Greece is an excellent destination for those who are interested in history. Some of the best Greek islands for history buffs include Delos, Paros, Aegina and Rhodes ; but incredible archaeological sites can be found all over the main land as well.

Here’s a list of the top archaeological sites in Greece:

The Acropolis of Athens

The Sacred Rock stands at the highest point in Athens and is considered the most important heritage of the Classical period and Europe’s most important ancient monument. The main building on the Acropolis is The Parthenon.

Although buildings were constructed on the same site since ancient times, the Acropolis we know today was the idea of Pericles. The buildings date from the 4th century B.C.

How to get to Athens

Most travelers arrive in Athens on an international flight . There are direct links to the European capitals and it’s not hard to get to Greece from the USA either (typically via Amsterdam or London).

Where to stay in Athens

Athens is a large city. You can find interesting budget hotels near the Acropolis or you can choose one of the hostels near the Acropolis . The prices are affordable even though you’ll be staying right near the most important archaeological site in Greece.

The Oracle of Delphi

The site was discovered in 1893. This was the most important oracle in ancient Greece. The ancient settlement of Delphi was the place where the female deity of Earth was worshipped. The development of the sanctuary started in the 8th century B.C. with the establishment of the cult of Apollo. People from all over the Mediterranean would come to the oracle to ask for advice.

How to get to Delphi

Delphi is located about an hour and a half (by car) from Athens. It spreads along the slope of Mount Parnassus. To get to Delphi from Athens drive north E75 and then East towards Itea. Visiting Delphi is an excellent choice for a day trip from Athens .

Where to stay in Delphi

The modern town of Delphi is located west of the site and is filled with hotels . It’s also a very popular destination for tourists so it might get crowded during the peak season.

Ancient Olympia

Ancient Olympia is located in the Peloponnese, in a superb area. It is one of the most important sanctuaries in antiquity dedicated to Zeus, the father of all Gods. One of the most important features of the site is the stadium. In the center of the sanctuary, the remains of the temple of Zeus still marvel the visitors.

It is also the place where the first Olympic Games were held in 7th century B.C. These games were organized to honor Zeus. According to legend, the games were founded either by Pelops, king of Peloponnese, or by Hercules. Wars stopped during the games and the winners were awarded a branch of olive tree.

How to get to Olympia

You can take a bus from Athens, Kalamata or Kyllini. From Athens to Olympia is about 4.5 hours of driving so you cannot cram this visit in a day trip.

Where to stay in Olympia

There are hotels in the near-by modern town of Olympia. For excellent views, choose one of the hotels located atop the hill. The ancient Olympia is within walking distance from there, as well.

The Island of Delos

The small island of Delos is included in the World Heritage Monuments protected by the UNESCO. It is located just few miles from Mykonos , in the center of the Cyclades .

It is considered of the most important Pan-Hellenic sanctuaries of Greece. It was the birth place of Apollo and possibly of Artemis, the twin-sister of Apollo, as well. In ancient times, Delos was both a commercial and religious center.

How to get to Delos

The easiest way to get to Delos is with a tour boat departing from Mykonos (every day except on Monday). If you want to plan the excursion yourself, there are ferries from Tinos and Naxos into Delos.

Where to stay in Delos

Overnight stay on Delos is forbidden. The closest accommodation options are in Mykonos. You can choose one of the Mykonos hotels or opt for a cheaper option and look for budget accommodation in Mykonos .

The Minoan Palace of Knossos, Crete

Knossos is the most important and best preserved palace of the Minoan Civilization. It is located near-by modern Heraklion and was the seat of the legendary King Minos. The palace is connected to many legends, including the Labyrinth with the Minotaur and story of Icarus.

How to get to Crete

Crete is a large island and is well connected to the mainland and the other Greek islands. During the summer season, there are charter flights from many European cities as well. Domestic flights also connect Crete to other Greek airports. Or you can choose a ferry to Crete .

Where to stay in Crete

There are many hotels in Crete to choose from. And you can always save some money if you opt for a hostel . Ideally, you should look for accommodation in Heraklion.

Also on Crete

Gortyn was a major Roman city. It later became known as a Christian center. The city was destroyed in the 9th century by the Saracen attackers. It is located about 40 minutes drive south of Heraklion (Iraklio).

Photo credits: Acropolis of Athens , Delphi , Ancient Olympia , Delos , Palace of Knossos