Exploring the Ruins of Ancient Greece
Consider these incredible ruins on your next Greek adventure, whether you have an established interest in classical antiquity, or you're simply wondering: what is Greece famous for?
Dubbed 'the cradle of Western Civilisation', it’s little wonder there are so many awe-inspiring historic ruins in Greece.
With no fewer than 17 UNESCO-listed cultural sites, you can't travel far without coming across a ruined temple, monastery, or palace.
Indeed, in July 2024, a Greek statue was found near the Greek-Bulgarian border during the excavation of an ancient sewer. It just goes to show, in Greece, treasures of the past might be literally under your feet.
Here are 10 historical sites in Greece to add to your bucket list.
Acropolis of Athens
Perched on a vast rocky outcrop overlooking modern Athens, the 2,470-year-old Acropolis is among the most famous of Greek landmarks and is a must - even if you're just passing through on the way to a sun-washed island. The Parthenon is the most significant and famous of its buildings.
In summer, aim to visit in the early morning or evening, since the midday heat will sap your energy.
Entry costs 22 euros, or 34 for a Combo ticket, which affords access to other Athens sites.
Ancient Agora of Athens
Located northwest of the Acropolis, this 'agora' was used as a central meeting point and for markets, and is the best-known example. It's one of the most important historical sites in Greece, let alone Athens.
Entry costs 10 euros and is included in the Combo ticket mentioned above.
Olympia
Dedicated to the gods Hera and Zeus, Olympia is located on the Peloponnese peninsula and played host to the very first Olympic games.
Constructed in the 8th century BC, it includes a stadium, temples, and of course, athletic training areas.
Don’t miss the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, home to a statue of Hermes, purportedly by Praxiteles.
Entry costs 12 euros.
Meteora
Meteora is an iconic rock formation in northwest Greece, on which are built several Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Expect breathtaking views.
Regular train services run to Meteora from Athens, Thessaloniki and other key cities.
It costs 3 euros to enter each monastery.
Knossos
Knossos is a fascinating Bronze Age archaeological site located in the modern port city of Heraklion, Crete. This is where Europe's oldest civilisation, the Minoans, started out 4,000 years ago.
Entry costs 15 euros (12 euros for the museum).
Delphi
The sacred site of Delphi is a pan-Hellenic sanctuary where the oracle of Apollo spoke and was the site of the omphalos - the 'navel of the world' (the supposed centre of the world).
It is 6 hours from Athens. Entry costs 12 euros.
Acropolis of Lindos
Perched above the picturesque white-washed town bearing the same name, Lindos was a prominent trading hub in the Middle Ages.
Among the many structures are the Temple of Athena Lindia, the Castle of the Knights of St John and the remains of a theatre.
It is 50km south of Rhodes Airport. Entry costs 12 euros.
Mycenae, Peloponnese
One of Greece's most important archaeological sites, it was described by Homer as “broad-streeted” and “golden.”
The site was "discovered" in 1876 by Heinrich Schliemann, who excavated the famous Lion Gate, the citadel walls and five shaft graves.
Entry costs 20 euros for access to the site, the museum and the Treasure of Atreus.
Epidaurus, Peloponnese
Located on the east coast of Greece, Epidaurus was a key commercial centre and is best known for its 4th century BC temple of Asclepius - the god of healing.
Among the other treasures found here are a stadium, an amphitheatre, gymnasiums, a hospital and baths.
Divine medical cures were purportedly dispensed here, according to inscriptions.
Entry costs 12 euros.
Temple of Apollo, Naxos
The vast marble gate that overlooks Naxos harbour is one of the few completed elements of the Temple of Apollo. Its iconic upright and lintel were erected in the 6th century BC, but little else was added due to the sudden outbreak of war.
Today it is one the best-known Greek landmarks - among stiff competition.
The door-like ruins can be accessed via a narrow causeway and are around 10 minutes' walk from the port.
Entry costs 12 euros.
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