As the cradle of Western civilisation, Greece is absolutely packed with fascinating historic sites to visit during your next trip. Here are the ten of the top UNESCO World Heritage Sites you won’t want to miss.
1. The Acropolis of Athens
Of course, no list of historic sites in Greece would be complete without the Acropolis. The most complete, and arguably the most striking of all the ancient Greek monuments, The Parthenon, Erechtheion and Temple of Athena Nike stand as icons of classical Greece, towering on the rocky hill above Athens.. Visit early or at sunset for the most magical light.
2. Delphi
Once considered the centre of the world, Delphi was the home of Pythia – the famous Oracle whose prophecies influenced every major decision in Ancient Greece. Its mountainside setting and ancient ruins make it one of the most atmospheric sites in Greece even today.
3. Meteora
A cluster of ancient monasteries perched on towering rock pillars makes Meteora look like something out of a fantasy film, and up close, its magic continues with the dozens of stray cats that now call it home. Meteora is breathtaking whether you hike between the viewpoints or simply admire it from below.
4. The Medieval City of Rhodes
A beautifully preserved walled city built by the Knights Hospitaller, the medieval city of Rhodes is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why as you wander through cobbled streets, medieval gates and grand stone buildings that feel frozen in time.
5. Mystras
One of the most beautiful ghost towns in the world, Mystras is a Byzantine city built on a steep hillside near Sparta. Now an open-air museum, the crumbling palaces, churches and fortifications offer a haunting glimpse into life in medieval Greece.
6. Olympia
Birthplace of the Olympic Games, Olympia is a must visit for sports lovers and history fans alike. The site, which was once the most celebrated and sacred in Ancient Greece, includes temples, training grounds and the original stadium track.
7. Delos
Delos is a tiny island with enormous historical significance. This small uninhabited island is famous as the mythological birthplace of the Olympian Gods Apollo and Artemis.
Delos was also once a major religious and commercial centre, and today you can take a boat tour out to the island and wander around the remarkably well preserved ruins.
8. Corfu Old Town
With Venetian fortresses, pastel houses and narrow, cobblestone alleyways, Corfu’s old town blends a heady mix of Greek, Italian and French influences, making it possibly one of the most charming urban UNESCO sites in the country.
9. The Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus
Once the healing centre of the world, The Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus is home to the world-renowned Theatre of Epidaurus. Constructed in the late 4th Century BC, this ancient theatre is legendary for its incredible acoustics and is still used today, hosting the Athens Epidaurus Festival, which has been held every summer since 1954.
10. Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki
Greece’s second-largest city, Thessaloniki is often overlooked in favour of the more famous Athens, but its UNESCO listed churches and monuments are extraordinary. Highlights of a Thessaloniki city break include the Rotunda, Agios Dimitrios, Agia Sophia and several beautifully preserved mosaics.
