Infused with mythology, Greece is the land you can visit for a fascinating trip, as it is a combination of history, art, archaeology and philosophy. Jet blue seas surround the country of Greece, thanks to its series of islands, and there are dainty white buildings that can also be found. Engaging museums, crumbling ruins and plenty of pretty coastal towns only add to the fun for visitors. Greece offers a mosaic of different landscapes and experiences to people, ranging from little villages near the sea with a slow pace of life to throbbing and vibrant cities like Athens. You will also find one of the world’s largest open-air museums here.
If you are wondering what things you should add to your Greece bucket list, below are the best things you should definitely do:
- Visit the Acropolis
The Acropolis dominates the skyline of Athens, the capital city of Greece. If you visit the country, then this is the leading attraction that you shouldn’t miss. Made from glittering marble, the complex was once the site of the famous statue of the goddess of Athens, Athena. If you have even a remote interest in ancient architecture, the spectacular temples and the Doric columns are a must-see. Likewise, there are pathways that allow you to walk at your own pace and enjoy the monument.
- Climb Mount Olympus
One of the world’s most famous mountains is Mount Olympus and it is a must-see for anyone who is a fan of Greek mythology. A trip to Litochoro will be required if you want to climb the mountain and you can trek all or part of the way to the peak, depending on your fitness levels and ability. In Greek mythology, Mount Olympus is defined as the spot where Hades ruled the underworld and where Zeus had had his throne. You can imagine the legends associated with the mountain once you have climbed up to the top.
- Explore Lake Plastira
Considered rather unusual, Lake Plastira in Greece is renowned for being blessed with a horde of natural beauty. The fact that the lake is a manmade one doesn’t make it any less impressive. Surrounding by chestnut and oak trees, the lake is a good place to go rafting or canoeing and you can also hike around the trails or go horse riding. You can have an adventure-filled day when you visit Lake Plastira, which is located in Greece’s Larditsa region.
- Check out the architecture in Santorini
Also called the island of Thira, Santorini is the haven that couples are looking to visit on their honeymoon and is also regarded as one of the most beautiful places on earth. The picture-postcard looks of the city are quite impressive, as it boasts traditional Cycladic homes gleaming white under the hot sun and are a beautiful contrast with the churches and the deep blue seas. You can walk around the island to enjoy the great architecture and there are some spectacular views because a volcanic crater has formed the landscape.
- Tour the Delphi
One of Greece’s top attractions and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delphi used to be a popular spot for pilgrimage in old times. It is located on the sides of Mount Parnassus and people would come here for paying homage to the ancient Greek god Apollo, considered the god of prophecy, light, music and healing. Followers visited Delphi to seek guidance from the Oracle and now, there is a theater, an impressive stadium, temples and beautiful ancient ruins to check out. At a distance of 180 kilometers away from Athens, Delphi is a good place to visit if you want to explore a different area of Greece.
- Take in the Samaria Gorge
Any nature-lover traveling to Greece should definitely add the Samaria Gorge to their list of places to see. Nestled on the breathtaking island of Crete, the gorge covers a distance of about 16 kilometers, while parts of it are just 4 meters wide. You can find a range of treks, but walking along the entire section would require seven hours.
- Don’t forget the Acropolis Museum
Since opening its doors in 2009, the Acropolis Museum in Athens has become one of the most popular attractions. You will be able to spot the building once you see it because it is made up of cutting-edge steel and glass and boasts some of Greece’s most famous artifacts. The Parthenon marbles and the Moschophoros, a man’s statue with a calf on his shoulders, are some of the signature pieces you will come across. The museum’s café is also well-known because it has a terrace that offers a spectacular view of the Acropolis.
- Get blown away by the Epidaurus Theater
This theater is located in the region of Argolis known as Epidaurus. It is essentially a ceremonial space that’s dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. Next to the theater, you can find the Sanctuary of Asclepius, so you can visit both these places simultaneously. Dating back to the 4th century, the theater has stone tiers where you can sit here and imagine watching a performance hundreds of years ago.
- Explore the monasteries of Meteora
The monasteries of Meteora are quite well-known because they are perched on top of towering rock formations. There are Eastern Orthodox monks living in the area and the invasion of the Turkish army had pushed them to flee to Meteora. You will find a total of 6 monasteries, although there would have been more than 20 at one point, due to which it is regarded as one of Greece’s most religious sites. There are monolithic pillars and ancient boulders that crowd Meteora due to which it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will come to know that the rock landscapes are one of the most beautiful and haunting landscapes that you can find all across Europe.
The Hephaestus Temple, Melissani Cave, Corinth Canal and Mount Athos are some of the other places to explore as well.
