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Explore Greece’s top attractions with our guide to must-see places and the best times to visit. From ancient ruins to picturesque islands, discover the diverse cultural and natural wonders of Greece.
From historical ruins to beautiful beaches and delectable local cuisine, Greece has a lot to offer. These are the top 11 most beautiful sites to visit in Greece, along with the best time of year to visit each location.
1. Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis of Athens is a symbol of ancient Greek civilization, with landmarks such as the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike. The Acropolis is located on a rocky hilltop above Athens and offers breathtaking views of the city. It is also on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. To avoid crowds, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon and shoot stunning shots of this ancient citadel against the backdrop of the city.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October) offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months.
2. Santorini Caldera
The island of Santorini is located in the Mediterranean, and its caldera, an underwater volcanic crater, provides stunning views. Explore colorful communities like Fira and Oia on the cliffs above the caldera, and dine at small tavernas by the sea. The island’s nightlife is lively, and it remains a popular destination for couples and honeymooners.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May and June) or early fall (September and October), when temperatures are reasonable and crowds are smaller than during the high summer season.
3. Delphi Archaeological Site
Delphi, located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, was regarded as the navel of the earth by the Greeks and served as Apollo’s sanctuary. Explore its spooky remnants, including the Temple of Apollo, the Theatre, and the Delphi Museum, which houses artifacts such as the renowned Charioteer statue.
Best Time to Visit: The archeological site is best visited in the spring and fall, when the weather is milder and more agreeable than in the summer.
4. Meteora Monasteries
The Meteora Monasteries in central Greece, built on top of rising cliffs with breathtaking views and religious significance, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore ancient Byzantine monasteries such as Varlaam and Great Meteoron, where old frescoes and patterns are etched into stone walls.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall feature pleasant weather for hiking and fewer tourists, but summer is the peak season.
5. Mykonos Windmills and Beaches
Mykonos is known for its captivating nightlife and modern, cosmopolitan culture, as well as the appealing white windmills that crown Chora town and the equally famous sandy beaches of Paradise and Super Paradise. Walk down cobblestone lanes lined with white-washed homes with blooming bougainvillea, and unwind at beach clubs with music and beverages overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Best Time to Visit: Ideal months to visit are the end of May-June and September-October, when the weather is moderate and there are fewer tourists than in July-August.
6. Palace of Knossos, Crete
Knossos, Europe’s oldest city and the capital of the Minoan civilization, is located near Heraklion on the island of Crete. Explore the complex’s maze of ruins, which includes ceremonial chambers, royal residences, and frescoed walls depicting legendary scenes.
Best Time to Visit: With temperate temperatures, spring and early autumn are ideal times to visit archeological sites like Knossos and avoid the summer tourist hordes.
7. Rhodes Old Town
Rhodes Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site enclosed by medieval walls and rich with nearly 3,000 years of history. Explore cobblestone lanes lined with Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, and ancient landmarks like the Palace of The Grand Master. Discover the cultural mix that gave Rhodes its distinct architecture and culture.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall temperatures are more pleasant, making these months excellent for exploring Rhodes Old Town while it is not too hot or crowded.
8. Olympia Archaeological Site
Olympia, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, is home to ruins such as the Temple of Zeus, Ancient Stadium, and the Olympia Archaeological Museum. Visit in June during the International Olympic Day celebrations for a festive atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and early fall provide the finest weather in Olympia, with fewer crowds than during the warm summer months.
9. Thessaloniki Byzantine Walls and White Tower
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is noted for its rich history, with Byzantine influences seen on the walls of historic structures. View landmarks such as the White Tower and the UNESCO-listed Byzantine Walls. Experience Thessaloniki’s vibrant arts scene, seafront cafes, and diverse cuisine.
Best Time to Visit: For the best weather (May to October) and local events like the Thessaloniki International Film Festival in November, spring or fall are ideal times to visit.
10. Nafplio Old Town and Palamidi Fortress
Nafplio, a charming beach village near Epidaurus and Mycenae, boasts a rich tapestry of Venetian-styled antique houses, neoclassical mansions, and beautiful views of the Argolic Gulf. Wander the cobbled alleyways of Nafplio Old Town, with its boutique stores and tavernas; climb Palamidi Fortress for panoramic views of the town and sea.
Best Time to Visit: During the warm weather of spring and fall, which are ideal for first-time travelers interested in sightseeing and visiting surrounding attractions such as Epidaurus.
11. Corfu Old Town and Achilleion Palace
Corfu, an island in the Ionian Sea, is surrounded with olive orchards and mountains, as well as magnificent sandy beaches. Explore Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its maze-like alleyways lined with fortifications and elegant palaces. Visit Achilleion Palace, a neoclassical edifice designed by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, offering beautiful views of the Ionian Sea.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May and June) and early fall (September and October) provide mild weather without the enormous crowds that descend on Corfu during peak summer months.
Conclusion
Greece’s diverse attractions offer a blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage that captivates travelers year-round. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Acropolis in Athens, relaxing on the beaches of Santorini, or discovering the archaeological treasures of Crete and Rhodes, Greece promises a memorable journey filled with enriching experiences. Plan your visit to these must-see attractions in Greece and explore the best of what this Mediterranean paradise has to offer.
What is the best time to visit the Acropolis of Athens to avoid crowds?
The finest times to visit the Acropolis and its famous Parthenon are early in the morning or late afternoon. These hours are typically less congested than those around midday, allowing you to explore the old citadel and panoramic views of Athens without being mobbed by visitors. Both spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) provide pleasant weather, albeit with fewer visitors than the prime summer months.
When is the ideal time to visit Santorini’s Caldera for the best experience?
For the best experience at Santorini’s Caldera, the months of May and June (late spring) or September and October (early fall) are generally recommended. Temperatures are reasonable during these months, and there are fewer people than in July and August. Relax in more calm surroundings and visit the picturesque villages of Fira and Oia, photograph stunning sunsets, or dine at a traditional coastal taverna.
What are some cultural highlights to explore in Rhodes Old Town?
Rhodes Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with an exquisite patchwork of diverse civilizations that delights in cultural activities. Wander cobblestone lanes lined with Byzantine churches; view the Grand Master’s Palace, among other historic sites; and visit Ottoman mosques. Spring and fall are perfect for seeing Rhodes Old Town, with lower temperatures and less people than during peak summer months, allowing for more immersing cultural experiences.