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Where to Experience Ancient Greece

History and archaeology buffs will have a field day in Greece (pun intended). Although nearly all the islands have some sort of ruins and museums, Samothrace, Crete, and Delos (accessible from both Mykonos and Naxos) have particularly fabulous places to visit. Here are the top spots to learn about Greek history and experience Ancient Greece firsthand:

Parthenon, Athens

Parthenon
The iconic archaeological site is even more impressive in person. © Ivan Bastien | Dreamstime

One of the most awe-inspiring places in Western civilization, the Parthenon, still stands in all its glory above Acropolis.

Palace Of Knossos, Crete

Image of stone ruins with red columns under light blue sky spotted with tiny white clouds.
The Palace of Knossos. Photo © Tuulijumala/Dreamstime.

The best preserved of the Minoan palaces, the Palace of Knossos is a testament to the ferocious strength and power of the mysterious Minoan civilization.

Sanctuary Of The Great Gods, Samothrace

Feel the energy at this mysterious temple complex dating back to the 7th century BCE. The site was used to worship the “Great Gods,” but the true meaning behind the place still has archaeologists scratching their heads.

Delos Archaeological Site, Delos

Delos
Ruins in Delos. Photo © Jekaterina Voroniva | Dreamstime

This uninhabited island (accessible by way of Mykonos) was a sacred place for ancient Greeks, and is one of the most important Panhellenic sanctuaries. Walk around temples, theaters, former houses, and truly magnificent mosaics.

Temple Of Apollo, Naxos

The huge marble gate—actually an unfinished temple dedicated to Apollo—is one of the most arresting sights in Greece, and the first thing you’ll see as your ferry boat docks in Naxos.

Travel Tip: Download Topos Text to your phone, which has geolocated more than 5,000 ancient ruins across Greece, and complements them with excerpt of ancient texts.


Start planning your adventure today.

Sarah Souli

About the Author

Sarah Souli is an Athens-based journalist covering all things Greek for outlets like Vice, The Guardian, Condé Nast Traveler, Roads & Kingdoms, and more. She’s been traveling to Greece for years, eventually settling in Athens several years ago with her Greek husband. Through her writing and travels, she’s formed an intimate relationship with Greece’s people, language, and customs, and loves seeking out the hidden gems of the Greek islands. She studied Political Science at the University of Pennsylvania, speaks French, Spanish, Arabic, and Greek, and never tires of inspiring wanderlust and learning new things about her adopted home country.

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Image of stone ruins with red columns and text Where to Experience Ancient Greece