Famous-Landmarks-in-Greece-The-Odeon-of-Herodes-Atticus-Athens-taken-from-the-Acropolis-TRail

20 Famous Landmarks in Greece Not to Miss

In this guide you will find a compilation of 20 famous landmarks in Greece that should not be missed on your next visit.

Greece is a country overflowing with history, culture and natural beauty so it will come as no surprise that some of the most famous landmarks in Greece consist of a variety of historic sites, monuments and natural wonders.

From The Parthenon in Athens and the Palace of Knossos in Crete, to the Monasteries of Meteora, and Delos Island, there is sure to be a Greek landmark of interest that all travellers will enjoy and find fascinating. Greece is also a great place to visit in Europe during the winter months due to its milder temperatures.

So, here are 20 famous landmarks in Greece to add to your bucket list. We have also included some helpful ‘top tips’ from other travel bloggers!

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Did You Know?

  • Greece is home to 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Greece is home to more archaeological museums than any other country in the world.
  • The Acropolis of Athens was a runner-up for the New 7 Wonders of the World. 

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“Greece – The feeling of being lost in time and geography with months and years hazily sparkling ahead in a prospect of inconjecturable magic.”

– Patrick Leigh Fermor –

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20 of the Most Famous Landmarks in Greece

N.B. Alphabetical by City

The Acropolis, Athens

The ancient citadel known as The Acropolis of Athens is situated on a rocky outcrop high above the city of Athens, and is one of the most famous landmarks in Greece. However, inside it contains many buildings of historical significance, including the most famous landmark in Greece, the Parthenon.

Evidence shows the Acropolis has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The Acropolis has served many purposes over the centuries. It has been a citadel, a home to kings, a religious centre, the mythical home of the gods, and today, a popular attraction for tourists from all over the world.

Since 1987, it has been classified as a cultural UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to several buildings and temples whose remains have architectural and historical significance. Some of these include the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and the Statue of Athena Promachos.

A visit to this ancient site – an icon of Greek history, the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of Western civilization – is an absolute must-see if you’re in the capital of Athens.

Top Tip: If you plan on visiting The Acropolis, consider spending at least half a day exploring the site.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - The Acropolis, Athens
The Acropolis, Athens

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The Parthenon, Athens

Recommended by Nina at ‘Lemons and Luggage’

As the most important surviving building of the Classical period of Ancient Greece, the Parthenon is definitely the most easily recognizable sight in Greece. Seeing the Parthenon is an absolute must on any Athens itinerary. This magnificent building, located on the Acropolis of Athens, was originally a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. In the span of four and a half centuries of existence, it has also served as a church and a mosque. Nowadays, it is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

To visit the Parthenon you have to enter the Acropolis of which the Parthenon is the most important attraction. Simply get off at Acropolis or Thisseio metro and walk towards the pedestrianized Dionysiou Areopagitou Street where you will find the way up to the Acropolis.

There is a lot to see on the Acropolis, but the imposing Parthenon will catch your attention as soon as you lay eyes on it. Be prepared for scaffolding as the temple is constantly undergoing renovations. This may not make for the best photos, but it keeps this magnificent piece of architecture alive for future generations.

The best time to visit the Parthenon is in the shoulder season or off-season when it’s not too hot to handle the hike up. In the summer, even early mornings can be quite hot at the top of the hill.

Top Tip: Another advantage of visiting in the off-season is that you can get in for free on the first Sunday of each month from November to March.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Parthenon on the Acropolis, Athens
Parthenon on the Acropolis, Athens

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The Parthenanic Stadium, Athens

Recommended by Sam at ‘Find Love & Travel’

The Panathenaic Stadium is easily one of the best and most famous landmarks in Greece. Located in the heart of Athens, Greece, the Panathenaic Stadium is where the first Olympic Games was held back in 1869. The games were held here again in 2004 and you are able to see all the Olympic Torches displayed here.

No matter how many days you have in Athens, this is one of the best places to visit in Athens. A visit here will allow you to explore the giant stadium that was built completely of marble. In fact, it is the only stadium in the world built of complete marble! 

When arriving, the entrance fee is 5 euros. This will give you access to the entire stadium and an audio headset that brings you through the history of the stadium as you walk around to each talking point. 

The best way to get to the Panathenaic Stadium is by foot. You can also reach the Stadium by public transport (bus or train), or hire a cab. In general, Athens is very walkable around the main attractions. 

Top Tip: When visiting this Greek Landmark, go early in the day to avoid crowds. Also, it can get quite hot here during the summer and there is no shade.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - The Parthenanic Stadium, Athens
The Parthenanic Stadium, Athens

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Lycabettus Hill, Athens

Recommended by Sylvie at ‘Travels with Eden’

Lycabettus Hill, also known as Mount Lycabettus, is the tallest hill in Athens and the highest point (nearly twice as high as the Acropolis!). There are many ways to see Mount Lycabettus. You can catch the cable car to the top, enjoy Athens’s breathtaking views, and visit the Orizontes restaurant. 

Climbing Lycabettus Hill should also be on your bucket list. Depending on your pace, the climb should take 30 to 90 minutes each way. At the top, make sure you take a look at Agios Georgios Chapel – a bit of history at the highest point in Athens! On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the whole of Athens, the Athens Riviera and many surrounding beaches near Athens, as well as one of the best views of the Acropolis.

Lycabettus Hill can be visited all year round, although the best time to visit is during low-mid season (May, June, late September and October), where the weather is still lovely but not too hot! There is limited shade at the top of the hill.

There are many options to reach Mount Lycabettus. Walking from Syntagma square should take around 25 minutes but bear in mind most of the walk is up hills and steps. The best way to reach Lycabettus Hill is by taxi from Athens city centre. Bus 060 will take you nearest the cable car entrance, and metro stop Evangelisimos is the nearest but still a long walk away.

Top Tip: The restaurant at the top has fantastic panoramic views of Athens and beyond. It is costly, though, but perfect for a snack!

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Mount-Lycbettus
Mount Lycbettus, Athens

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The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Athens

Recommended by Emma at ‘The Checklist Chic

On the southwest slope of the Acropolis of Athens, lies one of the oldest and grandest open-air theatres in the world – The Odeon of Herodes Atticus. First built in 161 AD, and later reconstructed in the 1950s, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is much more than a fascinating archaeological site and remains one of the city’s main theatres today.

Boasting a capacity of 5,000 people, the “Herodeon” (as known by the locals), is the primary venue of the annual Athens Festival and is regularly used for concerts, operas, ballet and theatre. Some of the famous artists who performed here include Luciano Pavarotti, Sting, Diana Ross, Elton John, the Bolshoi Ballets and many more.

There’s only two ways to enjoy the magnificent site; by booking a ticket for a performance or looking on from a higher vantage point along the Acropolis tour trail. You can get a great pic of the theatre during the day as part of your climb up to the Acropolis and there is a great view from above.

Top Tip: The stairs in the theatre are very steep, so definitely wear comfy flat shoes, as you can expect quite a walk up (this also goes for walking around on the Acropolis too). And the best part? It’s only a short walk from the Acropolis Metro station!

Famous Landmarks in Greece - The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Athens taken from the Acropolis TRail
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Athens taken from the Acropolis TRail

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Ancient Corinth with the Temple of Apollo, Corinth

Recommended by Ania at ‘The Travelling Twins’

Ancient Corinth was a city-state in ancient Greece. The city had a population of over 100,000 people and was an important place for trade and commerce.

On your visit to Ancient Corinth, you’ll be sure to find the Temple of Apollo, which now stands as one of the most well-preserved temples from antiquity. The Temple of Apollo in Ancient Corinth was built about 540 B.C. It is a Doric style temple and was on the ruins of an earlier temple.

The temple was originally made of 42 big 7 meter tall limestone columns. The size of the temple was reflecting the growth and prosperity of Greek Corinthians.

During archaeological excavations, many temples, theatres, shops, public baths, pottery factories were found around the Temple of Apollo. The temple of Apollo is one the most well-preserved temples from antic times.

Once in Ancient Corinth, it’s hard not to notice the big rocky outcrop located a few kilometres away. It is Acrocorinth – the Greek archaeological site that was continuously occupied from archaic times to the early 19th Century. Corinth’s acropolis was a defensive position that had been fortified and occupied by Byzantine Empire, Crusaders, Venetians and Ottoman Turks.

Top Tip: If you find within yourself the energy to climb the hill, you will find here a bit different part of Greece than we are used to.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Ancient Corinth
Ancient Corinth with the Temple of Apollo

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Chania Old Town, Crete

Chania is the second-biggest city in Crete and the Old Town of Chania is the most photographed spot in the city. Evidence has shown that Chania was built on the site Kydonia, an important ancient Cretan founded by King Minos in 3650 BC to 3000 BC. The city has been ruled by various empires over the centuries and is steeped in history and tradition.

A stroll through the beautiful narrow streets leading to Old Chania Town will take you back in time as you encounter the mix of Cretan, Venetian and Ottoman influences. Chania displays a wonderful mixture of Eastern and Western civilizations.

Today, Chania is a buzzing seaside city and most of its landmarks are within an easy walking distance of each other. Some of the must-see sights include the Venetian Harbour, considered to be the most well-preserved in the world, where you will see an old lighthouse, an old fortification wall, the Giali Tzamisi Mosque (oldest Islamic structure in Crete), and a coastal line of colourful Venetian houses. This is also a great place to taste the best of Cretan cuisine at one of the many waterfront restaurants.

Other interesting things to do are to visit the Municipal Market of Chania where you will find all kinds of local goods, from vegetables, fish, meat, herbs and spices, to Cretan products such as cheeses, olives, raki and more. If you would like to learn more about Chania’s ancient past, visit The Archaeological Museum of Chania. For a taste of the past, head to Skridlof Street and watch manufacturers making “stivania”, the famous classic Cretan boots, and nearby, you will find Karaoli Dimitriou Street, where authentic Cretan knives are made.

Top Tip: Eat like a true local and head to a local bakery for breakfast for Greek delicacies such as spanakopita, spinach and cheese pie in phyllo pastry, or a traditional treat of kalitsounia, a small sweet or savoury pie with different fillings. One of our favourites is stuffed with mizithra cheese and topped with honey.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Chania Old Town, Crete
Chania Old Town, Crete

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Minoan Palace of Knossos, Crete

Recommended by Una at ‘Wandernity

The Palace of Knossos is located on the northern coast of Crete near Heraklion. A civilization called the Minoans built the first palace in the period from 2000 to 1580 BC, but later it was destroyed by an earthquake. Knossos was rebuilt and was the centre of Minoan civilization for a long time, but later around 1300 BC it was destroyed for the last time by a fire.

For hundreds of years, this former Minoan capital was forgotten until it was discovered again in the early 20th Century. Then the British archaeologist Arthur Evans was leading a team that did excavation and restoration work. The site is being reconstructed even now, as there is so much to uncover. 

You might recognize the famous myth about the Minotaur in the drawings in Knossos. It is thought that the myth about the half-man half-bull creature that was kept in a labyrinth is taking place in Knossos, as the many maze-like structures of the palace resemble a labyrinth.

Knossos is easily reachable by car. It can be easily incorporated into a road trip across Crete. Or if you don’t plan to rent a car, you can book a guided tour from almost any hotel in Crete.

Top Tip: It’s best to visit Knossos in the low season as it won’t be so crowded. In addition, it’s better to visit in the morning or think about sun protection when visiting during midday, as there aren’t many options to stay in the shade. 

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Palace of Knossos, Crete
Palace of Knossos, Crete

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Spinalonga Island, Crete

Recommended by Or at ‘My Path in the World’

A must-take day trip to include on your Crete itinerary is Spinalonga Island, one of the top sights in Greece and an intriguing historical landmark.

Vividly described in the best-seller book ‘The Island’ by Victoria Hislop that will make you want to visit it even more. Spinalonga is most famous for being one of the last leper colonies in Europe, which was active during the first half of the 20th Century. Throughout the years, it also served as a Venetian fortress and a place for refugees, but the book ‘The Island’ has put the spotlight on its role as a leper colony.

After taking a short boat ride from the Cretan village of Plaka (€6), you will get to the island (admission is €8), where you can wander freely to discover the remains of the colony and fortress and enjoy the views over the Elounda harbor.

Top Tip: If you’re staying in central Crete (in the area of Heraklion and not in eastern Crete), it is much easier to visit Spinalonga Island with a guided day tour as public transport would not be as convenient. Although the price doesn’t cover the boat ride and admission fee, it will save you a lot of time and energy.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Spinalonga Island, Crete
Spinalonga Island, Crete

ARE YOU PLANNING A TRIP TO CHANIA, WHY NOT CONSIDER RENTING A CAR AND DOING A CRETE ROAD TRIP IN THE CHANIA REGION? READ ON FOR A DETAILED ITINERARY.


The Archaeological Site of Delhi

Recommended by Lance and Laura at ‘Travel Addicts’

Located about 110 miles (2 ½ hours) northwest of Athens, the Archaeological Site of Delphi is arguably one of the most iconic landmarks in Greece. School children all over the world learn about the famous Oracle of Delphi. To put the history into perspective, visiting Delphi, Greece should be a top priority for any inquisitive traveller.

Starting in the 6th Century B.C., Delphi was arguably the centre of all civilization in the western world. This was the temple and religious centre dedicated to Apollo, the most important of the Greek gods. But it was much more than that since Delphi was a major political and trade centre.

Located in a crease of Mount Parnassus, the archaeological site has a natural amphitheatre-like curvature to it. The result is impressive views of the valleys and mountains of central Greece that surround the site.

Within Delphi itself, visitors will want to focus their visit on The Temple of Apollo, the reconstructed Treasury of the Athenians, the Amphitheatre, and the Stadium. Located near the entrance to the ruins is the archaeological museum, which features some of the most impressive artefacts from the site.

A visit is possible any time of the year, but is much cooler outside of the summer months. The entire site faces south and shade trees are limited. It can be brutally hot much of the year. To get here, there is no shortage of bus and day tour offerings from Athens, but renting a car and driving yourself can be more rewarding and is surprisingly simple.

Top Tips: Try to time your visit for the early morning if possible, as you’ll avoid much of the heat and most of the big tour buses. And bring lots of water to drink. The restaurants in Delphi town mostly cater to the tour buses. If you’re looking for a better (and cheaper) lunch experience, stop in the town of Arachova instead of near Delphi.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - The Archaeological Site of Delphi
The Archaeological Site of Delphi – Theatre

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Delos Island

Recommended by Chrysoula at ‘Greece Travel Ideas’

One of the most important sites in Greece is the island of Delos. The whole island is designated as an archaeological site meaning that it is totally uninhabited. It can be visited only when the archaeological site is open. Delos has also been declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.  Delos was considered sacred and was the birthplace of the god Apollo and goddess Artemis.

The easiest way to reach Delos is by boat from Mykonos Island. The boats leave regularly from the old port of Mykonos. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour. During the high season, you will find tours to Delos from the islands of Naxos and Paros.

The best time to visit Delos is between May and September. Try to avoid August as it gets very crowded and hot. The archaeological site is huge, but some of the highlights you shouldn’t miss include the museum, the Avenue of the Lions, the ancient Theatre of Delos, and the residential area with the beautiful floor mosaics, the Agora of the Competaliasts, Temple of Apollo, and the Temple of Isis.

The full ticket to the site cost 12 euros and the reduced 6 euros. You should wear walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen and bring plenty of water with you. 

Top Tip: The best way to explore the island is on a guided tour. We recommend taking an early morning tour to avoid the heat. If you want to make a full day out of it, you could book a tour that combines a visit to Delos with swimming in the crystal clear waters of the nearby uninhabited Rhenia island

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Delos Island
Delos Island

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Monasteries of Meteora, Kalabaka

Recommended by Emily at ‘Wander-Lush’

A set of six Eastern Orthodox monasteries perched precariously atop natural stone pillars: Meteora is both one of Greece’s most important religious sites and one of its most recognisable landmarks.

Meteora is located in Central Greece just outside the town of Kalabaka, around three hours by road from Thessaloniki. It’s possible to visit as a long day trip from Greece’s second city, but it’s better to spend a few nights, basing yourself in Kalabaka or nearby. Having your own car is preferable. If you’re driving around Greece, you can visit the monasteries and the various lookout points, go hiking in the hills around the area, and visit other small towns and archaeological sites nearby.

Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, Meteora is an otherworldly landscape of towering sandstone peaks. In Greek, the name Meteora means ‘suspended in the air’, an apt way to describe the monasteries that rise up from the plain, some sitting on rocks more than 600 metres tall.

The first structures were built here in the 11th Century. Of an original 24, only six of the monasteries survived and still stand today. They are active monasteries that open on different days of the week – which is another reason it pays to stay a few nights in the area, because you can visit different monasteries each day.

Must-sees include the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron, the largest and most impressive monastery with a beautiful courtyard and frescoes, and the Holy Monastery of Holy Trinity. The latter has the most impressive location atop a thin pillar, with sheer drops on all sides. You might recognise it from the James Bond film For Your Eyes Only.

Top Tip: Don’t miss the ‘Meteora Panorama’ viewpoint near Holy Trinity that offers a sweeping outlook over the entire landscape.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Meteora-The 16th century Monastery of St. Stephen
The 16th Century Monastery of St. Stephen, Meteora

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Milos Island

Recommended by Sophie at ‘Solo Sophie’

Though less of a hidden gem now than even just a few years ago, the island of Milos is a delightful paradise in the heart of the Cyclades, a group of islands so-called thanks to the fact that they form a cyclical shape. Milos Island is located in the Aegean Sea and is home to a plethora of beautiful towns, breathtaking beaches, and plenty of taverns offering up local Greek cuisine.

Even if you’ve never heard of the island of Milos before, it’s quite likely that you’ve heard of the most famous artefact to have been (re)discovered on the island, the Venus de Milo, which is now housed within the Louvre Museum in Paris.

Today, you can learn all about the discovery of this ancient statue in the Milos Archaeological Museum. Other highlights of Milos include wandering the cobbled pedestrian streets of the capital city of Plaka and swimming in the water near the moonscape beach of Sarakiniko Beach.

The easiest way to reach Milos is by taking a ferry from the main port of Athens, Piraeus. In high season (i.e. during the summer), there are several ferries a day, though these are less frequent in the low season (winter).

As well as being easier to reach during the hotter months of the year, everything on the island is actually open (hotels, cafés, and museums), meaning that this is the best time of the year to visit.

Top Tip: To get the best views of the Aegean Sean, visit the Venetian Castle near the city of Plaka.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Mandrakia on Milos Island
Mandrakia on Milos Island

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The Windmills of Mykonos, Mykonos

Recommended by Sophie at ‘Just Heading Out

Most people know Mykonos as a party island, but it also has a wealth of history and culture to offer. Although not the oldest, the windmills of Mykonos, are its most famous sight. You can spot them on the hill as soon as your boat approaches the harbor. Their round shape, white color, and pointed roof makes them iconic. They’re featured on many souvenirs, postcards, and products from Mykonos. 

Construction of the windmills was started by the Venetians in the 16th Century, but went on into the 20th  Century. The windmills were all built around the main port and town, facing north to catch the strong winds that blow here year round.  

Their purpose was to mill wheat, and provided an important source of income for the inhabitants of Mykonos. They fell out of use in the mid 20th Century, and are now one of the biggest tourist attractions of the island. 16 of the 20 windmills remain and one of them has been converted into a museum. 

In particular, the five windmills in the town of Chora are popular with visitors. They are collectively known as Kato Mylio, which means lower windmills. From here you have a lovely view over the Little Venice neighborhood. 

Top Tip: Visit the windmills at sunset for a spectacular view. 

Famous Landmarks in Greece - The Windmills of Mykonos
The Windmills of Mykonos

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Temple of Apollo, Naxos

Recommended by Sophie at ‘Just Heading Out

It might seem like not much remains of the temple of Apollo on Naxos, but in fact, it was never built. All that the tyrant Lygmadis managed to complete in the 6th Century BC are the foundations and a huge marble gate. At some point, a Christian church was built on top of the ruins. It was dismantled under the Venetian rule so the materials could be used for the Kastro fortress. 

Luckily the gate, which is 59 meters tall and 28 meters wide, was too heavy to move. It is now the defining landmark of this Cyclades island. It’s name is Portata, which is Greek for Great Door. It stands on a hill overlooking the town of Naxos and is connected to the rest of the island by a narrow strip of land. A pathway leads from the harbor to the magnificent gate, which is easy to follow and not too steep. Steady footing is required though – this is not a hike to do in your flip-flops! 

The best time of the year to visit Naxos and the Cyclades is from June to September. It gets very hot and crowded in August, so be prepared. After September, most tourists have disappeared so restaurants and hotels close, and the ferries don’t go as often. 

Top Tip: If you go in the evening, you can see the sun set through the gate. 

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Temple of Apollo, Naxos
Temple of Apollo, Naxos

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Olympia

Recommended by Roxanne at ‘Faraway Worlds

Situated in the western Peloponnese, the home of the ancient Olympic Games is one of the most famous ancient sites in Greece. Olympia was founded in the 8th Century BC and was sacred to Zeus. The Olympic Games were held in his honour and took place every four years until they were eventually outlawed in 373 AD. At the site, you can see the ancient stadium, the ruins of the temples of Zeus and Hera, and three museums.

Olympia is easily accessible from Athens, and you can visit as a day trip from the capital although it is quite a long day (it’s just over three hours’ drive each way). You can also take public transport if you have plans to stay a bit longer – take the intercity bus from Athens to Pyrgos and a local bus from Pyrgos to Olympia. If you have time, spend a few days in the area as it’s a lovely part of the country.

Exploring Olympia can get very hot in the summer, so Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to visit (the Peloponnese is especially lovely in June and September).

Top Tip: Spend the night in Pyrgos and visit Olympia first thing in the morning, before the tour groups arrive and when it’s a bit cooler.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Temple of Zeus at Olympia
Temple of Zeus at Olympia

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Cave of the Apocalypse, Patmos

Recommended by Zoe at ‘Together in Transit’

One very famous and biblical location to visit in Greece is Cave of the Apocalypse. Located on the pretty island of Patmos, this small island has a big historical story to share. You can visit by hopping on to one of the many ferries that travel daily between the Greek islands. 

So why is this location so special? The Cave of the Apocalypse is the known location that John the Baptise wrote the Book of Revelation. This is also why the island’s nickname is ‘Holy Island of Christianity’. It is known that in the year 95 AD, John stayed at least 18 months on the island of Patmos writing this book, which is the last book of the New Testament.

The cave itself is half way up the mountain from the port of Skala, the capital city of Chora. Its doable walking all the way up if you are pretty active, otherwise there are local transportation options and tours to join. It’s a popular destination for those who are religious, but the island itself is rather quiet and local – which can be enjoyed mostly in the spring and summer. 

From Chora you can also see the historical Greek windmills, visit the Monastery of Saint John and learn more about the importance of this little Greek island. 

Top Tip: Once you have visited the Cave of the Apocalypse, head up to the local restaurant called Jimmy’s Balcony. They have a gorgeous view over the whole island. It’s a delicious place for a bite to eat too!

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Cave of the Apocalypse, Patmos Island
Cave of the Apocalypse, Patmos Island

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Acropolis of Lindos, Rhodes

Recommended by Monique at ‘Trip Anthropologist

The Acropolis of Lindos at Rhodes is an instantly recognizable site and one of the most well-known in Greece. Like many sites, there are layers of history and remains of different eras.

In Rhodes there are famous ancient Greek monuments that no longer exist, such as the Colossus of Rhodes, the remains of Ancient Greek ruins, and there are also medieval treasures. Perhaps the most well-known of these medieval ruins is the Byzantine chapel of the Knights of St. John, also located on the Acropolis of Lindos.

But it’s the view of the ancient Greek ruins, dedicated to the goddess Athena Lindia on the top of the acropolis that people come to see and photograph.

With the brilliant blue sea as the backdrop, the remains of the Temple of Athena Lindia, the Great Stoa of Psithyros, and the Propylaea are classis ruins from around the 4th Century BCE. There are also temples from the Hellenistic era and other ruins around the Acropolis including the Theatre of Lindos.

Together this is one of the best preserved and spectacular sites of Ancient Greece still in existence. Lindos Town is a lovely warren of narrow cobble stone lanes and small shops and is less than an hour’s drive from Rhodes Town.

Top Tip: The view from the sea of the Acropolis is spectacular and it is a major global site for cruise ships. Visit the Acropolis before the shore passengers arrive in Lindos at about 10am in the morning. Alternatively, visit for the magnificent sunset when the day tourists have departed.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Acropolis of Lindos
Remains of the Stoa of Psithyros on the Acropolis of Lindos, Rhodes

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Oia, Santorini

Recommended by Missy at ‘Travels With Missy’

Perched on the edge of an extinct volcano, the cliff village of Oia is arguably the most famous place in all of Greece. The reasons for Oia’s popularity are immediately clear upon arrival. Walking around the main street of Oia, a simple glance down at the white buildings that spill, almost down the edge of the cliff, simply ooze elegance and opulence. It’s hard to fathom the sheer engineering that goes into the buildings of Oia, as hotel upon hotel perches upon one another. 

Staying in Oia offers visitors the opportunity to indulge in truly unique and once in a lifetime luxury hotels. Most people visit the town for an afternoon, watch the sunset and head back to other parts of the island. In the height of summer, the town can get extraordinarily busy and you may find it claustrophobic as you battle your way through the narrow alleyways. This part of the island has some of the best sunsets in all of Greece and the best place to watch it is from the old Venetian Castle at the very tip of Oia. 

The best way to arrive in Santorini is by ferry. Nothing will prepare visitors quite like arriving by boat into the caldera and looking up at the enormous cliffs of Santorini. They are incredible. For those short on time, there are numerous flights between Athens and Santorini and can cut your travel time in half. 

Top Tip: A visit to Santorini without tourists is possible if you visit off-season. Not only do hotel prices tumble, but so do the sheer amount of tourists too. Consider visiting during the months of November to March for a quieter and cheaper visit. 

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Oia, Santorini
Oia, Santorini

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Navagio Beach, Zakynthos

Recommended by Kerry at ‘Vegg Travel’

If you’ve ever seen a postcard of a stunning white beach cove surrounded by striking limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and an enormous shipwreck, then you’re already familiar with Navagio Beach in Zakynthos (also known as Zante), Greece.

Navagio Beach is in the Northwest of the Island, and it can only be reached by boat. You can choose from a trip only to the beach itself, or also opt for tours that include a visit to the spectacular blue caves and lagoon. Navagio is one of the best places to snorkel in Europe because of its beautiful azure waters so opt to include snorkelling if you can. If you’d like to see the views of the cove from the clifftop, look for a tour that includes this panoramic scene.

Photographs of Navagio Beach make it look like it is a white sand beach, however, the beach is made of tiny white pebbles. These do not hurt to walk on and add an element of uniqueness to an already iconic beach. When you’re done swimming and relaxing, the shipwreck is a sight to behold, and you’ll be sure to explore it while you’re on the island.

Top Tip: As with most places in Greece, the best time to visit is during summer, although the area will be quieter and still as beautiful in May or September.

Famous Landmarks in Greece - Navagio Beach
Navagio Beach, Zakynthos

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In Summary – 20 Famous Landmarks in Greece Not to Miss

As you can see, Greece has many famous landmarks that should not be missed. From enticing old temples and palaces to crumbling ruins and coastal cities, it is a must-visit country in Europe. Almost every city in Greece has a famous landmark of historical significance or natural beauty for you to explore which makes planning your trip to Greece so much easier.

Are you planning a holiday to Greece? Have you visited any of the famous landmarks in Greece listed above, or have we missed a landmark in Greece we should add to this list? Post your tips and questions below.

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20 FAMOUS LANDMARKS IN GREECE

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Other Famous Landmarks in Europe

Want to discover more famous landmarks in Europe and other European Countries? Here are some more posts that you might like!

Greece Trip Planners

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