Must Visit Sites in Greece (with Tips)

June 2023 Written by

jessie richards greece Athens

The Acropolis. The Acropolis is one of the most well-known and most visited attractions in Athens. It is made up of many historical sites and home to many temples originally dedicated to the Greek gods. The best time to visit is early in the morning as the site opens and with a private well-informed guide. You can enjoy beautiful views of the city from all sides of the Acropolis and learn about the history of the Greek culture and of the area. If you’re lucky, you can also catch a concert or experience a cultural event at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a theater built in 161 CE at the site of the Acropolis.
The Panathenaic Stadium. This stadium is home to the modern-day Olympic Games. The stadium is a less visited attraction, but not out of the way. You can take a walk around the track (which is still in use!), pose on the winner’s pedestal, and tour the museum of the modern games. It costs only 10 euros for general admission and does not take very long so it can be done in conjunction with other tours/activities.

Mykonos

RIZES Folklore Farmstead. Step back in time to a traditional Mykonos farmstead run by a local family who still lives by the traditions and customs of old. Enjoy the traditionally decorated house, the farm animals, the lands and gardens and enjoy a meal made fresh from the resources of the farm. Learn how to make traditional bread and wine, help with the harvest, take a horseback or horse-and-carriage ride around the lands.

Santorini

Akrotiri. A Bronze Age Minoan settlement on the island of Santorini. This site was covered in volcanic ash during the 16th century and rediscovered only in the 1960’s. The settlement had been completely abandoned without a trace of the civilization who had once inhabited it and has left historians with many questions. This site is best visited with a private guide who knows the history of the area and the stories of the settlement.

The Cave of Nikolas. Located on the Red Beach in Santorini, this family-owned restaurant is a favorite of the locals and tourists alike. The little restaurant sits on the sea and was built next to a cave built by “Uncle Nikolas” that sheltered him and his little fishing boat during rough weather. Uncle Nikolas’ wife Aunt Efstathia became known locally for her “magical” sea inspired dishes.

Crete

Cretan Olive Oil Farm. Visit this farm and learn all about the process of making olive oil and cheese, the way they’ve done it for centuries. Do a pottery workshop or take a cooking class using local and farm fresh ingredients. Enjoy cultural festivals to learn all about the history and culture of Crete, the largest and most populous of the Greek islands.