the most significant religious and cultural centers in ancient Greece, there’s a lot to discover during a stay in Delphi.

• Oracle of Delphi: Delphi was the home of the famous Oracle of Apollo, a priestess named Pythis who delivered prophetic messages from the god Apollo. Ancient Greeks considered Delphi to be the center of the world, and many pilgrims across the Mediterranean ventured to the Oracle to receive guidance on everything from war to personal affairs.
• Temple of Apollo: As you enter the heart of Delphi, you’ll find the magnificent Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle conducted her ceremonies. While the temple lies in ruins today, visitors can still view remnants of its Doric columns and once-grand architecture that evoke a sense of awe and curiosity.
• Ancient Theater: Delphi is also home to one of the best-preserved ancient theaters that once hosted dramatic performances, religious ceremonies and musical contests. The Ancient Theater is carved into the mountainside and offers exceptional views of the surrounding landscape.

Explore the Best Places to Visit in Greece With Road Scholar

Athens, Santorini, Crete and Delphi are just some of the top places to visit in Greece. At Road Scholar, we have an expansive collection of expert-led Mediterranean tours that allow you to discover the ancient history and cultural heritage of areas like Greece and beyond. Find the best trips to Greece today.