Top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece

Of course, the list of historical sites in Greece would not be complete without the Acropolis. The Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike are the most complete and arguably the most striking of all ancient Greek monuments and stand as icons of classical Greece on the rocky hill above Athens. Visit early or at sunset to enjoy the most magical light.

Delphi was once considered the center of the world and was the home of Pythia – the famous oracle whose prophecies influenced every important decision in ancient Greece. Its mountain location and ancient ruins still make it one of the most atmospheric places in Greece.

A collection of ancient monasteries perched atop 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.

The medieval city of Rhodes, a beautifully preserved walled city built by the Order of St. John, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you stroll through cobbled streets, medieval gates and magnificent stone buildings where time seems to have stood still, it’s easy to see why.

One of the most beautiful ghost towns in the world, Mystras is a Byzantine city built on a steep hill near Sparta. The crumbling palaces, churches and fortifications are now an open-air museum and offer a vivid insight into life in medieval Greece.

As the birthplace of the Olympic Games, Olympia is a must-see for sports lovers and history buffs alike. The site, once the most famous and sacred in ancient Greece, includes temples, training grounds and the original stadium track.

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 an important religious and commercial center. Today you can take a boat tour to the island and stroll through the remarkably well-preserved ruins.

With Venetian fortresses, pastel-colored houses and narrow cobbled streets, Corfu’s Old Town combines a heady mix of Greek, Italian and French influences and is possibly one of the country’s most enchanting urban UNESCO sites.

The Sanctuary of Asclepius in Epidaurus was once the healing center of the world and is home to the world-famous Theater of Epidaurus. This ancient theater was built in the late 4th century BC. Built in 500 BC and is legendary for its incredible acoustics. It is still in use today and is the venue for the Athens Epidaurus Festival, which has taken place every summer since 1954.

Thessaloniki, Greece’s second largest city, is often overlooked in favor of the better-known Athens, but its UNESCO World Heritage-listed churches and monuments are exceptional. Highlights of a city trip to Thessaloniki include the Rotunda, Agios Dimitrios, Agia Sophia and several beautifully preserved mosaics.