13 Historical Places in Greece: The Complete Guide for Indian Tourists

Greece stands as the cradle of Western civilization. This Mediterranean nation offers thousands of years of history through its ancient ruins, classical temples, and archaeological wonders.

From the iconic Acropolis in Athens to the mystical ruins of Delphi, historical places in Greece showcase extraordinary architectural achievements created without modern technology.

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Greece houses over 100 archaeological sites and 265 archaeological museums, making it a paradise for history enthusiasts. The historical places in Greece span over 4,000 years, from Minoan civilizations to Classical Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods.

1. The Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis stands as the defining landmark of Athens and perhaps the most recognizable of all historical places in Greece. This ancient citadel perches on a rocky outcrop above the modern city, housing several significant buildings like the Parthenon.

Highlights:

• The Parthenon – Dedicated to goddess Athena, built between 447-438 BCE and considered the finest example of Doric architecture
• The Propylaea – The monumental gateway with marble columns
• The Erechtheion – Famous for its porch supported by six female figures (Caryatids)
• The Temple of Athena Nike – A small, elegant temple commemorating Athenian victory
• The Acropolis Museum – Located nearby, housing original sculptures and artifacts
• Panoramic views of Athens from all sides
• Evening light shows during the summer months

Address: Athens 105 58, Greece
Timings: Summer (April-October): 8:00-20:00; Winter (November-March): 8:00-17:00
Fees:Approximately Rs. 1,900 (€20) for general admission; reduced rates available for students and seniors

2. Delphi Archaeological Site

Located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi was considered the centre of the world by ancient Greeks. This pan-Hellenic sanctuary attracted pilgrims from across the Greek world who came to consult the Oracle of Apollo.

Highlights:

• Temple of Apollo – Where the Oracle delivered prophecies
• Ancient Theatre – Seats 5,000 spectators with mountain views
• Stadium – Where the Pythian Games were held, one of the best-preserved in Greece
• Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia – With the distinctive Tholos circular temple
• Delphi Archaeological Museum – Houses the famous Charioteer of Delphi bronze statue
• Sacred Way – The processional path lined with treasury buildings
• Castalian Spring – Where visitors purified themselves before consulting the Oracle

Address: Delphi, Phocis 330 54, Greece
Timings: Summer (April-October): 8:00-20:00; Winter (November-March): 8:00-15:00
Fees:Approximately Rs. 1,100 (€12) for a combined ticket to the archaeological site and museum

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3. Knossos Palace (Crete)

Source:https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:KnossosCourt.jpg

Knossos Palace represents the heart of Europe’s oldest city and the center of Minoan civilization. This sprawling complex dates back to 2000-1350 BCE, making it one of the oldest buildings in Greece.

Highlights:

• Grand Staircase – Four flights of stairs leading to the royal apartments
• Throne Room – With an alabaster throne and colorful griffin frescoes
• Queen’s Megaron – Features the famous dolphin fresco
• Central Court – The heart of palace activities
• Royal Villa – Separate building with elite living quarters
• Reconstructed sections – Sir Arthur Evans’ controversial but helpful visualizations
• Advanced drainage systems – Showing remarkable engineering for the time
• Storage rooms – With massive pithoi (storage jars) still in place

Address: Knossos, Heraklion 714 09, Crete, Greece
Timings: Summer: 8:00-20:00; Winter: 8:00-15:00
Fees:Approximately Rs. 1,400 (€15) for general admission

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4. Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus

Source:https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_great_theater_of_Epidaurusdesignedby_Polykleitos_the_Younger_in_the_4th_century_BCSanctuaryof_Asklepeios_at_EpidaurusGreece(14015010416).jpg

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is widely considered the most perfect ancient Greek theatre, famous for its exceptional acoustics. Even in the top row, audiences can hear a whisper from the stage clearly without any amplification.

Highlights:

• Perfect acoustics – A whisper at center stage can be heard throughout the theatre
• Exceptional symmetry – 55 rows of limestone seats arranged in perfect semicircles
• Capacity for 14,000 spectators – One of the largest ancient theatres
• Still used for performances – The Annual Epidaurus Festival hosts Greek dramas
• Sanctuary of Asklepios – An Adjacent healing center dedicated to the god of medicine
• Tholos – A Circular building that was part of the healing sanctuary
• Archaeological Museum – Houses findings from the site
• UNESCO World Heritage status since 1988

Address: Epidavros 210 52, Greece
Timings: Summer: 8:00-20:00; Winter: 8:30-15:00
Fees:Approximately Rs. 1,100 (€12) for the archaeological site, including theatre

5. Mycenae

Source:https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:The_acropolis_at_MycenaeDec.2001.jpg

The imposing citadel of Mycenae was one of the major centers of Greek civilization during the Bronze Age (1600-1100 BCE). This fortress city gave its name to an entire civilization and is featured in Homer’s epics as the kingdom of Agamemnon.

Highlights:

• Lion Gate – Monumental entrance topped with a relief sculpture of two lions
• Cyclopean Walls – Massive stone fortifications built with stones so large they were said to be placed by Cyclops
• Treasury of Atreus – Spectacular beehive tomb with 13-meter-high dome
• Royal Palace – Remains of the palace complex on the summit
• Grave Circle A – Contains shaft graves where Heinrich Schliemann discovered the “Mask of Agamemnon”
• Underground cistern – Advanced water supply system
• Archaeological Museum – Displays artifacts found at the site
• Panoramic views of the Argolid plain

Address: Mycenae 212 00, Greece
Timings: Summer: 8:00-20:00; Winter: 8:30-15:00
Fees:Approximately Rs. 1,100 (€12) for entry to the archaeological site and museum

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6. Temple of Hephaestus (Athens)

The Temple of Hephaestus stands as the best-preserved historical temples in Greece, often overshadowed by the nearby Parthenon.

Completed around 415 BCE, this Doric temple was dedicated to Hephaestus, god of metalworking and craftsmanship, and Athena, goddess of pottery and crafts—appropriate deities for a temple located in Athens’ ancient industrial district.

Highlights:

• Exceptional preservation – The best-preserved ancient Greek temple
• Complete Doric colonnade – 6 columns on each end and 13 on each side
• Original roof structure – A rarity among ancient Greek temples
• Sculptural decorations – Depicting the labors of Heracles and Theseus
• Former Christian church – Was converted to the Church of St. George, which helped preserve it
• Located in the Ancient Agora – Part of the larger archaeological site
• Continuous marble frieze – Around the top of the inner chamber walls
• Prominent hilltop position – Visible from many parts of Athens

Address: Ancient Agora of Athens, Athens 105 55, Greece
Timings: Summer: 8:00-20:00; Winter: 8:00-15:00
Fees:Approximately Rs. 950 (€10) as part of the Ancient Agora ticket

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7. Meteora Monasteries

Source:https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Meteora%27s_monastery_2.jpg

While not from ancient Greece, the Meteora monasteries represent a unique fusion of natural and cultural heritage dating from the 14th century. These monasteries sit atop massive rock pillars that rise dramatically from the Plain of Thessaly.

Highlights:

• Six active monasteries – Originally 24, now six remain open to visitors
• Spectacular setting – Built on natural sandstone rock towers up to 400 meters high
• Great Meteoron – The largest monastery, founded in the mid-14th century
• Varlaam Monastery – Houses an impressive collection of manuscripts and icons
• Holy Trinity Monastery – Featured in the James Bond film “For Your Eyes Only”
• Roussanou Monastery – Now a nunnery with fantastic views
• St. Nicholas Anapausas – Contains remarkable frescoes by the monk Theophanes
• Hiking trails – A Network of paths connecting the monasteries

Address: Kalambaka 422 00, Greece
Timings: Varies by monastery, generally 9:00-17:00 (closed on different days)
Fees:Approximately Rs. 290 (€3) per monastery; modest dress required (shoulders covered, men in long pants, women in skirts below the knee)

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8. Ancient Olympia

Source:https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ancient_Olympia,_Greece2.jpg

Ancient Olympia served as the birthplace of the Olympic Games, first held in 776 BCE and continuing for over 1,000 years. This sacred sanctuary dedicated to Zeus housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—the colossal statue of Zeus.

Highlights:

• Original Olympic Stadium – Where ancient athletes competed, with stone starting blocks still in place
• Temple of Zeus – Once contained the 12-meter-high gold and ivory statue by Phidias
• Temple of Hera – Where the Olympic flame is still lit today for modern games
• Philippeion – Circular monument built by Philip II of Macedon
• Palaestra and Gymnasium – Training facilities for athletes
• Workshop of Phidias – Where the sculptor created the statue of Zeus
• Archaeological Museum – Houses sculptures from the Temple of Zeus and the Hermes of Praxiteles
• Monument to Pierre de Coubertin – Founder of the modern Olympic Games

Address: Archaia Olympia 270 65, Greece
Timings: Summer: 8:00-20:00; Winter: 8:30-15:00
Fees:Approximately Rs. 1,100 (€12) for the archaeological site and museum

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9. Temple of Poseidon at Sounion

The Temple of Poseidon sits dramatically on a headland at Cape Sounion, commanding views across the Aegean Sea. This strategic location served as both a place of worship and a landmark for sailors returning to Athens.

Highlights:

• Spectacular sunset views – One of the most photographed sunsets in Greece
• Dramatic clifftop location – 60 meters above the sea
• Doric columns – 15 of the original 34 columns still standing
• Lord Byron’s graffiti – The famous poet carved his name on one column
• Strategic position – Part of Athens’ defensive network
• Ancient sanctuary – Dedicated to Poseidon, god of the sea
• Marble construction – Built from locally quarried marble
• Day trip from Athens – Just 70 km from the capital

Address: Cape Sounion, Lavrio 195 00, Greece
Timings:Varies seasonally, generally 9:30-Sunset
Fees:Approximately Rs. 970 (€10) for general admission

10. Ancient Agora of Athens

The Ancient Agora served as the heart of public life in ancient Athens. This marketplace and civic center was where Socrates taught, democracy developed, and citizens gathered for commerce and conversation.

Highlights:

• Stoa of Attalos – Reconstructed colonnade now housing the Agora Museum
• Temple of Hephaestus – The best-preserved ancient temple in Greece
• Church of the Holy Apostles – 10th-century Byzantine church
• Tholos – A circular building where the executive committee of the Boule (council) dined
• Bouleuterion – Meeting place of the Boule, Athens’ council of citizens
• Altar of the Twelve Gods – Served as the central milestone from which all distances in Athens were measured
• Law courts – Where Athenian citizens served as jurors
• Water clock – Used to time speeches in the law courts

Address: Adrianou 24, Athens 105 55, Greece
Timings: Summer: 8:00-20:00; Winter: 8:00-15:00
Fees:Approximately Rs. 970 (€10) for general admission

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11. Vergina (Aigai)

Source:https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Facade_of_Philip_II_tomb_Vergina_Greece.jpg

Vergina, the ancient city of Aigai, was the first capital of the Macedonian kingdom. The site gained worldwide attention in 1977 when archaeologist Manolis Andronikos discovered the tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great.

Highlights:

• Royal Tombs – Including the intact tomb of Philip II with its spectacular gold larnax (chest)
• Underground Museum – Built into the Great Tumulus burial mound
• Golden Treasures -An extraordinary collection of gold wreaths, armor, and royal goods
• Wall Paintings – Rare ancient frescoes including the Abduction of Persephone
• Palace Ruins – Impressive remains of the royal palace
• Ancient Theater – Where Philip II was assassinated in 336 BCE
• Golden Larnax – The golden chest containing Philip II’s remains
• Macedonian Star – The 16-ray star symbol found on Philip’s larnax, now Greece’s national symbol

Address: Vergina 590 31, Greece
Timings: Summer: 8:00-20:00; Winter: 8:30-15:30
Fees:Approximately Rs. 1,100 (€12) for general admission

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12. Delos Island

Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Delos_general.jpg

Tiny Delos island was revered in antiquity as the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis. Despite its small size (just 5 sq km), Delos became a major religious and commercial center, now ranking among the most important historical sites in Greece.

Highlights:

• Terrace of the Lions – Famous row of marble lion statues (replicas; originals in museum)
• House of Dionysus – Contains the famous mosaic of Dionysus riding a panther
• Temple of Apollo – Main sanctuary dedicated to the god
• Sacred Lake – Where Apollo was born (now dried up)
• Theatre Quarter – Residential area with well-preserved mosaics and frescoes
• Mount Kynthos – Highest point offering panoramic views (113m)
• Archaeological Museum – Houses sculptures and artifacts from the site
• No overnight stays – The island is uninhabited and closes to visitors each evening

Address: Delos Island, Cyclades, Greece
Timings:Tuesday-Sunday: 8:00-15:00; closed Mondays
Fees:Approximately Rs. 1,100 (€12) for site entry plus boat fare (around Rs. 1,900/€20 round-trip from Mykonos)

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13. Dion Archaeological Park

Source:https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Die_gro%C3%9Fen_Thermen.jpg

Located at the foot of Mount Olympus, Dion was a sacred city for the ancient Macedonians and an important religious center dedicated to Zeus. Alexander the Great sacrificed here before his Asian campaign.

Highlights:

• Sanctuary of Zeus – Main religious site with altar and temple remains
• Sanctuary of Isis – Well-preserved temple dedicated to the Egyptian goddess
• Roman Theatre – Used for performances during the summer festival
• Large Baths – Impressive Roman bathing complex
• Dionysus Villa – Contains stunning mosaic floors
• Early Christian Basilicas – Evidence of the transition to Christianity
• Archaeological Museum – Houses findings from the excavations
• Wetland setting – Unique archaeological park with running water and lush vegetation

Address: Dion 600 01, Greece
Timings: Summer: 8:00-20:00; Winter: 8:30-15:30
Fees:Approximately Rs. 770 (€8) for general admission

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FAQs

Which are the best places to visit in Greece?

For first-time Indian visitors, top historical places in Greece include the Acropolis, Delphi, Meteora, Ancient Olympia, and Knossos Palace. For scenic beauty, the islands of Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes offer stunning landscapes and beaches.

Which are the best things to do in Greece?

Besides exploring famous historical places in Greece, visitors can enjoy island-hopping, Greek cuisine (with vegetarian options), walking tours, beach fun, boat trips, hiking ancient trails, and traditional music and dance. Don’t miss the Athens and Epidaurus Festival.

What is the best time to visit Greece?

The best time to visit Greece is mid-April to mid-June or September to October, with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better prices. Summer is hot and crowded, while winter offers quiet visits to major historical sites, though some islands close.

Are there rental and transfer facilities in Greece?

Yes, Greece offers great transport options. Car rentals (with an international license), ferries, and KTEL buses are widely available. Athens has a reliable metro. Taxis are common—agree on fares. Indian tourists should consider pre-booked airport transfers, especially at night.

Does Greece have any historical sites?

Yes, there are over 100 major historical sites in Greece, including 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These span from the Neolithic to the Ottoman eras. New sites are still being discovered, like at Amphipolis and Marathon, enriching Greece’s archaeological record.

What is the oldest place in Greece?

Knossos Palace (c. 2000 BCE) is one of the oldest buildings in Greece open to tourists. Older still is the Neolithic site of Sesklo (7000 BCE). Argos is the oldest continuously inhabited city, dating back to 5000 BCE.

What to wear in Greece?

When visiting historical temples in Greece and monasteries, dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees. Women need skirts at Meteora (wraps provided). Wear comfortable shoes for uneven paths, plus hats, sunscreen, and light clothing, especially in summer.

Is Greece expensive to visit?

Greece suits all budgets. For Indian tourists, costs are similar to other European spots. Entry to historical places in Greece is €10–20 (Rs. 970-1,900), with multi-site passes available. Meals cost €15–25 (Rs. 1,400-2,400), and budget stays start at €40–60 (Rs. 3,800-5,800) per night.