Sign In
Subscribe

Greece Travel Guide: Athens, Crete, and More: A Complete Guide to Southern Greece & Islands

Athens: Where European History Began

The first place we'll introduce in southern Greece is Athens, the capital city and the most visited tourist destination in Greece.
In short, Athens is the "flower pot of Europe." Its diverse history is alive and well, with remnants of ancient Athenian ruins, Roman Empire, Byzantine Empire, and Islamic rule.
The must-see attraction here is undoubtedly the Acropolis. It houses numerous iconic monuments from the Western world, including the Parthenon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Theatre of Dionysus, the birthplace of Western theater; and the Agora, the cradle of democracy.
Along with the Acropolis ruins, don't miss the Acropolis Museum, which displays artifacts excavated there, and the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, which is ranked as one of the top ten museums in the world.

Cape Sounion: Beautiful Mediterranean Sunsets

For those traveling to Athens, I'd like to recommend another nearby destination: Cape Sounion. This coastal area is about an hour and a half by bus from Athens. Many travelers flock here to enjoy the stunning Mediterranean Sea and its breathtaking sunsets.
The ancient Temple of Poseidon, built in honor of the sea god Poseidon, along with the sunset scenery, adds an extra special touch. Why not add some romance to your trip by admiring the beautiful sunset at this mystical temple?

The Peloponnese: Birthplace of Mythology and the Olympics

In southern Greece, I recommend visiting the many tourist attractions of the Peloponnese Peninsula, home to cities like Corinth, Patras, Olympia, and Sparta.
Olympia, located inland on the western side of the Peloponnese Peninsula, is a perfect destination for those dreaming of a journey through ancient Greek history, along with Delphi and Athens. Here, at the birthplace of the Olympic Games, you can see the ruins of the temples where the "Olympian Games," held in honor of Zeus, took place.
Also, the island of Zakynthos, off the western Peloponnese Peninsula, is a must-see. Its azure seas and beautiful beaches are breathtaking to behold, and it's also become famous as the backdrop for the drama "Descendants of the Sun."

Crete: The Cradle of Ancient Civilization

The final island in southern Greece I'd like to introduce is Crete. Located at the southernmost tip of Greece, it's a vast island, roughly 3.5 times the size of Jeju Island in Korea. It's a favorite vacation spot not only for Greeks but also for Europeans.
Above all, this is the birthplace of Cretan civilization, the earliest prototype of ancient Western civilization. It offers a unique charm, distinct from Athens and Delphi. The Palace of Knossos, in particular, is a highlight of any Cretan historical tour, and is well-known as the setting for the Minotaur and the Labyrinth in Greek mythology.

Curious about the highlights of your trip to Greece, Santorini and Mykonos?

So far, I have introduced you to the main tourist attractions in Greece.
Including Santorini and Mykonos, the highlights of any trip to Greece.
👉 Check out our guidebook for more island travel information and tips! ⬇️⬇️
Athens BEST3 Tour
Athens Acropolis Tour with Mediterranean Humanists
          
 
Athens Acropolis Museum Tour with Mediterranean Humanists
          
A tour of the National Archaeological Museum in Athens: Must-see sculptures!
TOURLiVE MEGAZINE
Subscribe to 'TOURLiVE MEGAZINE'
📌 Travel stories that aren't on the map, but are here!
We've compiled some really useful travel tips and courses.
Subscribe now so you don't miss out!
Subscribe
👍