Thinking of heading on holidays this summer to an exotic location steeped in history and with some of the most amazing scenery and pulsating nightlife available, then you must be thinking of visiting Greece. A country deemed the birthplace of western civilization, and with some of the most amazing historical architecture in Europe, it is a must-visit location. Rent a greek villa on the coast or a 5-star hotel in the capital Athens and explore the many wonders that the country offers. With the longest coastline in Europe, almost year-round good weather, and a very developed tourist and vacation system, Greece is an ideal location for a holiday. Suitable for friends, families, and groups, Greece offers everything to everyone.
Though many people visiting the country already know the location and places they want to see, there are others that they may have overlooked. Therefore, we have put together a list of some of the must-see sights in Greece. Depending on your time in the country and location, you may visit them all or just some of them, but be sure to visit at least one on this list as you will not be disappointed. So here are my top five locations to visit in Greece.
Cape Sounion:
Home to Poseidon’s ruins temple, Cape Sounion is a great location to see the importance of the gods in Greek culture and the lengths that the people went to worship them. The headland, which is surrounded by the sea, provides a dramatic backdrop and a great location to visit a day trip from Athens.
The Cape is a popular day excursion from Athens, with the most popular time being sunset, in which you can capture dramatic shots of the ruins, sea, and temples all in one. Book your excursion for early in the day and try and have it open-ended so you can enjoy the sunset and get the best possible spot as it is quite a busy time as both locals and tourists try and capture the perfect sunset.
The Acropolis:
The most prominent and important site within easy reach of Athens, the Acropolis, cannot be missed. Firstly, you will have stunning views overlooking Athens itself, and secondly, you can walk within the ruins of this amazing architectural wonder. Like the cape, this area shows the immense intelligence and work of the people who once lived in Athens’ city-state. This place was probably on your list, but it cannot be left without a mention—a place where you truly marvel at the wonders of ancient civilizations.
If you visit the Acropolis, you are probably already staying in the stunning city of Athens. Here you can enjoy the nightlife, another historic marvel within the city.
Meteora:
A place of geological, historical, and architectural amazement, Meteora is like nothing you have probably seen before. Natural sandstone pillars stretch upward of 1200 feet into the sky, supporting a series of monasteries. Built by and worshiped by orthodox Christian monks and nuns, the six remaining monasteries are a testament to man’s tenacity, like the other locations mentioned.
Even without the monasteries, the rock formations themselves draw many visitors every year due to their formation and the backdrop they provide for hikers and climbers in the region. Worth a visit for an entire day, you will not be disappointed by your time here. Plus, it is a small break from ancient Greek history, which you will have had your fill of.
Zakynthos:
With some of the Greek island’s most famous and nicest beaches, Zakynthos gets most of its visitors from the partying and sun-worshipping crowd. However, shipwreck Cove is a prevalent location due to the adventure in first reaching the beach and then the beach itself.
Online you can view base jumpers performing some death-defying stunts above the beach. This will give you an idea of why it is so popular.
Second, to the beaches is the nightlife of Zakynthos. Drawing a young European crowd, there is no manner of parties and events throughout the summer months; if this is something your fancy, book ahead and bring a big group of friends with you.
Santorini:
The go-to place in Greece for newlyweds and burgeoning couples. The beautiful backdrop and intimacy of Santorini are what many people crave when alone together. Whitewashed homes with blue shutters and roofs purposefully designed contrasts perfectly with the sea and sky. Every brochure or website about the Greek islands is worthy of its fame and many visitors.
You can easily reach Santorini from Athens. It is a simple 45-minute fly, or there are also frequent ferries from several locations along the Greek coast.
A great location to find and view other islands, you can use Santorini as a base, or maybe just a short stop on your way through the Greek islands should not be overlooked especially if you are with your partner. Hike to the viewpoints in which any local can point you and get some amazing shots of the sunset.
I hope some of these suggestions are of interest to you and provide you with some inspiration on places to visit throughout Greece. It is most definitely a country of contrasts, and you will love your time in this stunning country and all it has to offer.
