Travel Bucket List Series-Greece

Acropolis historical ruins at sunset. -Photo Credit- Canva

Greece and its people have always fascinated me. Since the time I was a child, I loved learning about Greek history and its culture. Of course, I love the movies My Big Fat Greek Wedding and Mamma Mia. LOL! In a couple of years, I turn 50, and what better place to celebrate this milestone than Greece. There are so many beautiful places to see in this country. Our trip will be at least 12-14 days long. The first stop on this dream trip, Athens!

Athens

Our trip begins in the beautiful city of Athens and the Electra Metropolis Hotel.

Roof top bar at the Electra Metropolis Hotel- photo courtesy of the hotel

The Electra Metropolis is a 5-star hotel and located in the heart of the city. The hotel has stunning views of the Acropolis and the old neighborhood of Plaka. In the mood for a drink? Head to the rooftop bar for a drink and a breathtaking view of the Parthenon.

Athens serves as the capital of Greece and is its largest city. It has a history spanning over 3,400 years, making it one of the oldest cities. Athens is referred to as the cradle of western civilization and the birthplace of democracy. Its port, Piraeus, is the largest passenger port in Europe. Did you know Athens was the host city for the first modern-day Olympic Games in 1896?

Fun Fact– the first marathon was 24.8 miles, not the 26.2 miles that it is today.

Acropolis

Aerial view of the Acropolis Hill, crowned with Parthenon at sunset in Athens- Photo credit-Canva

The Acropolis is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Over the centuries, the Acropolis, located high above the city of Athens, has been home to kings, a mythical home to Gods, a citadel, religious center, and tourist attraction. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the famous Parthenon.

Parthenon

Parthenon is a temple on the Athenian Acropolis. Photo Credit- Canva

The Parthenon was built in the 5th century B.C. and dedicated to the Goddess, Athena. It sits upon the top of the Acropolis. The Parthenon was the center of religious life in the once-great city of Athens. It was a symbol of the power, wealth, and culture of Athens. It was the largest and most lavish temple the Greek mainland had ever seen. Today, it is one of the most recognized buildings in the world and a symbol of Ancient Greece.

Panathenaic Stadium

Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kalimarmaro which means good marble stone. Photo Credit- Canva

This multipurpose stadium is the only one in the world made out of marble. Initially, it was built as a racecourse in 330 B.C. It was rebuilt in marble by Herodes Atticus by 144 A.D. It was abandoned in the 4th century but refurbished and hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the first modern-day Olympics. The stadium has been used on and off over the years. In 2004 it was the finishing point of the Athens Classic Marathon.

Panathenaic stadium- Photo Credit Canva

Fun Fact– The Panathenaic Stadium is where the flame is handed over to the host nation of the Olympics.

Plaka

Picturesque alleys in the old part of Athens. Photo Credit-Canva

Plaka is an old historical neighborhood of Athens. It is known as the neighborhood of the Gods, given its proximity to the Acropolis and other archeological sites.

Colorful houses in Plaka district with Acropolis at the background. -Photo Credit-Canva

Here you can find restaurants, cafes, and shops. It is considered one of Athens’ nicest neighborhoods, its small community, off the beaten path in the middle of a large city. Most streets are closed to traffic so people can enjoy the street musicians and vendors.

Sunset over the Plaka, the old town of Athens. -Photo Credit-Canva

Sounion

Poseidon Temple at Cape Sounion.- Photo Credit-Canva

Sounion is 43 miles southwest of Athens. It is along the western coast of the Attica Peninsula and overlooks the Aegean Sea. It is home to the Temple of Poseidon. The temple was constructed in 444-440 B.C. Originally, it had 36 columns and now has 5. The temple is immortalized in Homer’s Odyssey.

Poseidon Temple-Photo Credit-Canva

Fun Fact- Legend has it was here that Aegeus King of Athens leaped to his death, giving the name to the Aegean Sea.

Santorini

Unique Santorini architecture. -Photo Credit-Canva

The next stop on this bucket list trip is Santorini. An island in the Aegean Sea is the site of the largest volcano eruption in recorded history. While in Santorini we will stay at the Majestic Hotel.

Majestic Hotel- Photo Credit -Canva

Fira is the capital city of Santorini. The landscape and architecture are beautiful. I look forward to exploring this city and spending some time getting to know the culture and people.

Mesa Gialos, Old Port of Fira. -Photo Credit-Canva
Fira-Photo Credit-Canva
The famous church Three Bells of Fira. -Photo Credit-Canva

Nea Kameni- Volcanic Island

Nea Kameni is an uninhabited volcanic island. It has formed over two millennia through the repeated eruptions. You can climb a gravel pit to reach the top of the 426-foot high volcanic crater. Also, we plan on taking some time to enjoy the hot springs.

The hill of Nea Kameni. -Photo Credit-Canva
Nea Kameni Island-Photo Credit-Canva
Nea Kameni-Photo Credit-Canva

Akrotiri Archaelogical Site

Akrotiri Lighthouse -Photo Credit-Canva

Akrotiri was once a major city in the Middle and Late Bronze Age. In 1627 a volcano erupted, and the city was covered in ash. Since 1846 this has been a popular excavation site for archaeologists. While visiting, take some time to explore the ruins and visit the museum that houses many of the artifacts found.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site Museum excavation.-Photo Credit-Canva
Excavated artifacts in the ancient settlement of Akrotiri.-Photo Credit-Canva
Akrotiri is a Minoan Bronze Age settlement.-Photo Credit-Canva

Oia

View of Oia village. -Photo Credit-Canva

Lastly, we are sure to visit Oia, a small village in Santorini. It is one of the most famous towns in Santorini. It is known for its blue-domed churches and fantastic sunsets. It has plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Oia has been called one of the most picturesque villages in Greece.

Oia at dusk. Photo Credit-Canva

Crete

Crete, Greek village of Loutro.-Photo Credit-Canva

The next stop is the island of Crete. Crete is the largest island in the country of Greece. It has something for everyone, from white sandy beaches to mountains for hiking. Crete is also home to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and Knossos, a Bronze Age settlement.

In Crete, we plan to stay at the Porto Elounda Golf and Spa Resort.

Porto Elounda Golf and Spa Resort-Photo Credit- Booking.com

We will start our visit to Crete with a boat ride over to Spinlonga. It is an island north of Crete. It was once used as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957. Today it is uninhabited. Besides a leper colony, it is known for its small pebble beaches. It is currently under consideration to be a world heritage site.

View of the island of Spinalonga.-Photo Credit-Canva

Palace of Knossos

Knossos palace at Crete, largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and the ceremonial and political centre of the Minoan civilization and culture.-Photo Credit-Canva
Knossos palace at Crete. Knossos Palace ruins. -Photo Credit-Canva
View of The Minoan palace of Knossos. The Throne Room.-Photo Credit-Canva

The Palace of Knossos is located just south of modern-day Heraklion near the north coast of Crete. The palace was the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan Civilization and culture. It dates back to 7000 B.C. up into 1380 and 100 B.C.

Fun Fact- The palace was never a residence for royalty, yet had rooms suitable for a king or queen.

In addition to these two spots, we plan to explore the countryside, take in the beautiful beaches, attend a Tsaziki making class and make Komboloi.

Crete-Photo Credit-Canva
Crete-Photo Credit-Canva

Mykonos

Mykonos bay viewed from above at sunset.-Photo Credit-Canva

Last but not least, Mykonos. As you can see, we have jammed packed this itinerary. I like to end my vacations with a little rest. I plan to do so here, on Mykonos. There will be plenty of beach time, along with relaxation by the pool. We will do a bit of exploring, but the point of this stop is to recharge before heading back to the real world.

Mykonos bay viewed from above at sunset.-Photo Credit-Canva

Have you been to Greece? What time of year did you go? Comment below and help me decide what time of year we will take this bucket list trip!

About The Author

Heather

71 COMMENTS

  1. Erica | 25th May 20

    I feel like there is so much more in the world I need to see! I love the pictures. You have awakened my sense of adventure and travel! Wonderful piece!

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      I want to travel now more than ever!

  2. Holly | 25th May 20

    Greece has been on my list of must-see forever.. Thank you for sharing the beauty of Greece, I did not know about the distance of the first marathons.. I learn something new every day!

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      I did not know either. Fun fact for this runner.

  3. Marianne | 25th May 20

    Reading through your article brought me back to last summer when we toured Greece. We went to and enjoyed, all the places you mentioned. You won’t be disappointed! Would love to go back someday!

  4. Danielle | 25th May 20

    I used to teach ancient Greek history in middle school, and fell in love with the architecture. Visiting the Parthenon is on my bucket list. Great pictures!

  5. Beth Shields | 25th May 20

    Amazing pictures. Impressive and to think that this is where all this history occurred. Thanks for sharing.

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Thanks for stopping by!

  6. Barbara | 25th May 20

    What a dreamy get-away! How much time do you recommend to really tour and see those areas?

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      I would say about 10-12 days.

  7. Tricia Snow | 25th May 20

    This looks amazing and the reason I want to go to Greece! Beautiful views and gorgeous water! Thanks for the inspiration and I like the fun facts!

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Thanks. I love finding fun facts about the different places I see.

  8. Leeandra | 25th May 20

    These all look like amazing places to visit when in Greece!

  9. Debbie | 25th May 20

    Longing to go to Greece for our 35th. Great post!!

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Yay! When will that be?

  10. Eva Keller | 25th May 20

    These photos are amazing! Greece is such a beautiful country. It really seems to have it all for a vacation destination.

  11. Angella | 25th May 20

    I’ve always wanted to go to Greece. Great inspiration to keep it on my list.

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Yes, definitely keep it on your list.

  12. Rachel | 25th May 20

    Wow this list is great! You cant choose amongst all the beautiful destinations

  13. Lisa Manderino | 25th May 20

    This sounds amazing! I think Santorini would be a dream! I hope to go on this trip someday!

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Santorini is what I am most excited for now since doing my research.

  14. Sara - Seek Discover Learn | 26th May 20

    Ever since my in-laws went to Greece and came back with their pictures, we have been dying to go. It’s on our list of places to visit. But so far the closest we’ve come to visiting Greece is going to the Parthenon replica in Nashville, Tennessee. It obviously wasn’t the same as going to the original in Greece, but we still enjoyed it.

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Wow, I did not know there was a replica. How cool. I would love to see the photos.

  15. Sandi | 26th May 20

    Greece is on my to do list. I’m thinking about a sailing trip around the islands. The photos bring me right there.

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Sailing around the island would be magical.

  16. Magan | 26th May 20

    This has always been a bucket list place for me, but wow! You’ve given me so many things to add to the list of must sees when I do get there!

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Yay, glad I could help!

  17. Alice | 26th May 20

    An amazing trip you have planned. I loved the pictures and look forward to reading and seeing your blog posts about your trip.

  18. Cathy | 26th May 20

    I would love to go there! Great information and beautiful photos! Thanks!

  19. Lisa | 26th May 20

    I can’t wait to visit Greece someday. It looks amazing!

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      There is so much history and beauty to see,

  20. Suzan | It's My Sustainable Life | 27th May 20

    Plaka looks like just the ticket! I would love to visit someday.

  21. Sydney | 27th May 20

    Will you take me with you? LOL. Looks like a once in a lifetime trip!!

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      LOL! Sure πŸ™‚ This will be an epic trip.

  22. Erin | 27th May 20

    I have a household full of people that can’t wait to get to Greece! Thank you for this beautiful post! I love that you’re doing series. Well done! And beautiful pictures!

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Thanks so much. I enjoy writing the series as well.

  23. Cindy | 28th May 20

    Your photos are amazing and inspiring me to go to Greece sooner rather than later. Those views are amazing. THat roof top bar…I could sit there all day.

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      I know. The views from the bar are breathtaking.

  24. Pam | 28th May 20

    Greece is on my shortlist of places I’d like to visit. My son is a huge fan of Greek mythology and so I know he’d love it too.

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      I hope you get to go soon!

  25. Charlene | 28th May 20

    What a great post! I would love to go to Greece!

  26. Stacey Billingsley | 28th May 20

    Greece looks so beautiful! I’d love to go one day. Your pictures are stunning. The colors–gorgeous!

  27. Leeanne | 28th May 20

    This is a dream trip of mine as well. I love the locations you’ve picked to travel to. I loved visiting the ancient temples in Rome so I’m sure the ones in Athens will be just as great. I know I want to make it out to several islands as well.

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      It is so hard to narrow it down. There is just so much to see and do.

  28. Candy | 28th May 20

    Greece is at the top of our list and this itinerary looks amazing!

  29. Chantelle | 28th May 20

    These pictures are torture! I really want to go to Greece! This is a great itinerary!

  30. Kendra | 28th May 20

    This is totally my next big dream trip! Great post!

  31. Missy | 29th May 20

    I have not visited Greece yet. I am excited for you. It would be hard to decide which locations to see first.

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      There is so much to do and see. It is a bit overwhelming.

  32. kmf | 29th May 20

    Our family loved Greece…the food, the history, the people…everything! We went in late June/early July. A couple of places I would recommend to add to your list are Olympia (the birthplace of the Olympics in Ancient Greece) and Mycenae – an archeological site that dates back to 7th millennium BC with most of the visible ruins from the Late Bronze Age, between 1350 and 1200 BC.

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Thank you for the recommendations. I will add them to the ever-growing list.

  33. Holly | 30th May 20

    Loved reading this. Brought back a lot of fun memories! We went to Athens, Greece about 10 yrs ago and just fell in love with the people. The history is everywhere you walk, coffee was awesome as were the people. We took a boat ride to Paros & Hydra on a day trip which we really enjoyed. I would love to visit Santorini and northern Greece one day.

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Ohhh now I am excited to try the coffee!

  34. Cindy | 30th May 20

    Greece is on my travel list too! It looks so beautiful. I love your idea of celebrating your birthday there.

  35. Amanda | 4th Jun 20

    Greece is my sons dream adventure. He is so fascinated with Greek mythology and history. These photos are stunning. Would love to go one day!

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Didn’t he just get engaged? Perhaps a honeymoon trip. πŸ™‚

  36. Hera | 4th Jun 20

    I cannot wait to go to Greece myself! This itinerary looks fabulous and can’t wait for you to enjoy it

    • Heather | 7th Jun 20

      Thank you! I feel like there is so much more to do. It may be somewhere we go back to multiple times.

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