By Briana Seftel
The cradle of Western civilization awaits in Greece. From turquoise waters of the most famous islands in the world to centuries old ruins, these top destinations in Greece will surely awe and inspire!
Athens
Steeped in over 2,500 years of history, Athens certainly can claim its place as one of the most important cities in Western civilization. Ancient Greek ruins mixed with modern city buildings makes this city one of incredible contrasts; no visit would be complete without the Acropolis and the charming Plaka district.
Mykonos
The cosmopolitan island of Mykonos truly has it all: whitewashed cubic houses, windmills, sandy beaches, shops, galleries and incredible nightlife. Chora is the main village on Mykonos and the center of activity.
Santorini
Known as Greece's most romantic island, Santorini has one jaw dropping vista after another, from the picture-perfect village of Oia to breathtaking sunsets. As part of the Cyclades, Santorini sits between Athens and Crete in the shape of a crescent.
Crete
Crete is Greece's largest island and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean. Almost a separate country in its own right, Crete stuns with its rugged beauty and exciting culture. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, Hania Old Town, and the Palace of Malia, all while enjoying Crete's famous Mediterranean cuisine.
Meteora (Kalambaka)
The strange and beautiful landscape of Meteora stuns with its massive rock formations and six monasteries. Standing between earth and sky atop monolithic rocks, the six monasteries date from the 14th to the 16th century and contain priceless historical and religious treasures, from painted wonders to sacred sculptures.
Delphi
On the slopes of Mt. Parnassus, ancient Greeks considered Delphi the center of the world! According to mythology, Zeus sent two eagles out from the ends of the universe where they met in Delphi. Set within a spectacular landscape, Delphi was, for many centuries, the cultural and religious center and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world. Admire the Oracle, the sanctuary of Apollo, and the Temple of Pronoia Athena.
Rhodes
Known as "the island of the roses," Rhodes is the largest and most popular island of Dodecanese. It combines a rich historical past, marvelous beaches and a variety of cultural offerings. Rhodes' Old Town is among the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, surrounded by fortified walls, while its beaches are some of Greece’s best.
