Where to see the best ancient ruins in Greece

In Greece, world-renowned ancient sites ⁠– some featuring in the greatest tales of all time, the Greek myths ⁠– carpet the country. With every layer excavated, another civilization is revealed. And the architecture and artifacts created to honor the gods – Athena, Poseidon, Apollo and Zeus, to name just a few – remain ready for us to marvel at and explore. 

If you want to see some of Greece’s most incredible ancient ruins, here is where to find them. 

1. Acropolis, Athens

It’s one of the most visually familiar ancient sites in the world. And even so, your first glimpse of the Acropolis will take your breath away. Crowned by the Parthenon, this sacred rock and natural fortress is visible from almost everywhere in central Athens. Its monuments and sanctuaries of Pentelic marble gleam in the midday sun and gradually take on a honey hue as the sun sinks, while at night they stand beautifully illuminated, a sentinel above the city. On the southern slopes, a fabulous modern museum provides an intimate view of the Acropolis’ key treasures. 

Highlights of the Acropolis site include the Parthenon (meaning “virgin’s apartment”), which is dedicated to the goddess Athena Parthenos, as well as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Erechtheion.

Popularly known as the Herodeon, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a 5000-seat amphitheater hugging the southwestern slopes of the Acropolis. The best way to experience the theater is by attending a performance. The Athens Epidaurus Festival stages drama, music and dance shows here between June and August, and occasionally there are blockbuster pop concerts and other events.

Find out the best way to explore the entire site in our ultimate guide to the Acropolis. 

Planning tip: You will never have the Acropolis to yourself, but there are some tactics to avoid the worst of the crowds. Arrive at 8am as soon as the site opens (it will also be cooler then) or late in the day. Note that the site’s southeast entrance, near Akropoli metro station, tends to be less crowded. You’ll have to visit the official ticket site to book a timed entry slot (it’s required).