Greece Attractions Top 20

In hardly any other country in Europe is the density of archaeological sites as high as in Hellas. But that’s not all: The Sights of Greece range from the mountains to the sea, from temples to dream beaches, from metropolises to picturesque islands – a trip to the southeastern tip of Europe remains unforgettable.

»The unique mixture of history, culture and modernity is present everywhere in the country and makes Greece a true open-air museum.«

But not only history fans get their money’s worth in Greece! In addition to the many ancient ruins, there are varied landscapes to discover that will delight the heart of every nature lover. The paradisiacal flair of the Aegean Sea is unparalleled and above all the typical blue and white of the Cyclades Islands is known to everyone.

Below we give an overview of the most interesting places in Greece. As a basis, we took the number of visitors to the portal Statista, as well as the number of reviews on Tripadvisor. The result is the top 20 most popular Greece Attractions.

#1 Acropolis of Athens

The highest number of visitors and the most TripAdvisor reviews is the Athens Acropolis as the most popular Greece sight. It is the symbol of the city of Athens and at the same time the symbol of democracy. Because it was in the Greek capital that Europe’s first democratic constitution was developed.

In the middle of a modern metropolis of millions, the almost 160-metre-high hill with the ancient site rises up. The first construction measures took place about 2,500 years ago. The most important buildings on the complex are the Erechtheion with the iconic statues of women, the Nike temple at the entrance and the mighty Parthenon of the Acropolis in the center. Convince yourself of this breathtaking backdrop!

Almost 5 million people visit the imposing ancient complex, the Acropolis Museum and the surrounding sites, such as Herod’s Odeon. By the way, Akropolis means something like upper city, the word Ἀκρόπολις is made up of Akro (upper or highest) and Polis (city).

#2 Athens: Historic Old Town

Anyone who visits the Acropolis of Athens will of course also take a look at the Greek capital and Athens Old Town. Greece’s largest city is particularly popular with us Germans.

After all, Germans accounted for the largest share of all visitors in 2018. The tranquil districts around the Acropolis, such as the elegant Plaka, the sleepy Anafiotika or the lively Psirri, invite you to take a stroll through the city for several hours.

The hub of the city centre is the imposing Monastiraki Square of Athens. From here you can ideally explore the old town. Countless archaeological excavation sites await holidaymakers interested in history.

The reconstructed Greek Agora (Market Square) offers a glimpse into life 2,000 years ago. Modern boutiques and numerous souvenir shops invite you to shop. The beautiful park around the Acropolis, as well as the city mountains Filopappou, Lycabettos and Pnyx are also worth a detour. Especially from Pnyx Hill, an impressive panorama of the city opens up to you.

#3 Santorini Island Caldera

One of the most popular sights in Greece has become the Santorini Island many holidaymakers don’t even stay for one night. Santorini (or Santorini) is one of the travel highlights of numerous Mediterranean cruises and is considered the picture-perfect island of Greece.

The villages of Fira and Oia with their impressive architecture, whitewashed churches and blue domes, the Postcard Motifs of Greece. Here you are truly in the blue and white paradise.

The island of Santorini actually consists only of an erupted and still active volcano. The villages are all located on the crater rim. The crater itself has sunk in and the resulting Caldera of Santorini filled by the sea.

Almost 3 million people visit Santorini every year. A proud number when you consider that the island has just 17,500 inhabitants. The same number of people reach the island every day in summer by cruise ship or plane.

This makes the small island one of the most popular islands next to Crete, Corfu and Rhodes. But of course, mass tourism also has its downsides. More and more Santorini Hotels The increasing demand for water and the increased amount of waste pose major challenges for Santorini.

Nevertheless, Santorini is and remains the epitome of the blue and white island world. The island is unique and unmistakable in its own way and has numerous Santorini Excursions invite you to go on discovery tours.

#4 Elafonisi in Crete

The Island of Crete is a world of its own and offers numerous sights. In 2018, the largest Greek island alone counted 25 million overnight stays. One of the most popular destinations on Crete is the Caribbean-style Elafonisi Beach. In principle, Elafonisi is even a small lagoon with an offshore island of the same name.

In almost every travel guide worldwide, this spot is listed as the top Sight in Crete Advertised. The paradisiacal gem is located in the very southwest of Crete. The lagoon shines in the most impressive shades of blue from afar. In addition, you can find sections of the famous pink sand of Elafonisi beach. These are small sedimentary deposits of corals and mussels.

Many tour operators mediate trips to Elafonisi (Bookable on GetYourGuide*). The beach is therefore heavily frequented in the summer months. Either you have already set off on your own in the early morning hours to Elafonisi and enjoy the view largely undisturbed. Or you can share the scenery with thousands of other holidaymakers at lunchtime.

#5 Knossos Palace in Crete

The Palace of Knossos is one of the best Highlights of Crete and is also considered the most important ancient site on the island. The Minoans, probably the first advanced civilization in Europe, built this complex 4,000 years ago. The palace itself was built as a kind of building complex and has a size of about 21,000 m². This corresponds to three football pitches. At the beginning of the 20th century, the complex was extensively reconstructed.

Particularly impressive is the north entrance, which has been restored in colour, with its massive red columns and a mural from Minoan times. It is assumed that the Mycenaeans, a tribe of the Peloponnese, which Minoans wiped out along with Knossos and many other temples.

You should also visit the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion visit. The large number of exhibits gives you a very good impression of the time and culture of the Minoans. The Minoans had an extremely strong bond with nature and were far ahead of many a successor culture. The cult of Zeus, the father of the gods, is also said to have found its origin through the Minoans.

If you are in your Crete Holidays and arrive at the palace in the morning hours and book a Knossos online ticket in advance, you can visit the complex in a much more relaxed way.

#6 Lindos Acropolis in Rhodes

One of the most impressive sights on the Greek islands is located in Rhodes. Every year, the impressive Acropolis of Lindos several hundred thousand visitors. No wonder, since the island counts Rhodes has always been one of the most popular islands in Greece.

The Acropolis of Lindos is picturesquely enthroned on a 116-meter-high rock. In the background, the turquoise blue sea sparkles and on the slope of the castle complex, the gleaming white houses tower up the slope in terraces. The scenery is unique for Rhodes, so the rush of visitors is very high, especially in summer.

#7 Navagio Bay in Zakynthos

Another popular Greece attraction is located on the island Zakynthos. The dream bay of Navagio with its striking rocks, the turquoise blue sea and the white sandy beach Shipwreck of Zakynthos surely everyone knows! It is a typical postcard motif of Greece.

The beach section can only be reached by excursion boat. Every day, masses make a pilgrimage to the smugglers’ bay. Above there is a spectacular viewpoint. But beware: steep cliffs! Navagio Bay is one of the most photographed places in Greece. The famous Zakynthos Turtles you won’t find here.

#8 Monasteries of Meteora

The Greek mainland also has many a highlight in store. The Monasteries of Meteora are among the most interesting places in Greece. The small provincial town of Kalambaka at the foot of the Meteora monasteries has two million annual visitors. It is the perfect starting point for exploring the imposing buildings between heaven and earth.

Six Meteora Monasteries you can still visit today. All of them are located on rock needles at dizzying heights, built exactly 1,000 years ago. Greece of superlatives!

#9 Little Venice in Mykonos

Along with Santorini, Mykonos is one of the most popular Cyclades islands. Most holidaymakers only come for a few days, hardly anyone stays longer than a week. Mykonos is considered to be the Party Island of Greece. The legendary nights in the bars and clubs are known worldwide.

In addition to many jet-setters from all over the world, thousands of cruise tourists reach the destination of their dreams every day: the white streets of Mykonos Town. The so-called Chora of Mykonos is one of the most striking places in Greece. Blue and white colors dominate the city. In addition, there is the unique backdrop of Little Venice.

Directly by the sea, colorful houses characterize the former Venetian quarter. Directly across the street from Little Venice, on a hill, are the iconic Windmills of Mykonos. The souvenir photo at sunset may be viewed in the Mykonos Holidays not to be missed!

#10 Old Town of Chania in Crete

The coastal city in northwestern Crete has just 54,000 inhabitants. The City of Chania is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. What makes the small town so unique is its unmistakable mix of thousands of years of history, paired with traditional architecture and the flair of a Mediterranean coastal town. The city is considered one of the oldest populated places in Europe.

Especially the old town of Chania has been able to retain its extraordinary charm and is rightly next to Kerkyra, the capital of Corfu and Rhodes Town considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. Many taverns and cafés invite you to linger comfortably.

In the cobbled alleys of the old town you will find the right souvenir for everyone and even shopping queens get their money’s worth. By the way, the Akrotiri peninsula, not far from Chania, has some of the most picturesque beaches of Crete.

#11 Rhodes: Old Town and Grand Master’s Palace

A very special sight awaits you on the island of Rhodes. Since 1988, the medieval town has belonged to Rhodes UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the best preserved city fortresses in Greece.

The old town of Rhodes is located directly on the harbour and is surrounded by a mighty fortress wall. You can even walk along it and enjoy a wonderful view of the city.

In the old buildings of the old town, taverns, cafés, bars and small shops have settled. At the highest point of the city is the Grand Master’s Palace of Rhodes, built by the Knights of the Order of St. John in the 14th century.

#12 City of Thessaloniki

The second largest city in Greece has enjoyed increasing popularity in recent years and is definitely worth a visit. The Northern Greek City of Thessaloniki is different from Athens. The Greeks like to describe their “Saloniki” as a large village where everyone knows everyone. Hard to imagine with more than 1 million inhabitants.

The modern architectural style does not necessarily evoke love at first sight. A devastating fire in 1917 completely destroyed most of the city. Only the northern part, today’s old town, was spared from the fire. Nevertheless, the metropolis has an unmistakable charm that can be experienced on a city tour through Thessaloniki wants to be discovered.

Between all the modern buildings, you’ll always find ancient remnants of the city’s almost 2,500-year-old history. Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans shaped the cityscape. Especially in the tranquil Old Town of Thessaloniki many of them are still included.

The most striking sight of the city is the White Tower at the harbor. The Λευκός Πύργο (Lefkos Pyrgos for White Tower) was built in the 15th century and was surrounded by a massive wall until 1917. The city’s harbour promenade shines with a variety of hip cafés and excellent taverns. In addition, Thessaloniki is also the starting point for a holiday on Halkidiki.

#13 Ancient Olympia

Half a million people visit one of the most famous archaeological sites in Greece every year. The facility of the first Ancient Olympic Games is located on the Peloponnese Peninsula and is about four hours from Athens.

Due to the ferry port of Katakolon in the west of the Peloponnese, Olympia has become a popular destination for cruise tourists. The extensive complex is home to numerous temples, ruins and building complexes. In addition to its function as a sporting competition arena, the Olympics were also place of worship of the god Zeus.

In the temple of Zeus, there is said to have been a 12-meter-high statue made of gold and ivory. Unfortunately, the statue is no longer in Olympia today. Historians are still arguing about the whereabouts of the colossal Zeus today. In addition to the imposing stadium for 45,000 spectators, the actual venue of the sporting activities, the neighboring Archaeological Museum is a real highlight.

The facility, which was renovated in 2003, contains a variety of exhibits of all kinds, from ancient marble statues to Bronze Age figures of Zeus. The history of the Olympic Games, as well as the structure of the entire Olympia facility are presented in great detail and informatively.

#14 Oracle of Delphi

The Oracle of Delphi is also one of the most popular Greek sights ever. Delphi was the most important divination site in ancient Greece. The place was considered the center of the world from 800 BC. From here, clairvoyant statements were made for the rulers of ancient times.

The prophecies were made by the Pythia, a priestess who has been put into a trance-like state. The partly confused statements obtained in this way were interpreted differently.

Today you will find many temples and ruins on the large complex, even a theater and a stadium have been preserved. The landmark of Delphi is the rotunda of the Temple of Athena, the so-called Tholos with its three striking columns. Even today, you can feel the mysterious aura of the place.

#15 Theatre of Epidaurus

Like Ancient Olympia, Epidaurus is located on the Peloponnese Peninsula and is one of the most visited historical sites in the country. The huge ancient venue is now considered the most famous theatre in Greece. The open-air concert hall holds over 15,000 people, and the acoustics are second to none. Even a whisper of the actors can be heard from the top row of seats.

2,000 years ago, the entire complex around the theatre was considered the most important ancient place of worship of Asclepius, the god of healing. Today, apart from the Epidaurus Theatre, you will find only a few relics from antiquity. If you have the opportunity, you should visit Epidaurus for the unique Epidaurus Festival in early August.

#16 Temple of Poseidon in Sounion

In the region of Attica, southeast of Athens, is the impressive Temple at Cape Sounion. The well-preserved marble temple was built in honour of the god of the sea Poseidon and sits impressively enthroned on the cliffs directly on the sea. The backdrop at sunset is particularly picturesque.

#17 Sarakiniko in Milos

The coast of Sarakiniko on the island of Milos shows once again how varied Greece is. Between white rocks you walk on the Sarakiniko Beach like in a lunar landscape. This unique scenery is considered a spectacular Greece highlight and has been the location of many international feature films. Milos can also be wonderfully integrated into a Western Cyclades Island Hopping.

#18 Portara of Naxos

The temple gate of Naxos is considered to be landmark of the Cyclades island and is rightly an impressive sight in Greece. The six-metre-high marble portal is located directly on the sea. The gate marks the entrance to a temple in honor of the god Apollo. The atmosphere at sunset is particularly magical.

#19 Corinth Canal

It measures exactly 6,346 meters and is 25 meters wide on average Corinth Canal. As early as ancient times, the idea of building a canal at the narrowest point on the Gulf of Corinth was born. It was not completed until 1893. Even though it is of little importance for merchant shipping today, it enjoys great popularity as a tourist attraction.

#20 Mycenae in Peloponnese

One of the most important sites in Greece is Mycenae, which is best visited in the context of a Peloponnese Tour. After all, the Mycenaean culture was the direct successor of the Minoans from Crete. The mystical place with its burial chambers, cyclopean walls and shrines is more reminiscent of Peru or Egypt than Greece.

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