Top 10 Places to Visit in Greece
Hadrian’s Library, Santorini’s sunrise, Epidaurus’ theatre, and Delphi’s stadium — moments stitched together from my Greek adventure.
Greece stole my heart with its mix of mythology, ruins, stunning coastlines, and mountain villages. I spent weeks traveling through ancient sites, islands, and historic towns — and I’m still dreaming of returning to see more. Here are my top 10 places:
1. Athens 🏛️ 🌟 Did This
The capital is the heart of Greece, where ancient history blends with modern energy. I climbed up to the Acropolis to see the Parthenon and wandered the Ancient Agora where philosophers once taught. Beyond the ruins, Athens buzzes with street musicians, bustling markets, and tavernas serving souvlaki late into the night.
💡 JD’s Tip: Buy the combo ticket for multiple ruins — it’s a great deal if you’re staying a couple of days.
The Acropolis: 2,500 years of history, and I finally made it to the top.
2. Nafplio 🌊 🌟 Did This
Often called Greece’s most romantic city, Nafplio sits on the Argolic Gulf with a charming mix of Venetian and Greek architecture. I remember arriving hungry and eating in the square until I was stuffed, with fortress views in the distance. From seaside strolls to hilltop castles, it’s a place that feels both lively and peaceful.
💡 JD’s Tip: Climb the 999 steps to Palamidi Fortress if you can — the views are worth the effort.
Lost in the quiet magic of Nafplio’s old town alleyways.
3. Mycenae 🏺 🌟 Did This
Walking through the Lion Gate into the ruins of Mycenae felt like stepping straight into Homer’s epics. This Bronze Age citadel, tied to King Agamemnon, has a raw, ancient atmosphere. I loved exploring the beehive tombs and trying to imagine what life looked like here thousands of years ago.
💡 JD’s Tip: Pair this with nearby Nafplio for a full day trip.
The ancient stone walls of Mycenae still stand strong, holding echoes of a civilization from 3,000 years ago.
4. Delphi 🔮 🌟 Did This
Once considered the center of the world, Delphi is perched on Mount Parnassus with sweeping valley views. I wandered the ruins of Apollo’s Temple, where the Oracle once gave cryptic prophecies, and walked the Sacred Way lined with treasuries. It’s a place where history and landscape blend into pure magic.
💡 JD’s Tip: Arrive before the buses — the quiet makes it easier to feel the ancient energy here.
Standing at the center of the ancient world — Delphi’s magic never fades.
5. Meteora ⛰️ 🌟 Did This
Meteora is like something out of a fantasy novel — monasteries perched on top of towering rock spires. I couldn’t believe my eyes as I hiked between viewpoints and watched the sun set over the stone “pillars.” Even if you only visit a couple of the monasteries, the scenery itself is unforgettable.
💡 JD’s Tip: The sunset viewpoints can get crowded — arrive early to snag a quiet spot.
The monasteries of Meteora, perched high above the cliffs, feel like they’re floating between earth and sky.
6. Mount Olympus (Litochoro) 🏔️ 🌟 Did This
Known in mythology as the home of the gods, Olympus National Park is full of trails, waterfalls, and rugged peaks. I started hikes from Litochoro, the small town at the base of the mountain, and felt like I was walking through history and legend at the same time.
💡 JD’s Tip: Even if you don’t summit, a short hike into the gorge gives you amazing views.
Rain or shine, hiking Mount Olympus feels like stepping into Greek mythology.
7. Santorini 🌅 🌟 Did This
The classic postcard of Greece — whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and dramatic sunsets over the caldera. I wandered through Oia and Fira, got lost in narrow lanes, and ate gyros while watching the sun dip into the sea. Even though it’s touristy, Santorini’s beauty is undeniable.
💡 JD’s Tip: Skip the overpriced sunset restaurants — grab a cheap gyro and sit on a wall for the same (or better) view.
A front-row seat to one of Greece’s most famous views.
8. Thessaloniki 🌆 🌟 Did This
A port city with a lively, youthful energy, Thessaloniki surprised me with its mix of Byzantine churches, Roman ruins, and seaside cafes. Walking along the waterfront past the White Tower at sunset was one of my favorite simple moments in Greece. The nightlife here is also buzzing, with bars and restaurants staying open late.
💡 JD’s Tip: Don’t miss the local bougatsa (a custard-filled pastry) for breakfast.
Thessaloniki’s charm lies in its mix of Roman arches, Byzantine churches, and lively streets.
9. Olympia 🏟️ 🌟 Did This
The birthplace of the Olympic Games, Olympia is full of ancient stadiums and temples. I wandered through the ruins imagining athletes running here thousands of years ago. The onsite museum helped me connect the crumbling stones to the rich history of the games.
💡 JD’s Tip: If you can, visit in the morning — the site gets hot and busy in the afternoons.
Running the ancient track where the very first Olympians once ran.
10. Crete 🏖️ ❌ Missed This
Greece’s largest island is still on my list, but it promises beaches, mountain villages, and ancient sites like Knossos, the legendary home of the Minotaur. Friends I met on the road told me Crete feels like its own little country, full of traditions, food, and landscapes that could keep you busy for weeks.
💡 JD’s Tip: Give Crete plenty of time — at least a week — since it’s much bigger than the other islands.
