Greece is known for its natural beauty and fascinating history. Ancient archaeological sites, countless islands, sandy beaches, and a swampy Mediterranean climate make Greece one of Europe’s top tourist destinations. Besides the capital, Athens, the top things to see on the mainland include ancient Delphi and the monasteries of Meteora. But most people come here to catch a ferry to the islands. Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Corfu, and Crete are the most popular.
So, even though this list should be much longer, here are the top 10 attractions in Greece:
1. The Acropolis, Athens
Considered the symbol of Athens and Greece, and indeed of Western civilization, the Acropolis is a rocky peak that rises in the heart of modern Athens and houses three magnificent temples dating back to the 5th century BC. The best known and most characteristic is the Parthenon, an iconic symbol of Athenian democracy, originally consisting of 58 columns supporting a roof and decorated by elaborate pediments and a frieze. The so-called Archaeological Field is a two-and-a-half-kilometer-long pedestrian street that borders the foot of the Acropolis and connects it with the other ancient sights of the city—the Ancient Agora, the Roman Forum, Kerameikos, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus—a tapestry of history beneath your feet.
2. Acropolis Museum, Athens
The Acropolis Museum opened in 2009 and is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Athens. Designed by Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi, it is a state-of-the-art glass and steel structure with light and airy exhibition spaces, built specifically to display ancient finds from the Acropolis. Top things to see here include the 6th century BC Calf (a statue of a young man carrying a calf on his shoulders), Caryatides (sculptures of female figures holding the Erechtheion), and the highly controversial Parthenon Marbles. From the cafe-restaurant terrace of the museum, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Acropolis itself. A modern marvel, the Acropolis Museum serves as a beacon to showcase the treasures of the past.
3. Santorini
Santorini’s allure is woven into its geological drama and Cycladic charm. The most dramatic of all the Greek islands, Santorini is known for the rock towns of Fira and Oia, located on the west coast, overlooking the deep blue, caldera-filled sea. Consisting of typical Cycladic whitewashed cubic buildings, many of which have been converted into boutique hotels with infinity pools, Fira and Oia are considered romantic destinations, popular for weddings and honeymoons. Things to do include sunbathing and swimming on the black volcanic sand beaches on the south and east coasts, and visiting the archaeological site of Akrotiri, an ancient Minoan settlement that was buried under lava after the volcanic eruption that created the caldera, about 3,600 years ago. The island has an airport and is served by ferries and catamarans from the port of Athens, Piraeus.
4. Mykonos
Mykonos emerges as the embodiment of chic elegance. As the sun sets, the island transforms into a haven of cosmopolitan nightlife. Mykonos Town, characterized by upscale boutique hotels and seafood establishments, comes alive with live music venues. Amidst this sophistication, the iconic Paraportiani church stands as a testament to the island’s history. Along the southern coast, sandy beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, inviting relaxation and exploration alike. The island is particularly popular with international celebrities. Mykonos has an airport and is connected by boat and catamaran to the ports of Athens, Piraeus, and Rafina.
5. Delphi
On the Greek mainland, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built on the lower slopes of Parnassus, overlooking a dramatic ravine, the site was sacred to the ancients, who came here on pilgrimages to worship Apollo (god of light, prophecy, music, and healing) and seek advice from the mythical Oracle. Temples, a theater, and a stadium echo with the whispers of ages long past. Adjacent, the Delphi Archaeological Museum preserves the artifacts and stories of this storied place, painting vivid portraits of the civilizations that once flourished here. Delphi stands as a bridge to the divine and a repository of wisdom. It is located 180 kilometers northwest of Athens.
6. Meteora
The monasteries of Meteora defy nature’s logic, perched precariously atop towering rocks. These monastic enclaves, recognized by UNESCO, beckon intrepid souls to ascend stone-carved staircases and enter realms of spiritual contemplation. Six of the listed monasteries are open to the public. You have to climb several flights of stone steps carved into the rocks to reach each monastery, and inside you’ll find flickering candles, religious icons, Byzantine frescoes, and burning incense. Opening hours vary, and to see all six monasteries, you need to spend at least a day in the area. The nearest town is Kalambaka .
7. Rhodes
Located in the Aegean, near Turkey, Rhodes is the largest island of the Dodecanese. Its capital, the UNESCO-listed city of Rhodes, is one of Greece’s top tourist destinations. It is surrounded by an impressive system of fortifications, including monumental towers and gates built by the Knights of St. John after they took control of the island in the 14th century. The cobbled streets of the old town are a joy to explore on foot. Nearby attractions include the beautiful seaside town of Lindos. Rhodes is served by an airport, as well as regular ferry services from the port of Athens, Piraeus.
8. Corfu
In the Ionian Sea, off the west coast of mainland Greece, Corfu is one of the country’s busiest island destinations. The capital, Corfu Town, is a canvas where Venetian influences merge seamlessly with Greek character. Explore the romantic pedestrian streets only to discover two 16th-century fortresses, as well as arcaded Liston, full of old-fashioned cafes. Corfu is served by an airport and by Igoumenitsa and Patras on mainland Greece. In the summer, we also stop here with ships from Ancona and Venice.
9. Samaria Gorge
Nature’s grandeur takes center stage in Crete’s Samaria Gorge. On the island of Crete, the Samaria Gorge is a top attraction for lovers of the great outdoors. Measuring 16 kilometers long and, at its narrowest point, only four meters wide, it stretches from Omalos (1,250 meters) in the White Mountains to Agia Roumeli. Depending on your fitness level, it will take 5-7 hours to walk. It is steep in places and rocky, so you should wear good walking shoes and have plenty of water. The gorge is located inside Samaria National Park. During the summer, guided tours are organized from Chania and Rethymno.
10. Nafplio
Often referred to as the most beautiful city in Greece, Nafplio is a popular destination for Athenians. Built on a small peninsula on the east coast of the Peloponnese, it became the first capital of modern Greece in 1828, before being taken over by Athens in 1834. The car-free old town is filled with neoclassical mansions and proud churches and is overlooked by the 18th-century Palamidi Fortress. Nearby attractions include Tiryns, the Theater of Epidaurus, and Ancient Corinth.
In essence, Greece weaves a tale of contrasts and harmonies—ancient relics coexisting with modern elegance, tranquil beaches juxtaposed against bustling streets. The top 10 attractions encompass the very essence of this enchanting country, offering an invitation to traverse the tapestry of Greece’s past, present, and future.