Best Monuments in Greece

Acropolis, the most famous landmark of entire Greece, is the eternal symbol of democracy, education and inspiration. It is an ancient fortified town dating back to the bronze age. Acropolis, the hill, consists of 21 major archaeological remains. Parthenon is in the centre of Acropolis and is the main attraction here.

Located on a small island in the town of Nafplio, Bourtzi Castle was built in the 15th century to protect the harbour and the town from attack. It is home to a museum with ancient artefacts passing strong scents of history. Over the years, it has been used in many ways, like the first prison, the executioner's residence, and a hotel. The castle can be reached by boat or foot when the tide is low.

The Arch of Hadrian, most commonly known as Hadrian's gate, is a marble structure resembling a Roman Triumphal Arch. Constructed in 131 AD, the monument was erected to honor the Roman Emperor Hadrian for his numerous contributions to the city. Situated near the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the arch serves as a symbolic gateway between the old city of Athens and the new quarter that Hadrian developed.

The Temple of Athena Nike is an ancient Ionic Greek temple dedicated to the Greek Gods, Athena and Nike. It is situated on the southwest bastion of the Acropolis in Athens, Greece. It is a small yet impressive structure standing 7m high on the southwest corner of the Acropolis.

In the glistening Aegean Sea, close to Mykonos, sits the tiny, uninhabited island of Delos. It is the perfect day trip from Mykonos, just across the water. Unfortunately, only round-trip ferries from a nearby island can access the site (Mykonos, Paros or Naxos). In addition, there is no lodging available on the island.

The Bronze Age Citadel of Mycenae, located in the Argolid region of the northeastern Peloponnese, is one of Greece's most significant archaeological sites. The architecture of Mycenae is characterized by its impressive fortifications, known as Cyclopean walls. These walls, some of which are up to 12 meters thick, encircle the citadel, reflecting the Mycenaeans' advanced engineering skills.

The Ancient Agora is a well-known archaeological site located at the northwest foot of the Acropolis in Greece. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and the Bouleuterion, gaining insight into the daily life of ancient Greeks. The site is particularly famous for being the birthplace of democracy. There is also a museum onsite, displaying various artifacts.

Known For : Temple of Zeus Temple of Hera Ancient Stadium of Olympia

Olympia, located in the western Peloponnese, is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is about 250 to 300 km from Athens. Olympia is famous as the place where the Olympic games started. These games were held every four year as celebrations for Zeus.

Best Time: April to June and September to October

14 Olympia Attractions

The Erechtheion is an ancient Greek temple. It is located inside the north side of the Acropolis, overlooking the city. The temple is positioned near the Propylaea, the monumental entrance to the Acropolis, and it stands adjacent to the famous Parthenon. Its distinctive building has large columns are statues depicting women.

The Parthenon, an iconic symbol of ancient Greek architecture, is located atop the Acropolis in Athens. Positioned at the highest point of this ancient citadel, the Parthenon dominates the skyline of the city. It sits majestically on the Acropolis plateau, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Athens below.

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is a well-preserved ancient theater located in the Peloponnese region of Greece, near the town of Ligourio. It is located about 30 km away from Naflio and on a 2-hour drive from Athens.  It is part of the larger archaeological site of the Sanctuary of Asclepius, a famous healing center in the classical world.

Renowned as Europe's oldest city, Knossos is located near Heraklion. It is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site with impressive ruins, colorful frescoes, and a glimpse into the Minoan civilization that flourished here over 3,500 years ago. It is easily accessible through public buses that leave every 15 minutes from Old Town Heraklion during the summer. Free parking service is also available.

The temple or columns of Olympian Zeus is a ruined temple in the centre of Athens which was dedicated to Zeus, King of Olympian gods. The temple is situated close to Syngtama square. Fifteen columns remain standing today, and the sixteenth column lies on the ground. As the site is still under construction, there might not be a lot to explore.

Delphi is a town, and a UNESCO recognised world heritage site in Greece. This archaeological marvel is perched on Mount Parnassus and offers stunning vistas of the Greek land. Delphi is also known as the 'navel of Earth' as, according to Greek mythology, it was considered the center of the world, marked by the Omphalos, a symbolic navel stone. 

Best Time: April to October

The Rotunda of Galerius, also known as the Rotunda of Saint George, is one of the oldest structures in Thessaloniki and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located just north of the intersection of two main axes of the city - Egnatia and Dimitriou Gounari streets - where the Arch of Galerius stands. It closely resembles the Pantheon in Rome, with 6-metre-thick walls and a 30-metre-high brick dome with an oculus in the middle.