Top 12 Iconic Buildings in Greece Every Traveler Should See

Greece is a land with a rich history and mythology and boasts architectural marvels that span millennia.

From ancient temples to Byzantine monasteries, each structure tells a story of the nation’s rich culture.

This guide delves into 12 iconic buildings in Greece, exploring their highlights, architectural significance, facilities, accessibility, costs, and more.

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1. Acropolis of Athens

Highlights

• Parthenon: Temple dedicated to Athena, showcasing iconic Doric columns.

• Erechtheion: Known for its Caryatids, female-shaped columns supporting the porch.

• Propylaea: Monumental gateway serving as the grand entrance to the Acropolis.

Architecture

Constructed in the 5th century BCE, it exemplifies Classical Greek architecture. The design incorporates ideal proportions and an elevated location for grandeur and visibility.

Facilities

• Visitor center

• Restrooms

• Café and souvenir shops nearby

Accessibility

• Elevator for wheelchair users

• Paved walkways around main attractions

Costs Involved

• €30 standard ticket

• Free on selected days (e.g., the first Sunday of each month from November to March)

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Athens 105 58, Greece

• Metro: Acropolis Station (Line 2)

• Bus: Local bus routes stop within walking distance

Pro Tips

• Arrive early for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

• Combine your visit with the Acropolis Museum next door

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2. Temple of Hephaestus

Highlights

• One of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece

• Overlooks the Ancient Agora of Athens

• Dedicated to Hephaestus, god of craftsmanship

Architecture

Built in 449 BCE using Pentelic marble.

It is a Doric peripteral temple with 34 columns and intricate friezes depicting heroic labors.

Facilities

• Part of the Ancient Agora site – ticket includes access to other ruins

• Shaded benches and maps are available

Accessibility

• Stone paths, but some uneven terrain

• Not fully wheelchair accessible

Costs Involved

• Included in the €10 Ancient Agora entrance fee

• Reduced rates available for students and seniors

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Agoras Hill, Athens

• Metro: Thissio Station (Line 1)

Pro Tips

• Visit in the late afternoon for stunning golden-hour lighting

• Bring water, especially in summer

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3. Meteora Monasteries

Highlights

• The complex of 6 active monasteries built atop towering rock pillars

• UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Offers spiritual tranquility and panoramic views

Architecture

Dating from the 14th–16th centuries, these monasteries blend Byzantine architecture with the natural rock formations, built using stone and wood atop vertical cliffs.

Facilities

• Gift shops and small cafes are nearby

• Parking areas and rest stops

Accessibility

• Access varies per monastery (some require climbing hundreds of steps)

• Modest dress required

Costs Involved

• €3 per monastery

• Group tours from Kalabaka or Thessaloniki are available

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Kalabaka, Thessaly

• Train: From Athens or Thessaloniki to Kalabaka

Pro Tips

• Wear hiking shoes

• Visit early to avoid tourist crowds and afternoon sun

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4. Temple of Apollo at Delphi

Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple_of_Apollo_%28Delphi%29

Highlights

• Sacred site of the ancient Oracle of Delphi

• Major center of religion and prophecy in ancient Greece

• Located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus

Architecture

Built around the 4th century BCE, the Doric temple is partially ruined but retains columns and foundational structures that overlook a dramatic mountain landscape.

Facilities

• Delphi Archaeological Museum is nearby

• Restrooms and vending machines are available

Accessibility

• Pathways are steep and uneven

• Limited wheelchair access

Costs Involved

• €12 combined ticket with the museum

• Free entry days for EU students

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Delphi, Central Greece

• Bus: From Athens via intercity routes

Pro Tips

• Pair your visit with the museum

• Bring sunscreen and water

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5. Epidaurus Theatre

Highlights

• Known for its impeccable acoustics

• Still hosts performances during the Epidaurus Festival

• Seats over 14,000 visitors

Architecture

Built in the 4th century BCE, the theatre features limestone seats and a circular orchestra. It exemplifies symmetry and ideal proportions of Greek theatre design.

Facilities

• Modern visitor center

• On-site café and shaded seating

Accessibility

• Ramps available

• Best to check individual needs before visiting

Costs Involved

• €12 standard ticket

• Discounted prices for under-25s and EU citizens

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Lygourio, Peloponnese

• By car: 2-hour drive from Athens

Pro Tips

• Test the acoustics by whispering from the center stage

• Arrive early during festival season for the best seats

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6. Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes

Highlights

• Gothic fortress once home to Crusader knights

• Now a museum of medieval and Byzantine history

• Towers and fortified walls offer sea views

Architecture

Originally built in the 7th century as a Byzantine citadel, it was later expanded by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century. Features include a grand hall, mosaics, and battlements.

Facilities

• Extensive museum exhibits

• Restrooms and shaded gardens

Accessibility

• Several areas are accessible, but the upper floors via stairs.

Costs Involved

• €8 entry

• Combined tickets are available for nearby archaeological sites

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Rhodes Old Town, Dodecanese

• Bus or walk: Easy access from the main town

Pro Tips

• Wander the Old Town before or after your visit

• Visit late afternoon for beautiful lighting and cooler temps

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7. Monastery of Hosios Loukas

Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hosios_Loukas

Highlights

• A UNESCO-listed Byzantine monastery

• Known for its dazzling mosaics and marble decorations

• Still functioning as a religious site

Architecture

Built in the 10th century, Hosios Loukas is one of the finest examples of Middle Byzantine architecture, with cross-in-square design, domes, and richly decorated interiors using cloisonné masonry.

Facilities

• Small museum and gift shop

• Café and picnic areas nearby

Accessibility

• Mostly accessible with paved paths, though some parts are uneven

• Staff can assist with accessibility requests

Costs Involved

• €4 entry fee

• Discounts available for students and seniors

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Boeotia, near Distomo

• Car: Best accessed by private vehicle from Delphi or Athens

Pro Tips

• Don’t miss the crypt and original frescoes

• Visit during spring when the surrounding countryside blooms

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8. Thessaloniki Rotunda

Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arch_of_Galerius_and_Rotunda

Highlights

• Once a Roman mausoleum, then a church, then a mosque

• Now functions as a monument and museum

• Impressive mosaics inside the massive dome

Architecture

Built in 306 AD by Emperor Galerius, Thessaloniki is a cylindrical structure with a massive 30-meter-high dome. The conversion to a church added a prominent apse and Christian mosaics.

Facilities

• On-site guides and printed info materials

• Restroom and seating areas

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible with assistance

• Flat entry point and well-maintained paths

Costs Involved

• €6 general admission

• Combined ticket with other Thessaloniki monuments available

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Plateia Agiou Georgiou, Thessaloniki

• Bus/Metro: Multiple city transport lines serve the area

Pro Tips

• Visit the nearby Arch of Galerius for context

• Ideal for history buffs interested in multi-faith evolution

9. Knossos Palace

Highlights

• The ancient Minoan palace is believed to be Europe’s oldest city

• Linked to myths of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth

• Features vibrant frescoes and architectural innovations

Architecture

Dating back to 2000 BCE, Knossos Palace was a multi-level complex with advanced drainage systems, open courtyards, and columns unique to Minoan style—red-painted shafts with black capitals.

Facilities

• On-site guides and info boards

• Café and gift shop

• Archaeological Museum of Heraklion nearby

Accessibility

• Uneven terrain and partial wheelchair access

• Not all areas are restored

Costs Involved

• €15 entry

• €20 combo ticket with the Heraklion Museum

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Heraklion, Crete

• Bus: Frequent routes from the Heraklion center

Pro Tips

• Arrive early to beat the tour groups

• Great for families and mythology fans

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10. Stoa of Attalos

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stoa_of_Attalos

Highlights

• Reconstructed ancient shopping and civic center

• Houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora

• Offers shaded walks and stunning Athenian views

Architecture

Originally built in 150 BCE and rebuilt in the 1950s using Pentelic marble and limestone. It features two floors of Doric and Ionic colonnades.

Facilities

• Museum exhibits on Athenian democracy

• Restrooms and a bookshop

Accessibility

• Fully accessible with elevators and ramps

• Wheelchair-friendly museum

Costs Involved

• Included in the €10 ticket to the Ancient Agora

• Free for students and certain age groups

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Adrianou St, Athens

• Metro: Thissio or Monastiraki Stations

Pro Tips

• Combine with a visit to the Temple of Hephaestus

• A quiet retreat from the bustle of Athens

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11. Zappeion Hall

Source:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zappeion

Highlights

• Historic conference and exhibition center

• Hosted events during the first modern Olympic Games

• Architectural gem surrounded by lush gardens

Architecture

Zappeion Hall was completed in 1888 in neoclassical style, designed by Danish architect Theophil Hansen. Features Corinthian columns, arched hallways, and a dramatic rotunda.

Facilities

• Exhibition spaces and cultural events

• Adjacent to the National Gardens and cafes

Accessibility

• Fully accessible building

• Ample surrounding space for mobility needs

Costs Involved

• Entry is usually free unless part of an event

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Vasilissis Olgas Ave, Athens

• Metro: Syntagma Station

Pro Tips

• Check the schedule for exhibitions or events

• Ideal photo spot with the National Garden as a backdrop

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12. Monastery of Arkadi

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arkadi_Monastery

Highlights

• Symbol of Cretan resistance during the 1866 rebellion

• A mix of Renaissance and Baroque elements

• Moving memorial and a tranquil environment

Architecture

Built in the 16th century, the façade includes ornate Corinthian columns and Baroque details. The complex includes a church, a museum, and an ossuary.

Facilities

• Historical museum and chapel

• Restrooms and a souvenir shop

Accessibility

• Accessible pathways around the site

• Entrance ramp available

Costs Involved

• €3 entrance fee

• Discounts for children and groups

Location & How to Get There

• Address: Near Rethymno, Crete

• By car: Best accessed from Rethymno (approx. 30 mins)

Pro Tips

• Visit around sunset for beautiful lighting

• Bring a guidebook for historical context

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FAQs About Buildings in Greece

1. What is the most famous building in Greece?

The Parthenon is widely regarded as the most iconic among all buildings in Greece. Located atop the Acropolis in Athens, it is a timeless symbol of ancient Greek architecture and heritage.

2. Are the buildings in Greece open all year round?

Yes, most buildings in Greece that serve as historical landmarks or tourist attractions are open throughout the year. However, opening hours may vary depending on the season and public holidays.

3. Is there a combined ticket for visiting multiple buildings in Greece?

Absolutely! In Athens, for example, there’s a popular €30 combined ticket that includes access to several renowned buildings in Greece, such as the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, and more.

4. Are historic buildings in Greece accessible for wheelchair users?

Accessibility varies depending on the site. While modern buildings in Greece like museums and exhibition halls are fully accessible, ancient sites may have uneven paths. Still, many offer partial accessibility and assistance for visitors with mobility needs.

5. Can I book guided tours for buildings in Greece?

Yes, guided tours are highly recommended for many buildings in Greece. They provide valuable insights into the architecture, historical significance, and myths surrounding each site.

6. What’s the best time to visit buildings in Greece?

The best time to explore buildings in Greece is during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant and tourist crowds are smaller.