Greece is a renowned destination for summer and winter holidays, boasting extraordinary landscapes and marvelous historical sights. Many landmarks date back to the ancient and Medieval times, combining history and natural beauty, and they are found all around the country, both in the mainland and the islands. Here are our suggestions on the most famous Greek landmarks that you should visit during your holidays in the country.
#1 Parthenon Temple, Acropolis
The most important Greek landmark is the celebrated Parthenon Temple of the Athens Acropolis, symbol of the ancient Greek civilization. Situated on top of a rocky hill, overlooking the city of Athens, Parthenon is a temple built in the 5th century BC and originally dedicated to goddess Athena. Made of Pentelic marble, this is a unique example of ancient Greek architecture.
#2 Caldera of Santorini
A natural wonder, the caldera of Santorini is one of the most famous Greek landmarks. The caldera is actually part of a submerged volcano, created by an explosion about 3500 years ago. The impressive red cliffs of the caldera are better admired from the white villages constructed along the caldera cliffs, such as Fira, Oia and Imerovigli.
#3 Windmills in Cyclades
The stunning islands of the Cyclades are characterized, among others, by their traditional windmills. The Cycladic windmills, found on beautiful hills with views to the seaside, are whitewashed cyclical buildings that were used to mill wheat in the past. Some of these windmills have been restored today. Very famous are the windmills in Mykonos.
#4 Sanctuary of Delphi
The ancient sanctuary of Delphi is one of the most famous ancient Greek landmarks. Set in marvelous green surroundings, Delphi was a religious and cultural centre of the ancient Greek world, with prominent constructions, such as the temple of Apollo, used as an oracle, the ancient theatre and the sanctuary of Athena Pronea. It is suggested to visit the site in spring, when nature is in full bloom.
#5 Myrtos beach Kefalonia
Another famous Greek landmark is the white-pebbled beach of Myrtos in Kefalonia island. Worldwide known for its impressive scenery and the exotic colour of water, Myrtos beach attracts a lot of tourists every summer. This is a partly-organized beach, surrounded by verdant hills.
#6 Ancient Olympia
Ancient Olympia, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, was built around the 6th century BC. This is actually the original site of the ancient Olympic Games, which started as athletic competitions in honor of god Zeus. The sanctuary of Olympia included many impressive buildings, including the Temple of Zeus, the Ancient Stadium, the Gymnasium and others.
#7 Medieval Town of Rhodes
Enter the magic of the Medieval world by taking a stroll around the cobbled streets of the Old Town of Rhodes. This Medieval town, constructed as a stronghold by the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem during the Venetian occupation, is an UNESCO World Heritage site and a highly romantic destination. The most important monuments, still excellently preserved, are the Palace of the Grand Master, the Old Hospital now turned into an Archaeological Museum and the Street of the Knights.
#8 Navagio Beach Zante
One of the most enchanting and famous Greek landmarks is the wonderful white sandy Navagio Beach, or else the Shipwreck Beach, in the Ionian island of Zakynthos, which took this name when a smuggler ship wrecked on its shore in 1983. This charming beach with deep blue cold waters, surrounded by high white cliffs, can be accessed by boat from various ports of the island, such as Zakynthos Town, Alykes, Porto Vromi or Schinari.
#9 Epidaurus Ancient Theatre
The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is surely among the most famous Greek landmarks. Located next to the ancient sanctuary of god Asklepius, this theatre was actually where the religious festivities and theatre performances to honor the god would take place. Today the theatre still works and hosts drama performances in summer, attracting thousands of visitors.
#10 Monasteries of Meteora
A very important monastic community and a highly spiritual destination, the monasteries of Meteora are considered among the most famous Greek landmarks, attracting thousands of tourists and pilgrims every year. Built by monks on top of gigantic rock formations, these extraordinary monasteries date back to the 14th century and host many historical treasures. Six monasteries are still in use, situated above the town of Kalambaka in Thessaly.
