Welcome to Greece, a beautiful country that seems to have it all! With thousands of gorgeous islands, vibrant cities like Athens and Thessaloniki that are packed with numerous historical sites, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder why thousands of travelers visit Greece every year.
While postcard-perfect beaches in Lefkada and luxurious Corfu villas first come to mind when thinking about this European country, Greece is also the birthplace of Western civilization. So, what are Greeks known for? Ancient Greece, democracy, philosophy, the Acropolis in Athens, and world-class theatre, art, and literature are just a few of the famous Greek things.
In this guide, I decided to share my knowledge of Greece, its traditions, landmarks, art, islands, and mouthwatering dishes.
Ancient Greece: The Foundation of Western Civilization
First, there was the “Greek Dark Ages”, a time when Greeks lived in small villages. This period ended in 800 B.C. When settlements began to grow into developed governments with armies, that’s when the Archaid period started. Ancient Greece was divided into several small city-states (poleis), each with its rulers, armies, taxes, and laws. The founder of the Ancient Greek Empire was Alexander the Great, a ruler who managed to unite these city-states into a large empire.
Setting the stage for Western civilization with things like art, the Olympic Games, democracy, literature, and philosophy, Ancient Greece has many layers. This civilization of ideas and sophisticated arts was known for its political innovations, different social structures, myths, and legends.
Greek Architecture & Iconic Landmarks
They don’t call Greece “the cradle of Western civilization” for no reason. The country is known for its remarkably preserved ruins dating back to Ancient Greece. For those who don’t know the architecture in Ancient Greece is commonly known as one of the most sophisticated architectural styles in the history of mankind. The usage of architectural elements like pillars and capitals in Ancient Greece is truly remarkable. There are three different styles of Ancient Greek architecture: the Corinthian, and Doric, and the Iconic order.
Temples with their pillars that offer structural support are definitely the most iconic symbols of Greek architecture. Most of these temples were built to honor Gods. Tourists visiting Greece will be delighted to hear that many of the ruins of these temples can be seen today across the country.
So, what are the most iconic landmarks in Greece? The most famous site is the Acropolis in Athens. Here, you will find the Parthenon, one of the world’s most famous monuments. Constructed between 447 and 438 BC, the temple is dedicated to the goddess Athena Parthenos. With its rectangular structure surrounded by columns and intricate decorative art, it is one of the finest examples of Doric architecture.
In central Greece, tourists will come across the iconic Panhellenic Sanctuary at Delphi. The site is home to the Temple of Apollo, a large theater, and a building dedicated to the worship of Athena Pronaia. Some of the other must-visit historical landmarks in Greece include the Sanctuary of Asklepios on the Argolid peninsula, the Citadel of Mycenae, the Minoan Palace at Knossos on the island of Crete, the Rotunda of Galerius in Thessaloniki, the ancient sanctuary of Olympia, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens.
Greek Art, Literature, and Theatre
Greek Art
With architecture, sculpture, painting, pottery, and jewelry making, Ancient Greek art is mind-blowing. It is divided into 4 periods: Geometric, Archaic, Classical, and Hellenistic. Artists in Ancient Greece have worked with materials. Bronze was used for coinage and sculptures, while terracotta was used for figurines and vases.
During the Archaic period, art depicts aspects of daily life and mythology with art pieces such as griffins, terracotta vases, and sirens. The Classical period was the Golden Age of Greece, while the Hellenistic period is when the finest examples of full-figured works of sculpture were built. Pheidias, Skopas, and Praxiteles were some of the most famous sculptors in Ancient Greece.
Greek Theater
Many Greek and Roman cities had an open-air theater, which means that Ancient Greece was one of the birthplaces of theater. Tragedies were the most commonly attended shows back in the day. This form of drama usually revolves around a character who fails somehow and gets punished by the gods in the end. Writers like Aeschylus, Sophokles, Euripides, Aristophanes, and Menander are some of the most famous Greek tragedians.
Apart from tragedies, there were also comic performances held in Greece during the 5th century B.C. This form of theater plays was called the Old Comedy in which people from the society and creatures from mythology were made fun of. The so-called New Comedy of Menander focused more on private and family life, as well as love and social tensions.
Greek Literature
Greek literature has influenced countless generations. In a way, Ancient Greeks introduced literature genres such as comedy, philosophy, tragedy, and poetry to the rest of the world. Greek literature is divided into three periods: Archaic, Classical, and Hellenistic. With writers such as Hesiod and Odyssey, the Archaic era was mostly about myth and history. The classical era was more about tragedies with writers such as Sophocles and Euripides. There were also world-famous philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, Epictetus, and Epicurus in Ancient Greece.
Famous Greek People throughout History
There is no shortage of famous people from Greece. The well-known philosopher Socrates first comes to mind. There is also Plato, a mathematician and philosopher who founded the Academy in Athens in the 5th century BC. Another philosopher from Greece, Aristotle was studying both embryology and theology. He also tutored Alexander the Great.
Then, there was a mathematician from Samos called Pythagoras and Pericles who promoted arts and literature. A famous poet from Greece, Euripides wrote nearly hundreds of works including the world-known Electra and Medea. Alexander the Great probably needs a little introduction. One of the most famous people from Greece, this military commander managed to stay undefeated in every battle.
A mathematician and an engineer who spent most of his life living in Sicily, Archimedes developed different theories such as the principle of the lever. The king of ancient Sparta, Leodinas was known for his bravery. He was in charge of an elite squad of Spartan soldiers. The playwright of more than 100 plays in Ancient Greece, Sophocles was the king of Greek drama. There was also a comic dramatist called Aristophanes who came up with the famous Lysistrata play.
The Greek father of medicine, Hippocrates was a physician who lived on the island of Kos. The Greek father of History, Herodotus was a historian who wrote about the Battle of Marathon.
Greek Food & Mediterranean Cuisine
Craving some tasty Greek foods? You’ll be delighted to hear that traditional Greek dishes are delicious. Whether you are craving fresh bread dipped in locally produced olive oil or want to enjoy meal/seafood dishes, there is so much to choose from when eating out in Greece. Some of the other staples of Mediterranean cuisine and Greek foods include everything from feta cheese and fully ripe tomatoes to cucumbers, dips, and salads. Tourists visiting Greece can also look forward to trying semi-hard sheep’s milk cheese or saganaki (fried cheese), as well as a wide range of lamb dishes.
Gyros and souvlaki are two of the most famous Greek dishes. You will find these tasty street food delicacies all across Greece and everywhere in Europe. Want to try one of the best lamb dishes in the region? Ask for kleftiko, a hearty lamb dish served with vegetables. There is also pastitsio, a beef dish similar to Italian lasagna. Some of the other popular dishes in Greece include kaftedes (meatballs), spanakopita (pastry with feta cheese and onions), moussaka (eggplant, cheese, and ground meat), baklava, and Greek salad.
Where can I try tasty Greek Food? After extensive research while staying in Greece, I’ve concluded that the best Greek delicacies are served in local tavernas. You can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine both in cities like Athens and Thessaloniki and on Greek islands. Wish to have a fancy meal while staying in Greece? The capital of Greece, Athens is home to a few Michelin-starred restaurants. With amazing views from its terrace, the Michelin-starred Makris Athens offers three tasting menus created by chef Patron Petros Dimas and an impressive wine list. You can also book a table at Gallina, where Chef Pavlos Kiriakis combines French and Greek culinary traditions. To try mouthwatering dishes such as Tarama, Dolmadakia, and Papoutsakia, go to Pharaoh Restaurant.
Greek Islands
There is more to Greece than the popular islands of Santorini and Mykonos. This Mediterranean country is home to more than 200 inhabited islands where travelers go on vacation. Whether you are searching for hidden gems like Milos, Paros, and Tinos or wish to visit touristy islands like Rhodes and Corfu, there is something for everyone. As for the best time to visit the Greek islands, it all depends on what you are looking to get from your vacation.
The Cyclades Islands
Located in the heart of the Aegean Sea, the Cyclades Islands is an archipelago located not far away from Athens. It is home to the popular islands of Mykonos and Santorini, as well as places such as Paros, Ios, Naxos, Folefandros, and Sifnos. For the best nightlife and picturesque beaches, go to Mykonos. Keep in mind that it is one of the most expensive Greek Islands.
You can stay in one of the luxurious Mykonos villas or book a room in one of the posh hotels. For a more relaxed vibe, stay at elegant Paros villas or Antiparos villas and admire the beauty of the traditional Cycladic architecture on these two islands. Travelers in search of a romantic island can check out Santorini and its beautiful houses carved into cliffs. To find some peace and quiet, book your vacation on the island of Sikinos.
Saronic Gulf Islands
This is the closest archipelago of Isles to the capital of Greece, Athens. Over the last decade, the islands of Hydra, Spetses, Poros, Aegina, and Little Agistri have become more developed and offer everything needed for a memorable vacation in Greece. Thanks to their proximity to Athens, these islands have also become a popular weekend getaway destination among the locals.
Spend a few days on the car-free Hydra Island or visit the family-friendly island of Poros. The closest island to Athens is Aegina. It is known for its ancient temple and a few spectacular beaches. Travelers who wish to get away from it all should visit the small Agistri Island.
The Ionian Islands
Also known as the “Seven Islands” The Ionian Islands in Greece are located on the western side of Greece. The main island is the beautiful Corfu where travelers can enjoy spectacular beaches and unique architecture. You can also rent one of the posh Corfu villas and explore the UNESCO-protected Old Town.
The largest island in size, Kefalonia is probably the most beautiful of all Ionian Islands. Here, you will find spectacular beaches with crystal-clear waters. There is also Zakynthos and its blue caves, as well as the island of Lefkada which is home to some of the best beaches in all of Greece. Relatively undiscovered, the small island of Ithaca is a perfect place for travelers searching for a secluded destination.
The Sporades Islands
Although there are 24 islands within the Sporades archipelago, only 4 of them are inhabited. The Sporades Islands are ideal for travelers in search of an active holiday. You can try windsurfing in Skyros, go sailing in Skiathos, and explore the National Marine Park in Alonissos. This fabulous park offers activities like bird-watching and fishing.
Skiathos is a lively island with plenty of restaurants and beaches with family-friendly amenities. On Skyros, you will find pine trees, local crafts, and ceramics. Don’t miss the Venetian castle in Chora. You can travel between these islands by ferry or private boat.
The Dodecanese Islands
For a relaxing vacation in Greece, visit the Dodecanese Islands. Rhodes and Kos are the two largest islands, while islands like Karpathos, Astypalea, and Symi are a bit quieter. If you are into rock climbing, go to Kalymnos. Snorkelers and scuba divers can spend a few days on Leros. For nightlife, beautiful beaches, and many dining options, book your stay on the island of Rhodes. When in Rhodes, don’t miss the picturesque white town of Lindos.
