Ten things to experience in Greece
Acropolis & the Parthenon
No matter where you are in Athens, you can see this grandiose monument, one of the most significant of the ancient world. The “Sacred Rock” overlooks a now modern city, as a reminder of its past. The Parthenon, which sits atop Acropolis Hill, means “ the apartment of the virgin” and was built in honor of the goddess Athena.
Temple of Poseidon - Cape Sounion
About 40 miles outside of Athens, you’ll find this stunning cliff-top temple. The magnificent ruins, framed by the Aegean Sea below, are lovely at sunset and tranquil in the early morning.
Santorini
With well over a thousand islands from which to choose, this is one of the most glorious. Take in the sweeping images of the caldera, lava-encrusted cliffs, colorful sunsets and, for a real treat, arrive by sea for the best views of the island. You can also experience the ruins of Akrotiri, impressive cliffside hotels, great wine and much more.
Mykonos
This is the most famous Greek island and is known for its party atmosphere. With a non-stop nightlife, great shops, lots of nude beaches, it’s an experience not to be missed during your Greece train travel adventure.
The Ancient Theater of Epidaurus
Not far from Athens is this 3rd-century theatre, considered to be one of the most beautiful by ancient Greeks. Today, it is still is breathtaking. Restored back in the 1950s, it’s also home to the annual Epidaurus Festival and other performances – and can accommodate an audience of 14,000.
Mycenae
This fortress, which was built around 2000 BC, is southwest of Athens in the northeastern Peloponnese and boasts impressive walls, amazing tomb shafts and a host of other archeological must-sees. The Mask of Agamemnon and many other treasures have been unearthed here.
Crete
This is the largest of the Greek islands and the 5th-largest in the Mediterranean, which means there’s something for pretty much everybody. From the Roman ruins of Gortyn and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to wild beach town of Mallia and the upscale city of Agios Nikolaos, you could spend a month discovering this amazing island!
Knossos Palace
Built over time between 1700-1400 BC, this palace located on Crete, is an attraction in itself. It’s believed to be the center of the Minoan civilization and culture and was home to King Minos, whose wife gave birth to the mythological Minotaur (half man, half bull). You can experience, firsthand, the royal quarters, throne room and queen’s quarters.
Delphi
With breathtaking mountain scenery as its backdrop, it’s no wonder these amazing ruins are one of the most popular ancient sites in all of Greece. In ancient times, this was considered to be the center of the world, where people would go to consult the oracle. It was also place of worship for the God Apollo, son of Zeus. The day trip from Athens is well worth it.
Olympia
As the site of the first Olympic Games, held in honor of Zeus beginning in 776 B.C., this was a natural shrine of the Greeks. It’s located in a valley in Elis, in western Peloponnisos and features the Temple of Zeus, the Stadium and the Prytaneion.
When to travel to Greece
When is the best time to use your Greece rail pass? If you don’t mind the crowds, and you like it hot, July and August are the most popular times to visit. If tranquility is key, May – June and September – October are perfect periods to visit Greece. The weather is still warm and you don’t have to fight the crowds.