If you do not know why Greece is called the cradle of civilization, you should definitely visit its attractions. The ruins of ancient temples, amazing monuments of history and architecture show tourists how prosperous this state was. But the modern beauty of Greece attracts visitors – it’s nature, beaches, and delicious local dishes. Don’t know what to see in Greece? Especially for you, we have compiled a list of popular places in this country, which includes the most interesting sights of Greece.
What to see in Greece first of all
The centuries-old and eventful history of the country has become the reason that there are a lot of attractions here. Guides in Greece are able to arrange acquaintance with numerous tourist attractions – you can arrange with them upon arrival or in advance by telling them about your preferences.
1. The Acropolis of Athens (Athens)
The Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis has always been and still remains the hallmark of Athens. Thousands of tourists come to this truly magical place every year who want to see the most interesting sights of Greece with their own eyes.
The Acropolis of Athens was able to withstand many natural disasters and devastating wars. Neither cataclysms nor people managed to destroy the historical structure, striking the imagination with its incredible shapes and grandeur.
The first temples of the Acropolis were laid during the Archaic period. After that, large-scale construction of the hill began. At first, this place was the residence of the king. Over time, it began to acquire architectural forms that have remained virtually untouched to this day. So gradually the Acropolis turned into a small town.
The sculptures that were located in the Acropolis were replaced by exact copies for certain reasons. Their originals are now in various museums in Europe. Now, instead of a magnificent structure, there are only ruins. Architects are making attempts to restore individual elements of the most significant objects. It will take them many years to complete this project.
Official website: http://odysseus.culture.gr
Greece | Hotels at competitive prices
Booking.com
2. Panathinaikos (Athens)
Ancient Panathinaikos Stadium in Athens
In the heart of Athens there is a unique stadium of its kind, which is known to the world as Panathinaikos. Tourists pay special attention to this Greek landmark. The oldest building is built of white marble. After the restoration of the destroyed elements, the first Olympic Games were held at the stadium, which are recorded in modern history.
Travelers who are wondering what to visit in Greece should definitely visit Panathinaikos. In ancient times, the Panathenaic Games were held at this stadium, which was considered the most important festival in Athens.
The major reconstruction of the stadium was carried out two centuries ago, immediately after its excavation. The work carried out was sponsored by the Zappas activist. He also financed the Olympic competitions in 1870 and 1875.
At the moment, Panathinaikos is used not only as a venue for sports competitions. The stadium also hosts various concerts and exhibitions dedicated to Greek culture. Therefore, while visiting this attraction, guests of Athens will not only be able to enjoy the views of the stadium, but also get to know its history better.
Official website: http://www.panathenaicstadium.gr
3. Temple of Olympian Zeus (Athens)
Ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens
The list, which contains the sights of Greece, would not be complete if it did not include the temple of Olympian Zeus. It is so big that it exceeds even the legendary Parthenon in size. Its construction lasted for 650 years. If you believe the famous myths, the temple was built on the site of the sanctuary of the ancestor of the Greeks Deucalion.
There were two huge statues inside the architectural structure. The first one was made of ivory and gold. She personified the god of Olympus, Zeus. The second was created in honor of Emperor Hadrian, who was actively involved in the construction of the temple. Unfortunately, both statues were destroyed.
If a traveler does not know what to see in Greece, then he should immediately go to Athens to visit the legendary temple of Zeus.
Now the attraction is not in the best shape. Only one of the parts of the temple has survived. According to assumptions, the structure was destroyed as a result of a strong earthquake. It was also probably disassembled for building materials.
The corner of the temple of Zeus that has survived to this day consists of fourteen separate columns, two of which stand separately, and one is in a fallen state.
4. Knossos Palace (Crete Island)
Fragments of the Knossos Palace recreated by Evans from the ruins
The Throne Room at the Knossos Palace Andy Montgomer
Painting of bathroom walls with dolphins and flying fish in the Palace of Knossos
At the beginning of the last century, the Palace of Knossos was excavated and partially reconstructed, which occupies a leading position in the ranking of the “Best sights of Greece”. Today it is one of the most visited places of the island of Crete, which is loved by many tourists.
Historians consider the Palace of Knossos to be the center of the Minoan civilization, which in the years of its prosperity was the most developed state in the world. The palace consisted of more than 1300 rooms – it is not difficult to guess that it occupied a huge area. At least 12,000 people could freely accommodate in his chambers. If you believe the legends, Knossos at that time was the property of King Minos, whom many people know from the myths about the famous Labyrinth and its eternal inhabitant the Minotaur.
The Palace of Knossos had to be rebuilt several times, as it was severely damaged by earthquakes, tsunamis and fires. Two centuries ago, its large-scale reconstruction began. Archaeologist Evans, who discovered this landmark, was able to restore part of the legendary palace.
Today, tourists are given the opportunity to enjoy the unique architecture of that time. Evans has done a good job of rebuilding the palace. Therefore, it is difficult for guests of the island to understand which of the existing buildings are the remains of an ancient structure, and which were recreated by the efforts of an archaeologist.
5. Temple of Apollo (Delphi)
The sacred place of Ancient Greece is the Temple of Apollo in Delphi
In Delphi, as in other resort areas, you can see interesting sights of Greece. The temple of Apollo is located here. All residents of the country had to raise money for its construction. The rulers of neighboring states also donated a large sum to the project. The rectangular structure was decorated with many pillars. Six of them were located on the facades, and fifteen were on the sides of the temple.
Many local excursions include a visit to this picturesque corner. Unfortunately, the temple of Apollo has not been preserved to this day in its original form. Some of its parts had to be constantly restored due to collapses. During the restoration, the architects were guided by the previous construction plan, which provided for the preservation of the shape and number of pillars.
Outside the temple, you can see unusual friezes that are dedicated to the war of the centaurs with the Amazons. All the sculptural compositions of this place were created in violation of the classical form and proportions, due to which they attract the attention of tourists.
For a long time, tourists did not know about the existence of the temple of Apollo, since it is far from the main cities of Greece. However, over time, it has become an important architectural monument of this region.
See the beautiful places of Greece in this wonderful video!
6. Navagio Beach (Zakynthos Island)
Navagio Beach on Zakynthos Island
Guests of Zakynthos Island who are interested in the sights of Greece should definitely visit Navagio Beach, which is unique in its kind. Travelers can only get here by ship, as this place is hidden from prying eyes.
Tourists who do not know what to see in Greece will be happy to visit Navagio, the pearl of these parts. The local beach is covered with golden sand, washed by crystal clear water. This is a real piece of paradise that you will never want to say goodbye to.
Navagio is also called the island of shipwrecks. That’s because a smuggler’s ship sank here in the past. It is still not known exactly why this happened.
The beach will delight travelers who want to take a break from the bustling megacities. After all, there is not even the slightest sign of civilization in these parts. Here, a person begins to experience a certain isolation from the outside world, which fills him with peace and harmony. Navagio gives its guests a unique opportunity to merge with the pristine nature.
When going to sunbathe, do not forget to bring sunscreen and a panama hat. There is no other way to protect yourself from the sun’s rays, since there is absolutely no shade on the beach in clear weather. So tourists should take care of their personal comfort in advance.
7. Meteora Monasteries (Kalambaka)
The complex of Meteora monasteries on the peaks of the rocks of Thessaly
In the northern part of Greece, near the city of Kalambaka, there is a unique place called Meteora. It is distinguished by its beauty and unusual history of appearance. In addition, there are several monasteries located here.
Under the influence of natural phenomena, huge stone pillars have been formed over many millennia, the height of which is from 300 to 600 m. Many of the modern climbers will not dare to climb such rocks, but this did not prevent the hermits from building temples there.
The sights of Greece rightfully include the Meteora monasteries. Six of them remain active now: four male and two female. It used to be difficult to get to such places. You could climb the steep cliff using a ladder, or you could be lifted in a basket using a winch. Now steps have been made in the rock for safe ascent.
The monasteries are open to pilgrims and tourists from April to September and from November to March. Arriving on weekends, you can visit all the monasteries, spending about an hour in each of them.
Restoration work has made the ancient frescoes available for viewing. There are souvenir shops in the monasteries where you can buy something to remember you by. Meteora monasteries can be safely included in the list of the most beautiful places on our planet.
Official website: https://www.visitmeteora.travel
8. The Lion Gate (Mycenae)
Lion Gate of the Acropolis in Mycenae
Mycenae is one of the most ancient cities in Greece. When planning a trip to this country, do not miss the opportunity to visit it. Excavations in the vicinity of Mycenae reveal more and more treasures, one of them is the Lion Gate. The guides will definitely tell you the history of this building.
Greek cities have their own peculiarity – they were built on a hill and protected by a powerful wall. The wall surrounding Mycenae was 900 m high and 6 to 10 m thick. The Lion Gate served as the main entrance. Four blocks weighing up to 20 tons each were used for their construction. They were pre-processed by fitting them to each other in size. Above the gate there was a bas-relief with lions. According to some assumptions, he appeared a little later. Unfortunately, the heads of the animals have not been preserved to this day. But, according to archaeologists, they were made of gold and looked at those who entered the gate. The lions were not chosen by chance – they were considered a symbol of the Mycenaean dynasty, which ruled at that time. The building dates back to the XIII century BC.
9. Ancient Olympia (Peloponnese Peninsula)
Ancient Olympia in the Peloponnese
If you are looking for something to see in Greece, visit Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. You can come here at any time of the year. In winter you will have the opportunity to visit interesting places, and in summer you can also add a vacation on the beach.
Ancient Olympia is currently a nature reserve with museums and ancient temples located on its territory. It is better to start acquaintance with places located in the open air. It will be easy to feel the power of the former buildings, including the temples of Zeus, built in 470-456 BC, and Hera. The remains of the latter are considered the oldest and date back to 1096 BC.
In ancient times, people came here not only for the sake of competitions, but also to worship the gods. There was a stadium near the temple of Hera, where the competitions were held. The Olympic Flame is lit here and today before the start of the Games. To the west of the temple, you can see the ruins of the Philippeion, a round building framed by columns. The construction was started by Philip II and completed by his son Alexander the Great. Not far from this place are the ruins of the administrative building of Ancient Olympia.
10. Mount Olympus (Thessaly region)
Mount Olympus in Thessaly
One of the most famous sights of Greece – Mount Olympus – is located right on the picturesque shore of the Aegean Sea, in Thessaly. In reality, Olympus would be easier to call three mountains. The highest mountain range includes three peaks at once: Mitikas, Scolio and Stefani. Each of them rises almost 3,000 meters above ground level.
The highest peak is Mitikas. It has a height of 2,917 meters and breaks off into the picturesque abyss of Kazan. It is not surprising that the gods of Ancient Greece chose this picturesque place as their place of residence. The “Throne of Zeus” is still preserved here – it is the magnificent throne that Stephanie’s peak looks like.
Today, it is difficult to imagine the sights of Greece without the Olympus Mountains. They are a National Nature Reserve and are protected by UNESCO. The status of a National Park was assigned to these beautiful places back in 1938. In 1981, UNESCO named the Mountains of the Gods of Greece “Part of the World Natural Heritage.” The mountains received another status in 1985. Then they were recognized as part of the “Archaeological and historical heritage”.
The National Park invites tourists to enjoy the exquisite natural landscapes. Today the mountains are inhabited by mountain goats, hedgehogs, deer, squirrels, wolves, wild boars, foxes. You can climb Olympus using special lifts. Climbers conquer the peaks on their own.
Official website: http://www.olympusfd.gr/us/infos.asp
The sights of Greece: what else to visit while in Greece
Absolutely all travelers talk about how amazing excursions in Greece are, and you can join them by simply examining the list of the most interesting sights before traveling. Photos and descriptions will become important criteria when choosing where to go after arriving at the territory of Ancient Greece.
11. Santorini Island (Aegean Sea, Cyclede Archipelago)
The beautiful and romantic island of Santorini
This small island is considered one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in Greece. Legends say that in ancient times Santorini split off from Libya as a result of a natural disaster or was created from a special piece of land split off from this country by the gods. When evaluating what to see in Greece, it is necessary to include the island of Santorini in this list.
The findings of geologists confirm this legend. The island has become a reminder of an ancient geological disaster. The Pompeii of the Aegean Sea was called Santorini by the French geologist F. Fouquet. Scientists have established that the tectonic fault that isolated this beautiful territory occurred in the Tertiary period.
Further, the appearance of the island was complemented by the activity of volcanoes, which made it round. By the way, locals often call their place of residence that way – Krugly Island.
There was an ancient advanced civilization on the island, buried by a volcanic eruption in about 1500 BC. This disaster destroyed many cities of Crete in those ancient times.
The sights of Greece would not be so romantic without this island. Today Santorini continues to be a volcano. Moreover, it is the largest active volcano on the planet, the eruptions of which gradually made the general outlines of Santorini crescent-shaped. The island will delight tourists with its beautiful landscapes and incredibly pleasant climate.
Official website: http://www.santorini.net/
12. The Palace of the Grand Masters (Rhodes Island)
Sea view of the Palace of the Grand Masters (Castello) on the island of Rhodes Carlo Pelagalli
The main entrance to the Palace of the Grand Masters sailko
Interior of the main hall of the Palace of Grand Masters Szilas
The legendary historical monuments of Greece, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, include the Palace of the Grand Masters. The first owners and builders of the Palace were the legendary Knights of the Order of St. John – the Hospitallers.
They ruled Rhodes from 1309 to 1522. That is, more than 200 years. It was from the Palace of the Grand Masters that these two centuries ruled virtually the entire territory of the Eastern Mediterranean. There were 19 masters sitting here, on whose will all decisions made by the hospitallers depended.
The beautiful island of Rhodes was previously the center of power in this territory. The Palace of the Grand Masters was built on the site of the former temple of Helios and the Byzantine Fortress that replaced it. During the time of the Templars, the pompous and luxurious palace was used as a venue for ceremonial receptions and negotiations.
Today, two major exhibitions are constantly operating in the palace. One tells about the time of the Crusaders. Visiting the second one, you can learn about the life of the inhabitants of the island during antiquity. The exposition occupies more than 205 halls.
13. Windmills of Mykonos (Cycladic Islands)
Mykonos – the island of windmills
One of the main attractions and the hallmark of the island of Mykonos are the windmills. When the ship is just approaching the shores of the island, you can see the spectacular sight of the rotating wind turbines.
The first mention of the mills was found in the notes of travelers who visited Greece in the XII-XIII centuries. Even then, they struck with their greatness and beauty. This is not surprising, because the construction of such buildings required the same amount of effort as for the construction of a huge sailing ship. Another important detail was the careful selection of a place for their construction. Characteristic of this area are mills in the form of rounded towers, built of stone. Straw was most often used for the roof.
In ancient times there were more than 600 mills. They worked almost around the clock. The successful location of the island contributed to the successful flour trade. Now there are only 7 of them left, and even those are not used for their intended purpose. They have exhibition halls, restaurants and cafes that everyone can visit. One of the mills is used as a hotel where tourists can spend an unforgettable time on one of the most beautiful islands in the world.
14. Melissani Cave Lake (Kefalonia Island)
The purest cave lake Melissani on the island of Kefalonia
The Greek island of Kefalonia is famous for its various architectural monuments and amazing nature, which attracts tourists. What to visit in Greece and where it is worth visiting are of interest to many vacationers. The main attraction remains the lake in the Melissani cave. The water in it is so clean and transparent that you can see that you are at a depth of ten meters.
The existence of the cave was discovered relatively recently, when it was accidentally found by a shepherd. This happened in 1951, after which excavations began at this place, and since 1963 the cave and the lake have been open to everyone.
The approximate size of the cave is 160×40 m, its entire territory is occupied by a lake. After the earthquake, part of the vaults was destroyed, as a result of which an opening appeared at the top, which illuminates the cave. Another unusual phenomenon is the water, which is both salty and fresh. Salt water is brought by the current from the Ionian Sea, located 14 km away.
Archaeological excavations have revealed that in ancient times this place was used to worship Pan, the god of fertility and shepherding. There is also a legend that the appearance of the lake is associated with the unrequited love of the nymph Melissane for the god Pan. Her shed tears turned into water. According to tradition, couples who visit this place should hold hands and lower them into the water together so that love is long and strong. And those who have not found their half yet are advised to wash with lake water.
To enjoy all the beauty of the lake, you first need to go through a narrow corridor and get to the pier. It is best to do this at noon.
Official website: https://kefaloniaisland.org/sights/melissani-cave/
15. Butterfly Valley (Rhodes Island)
Park of living tropical nature – Valley of Butterflies in Rhodes
One of the most amazing places on the island of Rhodes is the Valley of Butterflies. The locals gave it their name – Petaludes. This amazing nature reserve is located 30 km from the city of Rhodes and is a park near the gorge.
What to see in Greece and which place will be remembered for a long time? If you ask such a question, be sure to visit the reserve. Only here you can observe such a fantastic sight as the myriads of colorful moths flying together. They are attracted by the smell of styraxes. During the day, they usually sleep, perched on the branches of bushes or styrax trees. And a sharp sound or an awkward movement is enough to wake up the red-winged beauties.
Butterflies gather during the mating season from May to September. They should not be disturbed at this time. A museum has been created in the reserve for tourists who are eager for new discoveries and knowledge.
In addition to butterflies, you can see lizards basking in the sun or some rare birds. They like to sit near waterfalls or on rocks.
You can get to the Valley of Butterflies by climbing the path leading up the mountain. The journey is not easy, and it is better to prepare comfortable shoes in advance. Those who reach the top will have another surprise – the opportunity to visit the seventeenth-century monastery built by Alexander Ypsilanti.
16. Achillion Palace (Gasturi village)
Top view of the Achillion Palace on the island of Corfu
Marble sculptures of the Muses in the courtyard (peristyle) of the Achilleon Palace
Limitless travel opportunities, endless expanses of the sea, picturesque mountains, breathtaking gorges are hidden in northern Greece. The sights of the north, however, are not limited to nature alone. On the island of Corfu, in the capital of Kerkyra, there is an architecturally significant monument — the Achillion Palace, built at the end of the 19th century. The complex has a second name — “the palace of the sad Empress”, which is associated with the history of the acquisition of these lands by Empress Elizabeth, who survived a number of family tragedies and found solace in the tranquility of the picturesque region. Inspired by mythology, the princess placed a number of sculptures of ancient Greek gods in the palace garden, and decorated the interior of the palace with wall paintings and carved furniture, the decor of which reproduces the images of mythological characters. After a tour of Achillion, from the shores of Corfu you can sail straight to the Italian shores and visit the sights of Italy — here the two countries are separated from each other by only a hundred kilometers of sea space.
17. The ancient Greek city of Delphi (Phocis region)
Ruins of a theater in the ancient Greek city of Delphi
If you study the sights of Ancient Greece briefly, without having the opportunity for a long tour, you should definitely visit Delphi — this is an ancient Greek religious center, the birthplace of numerous myths and legends, and now a large archaeological reserve. The ruins of former structures rest on the slope of Mount Parnassus, 10 kilometers from the Gulf of Corinth, at an altitude of about 700 meters above sea level. It’s hard to believe, but the age of the ancient city has been more than 3 millennia! Its rich history can be traced in such archaeological sites as the Temple of Apollo with the Oracle of Delphi, the Treasury of the Athenians, the temple of Athena Pronaia, the stadium, the amphitheater, the ancient gymnasium. After wandering through the numerous ruins, you can go to the local museum of ancient Greek culture or go 1.5 km from the ancient city to a miniature town where there are hotels, restaurants and other amenities for guests.
18. Aquarium of Crete (Gurne)
People watch a shark at the Annatsach Aquarium in Crete
When choosing the sights of Greece for children, you should definitely include a trip to the island of Crete, to the town of Gurne, which is known in the tourist environment due to the giant aquarium, which is a complex of structures with huge reservoirs where you can see a wide variety of marine fauna. In total, there are 60 exhibition tanks, which are home to about 2.5 thousand different marine organisms, represented by about 250 species. The design of the tanks repeats the natural relief of the seabed as accurately as possible, which creates the feeling of being somewhere in the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. A walk through the complex, equipped with beautiful lighting, turns into an exciting journey through the depths of the sea, which arouses genuine interest among both children and adults.
Official website: https://cretaquarium
19. The medieval city of Rhodes
Panoramic view of the medieval buildings of Rhodes
The historical treasure of Greece is the medieval city of Rhodes, a priceless open—air museum. Everything in this city, from walls and gates to fortresses and temples, preserves the rich history of the city and Greece as a whole. Rhodes was founded in the 5th century BC and over its vast history has experienced a series of bright events that have left their mark on urban architecture. In general, the city consists of 2 parts: one of them is modern, with a developed tourist infrastructure, the second is ancient, the so—called Old Town. What can be seen today in the Old Town is a number of structures dating back to the Middle Ages: powerful walls with 11 entrances, of which only 5 remained in working order, the country’s oldest synagogue of the 16th century, the vast Rhodes fortress of the time of the knights, the church of St. Panteleimon of the 14th century, the Acropolis with the remains of an ancient theater and finally, the Colossus of Rhodes — more precisely, what remains of the monument to the ancient Greek god Helios.
20. The ancient city of Mystra (Sparta)
The Metropolitanate is one of the oldest monasteries in the medieval city of Mystras
In the southernmost part of mainland Greece, the Laconia region, there are two outstanding ancient Greek cities — Sparta and Mystra. And if even people who are far from traveling have heard about the first, only researchers and few tourists traveling within the Peloponnese are familiar with the second. Mystra, founded by the Crusaders in the 13th century, is located on the steep slopes of the Taygetus Mountains. Now it is an abandoned ghost town that has kept the most valuable historical monuments intact for many centuries – the remains of houses, fortifications, churches, monasteries and the ruins of a medieval castle on a hill. Today, Mystra is a small village that can be reached by car or bus from Sparta in a matter of minutes. In order to get to the protected archaeological area, you will need to climb up from the settlement along one of two paths, one of which leads to the Upper City, the second to the lower buildings.
21. Holy Mount Athos (Halkidiki Peninsula)
One of the twenty “ruling” monasteries on Mount Athos in Greece
For any Christian, Holy Mount Athos is a place full of the deepest meaning. This is the land of monasticism, a kind of state within a state, living according to its own spiritual laws. For example, the monks here use the old—style Julian calendar, and their monastic republic is subordinate not to the secular authorities, but to the Patriarchate of Constantinople. This region is called the lot of the Most Holy Theotokos — the Virgin Mary protects the rest of the monastic brotherhood. Twenty monasteries operate in the bosom of the untouched Athos nature, among which one is Russian. An important point: only men can set foot on the holy land, and they will have to get a special permit for this. But do not forget that the Athos land is divided into two parts — religious and ordinary, where women can also come. Since the coastline of the Halkidiki peninsula goes deep into the Aegean Sea for 20-30 km, countless beaches are concentrated here.
22. The Acropolis of Lindos (Lindos)
The remains of the ancient temple of Athena of the IV century BC on the southern edge of the acropolis in Linda
For those who are traveling to Greece for the first time and have limited time, we recommend making a route of what to see in Greece in a week. It should include the most iconic, iconic places that will form a common portrait of this Balkan country. And they should definitely include the city of Lindos, located on the island of Rhodes near its capital. According to historical data, the ancient city was founded in the 12th century BC. Here, on the top of the hill, there is an Acropolis, to the ancient buildings of which a long staircase with many flights leads. The entire ancient city is located on several levels: the interesting objects of the first level include relief rock carvings of a Podium and a ship, on the second there is a knight’s fortress and a temple from Roman times, on the third — a Portico and ruins of a Byzantine church, on the last — the temple of Athena of Lindia.
23. Myrtos beach (Kefalonia island)
The exotic Myrtos beach of the picturesque island of Kefalonia
The Greek island of Kefalonia also has its own interesting places, which are appreciated for their pristine natural beauty. These include Myrtos beach — a cozy and secluded sandy corner by the sea, hidden surrounded by huge, green hills. Myrtos is one of the most picturesque and ecologically clean beaches in the world. The strip of sandy beach has a rounded shape, and excellent sunset views open from its western part in the evening. Despite its pristine appearance, Myrtos is well equipped for relaxation — there are sun beds, umbrellas, showers, bars, although another part of it still remains untouched by civilization, representing an ideal place for complete isolation, silence and solitude. You can get to the beach by an asphalt road that leads to the coast itself, where there is a small parking lot.
24. The Venetian harbor of Chania (o. Crete)
The Venetian harbor in the city of Chania in the north of Crete
About 3 thousand islands surrounding the Balkan Peninsula are island Greece. The sights of Crete make a huge contribution to the treasury of the country, due to the huge number of memorable places and interesting objects collected on this island. The Venetian harbor of Chania is one of them. It was built in the 14th century during the Venetian rule, and today it is the heart of the Old Town of Chania. Only a few of the ancient Venetian fortifications remain today, the Firkas bastion is best preserved, as well as the covered docks, the customs building, and finally, the recognizable symbol of Chania — the Egyptian lighthouse. Today, the harbor is one of the favorite places to relax — along the coastline there are many bars, restaurants and cafes, sitting in which you can not only taste Mediterranean cuisine, but also admire the beautiful sea panorama.
25. Samaria Gorge (Lefka-Ori mountains)
Hiking trail on the territory of the Samaria Gorge on the island of Crete
Often, a trip to the iconic places of Greece takes place in the hustle and constant travel, which it is desirable to dilute with a more relaxing vacation — for example, going to the island of Crete, where there are such non-tourist places in Greece that are famous for pristine nature, with its inherent atmosphere of calm and detachment. One of these places is the Samaria Gorge, located in the Lefka—Ori mountain range. It has the official status of a national park, and there are several hiking trails of varying difficulty, saturated with the fantastic beauty of these places. Most of the gorge is made up of thickets of pines, oaks and cypresses, and more than 400 species of plants, mostly endemic. The total length of the gorge is about 13 kilometers, the height to climb varies from 200 to 1000 meters, and in general this unforgettable hike will take about 6 hours. Bulgaria is an ideal country for a budget holiday near Greece. While in Greece, think about visiting this country as well. Read about the sights of Bulgaria and plan for your further trip to Europe!
English 
Russian 
German 
Polish