Temples built for gods. Monasteries clinging to cliffs. Plates piled high with feta. Greece is a wonder to explore, a living museum of western civilization where myths meet marble.
The glorious sun-drenched nation has 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, more than most countries twice its size could ask for. And its famous landmarks are varied, shaped by different empires or by Mother Nature herself. Follow in the footsteps of philosophers, Olympians and monks as you explore ancient ruins, postcard islands, and nature reserves.
We’ve done the research and compiled this list of the 15 famous landmarks in Greece you need to visit. So put the textbook away and join one of Trafalgar’s trips to Greece and see them for yourself.
1. Acropolis of Athens
The crown jewel of ancient Greece, the Acropolis of Athens is a symbol of Greek civilization and democracy. Perched on a rocky hill above the city, the UNESCO World Heritage relic was primarily a sacred site dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war. It’s a must-see when visiting Greece, and within the Acropolis complex you’ll find other famous landmarks including architectural masterpieces like the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
The Acropolis was built during Athens’ Golden Age in the 5th century BCE, and it served religious, political, and cultural purposes. It now attracts millions of visitors each year, so arrive expecting crowds – worth it to walk among the ruins of a place that shaped history and philosophy.
While in Athens, don’t miss the Ancient Agora, the heart of Athenian public life and democracy, then visit the National Archaeological Museum to deepen your understanding of Greek artifacts. If you have time, take the funicular up Mount Lycabettus, and explore the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
READ NEXT: 9 fascinating facts about the Acropolis of Athens
2. Santorini
You could argue Santorini is Greece’s most photographed spot. The Greek island is famous for its stunning whitewashed villages like Oia, with houses perched dramatically, cascading down volcanic cliffs with views over the deep blue caldera. The famous blue-domed churches of Oia are a postcard image famous worldwide, and the sunsets here are unreal.
But Santorini has ancient secrets too – visit the Akrotiri archaeological site, a remarkably preserved Minoan settlement buried by a volcanic eruption around 1600 BCE. Explore the well-preserved ruins to learn about prehistoric Aegean life.
3. Meteora
One of Greece’s most extraordinary sights, the gravity-defying Meteora Monasteries are set atop towering sandstone pillars that appear to almost touch the sky. You’ll find them in Thessaly, in northwestern Greece, where these spiritual Eastern Orthodox complexes were built as a place to retreat to during times of invasion.
Some 24 monasteries were built, beginning in the 11th century, and six remain open today, accessible via winding paths and staircases carved into the rock. Beyond religious significance, Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its unique geology, stunning panoramic views, and remarkable blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity.
4. Sanctuary of Delphi
Delphi was once the center of the ancient world. Here, on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the Greeks sought guidance from the oracle of Apollo. Pilgrims traveled from all over to consult the Pythia, the priestess who delivered cryptic prophecies.
Delphi’s sacred sanctuary houses the Temple of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians, and the ancient theater. Visit to explore well-preserved ruins, contemplate Greek mythology andhistory, and enjoy the gorgeous mountain setting.
5. Knossos Palace, Crete
This legendary Minoan palace is tied to the myths of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth. Knossos Palace is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on the island of Crete, dating back to around 1900 BCE. The palace itself features intricate frescoes, advanced plumbing systems, and sprawling courtyards, impressive for the time.
While on Crete you can also visit Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest and most dramatic canyons. The natural site offers a fantastic 16-kilometer (10 mile) hike through Crete’s rugged White Mountains and ends at the Libyan Sea.
6. Ancient Olympia
Set on Greece’s Peloponnese peninsula, Olympia is – would you believe – the site of the original Olympic Games. The world-famous sporting event was founded in the 8th century B.C. In Ancient Olympia you can explore extensive ruins, including athletic training facilities andd a stadium. There are also temples dedicated to the gods Hera and Zeus.
Every four years athletes from across the Greek world would gather to compete in honor of the gods (of course). Explore the ruins of the archaeological site of Olympia, then visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia to learn more.
7. Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion
On a day trip from Athens you can visit the dramatic ruins of the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. It stands tall at the edge of a cliff, overlooking the Aegean Sea. Built in the 5th century BCE, the temple was dedicated to Poseidon, god of the sea, and served as a landmark for ancient sailors.
Its marble columns, some still standing, create a dramatic silhouette against the sky – especially at sunset. Time your visit to catch the final moments of the day.
READ NEXT: Seeking Out the Ancient Temples of Greece
8. Mycenae
It’s quite unbelievable how much history there is to explore in Greece. Mycenae was once a powerful Bronze Age citadel and the seat of King Agamemnon, leader of the Greeks in the Trojan War. The archaeological site is located near Mykines in north-eastern Peloponnese.
The city flourishing between 1600 and 1100 BCE, playing an important role in early Greek civilization. Today you can explore its massive Cyclopean walls, the iconic Lion Gate, and royal shaft graves filled with treasures.
9. Palace of the Grand Master, Rhodes
Rhodes has one of the best-preserved medieva old towns in Europe, enclosed by massive stone walls and fortified gates. At its heart stands the Palace of the Grand Master, a 14th-century fortress built by the Knights of St. John. Originally a Byzantine citadel, the palace became the administrative center of the knights and later a royal residence.
Sped a day explore the Gothic architecture, cobbled streets, and labyrinthine alleys of the Old Town of Rhodes and the palace. Look for medieval, Ottoman, and Italian influences that tells the island’s complex, layered history. While on Rhodes, you also have to visit the Lindos Acropolis, which dates back to the 10th century BC.
10. Epidaurus Theatre
The Theatre of Epidaurus is one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world. Built in the 4th century BCE, it’s renowned for its perfect acoustics and harmonious proportions, and it could seat up to 14,000 spectators. What’s curious is that even from the highest seats you can hear a whisper on the stage – the ancient Greeks were masters of sound engineering!
The UNESCO World Heritage still hosts performances today, so look for shows on during your travels – or visit the site during the day.
11. Delos Island
According to Greek mythology, Delos was the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis. The whole island is a sacred site, and you can explore the open-air museum and remarkably preserved ruins of one of the most famous landmarks in Greece on a day trip from nearby Mykonos.
On Delos you’ll find temples, marketplaces, mosaicked houses, and the famous Terrace of the Lions. The island is completely uninhabited and protected. It means once you step off that ferry you’ll enter an ancient city frozen in time.
READ NEXT: Our guide to Greece: everything you need to know
12.Shipwreck Beach, Zakynthos
Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is one of Greece’s most famous and photographed coastal sites. Located on the island of Zakynthos, and set between towering limestone cliffs, Shipwreck Beach is famous for the rusting remains of the MV Panagiotis, a smuggler ship that ran aground in the 1980s.
The beach is only accessible only by boat, though the views are best from the cliffs above. Travelers flock here to see the dramatic beauty of the turquoise waters, white pebbled shore, and cliffside setting that make it one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
13. Mount Olympus
The highest mountain in Greece is Mount Olympus, which standsd tall at 2,917 meters (9,570 feet). Ancient mythology says this peak, which towers over the Aegean coast in Thessaly in northern Greece, is the home of the twelve Olympian gods.
Today, it’s a national park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity, alpine meadows, and rugged trails. Hiking to its highest peak – Mytikas – is a popular challenge for adventurers and mythology lovers.
14. Thessaloniki’s White Tower
The most famous landmark in Greece’s second city is the White Tower. Set on the waterfront, it was built in the 15th century by the Ottomans as a defensive stronghold. Later it would become a prison, and then a garrison.
Once known as the “tower of blood” or “red tower”, the name changed to cleanse its grim history in the late 19th century. Today you’ll find a museum inside the White Tower of Thessaloniki, sharing stories of Thessaloniki’s history. You can climb to the top for panoramic views of the Thermaic Gulf. While in the city, you also have to see the Arch of Galerius, constructed by Roman Emperor Galerius to celebrate victory against the Persians.
15. Mykonos
Mykonos is one of the most popular islands in Greece, where whitewashed lanes twist through the towns and every corner has a napping cat. It’s an island famous for its windmills and the colorful waterfront of Little Venice. Both are famous landmarks in Greece sought out by photographers.
Enjoy a long lunch in Little Venice, sitting on a terrace admiring the colorful houses close to the sea. After, venture off to see the famous Mykonos windmills. The mills date back to the 16th century when they were used to grind grain powered by the strong northern winds. Another must-see nearby is the Church of Panagia Paraportiani, a unique chapel with an unusual asymmetrical shape.
While Mykonos hums with history, is really comes alive by night. The island is famous for its party scene, so come ready to dance ’til dawn.
READ NEXT: Discover the best of Greece
FAQs about famous landmarks in Greece:
What is the oldest landmark in Greece?
The Palace of Knossos on the island of Crete is considered the oldest landmark in Greece. The palace dates back around 1900 BC and it was the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization. It predates the classical ruins of mainland Greece by centuries!
What was the Acropolis in Greece used for?
The Acropolis of Athens is one of the most famous landmarks in Greece and it was primarily a sacred site, dedicated to Athena, the city’s patron goddess. It served as a religious center, housing temples like the Parthenon. Over time, it also played military and civic roles – as a refuge during attacks, a treasury, and even a symbol of democratic power.
When was the Parthenon in Greece built?
The Parthenon was constructed during the height of Athens’ Golden Age, between 447 and 432 BCE. The temple embodies the peak of classical Greek art and architecture – and it still influences architecture worldwide over two millennia later.
How tall is Mount Olympus?
Mount Olympus is the tallest mountain in Greece at 2,917 meters (9,570 feet. In ancient mythology, it was believed to be the home of the twelve Olympian gods. Today, it’s a national park and biosphere reserve.
How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites are there in Greece?
According to the official website, Greece has 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include ancient ruins like the Acropolis and Delphi, Byzantine monasteries, and unique landscapes such as Meteora.
That’s our list of the most famous landmarks in Greece. Anywhere else we should add? Leave a comment…